The guardians of the Tower are the Yeoman Warders, often referred to as 'Beefeaters'. Their origins stretch back to the reign of Edward IV (1461 – 1483) and they have formed the Royal Bodyguard since 1509. The obvious question may be is there any connection to Freemasonry? The answer is as interesting as the Tower itself as arena found out. Of the thirty-seven Yeomen, around half are Masons, all members of Lodges within The Metropolitan Grand Lodge of London, and so guarding the Tower is very much a Metropolitan Masonic affair. The two Yeoman Warders pictured on the front cover are (left) W. Bro Phil Wilson, LGR, MetGD of Manchester Lodge No. 179 and (right) Bro. Jimmy James of West Norwood Lodge No. 3598. Attending meetings can be challenging for the Yeoman Warders, but not as challenging at the nightly curfew when the palace, in which they reside, is locked for the evening following the Ceremony of the Keys. This certainly puts dashing for a train into perspective!"


arena is, and indeed all readers should be, proud to know that this dedicated band of


Metropolitan Masons are intimately involved with protecting one of our greatest Landmarks and remain as iconic symbols of London and Britain.


A Yeoman Warder reads the last post


10


ISSUE 19


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