Thames Mark and Ram Lodges

The degree of Mark Master Mason is at least 300 years old, and the first formal meeting of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons was held in June 1856.

Membership is open to all Master Masons (those who are members of a ‘Craft’ Lodge, such as those mentioned and described elsewhere on this website).

The Mark referred to in its title takes its name from the mark or symbol with which the stonemason identified his work and which can still be found in many cathedrals and important buildings. The ritual in this degree alludes to the building of King Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem.

The Ancient and Honourable Fraternity of Royal Ark Mariners, more commonly known as RAM, is at least 250 years old although, as with most Masonic degrees, its early history is obscure.

Lodges are attached, or moored, to Mark Lodges and to be a member one has to be a member of a Mark Masonic Lodge. Thus, almost without exception, members of Thames RAM Lodge are also members of Thames Mark Lodge.

There is, however, little similarity in the ritual which in RAM alludes to the building and voyage of Noah’s Ark and the Great Flood.