One of the most famous Freemasons associated with the Lisburn area was The Right Honourable Sir John Milne Barbour, Bt., DL, LL.D.
There is much to be told about Milne Barbour’s life and involvement with Freemasonry, however this article focuses on his Past King’s Jewel, or as we know it, the Barbour Jewel. Barbour served as the Most Excellent and Supreme King of the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Ireland from 1933, until his death in 1951 and Sovereign Grand Commander of the Supreme Council 33rd Degree from 1949 until his death.
Milne Barbour was installed as Excellent King of RAC 602 in 1900 and was presented with the pictured Past King’s jewel, made of 18ct gold, in November 1901. A special jewel, even for the time, it is believed that the cord to which it was attached, was made in such a way as to hang perfectly round the neck of Ex Companion Barbour.
The jewel was obviously treasured by Sir Milne, however following his passing, its whereabouts became unknown. It was only in March 1976, that the Chapter received a letter from an Ex Companion Lemon, who was working in Barbour Threads Ltd at Hilden Mill during the 1970s, when he, purely by accident, came across what he at first thought was a medal. Upon closer inspection, it was found to be the jewel originally presented in 1901.
Since 1976, the ’Barbour Jewel’ has been worn, with pride, by the Excellent King of St. Patrick’s Royal Arch Chapter No. 602, during their term of office. Tonight, 50 years later, that tradition will continue as Ex Companion Moore becomes the latest custodian of this historic item.