Freemasonry and Provincial Culture: Worcestershire 1733 - 1850

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Robertson, Alan T (2022). Freemasonry and Provincial Culture: Worcestershire 1733 - 1850. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

This thesis is a reassessment of a topic much neglected by academic historians – namely, Freemasonry as a social institution. It examines what attracted 1169 men to freemasonry in Worcestershire between 1733 and 1850 and evaluates their contribution to the social and economic development of the county during that period. The research is based on extensive use of both masonic and non-masonic primary sources. Data extracted from locally and centrally held masonic records have been integrated with non-masonic data to create a historic record of the activities of those freemasons. Based on the information gathered, it is argued that Freemasonry, through its values and structure, enabled its members to contribute to the social and economic development of Worcestershire. As an organisation it straddled the roles traditionally attributed to business networks and benevolent institutions so that, not only were freemasons actively involved in the industrial development of the area, but they were also promoters of the well-being of local communities facing the social challenges of industrialisation.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

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