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Brothers in Alms Gallery | Freemasons' Hall

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The "Brothers in Alms Gallery" at Freemasons' Hall highlights prominent Freemasons who contributed significantly during World War I. Notable figures include Dame Florence Burleigh Leach, Major General in the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps; Field Marshals Kitchener and Haig; and American Generals Arnold, Patton, and MacArthur. The document outlines various military campaigns, including the air and naval battles, emphasizing the British Navy's dominance and the introduction of aircraft in warfare. It also details the involvement of women in the war effort, particularly through the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps. Advances in medical treatment, such as mobile x-ray machines, are noted, reflecting the era's innovations in healthcare. The gallery serves not only as a tribute to these individuals but also as a reminder of the broader societal impacts of war, including the roles filled by women and the evolution of military medicine.

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December 9th, 2025

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February 10th, 2026

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External source: www.ugle.org.uk

Brothers in Alms Gallery | Freemasons' Hall

Portraits:

  • Dame Florence Burleigh Leach: A notable figure who served in the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps during WWI, rising to the rank of Major General. She began her service in 1915 and quickly advanced due to her management skills. She joined the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons in 1910.

  • Field Marshals Kitchener and Haig: Both were significant military leaders and Freemasons. Kitchener was a celebrated war hero and died in 1916 when the HMS Hampshire was sunk. Haig commanded British forces until the war's end and dedicated his life to supporting veterans after the war.

  • Other Notable Freemasons:

    • John Pershing: Commander of the US army during WWI.
    • Admiral John Jellicoe: Admiral of the Fleet at the war's start, replaced after the Battle of Jutland.
    • General Sir Francis Reginald Wingate: A leading army commander during the war.

United States Involvement:

  • Generals Arnold, Patton, and MacArthur: All participated in WWI, with Arnold becoming the youngest full colonel at 29, Patton commanding the US tank school, and MacArthur leading the 42nd Rainbow group. Future President Roosevelt served as a naval attaché and contracted Spanish flu during the war.

War in the Field:

  • King George V decorated numerous soldiers for bravery, visiting the front lines over four hundred times and inspiring troops.

War in the Air:

  • The war marked the first large-scale use of aircraft for reconnaissance and combat. Captain Albert Ball V.C. became a notable ace with 44 victories before his death in 1917.

War on the Sea:

  • The British Navy was the largest and most formidable during WWI. The inconclusive Battle of Jutland did not deter German naval ambitions. HMS Hampshire, a cruiser, sank in 1916, resulting in significant loss of life, including Lord Kitchener.

The Middle East Campaign:

  • The campaign involved fighting against the Ottoman Empire, with Australian forces utilizing camel brigades in the desert terrain.

Women at War:

  • Women filled roles left vacant by men and volunteered as nurses and ambulance drivers, leading to the formation of the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps.

Masonic Hospitals and Nursing:

  • The war saw advancements in medical treatment for the wounded, including the use of mobile x-ray machines and improved surgical practices.