A LODGE’S BIRTHDAY

Taranaki Daily News, 19 July 1932, Page 9

A LODGE’S BIRTHDAY

BALL ON 75TH ANNIVERSARY. The oldest lodge in New Plymouth, Loyal Egmont, Manchester Unity, celebrated.the 75tli anniversary of its foundation with a ball in the Agricultural Hall last night.: An attendance of ' over 500 included representatives of every Oddfellows’ Lodge in Taranaki. An approach fringed by palms and ferns led to the dance hall, which was roofed by a quilted canopy of red and yellow streamers, through which restrained lights shed glows of various hues. When to these softly-blended colours were added the gay colours of the dresses and the royal blues, reds, yellows and other splendours of the regalia the moving scene was kaleidoscopic in its brilliance. On the wall was the dispensation and merit board containing the names of past noble grands. The decorations were carried out by the social committee of the lodge. The supper- tables bore vases of spring flowers, and effective use had been made” of th© lodge colours, orange and royal blue t A feature of the gathering was a birthday cake upon which burned 75 gold and blue candles which shed a flickering radiance. The ball w.|3 held under the patronage of D-G.M. Bro. J. Walton (Feilding Lodge) and D.D.G.M. Bro. E. Woodley (Eltham Lodge). Excellent services were given by th© ladies’ committee in charge of the supper. At the conclusion of the grand march D.G.M. Bro. Walton extended a general welcome. It was in April, 1857, that the lodge was formed, he said. They were honoured that evening with the presence of Bro. Richard Cock, a member for 60 vears, and the oldest member present. The lodge had produced its first district grand master in 1867, when Bro. Henry Kaull was appointed. Since then 15 district grand masters had come from Loyal P Egmont. No fewer than five of them were present that night. Loyal Egmont Lodge had over 300 members, which must be considered verv creditable when it was remembered that Loval Excelsior Lodge, New Plymouth, also had over 300 members. The funds of Loyal Egmont amounted to £l3 000. There was. available for distribution ■ among Taranaki lodges this year £14,000, of which about £2OOO would come to Loyal Egmont. This would be used to reduce the present contributions of members who had joined up to 1929, or in increasing their benefits payable at death. Mr. Walton concluded by paying a tribute to the older members, to whose services the lodge owed its present prosperity. H© then called on Mrs. Walton to cut the cake. • - - xi. . - Martin's Orchestra, provided the music. Mr. J. Wall made an excellent master of ceremonies.