Paying tribute to Robert Burns, the Bard of Scotland
For many, Robert Burns will always be seen as the national poet of Scotland, his works resounding through the centuries and pulling at the heartstrings of bibliophiles and Scottish people.
In his honour, the Freemasons of Coronation Lodge will be hosting its annual Burns Supper on January 27.
But who was Robert Burns?
The eldest of seven children, Robert Burns was born on January 25, 1759.
His father, William Burnes, was a tenant farmer. His mother, Agnes Burnes, was the daughter of a tenant farmer.
While growing up in poverty and unable to attend school on a regular basis, Robert’s life was not destined to be one of simplicity.
His father taught him and his siblings how to read, write, arithmetic, history and geography.
But Robert’s education did not stop there, as he and his brother were also taught Latin, French and Mathematics by John Murdoch.
While finding his feet in the literary world, Robert Burns tried his hand at being a flax dresser and farming.
Robert joins Freemasonry
Robert became a Freemason and was initiated into Lodge St David, Tarbolton, on July 4, 1781.
Becoming a well-known figure
Robert Burns is deemed a pioneer in the Romantic Movement, and his works have inspired founders of liberalism and socialism.
The first Burns Supper
Robert passed away on July 21, 1796.
Then in 1801, nine of his acquaintances decided to meet for dinner at Burns Cottage in Alloway to celebrate his life and works.
The Master of Ceremonies was a local minister named Hamilton Paul. Him and the guests shared a Masonic brotherhood with Burns, and an evening resembling a lodge ceremonial was devised.
During the night, the friends enjoyed a night reciting Burns’ work, while enjoying good old fashioned Scottish cuisine.
The night proved to be so much fun, the nine decided to do it again the following year. Since then, Freemason around the globe have held a Burns Supper in Robert Burns honour.
Be sure to join Coronation Lodge for an evening of poetry, songs and banter, celebrating Robert Burns’ life and works.
Also experience the exotic taste of haggis and a real Scottish night.
The event will take place at 7pm at the Masonic Lodge, 95B Kirkland Street.
Limited seats are available, so be sure to get your tickets now or be disappointed.
For more information, contact Quinton Boucher on 079 506 4858.
