Provincial Masonry took its rise in the mid eighteenth century, a few years after the formation of Grand Lodge in 1717. The original Grand Lodge was based in London and comprised entirely of London lodges. Gradually however, its authority spread throughout the country. For the efficient regulation and administration of the Craft in the provinces, it was necessary for the Grand Master to have local representation. The first Provincial Grand Master was appointed for Cheshire in 1725.
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