In 1805, a schism blazed forth in the Grand Lodge of Ireland. It had smouldered since 1800, when Alexander Seton, an unscrupulous barrister, had been appointed Deputy Grand Secretary, but without the additional emoluments of Deputy Grand Treasurer, which he had expected.

Seton fomented local jealousies, seized the Grand Lodge archives, and retained adverse possession of the Grand Lodge premises. Many of the Lodges in the North of Ireland followed his standard, and were joined by others misled by his specious circulars.

Driven from Dublin in 1807, after a struggle, conducted with unseemly virulence on his part, he organized at Dungannon a schismatic body, which he called the GRAND LODGE OF ULSTER.

Worsted in a law suit, in which he sought to recover damages from the Grand Lodge of Ireland for his expulsion, his influence rapidly waned, and the Grand Officers whom he had attracted by misrepresentations, repudiated the short-lived Masonic power.

The final blow was dealt in 1814, when it was agreed between the Grand Lodges of England and Ireland that no countenance should be shown to Seton's adherents. The disaffected Lodges speedily returned to their obedience, and the Grand -Lodge of Ireland received their submission with wisdom and toleration.

Extract from 'The Concise History of Freemasonry'
By Robert Freke Gould

ISBN 0-486-45603-X