Free and Easy Johns
info on this order
The Newcastle Lodge of Free and Easy Johns was the third Lodge of the kind in England, being No. 3, and preceded only by those of London and of Dover. It was first formed in 1778, and could soon boast of consisting of more than 1000 members. It is an association merely for convivial purposes; but there is a ceremony of initiation, a pass-word, grip, &c. In August, 1784, Charles Brandling, Esq. M. P. presented this Lodge, of which he was a member, with a large silver goblet, on which his arms were engraved, with a suitable inscription. This Lodge assembles at the Blue Posts public house, in Pilgrim Street. Another Lodge, No. 13, has since been formed, and meets at the sign of the Cock, in St. Nicholas' Square. There is also a Lodge of Free and Easy Johns in Gateshead.