MASONIC JUBILEE

Greymouth Evening Star, 24 July 1918, Page 2

MASONIC JUBILEE

INTERESTING SKETCH

In view of tlie Masonic Jubilee which, is being celebrated this evening, a brief biographical sketch of the founding of the lodge in Greymouth may prove of interest. On the 25th May, 1808, the Greymouth Lodge was consecrated by the Right Worshipful Brother J- Lagar. This ceremony was the happy climax to several unsuccessful efforts to create a lodge which, however, at length became an established fact. The first meeting was held in the Albion Hotel, where all the various emblems and paraphernalia of the craft were arranged, and where* it is recorded, all that could be desired being eulogised by visiting* brethren from all parts. Mr Edward Archer was the first W.M. invested, and was later succeeded by George W. Moss. Of that coterie of enthusiasts who extended every effort to forward the Lodge few remain. Of those early brethren privileged to attend the Jubilee ceremony are included Messrs Gen. W. Moss and ft. Samuels. James Iverr Hater the Hon. James * Herr. M.Tj.CA was established W.M. in 1872 and in the same year laid the foundation stone of a large Masonic Hall in Mackay Street—but four years after the formation of the Lodge —certainly a splendid achievement. This fact goes to illustrate that spirit of enterprise and determination that featured the character of the pioneer brethren- The hall was erected by Greymouth brethren, who constituted themselves the Masonic Hall Company, and of which W.M. Bro. W. Henderson was appointed secretary. 1 On leaving for Reef ton Bro. Henderson was succeeded b*y Bro. J. T. Skoglund. The hall at the time was a striking edifice and practically tbe most elaborate building in Greymouth. but was destroyed by fire in 1887. Two years after this misfortune flic Hon. J. Iverr laid tbe foundation stone of tbe present ball- ftnbsequentlv the Lodge purchased several other sites and has eontinned with unchallenged prosperity up to the present day.