Grand Master Mason, Brother Dr. Joseph J. Morrow, Welcomes King Charles and Queen Camilla at Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh, Scotland – July 3, 2024
In a regal ceremony at Edinburgh Castle, Brother Dr. Joseph J. Morrow, fulfilling his role as Lord Lyon, extended a warm welcome to His Majesty King Charles and Her Majesty Queen Camilla.
The Royal Couple, on an official visit to Scotland, arrived in the historic city to a grand reception.
Brother Morrow, with solemn authority, summoned the Garrison to open the imposing castle gates, granting passage to the King and presenting the symbolic Keys to the Castle.
The red velvet cushion upon which the keys rested bore the weight of centuries of tradition, and as King Charles touched it, the echoes of history reverberated through the ancient stone walls.
Before the formal proceedings, the Palace of Holyroodhouse’s garden underwent a transformation. It became a parade ground where King Charles met senior military and uniformed figures. Among them was Police Scotland Chief Constable Jo Farrell, who saluted the monarch.
The guard of honor, composed of soldiers from Balaklava Company, 5 Scots, stood at attention, their precision a testament to their duty.
The Royal Company of Archers, established in 1822 during King George IV’s reign, lined up in their distinctive attire. These archers serve as the sovereign’s ceremonial bodyguard for Scotland.
Among their distinguished members are Past Grand Masters, including Brother J.M. Marcus Humphrey of Dinnet, Brother Sir Archibald D. Orr Ewing, and Brother Charles Iain Robert Wolrige Gordon of Esslemont. Additionally, Past Substitute Grand Master Brother Alexander C.G. Moncrieff stood among this esteemed company.
As the sun cast long shadows over the castle walls, the convergence of royalty, tradition, and Freemasonry created a moment that would resonate through time.
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