On 10th February 2026, our Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master John Hartley Smith, accompanied by our Deputy Provincial Grand Master Mark Davis, alongside a deputation of their Provincial Officers, gathered at Adoniram Mark Lodge No. 1065 to celebrate the 50th anniversary in Mark Masonry of W.Bro. James Kenneth Wright, PAGStdB . It was a fitting tribute to a man whose commitment to Freemasonry, and particularly to the Mark Degree, has spanned half a century. There were over 30 Brethren in attendance showing the respect and camaraderie he has forged during his masonic career.
Known as Ken to his friends, he was born in Oswaldtwistle in 1939. Educated locally, he achieved seven O Levels before embarking on a varied and successful career. After twelve years with the Coal Board, he joined English Electric in 1968, later becoming part of GEC and Marconi. Progressing to Works Engineer and eventually into property management, he remained in that field until his retirement in 2002.
In 1965 he married Eunice, whom he met at local dances, and together they built a happy family life in Blackburn. They have two children, Lisa and Alex (pictured and also in the Mark Degree), five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Outside Masonry, Ken has enjoyed gardening, DIY, following Blackburn Rovers, and an impressive record of over sixty cruises around the world!
Ken was initiated into Craft Masonry in 1972 and, in keeping with the customs of the time, served patiently before attaining the Chair in 1988. He received several Provincial promotions in recognition of his service.
However, like many of us, it is in the Mark Degree that Ken found his true Masonic home. He joined the Mark Degree in January 1976, advanced into Adoniram Lodge No. 1065, also at a time when some of the founders were still active members. He progressed steadily through the offices and was installed as Worshipful Master in November 1984. His dedication was recognised with his first Provincial appointment in 1989, and in 2006 he was honoured in Grand Lodge with the rank of PAGStdB – an honour he considers the highlight of his Masonic career. Over the years he has also served the Lodge as Secretary, ADC and Almoner, among other offices.
He later joined the Royal Ark Mariner Degree, becoming Commander in 2002 and receiving Provincial RAM honours in 2007.
Ken’s 50 years in the Mark Degree represent a lifetime of loyalty, service and friendship. We extend our warmest congratulations and wish him continued good health and many more years of enjoyment in Mark Masonry!