freemasonry in the community
Restoring the Monuments to Two Founding Fathers of Middlesbrough.
Middlesbrough Freemasons (represented by W.Bro. Harry Collier, Dundas Lodge and W. Bro. Barry Hill, Ferrum Lodge) are partners in an initiative to restore the monuments to two founding fathers of Middlesbrough, Henry Bolckow and John Vaughan. Both Bolckow and Vaughan were instrumental in the development of the iron and steel industry in the area, which resulted in the development of Middlesbrough as a major Victorian industrial town.
Both Bolckow and Vaughan are now buried in St. Cuthbert’s Churchyard, Marton, although time has taken its toll on the graves, which have fallen into a state of disrepair. A project steering group was set up to look at the restoration of the monuments, with representation from St. Cuthbert’s Church, Middlesbrough Freemasons, Marton and Stewart Park Heritage Group, Middlesbrough Environment City, Groundwork South Tees and Middlesbrough Council. The project has taken a long time to develop, due to the complexity of the works. However, detailed plans for the restoration of the monuments, including replacement of fallen and damaged masonry, have now been developed. Additional proposals include improve access to the monuments and an interpretation board, outlining the significance of the two men in the development of Middlesbrough.
Some funding for the scheme has already been obtained from local Community Councils and Middlesbrough Freemasons; a larger funding bid is now being developed for the works, which are likely to cost around £30,000 to complete.