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Old Photographs, Recognition, Handwriting Deciphering => Handwriting Deciphering & Recognition => Topic started by: RTB on Thursday 22 March 12 15:12 GMT (UK)

Title: What is the chain? Freemason? Orange Order?
Post by: RTB on Thursday 22 March 12 15:12 GMT (UK)
Hi Everyone

Any help with this photo would certainly be appreciated. Can anyone identify the chain that this fellow is wearing and what association he may have beloged to, and if I am really lucky a name as well.  This photo has been in the family collection for some time and recently has surfaced courtesy of a cousin.  I believe he is either a Scott, Moore, Bailey or McCaughan.

Any thoughts most welcome

Richard
Title: Re: What is the chain? Freemason? Orange Order?
Post by: Skoosh on Thursday 22 March 12 16:25 GMT (UK)
A pruning knife & gate? probably masonic though.

Skoosh.
Title: Re: What is the chain? Freemason? Orange Order?
Post by: Skoosh on Thursday 22 March 12 16:41 GMT (UK)
Had a wee hunt Richard,  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Order_of_Free_Gardeners

Skoosh.
Title: Re: What is the chain? Freemason? Orange Order?
Post by: RTB on Friday 23 March 12 07:57 GMT (UK)
Hello Skoosh

That was certainly a find. Thank you so much for that.  I did not know we had green fingered ancestors.

Regards

Richard
Title: Re: What is the chain? Freemason? Orange Order?
Post by: cooperman2010 on Sunday 06 April 14 23:04 BST (UK)
Hi I think this is the “Ancient Order of Free Gardeners” as it has the pruning knife.  I have something similar with a shield on it. I believe the order was Scottish and moved down into the north if England. I understand it is still active. I will try you get you some more information as I know someone with more information on this order.
You can also contact the curator at Freemasons Hall in London; they are based in Great Queens Street. I found they were very helpful.

cooperman2010
Title: Re: What is the chain? Freemason? Orange Order?
Post by: RTB on Monday 07 April 14 10:43 BST (UK)
Hi cooperman2010

Thank you for your reply. it is much appreciated.  So, that is two votes for  “Ancient Order of Free Gardeners” There is a very strong connection to Scotland for most of the families that I mentioned in my first posting. Will get a name for the fellow one day, he could even be my own Great Grandfather, but no one in the family knows, all too young.

Regards

Richard