13 Cards with Symbols of the British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
Date20th Century
Object NameSymbol
Mediumcard; watercolour
ClassificationsSocieties
Dimensions82.8 x 82.8cm
AcquisitionPresented in 1988 by Mr R M Galloway.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS016266
About MeRose and Thistle was the first lodge of the British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners to be established in Aberdeen. This was in April of 1880 and was initially under the care of the Kirkaldy District Branch. By 1887 six lodges existed and in September of that year it was decided to form an Aberdeen District Branch. The BOAFG, like similar societies, was a friendly society which aimed to help members in times of sickness and need. The Free Gardeners adopted rituals and symbols which owed much to those of freemasons. The influence of the Order spread throughout the North East of Scotland with lodges being set up in places such as Boddam, Elgin, Ballater and Oldmeldrum. In the 20th century the gradual introduction of state pensions and benefits began to undermine the economic basis of the BOAFG and there was a long period of decline in membership. In 1987, in the Aberdeen Branch's centenary year, the order was dissolved.
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
1907-1908
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
1909-1910
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
1910-1911
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
1911-1912
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
1912-1913
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
1900
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
1900-1906
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
1958
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
January 1888
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
January 1888
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
January 1889
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
January 1889
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
August 1889
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
August 1889
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
February 1892
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
February 1893
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
Februay 1894
British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners
February 1895
