ODDFELLOWS' ANNICERSARIES.

Press, Volume XXXVI, Issue 5025, 15 October 1881, Page 3

ODDFELLOWS' ANNICERSARIES.

The anniversary of the Loyal Bangiora Lodge was celebrated yesterday by an excursion by rail and coach to Sumner. The party left the railway station in the morning, shortly after eight o'clock, and proceeded by special train to Christchurch station, where they were met by a complete array of omnibuses, express waggons, and coaches, which had been provided by Mr W. Bay ward to convey them to their destination. Unfortunately for the contractor, the party did not cmα-ber sufficiently for the accommodation provided, and there was some wrangling for the work amongst the driven, but this being settled, they proceeded along Manchester street and down Lower High street, headed by the Bangiora brase band, who were accommodated with a van to themselves. They proceeded in this order to Sumner, and camped on the section belonging-I<> Mr Hiorns, near the township. Picnic parties were' then formed, and tea and milk being provided in abundance, every one was Boon engaged in the mid-day mcii. The afternoon was spent ia rambles over the hills and in -various manners, the weather being all that could be desired.' The arrangements made .by Mr Hayward for the comfort of the excursionists wore of the best, and all thoroughly enjoyed themselves, and returned to town in the evening, whence they were conveyed home by special train, leaving at 7.30. A dance was arranged to be held in the Institute Hall in the evening. The anniversary of the Loyal Southbridge Lodge of Oddfellows, No. 6042, was celebrated by a picnic on Thursday, and a dance in the evening. The weather being all that could be desired the whole affair was an unqualified success. The members of the order met at <jhe lodge room at 11 30 a m., and marched in full regalia te Mr W. Graham's large paddock, which had been kindly pl?.ced at their disposal, beaded by the Southbridge brass band, who generously gave their services for the day. The arrangements on the ground were complete, the running oval being tastefully decorated with flags. The secretary had pro vided numerous prizes for sports, both for men and children, all of whom seemed thoroughly satisfied with their winnings. Luncheon on the ground was , supplied to all ticket holders, and was laid out in a manner which reflected the greatest credit on Mesers Paddy and Pile, the caterers. The children were also well looked after. At the conclusion of the sports three cheers were given for Mr W. Graham, and three for the secretary, and the procession started homewards On arrival at the lodge room the secretary thanked the band for their services, stating that the success of the gathering was in a great measure due to the fact of their being present, and called for three cheers for them. Mr H. Hurman (bandmaster) briefly replied, and was sure nobody had enjoyed the day better than the bandsmen themselves. Tbe dance in the evening was held in the Town Hall, and was largely attended, all seeming to thoroughly lenjoythemsfilveß.