Sister Mary Turtle Memorial celebrates 110 glorious years

THIS year marks a very special milestone for Sister Mary Turtle Memorial WLOL No 14.

It is 110 years since the local Lodge was formed, and the members have been looking back at their long and distinguished history.

"It is fitting that we reflect on our beginnings, remember those who helped shape our history, and honour the traditions, friendships and values that have sustained us over the past 110 years." said a spokesperson.

The story of our Lodge began through the vision and commitment of Brother Harris and Brother John Sloan, who recognised the need for a Ladies’ Lodge in Ballymena and took the initiative to make that vision a reality.

And it was born in turbulent times.Many local men had left home to serve with the 12th Battalion of the Royal Irish Rifles during the First World War.

Among those who lost their lives at the Battle of the Somme were men who had connections to the Lodge, making this period a particularly poignant part of theeir shared history.

Their efforts came to fruition on 26th April 1916, when the Lodge was officially formed.

The warrant was issued to Sister Isabel Harris by Grand Mistress Mary Johnson and Grand Secretary Sister Leah Carvel, marking the beginning of a proud legacy that continues to this day.

In those early years, Lodge life was conducted with great formality. Sisters were expected to wear hats and gloves and to be appropriately dressed whenever the Lodge was in session.

There was a deep respect for the institution, its traditions and its members - values which helped establish the strong foundations upon which our Lodge was built.

TheLodge originally met in Harryville Orange Hall, where it remained until 9th November 1945, when it moved to Ballymena Protestant Hall, the home in which they continue to meet to this very day.

Even when the Protestant Hall was damaged by an IRA bombing in 1990, the Lodge continued its work, meeting in St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Parochial Hall until circumstances allowed them to return.

One particularly interesting discovery came while researching the minutes of the final meeting held in Harryville Orange Hall.

Among the entries was a request from Sister White, District Grand Mistress of Newtownhamilton, seeking assistance with raising funds to build their Orange Hall.

And the Lodge responded generously.

This small but significant entry offers a valuable glimpse into the character of the Sisters.

"Even in 1945, charity and helping others were central to our principles.

"It reminds us that, throughout our history, kindness, generosity and service have been more than simply ideals - they have been an important part of who we are."

Sometime between 1954 and 1973, the Lodge adopted the name by which they are proudly known today - Sister Mary Turtle Memorial W.L.O.L. No. 14.

Sister Mar was born on Suffolk Street in Ballymena and was a remarkable woman whose dedication to the Lodge and the wider organisation left 'a lasting impression'.

She held every office within the Lodge and also served in positions within her District.

"Her commitment, leadership and service made her a respected figure and an inspiration to generations of Sisters.

"The decision to commemorate her through the name of our Lodge was a fitting tribute to her contribution and ensures that her memory continues to live on.

"As we celebrate our 110th anniversary, we remember Sister Mary Turtle with pride and gratitude, recognising the example she set for those who would follow in her footsteps."

Over the decades, the role of the Sisters evolved considerably, reflecting changes within the Association and the wider community.

Many people today may not realise that, for much of their history, Sisters were not permitted to parade alongside the Brethren.

Their role was primarily one of support, and they undertook much of the important work behind the scenes, organising catering, arranging transport and helping ensure that events and activities ran smoothly.

Although Sisters attended Divine Services alongside the Brethren on the Twelfth of July, they were not permitted to walk alongside them in the parades.

A significant change came in 1976, wh eLodge received an invitation from Castlegore to walk with them.

This was an important milestone, not only for the Sisters but also in the wider history of the Association, marking progress towards greater participation and fellowship.

During the 1980s, Ross Lodge LOL 515 extended a similar invitation. From that day forward, they have proudly walked alongside them.

"The friendship established all those years ago remains strong today, and we are deeply grateful for the continued support, companionship and fellowship of Ross Lodge LOL 515.

"Such enduring friendships are a reminder that the strength of our organisation lies not only in its traditions, but also in the relationships we build and maintain across generations.

As we look back over 110 years, we recognise that our Lodge has been shaped by the dedication of countless Sisters, each of whom has played a part in preserving our traditions and passing them on to future generations.

"From our formation in 1916, through the challenges of two world wars and the changes that followed, to the friendships and fellowship we enjoy today, our story is one of perseverance, commitment and unity.

"We remember with gratitude those who laid the foundations of our Lodge, those who served faithfully throughout the years, and those whose contributions may not always have been recorded but whose efforts helped keep our Lodge strong.

"Above all, we remain mindful of the values that have endured throughout our history: faith, charity, loyalty, friendship and service to others.

"Here’s to 110 years of history, fellowship and proud tradition and to the years still to come."