On Friday 13th September 2002 the picturesque setting of Dan Winters cottage deep in the County Armagh countryside was chosen by St. Paul’s Church Defenders LOL 1960 to mark their 110th anniversary.
The brethren of LOL 1960 were accompanied to Dan Winters cottage by officers of Belfast District 7/8. The District officers conducted LOL 1960’s election of officers for the coming year in the same room in which our institution was founded in 1795. A number of Scottish brethren were also present, being members of LOL 1960’s sister lodge Tranent True Blues LOL 228.
LOL 1960 has had at least three District Masters and numerous officers. The lodge has always possessed strong family connections today it boasts five sets of natural brothers, four father and sons and is privileged to have had three fifty years service medal holders.
During the historic visit to Dan winters cottage four brethren were presented with twenty-five years service medals. Wbro A. Manna (himself a fifty years service medal holder) presented Wbro B. Harrison PM, Wbro R. Tracey PM, Wbro W. Warnock PM and Wbro G. Gillespie PM with the distinguished award. The evening was a great success meticulously planned by the members of LOL 1960. It included speeches by a number of brethren regarding the historical significance of the occasion and location. Everyone in attendance thoroughly enjoyed themselves and already lodge members are looking ahead to their 120th anniversary.
LOL 1960 would like to thank all those who made the evening a success including their bus driver and photographer. The Winter family has to be commended for their maintenance and promotion of Dan Winter’s cottage as an essential part of Orange heritage. A special thanks to Mrs Hilda Winter for her warm welcome and delicious homemade apple cake which we would recommend to anyone with a sweet tooth!
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