Welcome to the story of Oakeswell Lodge No 8117, a Lodge of the United Grand Lodge of England in the Province of Staffordshire.

The formation of our Lodge is rooted in a rich history that dates back to 1857, when St Bartholomew Lodge No 696 was established. In 1966, the Brethren of St Bartholomew Lodge No 696 petitioned to form a new Lodge, which was granted on 8th June of that year. Oakeswell Lodge No 8117 was consecrated on 26th January 1967, and has since become a cherished part of the local community.

The name "Oakeswell" was chosen as the title of our Lodge to honor a significant part of Wednesbury's history. The medieval Oakes Well, which dates back to the Domesday Book of 1080 AD, was one of many wells from which the town's inhabitants drew their water. Although most of these wells no longer exist, the Oakes Well has been preserved and can still be seen in the grounds of the Newhall Place retirement and sheltered housing complex, located in Oakeswell End, Walsall Street, Wednesbury. The well proudly stands with its stone arch and commemorative plaque on the property side of the complex’s boundary wall, hidden from view from the main road.

The site on which the Oakes Well stands has a rich and storied past. Records show that a manor house was located here and was sold to William Byng in 1421. Over time, the house was altered and rebuilt, and when it was finally demolished in the 1960s, it bore little resemblance to its original form. Nonetheless, it remained a landmark and a cherished part of Wednesbury's history. The house, which had many names over the years, was ultimately known as Oakeswell Hall. Notably, it was occupied by a doctor in its final years, whose partner at the surgery was Dr. Arnold Blackwell, a Founding Member of Oakeswell Lodge and its first Treasurer.

Today, Oakeswell Lodge No 8117 continues to honor the rich history of Wednesbury and the surrounding area. We are proud to be a part of this vibrant community and welcome those who are interested in learning more about our Lodge and Freemasonry in general. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to learn more.