This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Queen’s College Taunton Lodge—a group formed in 1950 by former pupils of the school, many of whom had returned from the Second World War with a shared sense of purpose and camaraderie. Since then, the Lodge has grown into a close-knit community, united by values of service, tradition, and friendship.

Over the past two decades alone, members have raised and donated more than £70,000 to around 45 local charities, most of them in and around Taunton. Beneficiaries include St Margaret’s Hospice, Somerset Sight, and the Queen’s College Taunton Foundation, reflecting the Lodge’s ongoing commitment to making a positive impact locally.

To commemorate the 75th anniversary, the Lodge was honoured to welcome the Provincial Grand Master for Somerset, along with members of his team, for a special ceremony. A celebratory dinner followed, during which an impressive £1,440 was raised in one evening for the Master’s chosen charity, Somerset Sight.

The Lodge currently has 44 members and six honorary members, with new faces - Old Queenians, parents or friends - welcome to join the fold. Most recently, Charlie White (OQ 2016) became the newest member, bringing fresh energy to a longstanding tradition.

At the heart of the Lodge’s calendar are four official meetings each year, complemented by social gatherings and events. Every March, a new Master is appointed to lead the Lodge; the current Master is Dr Keith Pickavance, husband of Liz Killick (OQ 1997).

Interested in learning more? For those curious about Freemasonry or the Lodge’s activities, please visit queenscollegelodge.co.uk