The Lodge of Probity and Freedom has a rich and varied history dating back to 1821. As the daughter Lodge of Silent Temple Lodge No. 126, we started in humble surroundings in Burnley, often meeting above various pubs. It is from these beginnings that one of our proudest, most unique and revered traditions has its origins – the famous ‘Wild West’. It is an integral part of both our installation and Ladies Evenings which reflects our unique heritage. After moving around the Burnley area, we started meeting in Smallbridge, Rochdale in 1853 and then after eight more moves, settled into our current home at Rochdale Masonic Hall.

At Probity and Freedom, our mantra is to “work hard and play hard”. We are renowned for the camaraderie at festive boards whilst still delivering quality ritual in the lodge room. We value the contribution of each member, no matter what form it takes – some members are very involved in the ceremonies and rituals, whilst others take other equally important roles behind the scenes. We acknowledge that each member has different amounts of time that they can make available to Freemasonry and embrace the contribution that our members make regardless of the time they can commit. We encourage new members to participate fully and as such, the lodge is committed to supporting its new members and assisting them in learning about freemasonry throughout their masonic journey. As a progressive Lodge, we encourage every member to air their views and value everyone’s input equally.
We welcome new initiates and joining members alike. Members are encouraged, wherever possible to attend every meeting, unless family or business demands prevent it. The Lodge mentor and the proposer are there to provide the support a new member needs and advise when he is ready to deliver ritual or take office. No one is ever coerced into doing either, but the Lodge hopes that all members will want to do so.

We organise a number of excellent social events each year, which we hope all brethren new and old will attend. We would especially appreciate and welcome ideas from new brethren. As mentioned above, the Lodge has unique traditions at both the festive board and social functions which are well known throughout the Province and are held sacred to our lodge and indeed the District. Our social events are all different and thoroughly enjoyed by all those who attend, and we use these events to welcome not just members but their families and friends – old and new.