This degree relates to the Biblical account of Noah and his sons.
Whilst its early history is obscure, no doubt originating from operative days and possibly linking the masons with the woodworkers, in its speculative form the Degree was practised during the latter part of the 18th century.
Unfortunately many valuable records were destroyed by fire when the house of the Grand Secretary was burned down in 1820.
There was a period where no uniform regulated form of this Degree was practised and eventually in 1871, the Grand Mark Lodge took the Degree under its jurisdiction with the result that Mariner Lodges are now attached to Mark Lodges, bearing the same Number and often the same name.
It follows that all candidates in this Degree must already be Mark Master Masons.
There is now a Grand Master's Council as the regulatory authority which awards Masonic honours for meritorious, service. The present Grand Master is H.R.H. Prince Michael of Kent.
The Brontë Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners was consecrated on the 10th September 1971 at the Masonic Hall, Hoyle Court, Baildon, by the Provincial Grand Master of Mark Master Masons, R.W.Bro. Carl Whitehead.
It meets four times a year (March, May, June and September) at the Masonic Hall, Haworth.
Of the 24 Founder members there are now four subscribing Past Commanders of the Lodge namely: W.Bro. J.W. Boocock, W.Bro. K.H. Trott, W.Bro. A. Hartley and W.Bro. C.M. Kershaw. This Lodge is attached to the Brontë Mark Lodge.
Compiled by one of the Founder members, W.Bro. K. H. Trott, Prov.R.A.M.G.R