Before the end of the nineteenth century, work was in hand to raise funds for an orphanage. The driving force behind the scheme at this time was Brother L. I. Aulton, of whom it is recorded that he repeatedly gave notice of business at G.L. for his scheme to be discussed, but Grand Lodge did not seem to be interested. Undeterred by this lack of interest, he finally secured a hearing, and in January 1898, Grand Lodge gave its approval in outline, the vote being unanimous.
By November 3rd, 1900, negotiations for land on which to build had reached a most satisfactory stage, for it was reported that Brother E. R. Tongue Croxall, Lord of the Manor of Aldridge, had donated an area of land some three acres in extent, subject to certain restrictions which would operate in the event of the Orphanage being closed. The Directors accepted with thanks, and, this decision having been taken, the local Rector and ladies of the district took up the task of assisting the funds; every kind of local effort was put into the work, including a three days’ Bazaar under the distinguished patronage of Lady Bateman and Scott and Lady Tenterden, who, says the book, “honoured the occasion with their presence”.
On February 21st, 1903, the financial position had improved to the point where the statement of accounts showed an all in total subscribed over the five years of £1,204, and in spite of the plea of the timorous few who wanted another £1,000 subscribed before commencing operations, a decision was made to commence building immediately.
Speed now became the second name of everyone connected with the project. Following the decision in February to proceed, plans were approved in April, tenders asked for and submitted by May, and the ceremony of cutting the first turf arranged for June, when Brother John Archdeacon officiated. The interesting and historic ceremony of laying the foundation stone followed four months later - October 3rd, 1903, and this operation, as was appropriate, was in the hands of the donor of the land - Brother E. R. T. Croxall.
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