Prestonian Lectures

The Prestonian Lectures are a series of lectures established in memory of William Preston, a prominent Masonic scholar and author of the influential work Illustrations of Masonry. After his death, Preston left a bequest to the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) to fund annual lectures on Masonic topics, particularly focusing on the first three degrees of Masonry as practiced in the Lodge of Antiquity during his mastership. The lectures aim to preserve the spirit of inquiry into the origins and rituals of Freemasonry. Although the lectureship was dormant for many years, it was revived in 1924 and continues to be delivered today, with topics closely vetted by UGLE to ensure they align with contemporary Masonic values.