Trip to Minneapolis: Report by Kevin Thompson (SD)

If any were in doubt that the internet is a huge boon to the Craft then this trip surely dispelled that myth! On setting up our website in 2008 one of the first contacts we made was with another Lodge 19 - in Minneapolis, Minnesota! Fraternal hands of brotherhood led to no less than eleven brethren from the US visiting us in 2009 and of course we had to reciprocate!

Brethren from two Lodge 19s meet in Minneapolis.
In the hat - RWM Peter Hulbert(Minneapolis) - in the middle on the dais, is Grand Master of Minnesota John L Cook Jnr. Brethren from Fife are RWM Craig Rodger and Bros K Thompson, D Abercrombie, S Connor and G Manson.

In May 2010 six brethren from Fife with 3 accompanying wives set off for Minneapolis. Fate and volcanic ash decided it would not be an easy sojourn and sadly PM Mike Ford and his lady did not make it until after the Lodge meeting. However Lodge 19 was well represented by the RWM Craig, his two deacons Kevin and Douglas, PM George and Bro Sam!

Scotland comes to Minneapolis! L to R:
Bros Sam Connor, Kev Thompson, George Manson & RWM Craig Rodger

Some of the highlights included a tour of several hostelries in Minneapolis itself, the Lodge meeting for a second degree, dinner and harmony after - a unique and wonderful event (more details later). We met the enthusisatic President of the Twins Cities Scottish Society - Norma MacDonald - who made us guests of honour at the Highland Games and we were treated to a baseball game at the new 40,000 seater stadium.

Some of the lovely ladies at Lodge 19

Bro Kevin singing at the Fair Craig Rodger - Cupar Burns Club Bard - wrote a commemorative poem for the visit. Click HERE to read it.

New Baseball Stadium for "The Twins"

Minnie Ha Ha Falls

Minnesota Masonic Home - Bloomington

No doubt others will record their thoughts too, but my wife and I had a great time with friendly , generous people, and would love to repeat the venture!