When anyone reaches 100 years of age its cause for celebration.
So brethren lets celebrate the recent attainment of 100 years by a gentleman who for many years was a very active and valued member of Masonry in Evesham.
Lawson Samuel Allchurch was born on the 9th July 1910. He became a mason, initiated into Elmley Castle Lodge No 6247 on the 16th September 1959. He was quickly pressed into service as Secretary of the Lodge from 1964 until 1974.
Following a short break he found himself again pressed into office this time as Lodge Treasurer. An office he filled until 1985.
Lawson was an Accountant by profession and a senior partner in the firm of Allchurch and Bailey. The company still operate out of premises in the High Street, Evesham.
Lawson was living at Woodlands, Greenhill Park Road, Evesham at the time he joined masonry but moved into the village of Ashton Under Hill in 1973, just before his retirement in 1975.
Lawson was born in Brierley Hill, better know as part of the Black Country and famous for its industrial heritage.
A bright lad he won a scholarship which enabled him to attend the local Grammar School .
He made good use of his education and took up a position in a government office dealing with bankruptcy before qualifying in accountancy.
He married his wife May in 1940 and they had two children. He now has 10 Great Grand Children.
Lawson now spends much of his time at his daughters in Bretforton.
Understanding just how long Lawson has been alive is best summed up by the fact that he has lived under 18 different Prime Ministers, four Monarchs and survived two world wars.
He witnessed some of the earliest flights made by man, in machines made of timber and cloth. What must he have thought when Neil Armstrong took that first step on the surface of the moon.
The tram was replaced by the omnibus. Goods of all sorts were moved by horse drawn long boats on the canal network passing through Brierley Hill, winding its way toward the famous tunnel at Dudley.
Lorries now carry everything and the quite roads and lanes have become noisy motorways.
Although Lawson decided against becoming Master of the lodge, his contribution was as valued as that of those who served the office of Master. He was a very valued member with high standing amongst his peers. Unfortunately, Lawson suffered a loss of hearing in the early 90′s which made it most difficult for him to continue in the lodge. Reluctantly he found it necessary to resign from the lodge in the September of 1995, having completed 36 years.
He still enjoys music and retains his sense of humour.
The Bretforton Silver Band played at his birthday party in the village.
He puts his long life down to having a good family around him.
And the good news is he says a draught beer is part of the secret to a long life and he admits he still enjoys a tipple whenever he can.
Lawson we wish you late but sincere best wishes on the occasion of your 100 birthday.
(Hope HRH remembered the card?)
