About Lodge Morland No. 25
Our History, Mission, and Values
Our Enduring Legacy
Lodge Morland No. 25 was established in May 1875 and has since been a cornerstone of Freemasonry in the region. Its Charter was granted by the Grand Lodge of Scotland for opening a Scotch Lodge at Secunderabad, though the founders selected Chadarghaut as its meeting place. For over a century and a half, we have been dedicated to the principles of brotherhood, charity, and the pursuit of truth. Our lodge provides a welcoming space for men of good character to come together, improve themselves, and contribute positively to society.
From its inception, Lodge Morland No. 25 attracted members from all classes and ranks of Society, including Europeans, Hindus, Mahomedans, and Parsees, giving it a character of a mixed and representative Lodge.
Our Namesake: Sir Henry Morland
The distinguished individual after whom our Lodge is named.
A Pillar of Freemasonry
Lodge Morland No. 25 is proudly named in honor of Sir Henry Morland (1837-1891), a prominent figure in both civic life and Freemasonry. In 1875, the year our Lodge was founded, Sir Henry Morland was appointed the Grand Master of the "Grand Lodge of All Scottish Freemasonry in India." He held this esteemed position again from 1883 until his death.
The naming of our Lodge was a tribute to him by his close friend, W.Bro. Maurice Wilkinson, who was instrumental in forming Lodge Morland No. 25. Beyond his Masonic leadership, Sir Henry Morland had a distinguished career, serving in the Indian Navy, and later as Chairman of the Bombay Municipal Corporation, receiving a knighthood from Queen Victoria.
His dedication to Freemasonry was profound, being an initiate of Lodge Felix No.355, Aden, and instrumental in forming "Lodge Islam No.27" in Bombay. His life exemplified the principles of service and leadership that our Lodge aspires to uphold.
Our Mission & Values
The principles that guide us.
Our Storied History
Key milestones in the journey of Lodge Morland No. 25
Early Meetings and Moves
Lodge Morland initially meets in St. John’s building, then in various locations after being asked to vacate. The lodge attracts members from all classes and communities, becoming a mixed and representative lodge.
1875–1880sMembership Boom
Membership grows rapidly, reaching over 90 by 1893. The lodge is recognized for its diversity, with 219 members joining between 1875 and 1893.
1890–1893Financial Crisis and Sale
Financial difficulties and internal dissension lead to resignations and arrears. In 1896, the building is sold to Colonel Afsar-ul-Mulk for use as a Mess House. The Lodge saves its kit and furniture, but faces a deficit and ongoing disputes with the Receiver.
1894–1896Adversity and Rebuilding
Lodge moves to Gosha Mahal Assembly Rooms. New Worshipful Master elected by order of the Grand Lodge. Many members have resigned, the Chapter falls into abeyance, and financial issues persist.
1896Recovery and Renewal
Lodge described as having great vitality and doing very good work. Finances improve, new members join, and the relationship with the Receiver is settling. Fees and subscriptions are reduced.
1910Formation of the Grand Lodge of India
Lodge Morland became a constituent lodge under the newly formed Grand Lodge of India, unifying Freemasonry across the nation.
1961150th Anniversary
Lodge Morland celebrates its Sesquicentennial Anniversary, commemorating 150 years of continuous operation, fellowship, and contribution to the community.
2025Lodge Hall Consecrated
Morland Lodge Hall is consecrated by the Grand Master. Intended for all Masonic institutions in Chadarghaut. Extensive kit and furniture ordered from England.
December 1893Address to the Nizam
Lodge Morland, with other lodges, presents an address to H.H. the Nizam on his Jubilee, signifying its continued prominence.
December 1905Foundation Stone Laid
Lodge resolves to build its own hall. Foundation stone laid by Nawab Sir Asman Jah, Prime Minister, on a site granted by the Nizam’s Government.
June 1892Amalgamation Proposal
A proposal is made to amalgamate Lodge Morland with Lodge Hyderabad, but the plan ultimately falls through.
June 1903Continued Service and Tradition
Throughout the decades, the lodge continued its traditions of brotherhood, self-improvement, and service, adapting to the changing times while upholding Masonic values.
Late 20th CenturyLodge Morland Established
Charter granted by the Grand Lodge of Scotland for a Scotch Lodge at Secunderabad, but founders select Chadarghaut as the meeting place. Named after Sir Henry Morland, the Grand Master of All Scottish Freemasonry in India.
May 1875