Celebrating 70 years of Felden Lodge

Wednesday 23rd October 2019

Over 80 current and former members of The Boys’ Brigade came together on Saturday 19th October for a celebration event to mark the 70th anniversary of the opening of Felden Lodge.

Felden Lodge is set in 32 acres of grounds on the outskirts of Hemel Hempstead. It was acquired by The Boys’ Brigade in 1948 and opened on 22nd October 1949 as its national training centre, and today serves as a conference and training centre, camping ground as well as the Brigade’s United Kingdom & Republic of Ireland Headquarters.

The event gave those in attendance the chance to view exhibitions of the history of Felden Lodge and the Brigade, go on tours of the house and grounds, and opportunities to catch up with old friends.

Amongst those present at the event was 87-year-old Peter Williams, a former boy, leader and Captain of the 1st Enfield Company in North London, who was also present at the official opening event in 1949 at the age of 17 as part of a Colour Party. Peter was invited to cut a special cake in celebration of the 70th anniversary.

Colin Watts, Centre Manager of Felden Lodge, said: “It was fantastic that so many people could join us for this event. The day was full of chat and celebration and showed that Felden Lodge has played an important role in the lives of many people, as well as for The Boys’ Brigade, over the past 70 years. A great day was had by all!”