Ample Form

Ample Form. This term is first heard of in Dr. Anderson’s restored minutes of the formative years of the premier Grand Lodge from June 24, 1717 to April 25, 1723. In a note to the minutes of the first-named date, it is said: ”When the Grand Master is present it is a Lodge in Ample Form; otherwise only in Due Form, yet having the same Authority as Ample Form.” Other than that, the origin of the term is unknown. Of course, Ample means plentiful, sufficient, or more than adequate, but, since a Grand Lodge in Due Form has plenty of or sufficient power, the distinction seems to be purely a Masonic technicality, useful if understood. The term is also applied to lodges. A lodge is said to be opened or closed in Ample Form when opened or closed by the Grand Master in person, which he does usually in short form by the sound of the gavel and without the usual opening or closing ceremonies. See DUE FORM.