A very special occasion took place at Craigantlet Lodge of Friendship No. 486 on Monday 9 November 2026, when W. Bro. George Crawford was presented with his 50-Year Jewel and Certificate, marking half a century of dedication to Freemasonry.

The presentation was made by the R.W. Provincial Grand Master of Down, R.W. Bro. David H. Selby, during the Lodge's Stated Communication at Galwally House, Belfast, in the presence of the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Stephen Boyce, and fellow Brethren.

A Remarkable Coincidence – 50 Years to the Hour

What made the occasion particularly memorable was its extraordinary timing.

George was initiated into Freemasonry on 9 November 1976, in Silver Jubilee Lodge No. 656. His Golden Jubilee presentation therefore took place not only on the exact 50th anniversary of his initiation, but at the very same hour, half a century later.

During his address, the Provincial Grand Master remarked that, while he frequently presents 50-Year Jewels to Brethren celebrating anniversaries in the same year, and occasionally even the same month, it is exceptionally rare for a presentation to coincide with the very hour of their initiation.

It was a remarkable coincidence and one which made the evening particularly special for George and everyone present.

Five Decades of Masonic Service

George's Masonic journey began in Silver Jubilee Lodge No. 656, where he was initiated in November 1976 and subsequently served as Worshipful Master in 1992.

Following the closure of Silver Jubilee Lodge, he joined Amethyst Lodge No. 761, serving as Worshipful Master in both 2011 and 2012. He later became a member of St. Jude's Lodge No. 26, where he again occupied the Chair of Worshipful Master in 2018 and 2019.

Following the closure of St. Jude's Lodge in 2025, George joined Craigantlet Lodge of Friendship No. 486.

Throughout his 50 years in Freemasonry, George has been a member of four Craft Lodges and has served as Worshipful Master on five occasions across three Lodges, demonstrating his enduring commitment to the Craft and his willingness to serve his fellow Brethren.

A Family Tradition Spanning Three Generations

George's introduction to Freemasonry came through his father, himself a dedicated Freemason, who encouraged his son to learn more about the organisation.

Sadly, George's father passed away in 1977, just a year after his initiation, leaving father and son little opportunity to share their Masonic experiences together.

However, the family tradition continues today. George is the proud father of three sons, the youngest of whom has followed in his footsteps by becoming a Freemason in Melbourne, Australia.

It is a particularly fitting reminder of how the bonds of Freemasonry can extend across generations and continents.

Away from Freemasonry, George enjoyed a long career in telecommunications, beginning with the Post Office in the mid-1970s before working for British Telecom. He spent approximately 33 years with the organisation.

He was also a keen motorcyclist and, together with his wife, enjoyed many happy years travelling and exploring different places in their motorhome.

A Well-Deserved Recognition

The Worshipful Master, Officers and Brethren of Craigantlet Lodge of Friendship No. 486 were delighted to share in this important occasion and extend their warmest congratulations to George on achieving his Golden Jubilee.

His 50 years of dedication, service and fellowship represent a wonderful achievement, and we are proud to have him as a member of our Lodge.

Congratulations, George, on 50 wonderful years in Freemasonry. We wish you many more happy and fulfilling years amongst your Brethren!