Vintage possibly Masons Archdale Lodge No. 5534 Wooden Fund Collection Box

This is a really interesting and fascinating piece of social history quite collectible piece, — items linked to lodges and societies often have a wonderful story behind them. From the construction, painted lettering, and the fund labels, this appears to be a lodge collection or subscription box, most likely from a friendly society or Masonic-style lodge.

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Some age related wear probably oak and hand made

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Vintage possibly masons Archdale Lodge No. 5534 Wooden Fund Collection Box

Friendly Society / Lodge Treasurer’s Box – Early 20th Century

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A fascinating and characterful hand-painted wooden lodge collection box from Archdale Lodge No. 5534, most likely dating to the early 20th century.

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This solid wooden box would have been used by the treasurer or lodge officers to collect and organise subscriptions and donations from members during meetings. The lid features four clearly labelled coin slots, each directing funds into a separate internal compartment. The sections are marked:

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P.G.L. Benevolent Fund

Lodge Benevolent Fund

Lodge General Fund

Entertainment Fund

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These categories reflect the typical structure of early lodge finances, where funds were carefully divided between charitable work, the running of the lodge, and social gatherings. Benevolent funds were particularly important within friendly societies and fraternal organisations, providing financial support for members during illness, hardship, or bereavement.

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The front of the box is hand-painted in cream lettering on a black background reading:

“ARCHDALE LODGE No. 5534”

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Inside, the box is neatly divided into four compartments corresponding to the labelled slots above, allowing coins to fall directly into their designated fund. The craftsmanship and layout suggest it was purpose-built for lodge use rather than a later decorative item.

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Pieces like this are evocative reminders of the social and charitable networks that were central to community life in Britain during the late Victorian and early 20th centuries, when fraternal lodges played a key role in supporting members and organising local social life.

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Condition

In good vintage condition with signs of age and honest use. The painted lettering shows wear and the wood has surface marks consistent with decades of handling during meetings. The interior compartments remain intact and clearly labelled.

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Approximate Dimensions

31 cm wide

18 cm depth

9 cm tall

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✨ Why we love it

This is the sort of object that quietly tells a story about community life — meetings held in village halls, collections taken for members in need, and the social rituals of local lodges. It’s both a historical artefact and a beautifully rustic decorative piece.

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The name “ARCHDALE LODGE No. 5534” is very likely connected to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (Manchester Unity), a major friendly society in Britain