District Grand Lodge of the Eastern Province of the Cape of Good Hope
Welcome to Eastern Cape Scottish Freemasonry District
Lodge Thistle
Location: Gonubie, East Lomdon, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Consecrated: 25 September 1896
Founded in 1896, first meeting at Old Fellows Hall, later Gaiety Theater. Grew steadily, contributing to Freemasonry and East London’s development. Early leadership included Bro. Brown (first RWM), Wor. Bro. Currin, and Bro. S.G. Pound. The lodge built and moved between several halls, with major expansions and upgrades (MacLean Street, Buffalo Street, Croydon Road, and finally Gonubie in 2022).
Thistle is known for its resilience, adapting through wars, financial challenges, and relocations. The lodge has a tradition of strong leadership (including Bro. Randall, DGM in the 1970s), ritual excellence, and brotherhood. Its history includes significant charitable work and a commitment to Scottish Masonic tradition.
Charitable Initiatives
Community support and benevolenceCharitable outreach and fundraising
Interested in joining the oldest fraternity in the world?
Feemasonry has a long and rich history in the Eastern Cape.
There are lodges in the cities and several small towns. Each lodge has its own story and unique character, reflecting the principles and traditions of Freemasonry. A warm welcome awaits you in every one of them.
