Mexborough and Swinton Times, January 28, 1927

R.A.O.B.
A Noted “Buff.”

An outstanding figure in Buffaloism, and one of the best-known members of the Order in these parts is The Right Honourable Sir Robert Tesh, of Wombwell.

For over ¼ of a century Mr Tesh practically lived for Buffaloism, and the manner in which he has interpreted his vows as a loyal member and a brother has earned him esteem in hundreds of lodges he has visited and hundreds more he has not.

Mr Tesh recounted his career as a “Buff” to a representative of the “Times” this week.

He joined the Shakespeare Lodge, Barnsley in 1900, and was initiated by Sir F.K.Beckford (then only C.P.). The number of the Lodge was 572; today there are over 6000 lodges in the Order – a graphic illustration of the growth of Buffaloism.

He admits that Buffaloism at that time was conducted in a somewhat rough and ready style, but he added, a little ruefully perhaps,

“I honestly believe there was more of the real spirit of brotherhood in the ranks in those days.”

This Barnsley was then part of the Sheffield Province, and many unpleasant weather visits interchange between the “Buffaloes” of the two districts, the old horse wagonette usually being adopted as the mode of transport. Later Barnsley join Wakefield, in the formation of a Provincial Grand Lodge and the meetings were held alternately at the two places.

Coming to the birth of Buffaloism in Wombwell and the time when he began to devote his energies to the development of the Order in this district, Mr Tesh recalled that a pilgrim “Buff,” Brother Alfred Denville, came to Wombwell with his travelling theatre in 1906. Surprised to find there was no full gathering of brethren in Wombwell, he visited a Lodge at the Musical Tavern, Barnsley. There he met local “Buffs” in strong force. As a result of plans there discussed, the “Denville” Lodge (1155), still existing at the Horseshoe Hotel, Wombwell was subsequently formed.

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