LOL 567
Comber Old Standard
According to records, this is the oldest lodge in Comber and has a distinguished beginning. The Warrant was first issued to a Samuel Wheeler, an officer of the 5th Dragoon Guards on the 1st December 1821 while stationed in Longford.
This was a `Marching` Warrant that allowed the lodge to operate wherever they were posted. The warrant was renewed in 1831 to a Mr. John McCormick of Comber and has remained in the town ever since.
The lodge had a long association with the Stone family of Barn Hill and at one time possessed a banner with a painting of Bessie Stone (1936). Miss Stone was renowned for entertaining various lodges for tea parties. Sadly the banner cannot be located.
Above left, a picture of a later banner for LOL 567 with Bessie Stone in the centre piece. The present banner was unfurled on 12th June 1987. The banner has a religious perspective, Moses receiving the Ten Commandments.
Below left, members of Old Standard lodge and visiting Brethren at the installation of lodge Officers.