Fuengirola 96 Masonic Lodge: Our History
Our Vision
Fuengirola 96 is a Masonic Lodge in Fuengirola, specifically located in Los Boliches. Conducted in English, the meetings utilize the Emulation ritual, complete with traditional penalties as per the decree from the Grand Lodge of Spain, to which this lodge is affiliated. A notable attraction for visiting brethren is the ‘Queen of Sheba’ workings used during Installation ceremonies, which can be a unique experience for those unfamiliar with it.
The history of Fuengirola 96 dates back to November 1995, when the idea of forming a new lodge was first conceived by Bryan Collier during a car ride to Nerja for a Masonic visit. Along for the journey were Ron Greedy and Tom Willet, all of whom were members of Friendship 37 that convened in Benalmadena at the Maite complex. Given that Fuengirola lacked an English-speaking lodge, it was chosen as the location for the new lodge. Initially, Bryan Collier had sought to relocate Friendship 37 but could not gain the needed permission from the Province due to a conflict with the then Provincial Grand Master. Following discussions with the new Provincial Grand Master of Andalucia, the Right Worshipful Brother Ernesto Guillemem, and Provincial Secretary Worshipful Brother Eric Reynolds, the date for the consecration was set. Meetings with prospective founder members were held at the Shakespeare Restaurant, which Bryan Collier owned, now known as Rancho, located at Calle Juan Sebastián Elcano, 3, 29640 Fuengirola, Málaga.
Fuengirola 96 was consecrated in January 1997 at Edifico Bougainvillaea, with Ron Greedy serving as Master under the PGM's guidance. In February 1997, at the subsequent meeting, Bryan Collier was appointed as Master of the lodge.
At the time of its establishment, Edifico Bougainvillaea was already functioning as a venue for the Danish Lodge, Sydkorset, but only the basement was utilized for Masonic meetings and festive boards. Initially, refreshments, including beers, were served while Danish caterers prepared the tables for the Festive Board. Eventually, the ground floor, which was privately owned and had been improperly converted into flats, was acquired with funds raised, including a significant loan by Bob Pinson. Bryan Lilleywhite and Bryan Collier were appointed to negotiate the purchase alongside Eric Munche, the Master of the Danish Lodge.
As the Masonic meetings continued in the basement, the ground floor was transformed into a bar and restaurant by the members of both Sydkorset and Fuengirola Lodges. John Mence facilitated the construction of a doorway connecting the bar and restaurant, while Bryan Collier and Brian Lilleywhite built the bar, preserving its original design. As the members aged, a lift was installed, funded by generous donations.
ADAM was subsequently established to manage this expanding facility, which consisted of 50% Scandinavians and 50% English members, with Brian Lilleywhite taking the role of the first president.
This history of Fuengirola 96 was shared by W.Bro Bryan Collier and W.Bro John Mence, both of whom are founding members.