TAMWORTH

1 

The International 

“AUSTRALIAN TRAVELLING GAVEL” 

COLLECTION 

Updated November 2013 

Tamworth 

Wyong 

TAMWORTH 

Travelling Gavel 

New South Wales - Australia 

Presented 1993

2 

V. W. Bro. Rick Howes 

Creator of the 

AUSTRALIAN TRAVELLING GAVEL COLLECTION 

GAVEL NO. 1 

Presented to the Lodges of “Victoria” to Promote and Unite Masons, 

“And to Promote Visitation” 

Assistance in making this book. 

V. W. Bro. Walter Billington....................................... Computer assistance 

V. W. Bro. George L. Davies (Les)….. …. ................Computer assistance 

David Mott……………………………….…..........….... Computer assistance 

Alistair Harding….........................................................Computer assistance 

Barbara (Mrs)..........…..................................Assistance 

Irene Mott……………………………………….................. Making bags for Gavels 

W. Bro. Colin Taylor, Cheshire, England: Donated the Website 

W. Bro. Eric Mole, Cheshire, England: Donated the Website Hosting 

***************** 

To contact 

V.W. Bro. Rick Howes 

NEW SOUTH WALES 

AUSTRALIA 

Phone: ..+61 (02) 4352 1748 

International 

Phone +61 02 4352 1748 Mobile; 0414 998 202 

Email Address 

ricksgavels@gmail.com & rbhowes@tpg.com.au 

Website: www.travellinggavels.com

3 

INDEX 

LODGE NO. DATE TOWN PAGE 

Tamworth Lodge 652 9 th November 1993 Tamworth 8 

St. Andrews Lodge 281 14 th September 1994 Manila 10 

Unity Lodge 6 4 th October 1994 Armidale 12 

Armidale Lodge 641 1 st December 1994 Armidale 12 

Glen Innes Lodge 44 1 st December 1994 Glen Innes 14 

Tenterfield Lodge 55 1 st February 1995 Tenterfield 15 

Ashford Lodge 899 ? Ashford 16 

North Star Lodge 932 ? North Star 16 

Cullen Lodge 685 March 1997 Inverell 17 

Courallie Lodge 235 28 th March 1996 Moree 18 

Gwyder Lodge 211 29 th March 1996 Bingara 18 

Inverell Lodge 48 13 th November 1996 Inverell 19 

Warialda Lodge 257 10 th January 1997 Warialda 21 

QUEENSLAND 25 

McIntire Lodge 116 4 th September 1997 Goondiwindi 28 

Balonne Lodge 294 13 th September 1997 Warialda 30 

Raphael Lodge 30 20 th September 1997 Roma 31 

Read about Wikipedia The Free Encylopedia Terms of use 33 

Corona Lodge 318 Wallumbilla 34 

Bonnie Doon Lodge 504 Injune 36 

Maranoa Lodge 47 25 th April 1998 Roma 37 

Warroo Lodge 397 Surat 39 

Aspley Bald Hills Lodge 430 1 st August 1998 Kedron 39 

Bon Accord Lodge 483 20 th August 1998 Kedron 41 

Cooroora Lodge 232 27 th February 1999 Pomana 43 

Warwick Lodge 160 10 th July 1999 Warwick 44 

ENGLAND 46 

Warwick Lodge 8011 2 nd August 1999 Warickshire 52 

AMERICA 56 

About New York 57 

Warwick Lodge 544 10 th August 1999 NEW YORK 59 

RHODE ISLAND 60 

Warwick Lodge 16 12 th August 1999 Rhode Island 61 

Ionic Lodge 28 25 th September 1999 Greene 62 

CONNECTICUT 64 

Moosup Lodge 113 2 nd January 2000 Moosup 65 

MASSACHUSETTS 67 

John Warren Lodge 30 th May 2000 Hopkinton 67 

Charles A Welch Lodge 13 th September 2000 Maynard 73 

Knights of Columbus 06 Group in Ashford Massachusetts 75 

NEW HAMPSHIRE 75 

Olive Branch Lodge 16 29 th December 2001 Plymouth 76 

Horace Chase Lodge 72 7 th April 2001 Penacook 82 

VERMONT-USA 85 

Island Pond Lodge 44 11 th November 2002 Tsland Pond 87 

Windsor Lodge 18 19 th April 2003 Vermont 90 

QUEBEC-CANADA 92 

Golden Rule Lodge 05 18 th October 2003 Stanstead 94 

Lake Magog Lodge 55 8 th July 2004 Magog 95 

VERMONT 96 

Meridian Sun Lodge 20 28 th September 2004 Craftsbury 97 

QUEBEC 98 

Ascot Lodge 30 25 th January 2005 Lennoxville 99

4 

Lodge of Two Mountains 122 9 th February 2005 Deux Montagnes 102 

ONTARIO 104 

St. John’s Lodge 21a 5 th April 2005 Vankleek 106 

NEW YORK 111 

Grand Lodge 2 nd . May 2005 New York 111 

Massena Lodge 519 14 th April 2005 Massena 112 

SYRIA-LEBANON 113 

Syria-America Lodge 01 3 rd May 2005 Lebanon 119 

CYPRUS 120 

Grand Lodge of Cyprus 121 

Othello Lodge 5670 Famagusta 123 

Lord Kitchener Lodge 3420 28 th May 2005 Dhekelia Camp 125 

58 Dhekelia Garrison BFPO 7502 Dhekelia 130 

Agapinor Lodge E.C. 8905 Paphos 131 

GREECE 135 

Lodge Phoenix 01 Corfu 136 

Lodge Apollo 1933 98 Athens 137 

Theodoros Kolokotronis 93 Tripolis 138 

Lodge Dimitir 123 Eleusis 138 

Lodge Pharos 138 Patras 139 

ITALY 143 

Grand Lodge of Italy 144 

Tommaso Brigandi 993 March 2006 Or of Gallipoli 145 

BELGIUM 147 

L’Avenir et L’Espérance 05 Namur 149 

Chrestien De Troyes 398 Namur 150 

Sambre et Meuse 25 Namur 150 

Regular Freemasonry in Belgium 154 

FRANCE 156 

Lodge of Charleroi (and* 398 19 th September 2009 Champagne 158 

Lodge Chrestien, ( * 398 “ Troyes 158 

SWITZERLAND 165 

Lodge Fidélité et Prudence 16 11 th March 2010 Geneve 167 

CZECH REPUBLIC 170 

Lodge “Narod” 01 25 th June 2013 Orient of Praha 171 

Items of Interest 174 

The Masonic Ring sung by Howie Damron 174 

Where my 12 International Travelling Gavel have been ptesented to 174 

Lodge Funeral (Must Read) 177 

New South wales - Australia **** Tourism 178 

Freemasonry 181 

TO BE CONTINUED

5 

The 

International 

“Australian Travelling Gavelling Collection” 

“I” 

V. W. Bro. Rick Howes PDGIW 

Travelling Gavel Website 

www.travellinggavels.com 

As of 2013 they have been presented into well over. 

1000 Lodges & Grand Lodges Through-out 38 countries 

Email Address: 

ricksgavels@gmail.com 

FACTS ABOUT 

AUSTRALIA 

Area ~ 7, 682, 300 sq km / 2, 966, 136 sq ml ~ Capital ~ Canberra ~ Language ~ English ~ 

Currency ~ Australian Dollar ~ population ~ 20,434,176 (2007) ~ Life expectancy ~ 74 (men), 80, (women) 

Literacy rate, 99% ~ Religion ~ Anglican, 26%, other protestant, 17%, Roman Catholic, 26% 

Territories ~ Norfolk, Christmas, Cocos, Heard and McDonald Islands ant the Australian Antarctic Territory 

Imports ~ Petroleum and Petroleum products, medicinal products, consumer goods 

Exports ~ Iron ore, aluminium, coal, nickel, Zinc, lead, gold, tin, tungsten, uranium, wool, meat, cereals, wine 

Australia, nicknamed the “Land Down Under, is a country, an island and a continent. It is the world’s smallest 

continent and the sixth-largest country. It is located in the Southern Hemisphere, between the Indian Ocean and 

the Southern Pacific Ocean... This continent-country-island has an area of 2,966,368 square miles (7,682,300 

square kilometres). 

Population: Australia has a population about 20 million people. Most of Australia’s population lives on the 

fertile plains of the eastern and south eastern coasts. The interior of Australia (called the Outback) is dry with 

many deserts. 

Government and Economy: The Commonwealth of Australia is a democracy (leaders are elected by the adult 

population) but it recognizes the monarch of Great Britain as sovereign (the Queen of England has the title 

“Chief of State” and performs ceremonial duties). Australia has a strong, modern economy. Its monetary unit is 

the Australian dollar. 

Largest Cities: Sydney is the largest city in Australia; it has over 3,935,000 people. Other large cities include 

Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and Newcastle. 

The Great Barrier Reef: off the eastern coast of Queensland is the Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef on 

Earth. This warm, clear, shallow ocean habitat is over 1,000 miles long, and is home to many animals and 

plants, including corals, sea anemones, sea stars, fish (including sharks), sea slugs, giant clams, seaweed, and 

many other organisms. 

The Tallest Mountain: Australia’s tallest peak is Mount Kosciuszko, which is 7,310 feet (2,228 m) tall. Mount 

Kosciuszko is located in south-eastern Australia, near Canberra, in the Great Dividing Range. 

The Lowest Point: Lake Eyre is Australia’s lowest point. It is 53 feet (16 m) below sea level. La 

New South Wales 


New South Wales (abbreviated as NSW) is a state of Australia, located in the east of the country. It is bordered 

by Queensland, Victoria and South Australia to the north, south and west respectively. To the east, the state is 

bordered by the Tasman Sea, which forms part of the Pacific Ocean. New South Wales encompasses the whole 

of the Australian Capital Territory. The state capital is Sydney, which is also the state’s most populous city. As 

of June 2010, the estimated population was 7,238,819, which was 34.5% of the population of Australia, making 

it Australia’s most populous state. Inhabitants of New South Wales are referred to as New South Welshmen.

6 

The colony of New South Wales was founded in 1788 and originally comprised much of the Australian 

mainland, as well as Van Diemen’s Land, Lord Howe Island and Norfolk Island, in addition to the area currently 

referred to as the state of New South Wales, which was formed during Federation in 1901. New Zealand briefly 

became a part of New South Wales when it was annexed by Britain in 1840. [3] During the 19 th century, large 

areas were successively separated to form the British colonies of Tasmania (established as a separate colony 

named Van Diemen’s Land in 1825), South Australia (1836), Victoria (1851) and Queensland (1859). 

This information about Australia & the Grand Lodge of NSW & Australian Capital Territory 

copied from 

Wikipedia the Free Encyclopedia 

13 th March 2012 

United Grand Lodge of New South Wales 

United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory 1888 

1888 – 2012 

In 2012 NSW had 15,000 Members 

GRAND LODGE OF NSW & AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY 

The United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory is the main governing 

body of Freemasonry within the Australian state of New South Wales that also wholly encloses the Australian 

Capital Territory containing the national capital city, Canberra. It is the oldest Grand Lodge in Australia, 

deriving its origin directly from the union in 1888 of the earlier 1845 provincial Grand Lodge under the United 

Grand Lodge of England and other provincial Grand Lodges. 

The Grand Lodge is led by an elected Grand Master, assisted by a Deputy Grand Master and an Assistant Grand 

Master, with a Grand Team. 

The Grand Lodge is further organised into 13 Regions, each led by a Regional Grand Counsellor (RGC), which 

are in turn organised into various Districts, led by a District Grand Inspector of Workings (DGIW), comprising 

groups of lodges based on geography. Districts are numbered using the Region number suffixed by a further 

number; hence District 103 is the 3 rd district of Region 10. The geographically smallest is Region 12 

Sydney Central and the largest is Region 13 Far West. There are no Region or District offices. Lodges meet in 

various buildings, ranging from individual lodge buildings to major city or urban centres, such as in Canberra. 

The Grand Secretary heads the administration of the Grand Lodge from the headquarters at 279 Castlereagh 

Street, Sydney, on the north-west side of the corner with Goulburn Street. 

HISTORY 

Main article: History of Freemasonry 

Freemasonry came to New South Wales with the regiments of the British Army soon after the First Fleet in 

1788. 

A Military Lodge sitting under Warrant No.1780, by then having admitted a number of civilians to membership, 

became Sydney No.l, formed with 39 brethren on 13 April 1845, the first W. Master Bro. Richard McGuffin and 

his Officers, being installed by Bro. Alexander. No.l, operated in Sydney until its closure in 1968. 

The first Grand Lodge was opened in Sydney in 1845, Bro. Robert Barr being the first Grand Master, and Bro. 

Andrew Alexander, the Deputy Grand Master. Bro. Alexander was the Grand Master the following year. The 

institution grew and prospered; No.2 Lodge was opened in 1845, No.3, No.4, and No.5 (in Kiama on the New 

South Wales South Coast) in 1846, No.6 and No.8 in 1847, No.7 in 1850. 

The Grand Lodge of Ireland and the Grand Lodge of Scotland were also warranting lodges in New South Wales, 

and creating their own provincial Grand Lodges. 

On 16 August 1888, after considerable consultation, the Masters and Wardens of the one hundred and eightythree 

lodges assembled, the articles of union were again adopted, and the “ United Grand Lodge of New South 

Wales “ declared to be duly constituted and established [1] . The first Grand Master was Lord 

Carrington, Governor of New South Wales.

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Notable Grand Masters 

(1 st ), The Baron Carrington (1888-1891) 

(2 nd ), The Earl of Jersey (1891-1893) 

(3 rd ), Sir Robert Duff (1893-1895) 

(4 th ), Sir Joseph Palmer Abbott (1895-1899) 

(6 th ), Sir Harry Rawson (1905-1909) 

(8 th ), The Baron Chelmsford (1910-1913 

(12 th ), The Baron Stonehaven (1928-1930) 

(15 th ), The Baron Gowrie (1935-1944) 

(20 th ), Sir John Northcott (1952-1955) 

(28 th ), Harold Coates (1980-1985) 

(34 th ), Tony Lauer (2002-2005) 

This is a book about a Travelling Gavel and its Journey which started in Tamworth 

New South Wales, Australia in 1993. 

Information about Tamworth in general: 

Tamworth which is located 404ml. (420km.) north of Sydney in the Shire of Tamworth, with a population of 

approximately 59,461 (2010 census). Lying in the prosperous Peel River valley farming area, famous for its 

breeding studs, this town had the distinction of being the first in Australia to have its streets lit by electricity in 

1888. 

Tamworth is acknowledged as the Country Music Capital of Australia, hosting Australia’s most prestigious 

annual country music festival. The country music focus has given rise to a number of interesting features in the 

town, such as the 12 metre Golden Guitar, the wax models in the Gallery of Stars, the concrete handprints in the 

Hands of Fame Park and the plaques on boulders forming the Country Music Roll of Renown. 

Calala Cottage, an 1875 stone cottage in Denison Street, was the home of the first Mayor of Tamworth. Lt now 

forms part of a museum run by the local Historical Society. Famous Australian artists, such as Heysen and 

Lindsay, are represented at the Tamworth City Art Gallery, which also contains magnincent ivory figures, the 

finest collection of silverware in Australia, and the remarkable National Fibre Collection. One hundred years of 

electricity are preserved at the Tamworth Power Station Museum where the collection includes domestic 

appliances and industrial equipment. 

Oxley Scenic Lookout off White Street provides superb views of the town and countryside. 

• Name origin: Named after the Staffordshire town represented in the British Parliament by Sir Robert Peel, 

after whom the Peel River was named. 

Central Business District 

Click below on Link 

Main article: Tamworth Central Business District, New South Wales 

The Tamworth Central Business District is the city centre and is located north of the Peel River. It is primarily a 

business area of Tamworth, with many shops, restaurants, car dealerships, as well as shopping centres and 

public facilities. The Tamworth Regional Council has its headquarters in Peel Street at Ray Walsh House. 

Bicentennial Park and number one cricket oval are also located in the suburb. 

Tamworth History 

The Kamilaroi people, from whose language comes the word “budgerigar”, inhabited the area before European 

contact. John Oxley passed through the Peel Valley in 1818 and described it as “it would be impossible to find a 

finer or more luxuriant country than its waters.No place in this world can afford more advantages to the 

industrious settler than this extensive vale” In 1831, the first sheep stations and cattle 

stations were formed, and in the same year the Australian Agricultural 

Company (AAC) was granted a lease of 127,000 hectares of land at Goonoo 

Goonoo, south of the present location of Tamworth, extending to present-day 

Calala. 

In the 1830s a company town began to develop on the Peel’s southwest bank, the 

present site of West Tamworth. In 1850 a public town was gazetted on the 

opposite side of the river from the existing settlement. This town became the

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main town, called Tamworth after Tamworth, Staffordshire, represented at the time in parliament by Robert 

Peel. The town prospered, and was reached by the railway in 1878. [8] 

On 9 November 1888, Tamworth became the first location in the Southern 

Hemisphere to have electric street lighting, giving the city the title of “First City of 

Light”. 

Peel Street, Tamworth, Which is the main Street 

The information about Tamworth was copied from 

Wikipedia the Free Encyclopedid 


This Gavel started its journey 1993 at Tamworth Lodge No. 652 

NSW ~ Australia 

Grand Lodge of New South Wales & ACT http://www.uglnsw.freemasonry.org.au/ 

1 st Lodge to receive this Travelling Gavel 

9 th November 1993 

Tamworth Lodge 652 

District 64 

Tamworth; 

http://www.masonicregions.org.au/lodge652.aspx 

Information about Tamworth Lodge No. 652 

Lodge Tamworth No. 652, which used to meet in the main street of Tamworth, amalgamated with Lodge 

Callala, and now are named, Lodge Callala Tamworth No. 652, which meet about three km north on the New 

England Highway 

Meetings; 3 rd Thursday: Installation; 3 rd Saturday in June. November meeting 3 rd Saturday 

W.M. W Bro John Egan Senior Warden, VW Bro Richard Wilson 

PDGIW 6765 9876 Junior Warden W. Bro Fred Towle 6765 7271 

Secretary; RW Bro Don Jansen RGC Region 6 (02) 67 609 648 

email: djjanson1@bigpond.com 

P.O. Box 480, Tamworth. NSW 2340 

The RGC, RW Bro Don Janson 

presents 

RW Bro. Doug Jackson with his 50 Year certificate. 

When this Travelling Gavel was first presented into Tamworth Lodge No. 652, the Secretary was Keith Kenneth 

Lysaght, the Worshipful Master was W. Bro. Jack Burton 9 th November 1993. 

Letter from Tamworth Lodge No. 652; 

Tamworth Lodge No. 652 

3 l 3 Goonoo Goonoo Road 

Tamworth 2340 

I0- I2-l993 

Dear Sir & Bro. Howes. 9 th November 1993 

Well Rick, the Travelling Gavel has left my hands. On Thursday 9 th December we passed it onto W. Bro. Jack 

Burton, the W. Master of Lodge St. Andrews No. 281 meeting at Manilla. 

Manilla is aprox.35 kilometres north of Tamworth.

9 

For years Lodge St. Andrews has been struggling to stay afloat but all of a sudden they have two Fellow Craft 

. (l) Entered Apprentice & two candidates which is good to see. 

I believe the Gavel will be out of our District in March 1994 as the W. Master is going to Armidale for the 

Raising of his 2 sons. (The two Fellow Craft in St. Andrews) he thinks the Lodge in Armidale is, Lodge Unity 

Yours Fraternally, 

W. Bro. Geoff Ward 

WM. Lodge Tamworth No 652 

Tamworth Lodge No. 652 is a Sister Lodge to my own Lodge, Lodge Wyong No. 247. Which is now called, 

Lodge Wyong Tuggerah Lakes No. 247. Both of these Lodges have visited each other for over 70 Years twice a 

year. Wyong Visits Tamworth every in June for their Installation also in ? Tamworth Visits Wyong every 

February and for our Installation which is held in September. Both of these Lodges have changed their names 

slightly. Tamworth Lodge No. 652 is now called Tamworth Calala Lodge No. 652. Wyong Lodge No. 247, is 

now called, Lodge Wyong Tuggerah Lakes No. 247 

Information about Tamworth: 

Tamworth is a city in the New England region of New South Wales, Australia. Straddling the Peel River, 

Tamworth, which contains an estimated population of 47,595 people, is the major regional centre for southern 

New England and in the local government area of Tamworth Regional Council. The city provides services for 

an area population of 55,063. The city is located midway between Brisbane and Sydney, the two largest cities on 

the Australian east coast. 

Tamworth is nationally famous as the “Country Music Capital of Australia”, annually hosting the Tamworth 

Country Music Festival in late January; the second biggest country music festival in the world. The city is 

recognised as the “National Equine Capital of Australia” because of the high volume of equine events held in 

the city and the construction of the world classAustralian Equine and Livestock Events Centre, the biggest of its 

kind in the Southern Hemisphere. [5] The city additionally is known as the “First City of Lights”, being the first 

place in the Australia to use electric street lights. 

Economy: 

Tamworth is primarily a service centre for the New England and North West regions, providing services to a 

population of some 200,000 plus people from the Tamworth region and satellite areas. The retail industry is the 

biggest employer, followed by manufacturing and health services. The industries with the most number of 

businesses in order are property and business services, agriculture and construction, closely followed by finance 

and insurance services. With a diverse economy agriculture, education, transport and aviation are major 

industries. 

Agriculture: 

Agriculture is an important industry in the Tamworth economy. An estimated 307,000 hectares of land are used 

for the agricultural industry, with an economic gross value of $75 million contributing to the Tamworth 

economy. [23] Important agricultural activities include beef, sheep, grain, dairy, poultry and lucerne. Other 

agricultural areas include alpaca, buffalo, berry, fish, goat, hydroponic, nut, olive, and specialised game fowl 

farming, as well as wineries. [23] Offices for the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Infrastructure, 

Planning and Natural Resources are located in Tamworth.

10 

Country Music Festival 

Main article: Tamworth Country Music Festival 

Tamworth’s big Golden Guitar 

Tamworth is best known for hosting the Country Music Festival. The Festival is 

held over a period of 10 days during January, and is the second biggest country 

music festival in the world. The festival has many times been counted among the 

world’s top ten music festivals. In 2007, Forbes rated it as number 8 of the 

World’s Coolest Music Festivals. [29] It features thousands of Australian and 

international country music artists performing live shows 24 hours a day. Each 

year, an estimated 100,000 people pass through 

Tamworth for the festival, with around 70,000 staying 

for a substantial duration of the festival, with some 

camping along the banks of the Peel River. 

The 10-day festival culminates in the Golden Guitar 

Awards – the most prestigious award Australian 

country music artists can win for their music. In honour 

of its country music, Tamworth is home to the ‘Big Golden Guitar’, the wax 

museum and the hands of fame park of successful country music artists. Homegrown country music stars 

include Felicity Urquhart and up-and-coming talent Chasing Bailey, whose music style is a mixture of country, 

rock and other genres. 

As this Travelling Gavel as of 2012 has visited well over 56 Lodges throughout the world and still being 

presented into Lodges, I must continue with this book. Tamworth Lodge held it for around a month before they 

passed it onto another town, this time to Manilla (NSW) to the following Lodge 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 

2 nd Lodge to receive this Gavel 

14 th September 1994 



District 64 

St. Andrews Lodge No. 281 

District 64 

Manilla; 


Meets 2 nd Thursday of the month. Installation 2 nd Saturday in September 

W. Master W. Bro. Ed Parris Senior Warden: Bro Scott Gayford Junior Warden: Bro M.Schofield 

Secretary: W Bro David Jones. (02) 6785 1735 (H) (02) 6785 1836 (W) 

manillamotors@bigpond.com.au 

2012 

The W. Master in 1993 was W. Bro. J. Mortimer 

Secretary, W. Bro. David Frank Jones 

2012 

DGIW RW Bro Don Janson Phone: (02) 6760 9648 Mobile: 0407 439 

659 

P. O. Box. 4010 Nemingha NSW 2340 

Email: djjanson1@bigpond.com 

I didn’t receive a letter back from this Lodge

11 

St Andrews Lodge Hall 

Meets 2 nd Thursday of the Month. 

Installation 2 nd Saturday in September 

Secretary: W Bro David Jones – (2013) 

(02) 6785 1735 (H) (02) 6785 1836 (W) 

manillamotors@bigpond.com.au 

Tyling at: 7.30 p.m. 

Facts about Manilla NSW: 

Manilla is a small town in New South Wales, Australia, located on Fossickers Way 45 kilometres northwest of 

the regional city of Tamworth. At the 2006 census, Manilla had a population of 2,081 people. [1] Manilla is 

famous for its setting as a fishing andparagliding area. The name Manilla comes from the Gamilaraay language, 

and is said to mean ‘winding river’. 

Manilla was established in the 1850s at the junction of the Namoi River and the Manilla River. It was formerly 

the centre of Manilla Shire Local Government Area, but this was amalgamated with Tamworth City Council and 

portions of Parry, Barraba and Nundle Shire Councils to form Tamworth Regional Council in 2004. It lies next 

to the Bundarra-Barraba Important Bird Area which is important for the conservation of the endangered Regent 

Honeyeater. Manilla is also well known for Split Rock Dam on the Manilla River and Lake Keepit on 

the Namoi River. 

HISTORY: 

The junction of the Manilla and Namoi Rivers was for generations, a camping ground for the local indigenous 

people members of the large Kamilaroi (Gamilaraay) tribes of north-western New South Wales. During the 

1850s, teamsters with bullock wagons were regularly transporting goods from the Hunter District through the 

Manilla area to outlying cattle stations and the northern goldfield settlements of Bingara and Bundarra. Teams 

were often delayed at the junction of the Namoi and Manilla Rivers by high water. In 1853, enterprising 

Englishman George Veness arrived at ‘The Junction’ to set up a store and wine shop at the teamsters’ camping 

ground. In doing so, Veness led the way to town settlement and is acknowledged as the Founder of Manilla. The 

town’s early prosperity was founded on the highly productive wheat and pastoral industries. 

Manilla also features a new library centre. Located within the Tamworth Regional Council office in the main 

street of Manilla, the library is a new type of facility which is known globally as a convergence centre. This 

means there are many facilities on offer including Centrelink, the Manilla Book Club and weekly Storytime for 

children. 

Manilla 

Manilla 

Clock Tower in the Main Street of 

Information copied from 

Wikipedia the free Encyclopedia 

------:------

12 

3 rd Lodge to receive this Gavel 

4 th October 1994 

Unity Lodge No.6 

District 63 

Armidale; 


2012 

Meeting on the 1 st Tuesday of the month, Installation, 1 st Saturday in December. 

W. Master, V.W Bro Raymond Wynn Senior Warden, W. Bro B. Thrift, 

Junior Warden Bro. N. Northey 

Secretary Rt. W Bro Kevin Mortimer (02) 6772 8468 or 0412 788 381 

kj@mortimers.com.au 

Lodge Unity No.6. Established 1850 

The Worshipful Master was W. Bro. A. G. Ward: Secretary was, Stephen Josef Jamsek 

Location: 

Cooks Road, Armidale, 2350, RFBI Village 

* Since this Travelling Gavel started this journey, it is the 2 nd Lodge that didn’t write back to me 

 

2012 

RW Bro Jeffries presents VW. Bro. Wynn with his 

Re-Installation Certificate 

As this is the fourth Lodge that failed to write back to me with their 

Lodge information, this Travelling Gavel which is presented into 

another Lodge in Armidale. This time it was presented to the 

Worshipful Master of Armidale Lodge No. 641, which is a City in 

the Northern tablelands of Australia. 

This is the 2 nd Lodge that didn’t write to me with their Lodge information 

------:------ 

District 63 

4 th Lodge to receive this Gavel 

1 st Dec. 1994 

Armidale Lodge No. 641 

District 63 

Cooks Road 

Armidale; 2350 


Meetings held on the 3 rd Thursday of the month. Installation: on the 3 rd Saturday of April. 

The Secretary for Armidale Lodge in 1994 was Lesley William Charles Jarman 

2012 

W. Master: RW Bro. Peter Straw, Senior Warden: W. Bro. Michael Beveridge Junior Warden: V.W. 

Bro. Roger Hanson 

Secretary: W Bro Edward Page P. O. Box 1508, Armidale. NSW, 2350 (02)67711981 

Email address: edwardpage@bigpond.com 

Tyling at 7.00pm 

New England Masonic Centre; Cookes Rd Armidale 

 

This is the 3d Lodge not to write back with their Lodge information

13 

80 th Installation Saturday 16 th April 2011 

Held at the Armidale Masonic Centre the ceremonial to re-install RW Bro. Peter Straw PDGM was 

professionally conducted by W. Bro. Robert McNeilly. The G.M.’s representative was RW Bro. Doug Grigg 

GSW. V.W. Bro. Dennis Froome acted as GDC ably assisted by W. Bro Bob Lloyd as Grand Steward. A total 

of 50 Masons were present for the ceremony and it was gratifying to see so many in attendances. Visitors came 

from Tamworth, Glen Innes, Guyra, and Uralla and in one case as far off as Bundaberg. The Bundaberg visitor 

was VW Bro. Fred Tullem who is a young 98 years old. In fact he was to celebrate his 98 th birthday on Sunday. 

He entertained in the south with a joke or two and a couple of very funny poems which had the audience in 

stitches. An installation banquet was held at the Armidale Bowling Club and a sumptuous buffet dinner was 

enjoyed by all. A large number of ladies accompanied the Brethren to the repast. 

Information about Armidale: 

Armidale is a city in the Northern Tablelands, New South Wales, Australia.Armidale Dumaresq Shire had a 

population of 19,485 people according to the 2006 census. [1] It is the administrative centre for the Northern 

Tablelands region. It is located approximately half way between Sydney and Brisbane at the junction of the New 

England Highway, national route 15, and Waterfall Way. 

Geography and Climate 

Armidale is located on the Northern Tablelands in the New England region about midway between Sydney and 

Brisbane at an altitude (980 m AHD) [3] ranging from 970 metres at the floor of the valley to 1,110 metres above 

sea level at the crests of the hills. To the east are heavily forested steep basalt gorges dropping down to the 

eastern coastal plain. Some parts of the highlands are composed of granite and decomposed granite soil, which 

is slightly deficient in nutrients. There are also basalt intrusions which are more fertile than the granite country. 

To the west are gently undulating pastures and bushland. 

The area contains a number of areas of outstanding natural beauty and scientific interest, and there are 

several World Heritage national parks in the area including the New England National Park and the Oxley Wild 

Rivers National Park. To the west is Mount Yarrowyck Nature Reserve. 

The coastal plain can be reached directly at Coffs Harbour via Waterfall Way to Dorrigo and Bellingen on 

the Bellinger River, a two hour drive. 

It has a cool temperate climate with the majority of rain falling in the summer months. Armidale’s elevation 

gives it a mild climate, with pleasant warm summers, extended spring and autumn seasons, and a long cold 

winter with some frosty nights. Snow falls on an average of one day every three years. 

Wood smoke pollution, Armidale, 27 May 2011 

Armidale has a noted problem with air pollution caused by the use of solid fuel domestic wood heaters during 

the winter months. [4] A peer-reviewed study carried out by the University of New England found that winter 

woods moke causes 8.8 additional visits per day to GPs in Armidale for respiratory complaints, i.e. about 750 

additional visits per year. [5] Another peer-reviewed study estimated that use of wood heaters in Armidale was 

responsible for about 11.5 premature deaths per year with estimated annual health cost of $14.95 million – about 

$4720 per year for every wood heater in the city. [6] A local retired doctor (now Associate Professor at the UNE 

Medical School) said that he is so concerned by the wood smoke situation, he urges people with respiratory 

problems to get out of town. [7] New evidence shows use of Australian wood heaters increases global 

warming. [8] A report by the United Nations Environment Program and the World Meteorological Organization 

recommends that developed countries phase out wood heaters to help prevent catastrophic climate 

change. [9] Policies adopted in much colder climates such as Montreal [10] (with daily 

average maximum temperatures of -5 degrees C in January, much lower than 

Armidale’s average daily winter maxima of 12-14 degrees C) suggest how this 

problem might be solved. 

Wikipedia 

The Secretary of, Armidale Lodge presented the Gavel to Glen Innes Lodge 

No. 44 

------:------ Armidale

14 


1 st Dec 1994 

District 63 

Glen Innes Lodge No.44 

UGL ofNSW 

District 63 

Glen Innes; 


Meetings: on the 1st Thursday of the month. Installation: on the 2 nd Saturday in May 

Church Street, Glen Innes 2370, (Near Ferguson Street) 

Secretary: Colin Frances Lute 

Lodge Email: bears2@telstra.easymail.com.au 

Lodge Glen Innes No 44 

. 

Meetings; on the 1 st Thursday of the Month; 

.Installation; on the 1 st Saturday of February. 

Secretary RW Bro Colin Lute (02) 

67322650 ruth.col@bigpond.com 

P.O. Box 176, Glen Innes.NSW 2370 

TYLING 7:30 PM. 

W. Bro. R. Howes, 

Lodge Wyong 247, 

6 George Street, _ 

Worshipful Master: 

W. Bro. Jenkins . 

GLEN INNES N.S.W. 2370 

7 th February, 1995. 

RE: HAVE GAVEL WILL TRAVEL 

I write to confirm that the travelling Gavel presented to the Glen Innes Lodge No. 44 by Lodge Armidale in 

December 1994 was, in turn, presented to the Worshipful Master W. Bro. Lyle Bates of the Tenterfield Lodge 

on Wednesday the 1 st February 1995. 

Fraternally, 

W. Bro. Jenkins. 

Glen Innes No. 44 No. 44 

Officers for 2012 

W. Master: W. Bro. Russell Long Senior Warden: Bro J.S. Bellette 

Junior Warden Bro R. E. Turnbull 

Secretary: RW Bro Colin Lute (02) 67322650 ruth.col@bigpond.com 

P. O. Box 176, Glen Innes. NSW 2370 

Click onto the Link below for further information about Glen Innes Lodge 

http://www.masonicregions.org.au/lodge44.aspx

15 

Information about Glen Innes, NSW Australia 

Glen Innes is located 613km north of Sydney at the intersection of the Gwydir and New England Highways. In 

1994 it had a population of 6,140 (2006 Cencus) 

Tourist Information 

Glen Innes Visitor Centre 

152 Church St 

Glen Innes NSW 2370 

Telephone: (02) 6732 2397 

Facsimile: (02) 6732 6090 

Information about Glen Innes: 

The New England town of Glen Innes is surrounded by rich, rolling countryside where agriculture flourishes 

and sapphires, tin and other minerals are extracted. The area is known as the ‘Land of the Beardies’, after two 

long- bearded stockmen who settled in the area in 1835. The town itself is known as the ‘Celtic Capital’ and 

annually celebrates all things Celtic at the Australian Celtic Festival on the first weekend in May. 

The Australian Standing Stones in Centennial Parklands are a unique monument to all the Celts who helped 

build the nation. The monument comprises 38 stones weighing up to 30 tonnes. Land of Beardies History 

House Museum is a fascinating folk museum, housed in the original hospital building. Many heritage buildings 

in Grey Street have been restored to their original standard and colour scheme. 

Glenn Innes is known for its beautiful parklands straddling Rocky Ponds Creek through the centre of town. 

They are a cool escape in summer and blaze of colour in autumn. East of Glenn Innes the World Heritage listed 

Washpool and the adjoining Gibraltar Range national parks are regarded as having the greatest diversity of flora 

and fauna of any parks in the State. 

• Name origin: After Major Archibald Clunes Innes, a Scot who held large pastoral interests in the area during 

the early 1800s 

------:------ 


1 st Feb 1995 

Tenterfield Lodge No. 55 

Tenterfield; 

Masonic Rooms; High Street, Tenterfield, New South Wales 

Date of Warrant or Constitution; 8 th November 1877 

This is the 4 th Lodge not to write back with their Lodge information; 

Meets: 1 st Wednesday * Installation: 1 st Wednesday April * Secretary: W. Bro. J. H. Hamilton 

Address: P.O. Box 16 Tenterfield 2372 

Information about Tenterfield: 

Tenterfield is a town in New South Wales, Australia. It is located in the New 

England region at the intersection of the New England and Bruxner Highways. 

Tenterfield is a three-hour drive from Brisbane, 2.5 hours from Byron Bay, two hours 

from Armidale, New South Wales and 10 hours from Sydney. The town sits in a valley 

astride the Great Dividing Range. At the 2006 census, Tenterfield had a population of 

3,130 people. 

Tenterfield’s proximity to many regional centres and its position on the route between 

Sydney and Brisbane led to its development as a centre for the promotion of the federation of the Australian 

colonies. 

History: 

Tenterfield’s first inhabitants were the Jukembal people who travelled the area from near Glen Innes 

to Stanthorpe, Queensland. 

In 1841 Sir Stuart Donaldson was running 18,000 sheep on a property that he named Tenterfield Station, after a 

family home in Scotland. Donaldson was the first premier of NSW and made biannual trips to Tenterfield to

16 

inspect his holdings there, which covered 100,000 acres (400 km 2 ) of unfenced land. Tenterfield Post Office 

opened on 1 January 1849 [2] and the township was gazetted in 1851 with allotments being sold in 1854. In 1858 

gold was discovered at Drake (Fairfield) and shortly afterwards at Timbarra and Boonoo Boonoo. [3] During 

1859 an AJS Bank opened and an Anglican Church was built the following year. In the 1860s The Tenterfield 

Chronicle was published, the district court was established; the building of a hospital commenced and a public 

school was opened. In 1870 the population was less than 900, but the town had five hotels, a school of arts and 

three churches. The existing Tenterfield Post Office was constructed in 1881. 

The information about Tenterfield was copied from the 


17 th /03/2012 

------:------ 

I’m sorry that some f the Masonic Lodges from the top of New South Wales failed to give me any of their 

Lodge information, it is a shame, because one of the reasons for running the Travelling Gavel Project was to let 

other Masonic Lodges all over the world to learn a little about us here in New South Wales, Australia, never the 

less, life goes on, but it would have been good to have all the Lodge Officers listed in this book. 


Ashford Lodge No.899 

Ashford; 

Meets: 3 rd Thursday * Installation: 1 st Saturday November * Secretary: W. Bro. H. R. Leader 

Address: 40 Fraser Street, Ashford 236 

I have no information about this Lodge 

Ashford is a small farming community in the New England region of New South Wales, close to 

the Queensland border. Frazer’s Creek Post Office opened on 1 January 1853 and was renamed Ashford in 

1863 [2] . 

The town was the seat of the Ashford Shire before amalgamation with adjacent shires including Inverell and 

Macintyre Shire. The tobacco farms that were a primary industry in the area have all disappeared and 

the coalmine has closed. Farms in the area today produce mostly Merino wool and beef cattle. 

------:------ 


North Star Lodge No.932 

North Star; 

Meets 1 st Wednesday * Installation, 1 st Saturday, August * Secretary: W. Bro. K. R. Henley 

Address: Strathview, North Star 2408. NSW 

North Star is a small town situated on the Queensland Border with a population of around 300 people. 

Website: www.northstarnsw.com Consent to copy from website Krystle Sky of North Star Information 

Centre 

North Star is a vibrant little community in the heart of the ‘Golden 

Triangle’, which is a prime wheat growing area in northern NSW. 

Although wheat is the traditional crop of choice, it is not uncommon to see 

sorghum, sunflowers, barley and canola. It was established as a village in 

1928 and remains a popular place to live, or visit. Its locality, 75kms north 

of Warialda, and 50kms south of Goondiwindi, make it enticing place to 

stop if you’re in a truck or have a caravan in tow. There is ample parking, 

public toilets that are regularly cleaned, picnic tables and barbeque 

facilities. There is also a playground if you are travelling through with kids. The Croppa Creek Road leads to 

North Star and provides a scenic and less busy alternative to the Newell Highway. 

North Star currently has a General Store, Sporting Club (open for meals 7 nights a week), War Memorial Park, 

Caravan Park, golf course, polo field and Primary School. The caravan park is not currently in use, however it is 

not uncommon to see caravans and motor homes parked opposite the General Store for a night or two. If you do

17 

pass through North Star, go for a walk around town or drop into the Sporting Club at night and you’re bound to 

find some locals to have a chat with. The North Star community consists of a unique mix of individuals, some 

from far away who come to North Star for work, and others who have been in the area for many generations. 

If you require more information, or have information to add to this page, please 

email admin@northstarnsw.com 

State of QUEENSLAND 

NEW SOUTH WALES 

North Star 

Moree 

As this Travelling Gavel travels slowly through-out Northern New South Wales, it visits the town of Inverell 

About Inverell: 

------:------ 


March 1997 

*Cullen Lodge No.685 

Inverell; 

The W/Master at this time was; W. Bro. E. W. Lloyd 


Inverell is a town in northern New South Wales, Australia, situated on the Macintyre River. It is also the centre 

of Inverell Shire. Inverell is located on the Gwydir Highway on the western slopes of the Northern Tablelands. 

It has a temperate climate. At the 2006 census, the population of Inverell was 9,749 

Industry: 

The Inverell district is in a fertile agricultural region which produces a wide range of crops, including wheat, 

barley, oats, sorghum, wine grapes and maize. There are also some mining activities with tin, sapphires, zircons 

and diamonds (mainly industrial) being found. Inverell is known as the ‘Sapphire City’ because of 

the sapphires that found throughout the local district. The area is recognised for itssapphires, contributing to a 

major part of Australia’s sapphire production. 

Copeton Dam, the district’s main water supply, holds three times the capacity of Port Jackson (Sydney 

Harbour), and is so large that when it is below 3% of its capacity during drought, it still has enough water to 

supply the town for up to ten years without water restrictions. The Inland Fishing Festival is held there every 

year. 

Inverell 

New South Wales –Australia 

Inverell 

Wikipedia the Free Encyclopedi

18 



District 61 

Courallie Lodge No.235 

Moree; 


Meetings: on the 3rd Tuesday of the month. Installation: on 3 rd Saturday in September. 

2012 Officers 

W.M. W Bro Matthew Quinlan SW: W Bro B. Amos JW: W Bro C. Davis 

Secretary: Bro Warren Fanning (02) 6752 2251 or 0427 524 069 

warrendfanning@gotalk.net.au 

Secretary: Bro Warren Fanning (02) 6752 2251 or 0427 524 069 warrendfanning@gotalk.net.au (2013) 

The “GAVEL” Was taken and presented to lodge Gwydir No. 2l l on the 27! 3 /96, W. M. is D. C`. Turnbam 

(shortly to become a V.W. Bro. And Secretary E. J. Butler, 

Brethren were there from Warialda, North Star and Inverell, probably due to the fact that it was the first, 1 st 

Degree for 4 years in Gwydir (Bingara Town) 

Fraternal Regards, 

Bill Howard 

Secretary of Courallie Lodge No. 235, in 1996 

Some information about Moree: 

Moree is a large town in Moree Plains Shire in northern New South 

Wales; Australia It is located on the banks of the Mehi River in the centre of the 

rich black-soil plains. 

Moree is a major agricultural centre, noted for its part in the 

Australian cotton growing industry which was established there in the early 1960s. The town is located at the 

junction of the Newell Highway and Gwydir Highway and can be reached by daily train and air services 

from Sydney. It is situated in the Shire of Moree Plains. Like many towns and cities in Australia, Moree shares 

its name with a much smaller community in Northern Ireland in County Tyrone. [2] At the 2001 census, Moree 

had a population of 9,247 declining to 8,083 in 2006. 

Moree is home to artesian hot spring baths which are famous for their reputed healing qualities 

Information about Bingara: 

The information about Moree is copied from 


------:------ 



Gwydir Lodge No.211 

Bingara; 


Bingara, with a population of 1240.The township lies on the Fossickers Way, 90Km north of Tamworth and 

608Km north of Sydney. It is an Aboriginal word believed to mean “a shallow river crossing”. 

Bingara and District has much to offer its visitors both the individual and the family. The district has become a 

popular place for backpackers as they stop over in the town to enjoy the fossicking, horse riding, fishing and 

bushwalking. The area is known for its peace and tranquillity, which make it an ideal place to stop and truly rest. 

One of the highlights of the annual calendar is the towns orange festival, cantered around the row of orange 

trees planted along either side of Finch Street near the Returned Servicemen’s Club. The highlight is the picking 

of the oranges, done on a designated day around the end of June each year.

19 

For those interested in Fishing, the region offers some of the best fishing available on inland waters. The 

Gwydir River is renowned for its quality and size of fish with a major fishing competition held each year over 

the Easter period. Just a short trip from Bingara is Copeton Dam, renowned for its fishing as well as the water 

sports. 

The region is rich in minerals and this brings fossickers from all over the world to try their luck. As well as 

panning for gold, the area is rich in a variety of gems. 

Gwydir River Trail Rides offers visitors the opportunity to experience the bush at the ground level as they ride 

through the bush along the banks of the Gwydir River. 

In the year 2000 a memorial was established at nearby Myall Creek in remembrance of the Myall Creek 

Massacre of 1838. 

There is also a second web site featuring The Massacre, which covers 

some different aspects. This one is by the aboriginal artist, Colin Isaacs. 

For more information about Bingara, click onto the following 

websites www.bingara.com.au 

For more information about Bingara 

http://www.bingara.com.au 

------:------ 


13 th Nov. 1996 

District 61 

Inverell Lodge No. 48 

Inverell; 

District 61 

166-168 Otho Street, Inverell 2630, 

www.lodgeinverell.com.au 

1996 

Secretary: Kenneth Archibald Crago McDonald 

And or: W. Bro. J. G. Ewen 

Lodge Email address: tedgrit@northnet.com.au 

http://www.masonicregions.org.au/Lodge48.aspx 

Meetings: on the 2nd Wednesday of the month, Installation: on the 3 rd Saturday in October. 

The Secretary for 1996 was W. Bro. J. G. Ewen 2012 

Secretary: Bro. John Gaukroger 67221748 Email: jgaukroger@bigpond.comP.O. Box 157, Inverell. NSW 2360 (2013) 

Meetings: on the 2 nd Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm. on the 3 rd 

Saturday in October. 

Worshipful Master: W. Bro. Doug McLachlan 

Senior Warden: Bro. Andrew Hodkinson 

Junior Warden: Bro. Wayne Jones 

Lodge Secretary: Bro. Damien Gaukroger 67 221 748 

Email: jgaukroger@bigpond.com 

Phone: 67 221748 

Inverell Masonic Centre 166 Otho St Inverell 2360

20 

Hall also available to hire for Functions – Ph 67 222067 

# Inverell Royal Arch Chapter No 62 

Meets on 3 rd Wednesday at 7.30pm in the months of 

Feb, Mar, May, June, Sept, Nov & Dec 

Installation on 3 rd Saturday in July at 4.30pm. 

Ph 6722 2067 

Letter: 

# Ad Lucem Rose Croix Chapter No 141 

Meets on 1 st Saturday in June & December at 3.00pm. 

Ph 6722 2067 

P. O. Box 880 

Inverell 2360 

18 th November 1996 

I was delighted to receive the Travelling Gavel from the hands of W. Bro. Robert Drewitt, of Lodge Gwydir 

(Bingara) on the 13 th November 1996. That was my first meeting as WM. of Lodge Inverell, having been 

initiated into Lodge Morning Star on the 25 th June 1990, your then W. Master, R. D. Taylor signed my meeting 

notice and W. Bro. Ken Hitchcock was your WM at my raising 25 th February 1991 and passing on the 22 nd 

October 1991. My sponsor was Rt. W. Bro. Eric Leggatt, who also represented the Most Worshipful Grand 

Master at my Installation. 

Consequently, it was quite a “Buzz” to find that the Travelling Gavel was from Wyong and was returning the 

visit I have made to your Lodge. I intend to pass the Gavel to Lodge Warialda on the 10 th January 1997, which 

is the proposed date for Lodge North Star to amalgamate with them. 

Please pass on my Fraternal Greetings to the Brethren of Lodge Wyong. 

Yours Masonry, 

Ross Donald 

Facts about Inverell 

Situated on the western edge of the New England Tablelands, Inverell is nestled in the picturesque valley beside 

the Macintyre River. Inverell is about 489km south of Brisbane and 675km northwest of Sydney. Travellers 

can arrive in Inverell by bus with Country Link providing services daily. Known as the “Sapphire City” Inverell 

supplies around 80% of the world’s sapphires. Diamonds were first discovered at Copes Creek in 1875, and 

mining for sapphires started in 1916. Bauxite, lead, silver and diamonds have also been mined. Historic Inverell 

is surrounded by gemstone country. It’s the ideal place to try your hand at fossicking and to see how precious 

stones are processed. Inverell also offers great walking tracks, reserves and dams providing plenty of outdoor 

attractions for everyone. Inverell is a thriving commercial and service centre with a population of 15,510 and 

district population of 18,000. Inverell is a mixed farming district, where the main crops are wheat, oats, barley, 

grain, sorghum and oilseed crops. Sheep and cattle graze mostly on natural pastures, supplemented with Lucerne 

and forage crops. Inverell also boasts one of the best shopping centres in country NSW. All facilities are 

available to the shopper with retail shops through to commercial market chains, coffee lounges and the good old 

pub counter lunches. 

For further information 

The Inverell Tourist Information Centre is located in the Main Bridge 

Campbell Street (along with the Mining Museum) 

Inverell, NSW 2360 – Ph: +61 (0) 2 6728 8161- Fax: +61 (0) 2 6728 8166 - ; 

Email: tourism@inverell.nsw.gov.au 

or 

INVERELL SHIRE COUNCIL 

Administration Centre 

144 Otho Street 

PO Box 138 

Inverell NSW 2360 

DX 6159 Inverell 2360

21 

Tel: (02) 67288 288 

Fax: (02) 67288 277 

Email: council@inverell.nsw.gov.au 

Internet: www.inverell.nsw.gov.au 

Phone: 02 6728 8288 

onlineimagelibrary@tourism.nsw.gov.au 

Write to all Inverell websites for your visit to Inverell 

Inverell 

------:------ 


10 th Jan. 1997 

*Warialda Lodge No. 257 

Warialda; 

Plunkett Street, Warialda, 2402, between; Geddes & Hope Streets 

When this Lodge received this Travelling Gavel, the Secretary for 1997 was W. Bro. John Gary Wilson 


Lodge Warialda was founded in 1908 on the 25 th of 

November after more than seven years of perseverance 

by the eleven foundation petitioners. These determined 

brethren along with the four men who were prospective 

candidates lay the foundation for what was to be over 

One Hundred years of Peace, Love & Harmony practiced 

by all the Freemasons in Warialda & the surrounding 

district. 

Within the first Ten years of its existence Lodge 

Warialda recorded Sixty Five nominations for initiation 

along with applications from numerous brethren from 

other Lodges wishing to affiliate. Proving the strength of 

Freemasonry in the far north of the state. 

During the ensuing years the brethren of Lodge Warialda diligently supported all manner of charitable causes 

along with all regular Masonic business. Particularly during the great depression & throughout the War years the 

Masonic virtue of charity was always practiced. 

In 1958 Lodge Warialda was proud to sponsor the formation of Lodge North Star No 932 which was in 

existence for almost thirty years before consolidating with Lodge Warialda in 1997. 

At the regular meeting of Lodge Warialda on the 27 th of January 2010 the decision was taken by the 

brethren that the Lodge could not continue in its current form, and that moves to consolidate with Lodge Inverell 

should be investigated. Many masons from across the district were in attendance to lend their support that 

evening, and in the south W. Bro Doug Wilson gave a very moving & heartfelt speech. As he toasted the visitors 

he urged all those assembled along with the rest of the members from across the district to fondly remember the 

Lodge with over 100 years of proud history, but more particularly all those good men who made up that Lodge, 

many of whom had been members for more than half of that time… 

On the 23 rd of June 2010 the last regular meeting of Lodge Warialda No 257 was attended by members 

& visitors from across district 61 who with reverence & a great deal of sadness closed the doors for the final

22 

time before embarking on the consolidation process. During that period the building was purchased by the 

Warialda shire council on behalf of the local Historical society where they are intending to keep a prominent 

display regarding the history of Freemasonry in the town. The Consolidation of the Lodges became official on 

the 13 th of April 2011 and the first meeting of the combined Lodge Inverell No 48 was held on Wednesday the 

8 th of June 2011 & was well attended by members from all over region 6 to mark the significance of the 

occasion. 

So now as Lodge Warialda enters into a new era in consolidating with Lodge Inverell we look forward 

to the next One Hundred years of Freemasonry in the far north of the state and remember the strong foundation 

laid down by the brethren who have come before us, while striving to keep it strong for those yet to come. 

DGIW 61 

V W. Bro M Quinlan 

Lodge Warialda was founded in 1908 on the 25 th of November after more than seven years of perseverance by 

the eleven foundation petitioners. These determined brethren along with the four men who were prospective 

candidates lay the foundation for what was to be over One Hundred years of Peace, Love & Harmony practiced 

by all the Freemasons in Warialda & the surrounding district. 

Within the first Ten years of its existence Lodge Warialda recorded Sixty Five nominations for initiation 

along with applications from numerous brethren from other Lodges wishing to affiliate. Proving the strength of 

Freemasonry in the far north of the state. 

During the ensuing years the brethren of Lodge Warialda diligently supported all manner of charitable causes 

along with all regular Masonic business. Particularly during the great depression & throughout the War years the 

Masonic virtue of charity was always practiced. 

In 1958 Lodge Warialda was proud to sponsor the formation of Lodge North Star No 932 which was in 

existence for almost thirty years before consolidating with Lodge Warialda in 1997. 

At the regular meeting of Lodge Warialda on the 27 th of January 2010 the decision was taken by the 

brethren that the Lodge could not continue in its current form, and that moves to consolidate with Lodge Inverell 

should be investigated. Many masons from across the district were in attendance to lend their support that 

evening, and in the south W. Bro Doug Wilson gave a very moving & heartfelt speech. As he toasted the visitors 

he urged all those assembled along with the rest of the members from across the district to fondly remember the 

Lodge with over 100 years of proud history, but more particularly all those good men who made up that Lodge, 

many of whom had been members for more than half of that time… 

On the 23 rd of June 2010 the last regular meeting of Lodge Warialda No 257 was attended by members 

& visitors from across district 61 who with reverence & a great deal of sadness closed the doors for the final 

time before embarking on the consolidation process. During that period the building was purchased by the 

Warialda shire council on behalf of the local Historical society where they are intending to keep a prominent 

display regarding the history of Freemasonry in the town. The Consolidation of the Lodges became official on 

the 13 th of April 2011 and the first meeting of the combined Lodge Inverell No 48 was held on Wednesday the 

8 th of June 2011 & was well attended by members from all over region 6 to mark the significance of the 

occasion. 

So now as Lodge Warialda enters into a new era in consolidating with Lodge Inverell we look forward 

to the next One Hundred years of Freemasonry in the far north of the state and remember the strong foundation 

laid down by the brethren who have come before us, while striving to keep it strong for those yet to come. 

DGIW 61 

V W. Bro M Quinlan 

Lodge Warialda Final Meeting 

The final meeting of Lodge Warialda was held on 

23 rd June 2010. The Lodge is now in recess pending 

consolidation with Lodge Inverell later this year. The 

evening was a mix of sadness those 102 years of 

freemasonry in Warialda has come to an end and a 

celebration of Lodges achievements over the years. 

There were ten members, eleven ladies and 11 

visitors present. Some photos of this occasion follow. 

It’s a sad day when we see Masonic Lodges hand in 

their Charter, especially when a Lodge exists for 100 

years, but it is a good feeling when they don’t fold 

altogether, amalgamating with another Lodge is quite 

common these days. The closing of Lodges, I suppose would be put down to the fact that lodges of today can’t

23 

seem to initiate new young Masons and if they do happen to initiate them, for some reason they don’t stay very 

long. I think that half the problem with youngish folk of today, that there are a lot of things in our modern world 

that they get involved in, and Lodge always comes second. As most Lodges have oldish Masons, some younger 

Masons don’t seem to blend in so to speak. 

This big problem isn’t only in Australia, I keep in touch with dozens of countries all over the world and I hear 

all the time of Lodges handing in their Charters, or simply amalgamation with another Lodge. 

How old is Freemasonry? 

No one seems to have the answer; however, I was given a book by the Grand Master of Warwickshire some 

time ago, which I can’t fine, it goes to prove, and that one shouldn’t borrow books like this, because they don’t 

come back. This book had a write-up about early Freemasonry, it stated that a group of builders from France 

journeyed to England in around 900 AD, it went on to say that these builders held the Officers names in 

Freemasonry, except one as the Worshipful Master, I can’t remember what he was called 

I have heard it said, that Jesus Christ was a Mason; 

If Jesus Christ was a Freemason he kept to Masonic beliefs, in secret. The Oldest record of any Masonic Lodge, 

Chapter, or Templar was in 1390 in a poem. That is the OLDEST and TRUEST record that speaks of 

Freemasonry. There is no record of Jesus Christ ever being a Freemason. Yet, with a little non-Catholic research 

you may find that Jesus Christ was not his real name; neither is Jesus of Nazareth. 

Some historians, however, have attributed the origin of the Freemasons to the construction of the Temple at 

Jerusalem or to such famous historical minds as Euclid, Pythagoras, Baron Verulam, Oliver Cromwell, Sir 

Christopher Wren, Noah, Lord Francis Bacon, Viscount St. Alban, or Moses. Other historians think that the 

traditions of Freemasonry can be traced back to the Essences, the Coldies, the Rosicrucians, the Druids, or even 

the Gypsies. Some think that Freemasonry owes its origins to the ancient mystery schools or even to the Knights 

Templar. Some believe that Freemasons are the descendants of other popular groups, such as the Priory of Zion, 

the Roman Collegial, the Comacine masters, the German Steinmetzen, or the French Compagnonage. 

There are a lot of myths about Freemasonry, I haven’t come across anyone that knows fully when Freemasonry 

first started, there are the knockers that put Freemasonry down, but, you only have to look up all those famous 

people from all over the world, no matter whether they are inventers, early explorers, film stars, makers of 

machinery, such as motor vehicles, artists, Presidents, Prime Ministers, Royals, the list goes on and on. 

If Masonry is so bad, as some weird people say, then why are there so many of these famous people Masons. 

I rest my case 

1993 

The very forgetful Secretaries are starting very early with this book, it looks like Masons in the Masonic Lodges 

in NSW are like most other countries around the world, they just simply can’t find a few minutes to write a 

letter back to me, with their Lodge information. Lodge St. Andrews No. 281 is the first Lodge not to write back, 

there were around 9 Lodges overall that didn’t write back with their Lodge information in New South Wales, 

and Masons often say, what’s going wrong with Freemasonry of today!! I rest my case. Quite some years ago, I 

mentioned this business of Lodges around the world to a Grand Secretary, I can’t remember where, that don’t 

write back about these Travelling Gavels, he stated to me, that we shouldn’t put them down, because that would 

non Masonic, we should pity them. 

I am fully aware that Masons are mealy men who sometimes have to work at all hours of the day, writing letters 

just don’t fit into the days’ chores, but when it all boils down, they carry the Title of Secretary, and that means 

writing letters. 

This Travelling Gavel which was presented into Masonic Lodges throughout the northern sector of New South 

Wales for visited 13 Lodges in around four years. As it was very close to the Queensland border, it then 

ventured into Lodges in Queensland. The first Lodge that it was presented into was; 

McIntyre Lodge No. 294 into the town of St. George, on the 4 th September 2997 

This Travelling Gavel project started its journey 9 th November 1993 in Tamworth Lodge No.652 New South 

Wales, it was presented into 13 Lodges through-out the top of the State with the last lodge to receive it was 

Warialda Lodge No.257 in 1997. From New South Wales it travelled to many countries through-out the world.

24 

Some facts about Warialda; 

Warialda ‘Place of Wild Honey’, is an attractive small town on the Reedy Creek; Warialda, with a population of 

1300 (2012), is one of the major towns the Gwydir Shire in north western NSW. It is situated 602 km north of 

Sydney and 320 m above sea-level on a tributary creek of the Gwydir River, Warialda also lies at the 

intersection of two main roads, being 190 km north of Tamworth along the Fossickers Way and 62 km northwest 

of Inverell via the Gwydir Highway. . (Go to map) 

The town’s name is said to mean ‘place of wild honey’ and presumably derives from the tongue of the original 

inhabitants, the Weraerai Aborigines. The name is thought to be related to the honey that is produced from the 

abundant pollen of the Tumbledown Gum (Angophora Leiocarpa), bees collect large to huge volumes of the 

Pollen which provides a good surplus of honey. 

The information about Warialda was kindly permitted to copy by 

Warialda Visitor Centre 

Phone: 02 6729 0046 

Fax: 02 6729 1400 

Email: mail@gwydir.nsw.gov.au 

Warialda Website: http://www.warialdansw.com.au/Tourism 

Warialda ‘Place of Wild Honey, is an attractive small town on the Reedy 

Creek. Warialda, with a population of 1300, is one of the major towns of 

the Gwydir Shire in north-western NSW. It is situated 602 km north of 

Sydney and 320 m above sea-level on a tributary creek of the Gwydir 

River. Warialda also lies at the intersection of two main roads, being 190 km north of Tamworth along the 

Fossickers Way and 62 km north-west of Inverell via the Gwydir Highway. (go to map) 

The town’s name is said to mean ‘place of wild honey’ and presumably derives from the tongue of the original 

inhabitants, the Weraerai Aborigines. The name is thought to be related to the honey that is produced from the 

abundant pollen of the Tumbledown Gum (Angophora Leiocarpa), bees collect large to huge volumes of the 

pollen which provides a good surplus of honey. Read more about us 

Cranky Rock, a jumble of giant boulders heaped in the most fantastic positions by a past volcanic upheaval, 

features excellent picnic facilities, suspension bridge, birdlife and wildlife sanctuary and, a viewing platform. 

Free barbecues, camping area, power available, kiosk and bush shower 

facility. 

This is a classified nature reserve. Walking trails are established to suit 

either an easy stroll or a more challenging walk for the adventurous hiker. 

The name Cranky Rock was derived from an old legend which said that 

an old ‘Cranky Chinaman’ jumped to his death from the highest point of 

the balancing rocks after being accused of some wrong doing. 

people of Warialda for generations. 

Visitors can go fossicking along the creek. Signs of aboriginal life can be 

seen within the nature reserve amongst the many plant life. 

The story of Warialda’s Cranky Rock and the Chinaman has intrigued the 

No one claims to know exactly what happened, but a legend exists: A ‘cranky’ Chinese man murdered a 

Warialda woman – he was chased by the Police and evaded capture by leaping to his death from the high rock. 

The tale claims that Cranky Rock received its name from the Chinese.It is interesting to compare the legend 

with written records of the time. The Maitland Mercury 9 January 1875 carried an article from a Warialda 

correspondent: 

I am sorry to have to report a most diabolical murder perpetuated in our midst on Thursday 24 th of December. A 

poor woman living in the town named Mrs. Golthorpe arose early as usual and was making her fire when a 

Chinaman named Charlie, who has for a considerable time been cooking at Mannix’s Race Horse Inn, rushed 

into the house and stabbed her severely on the head, neck and chest.

25 

She managed to rush down to Mr John Crane’s where she was immediately attended to and Dr Redhead sent for. 

He entertained no hope from the first, as the wounds which were inflicted with a butcher’s knife were of such a 

nature as to prevent all possibility of recovery. The poor creature lingered till Tuesday night, when she died. 

A local story claims that Mrs Golthorpe 25entioned25 with the Chinese man 

Charlie Young after she warned her son not to play cards with him. 

The death certificate of Elizabeth Golthorpe shows that she dies on 29 th 

December 1874 and was buried the next day. The Maitland Mercury 

correspondent wrote: 

Immediately on committing the deed, the Chinaman made for the bush, a 

tracker was at once procured and set out, but on some rocky, bare ridges all 

tracks were lost. 

Almost every male in Warialda turned out and scoured the bush all round, but as yet no tidings have been heard 

of the monster. Had he been taken by any of the search parties, it is doubtful whether he would have ever seen a 

court of justice, as a very general opinion of Lynch law existed amongst them. The search was a short one. The 

Police Gazette of 13rd January 1875: 

Charlie Young, (Chinaman), charged with the murder of Eliza Golthorpe, has been found dead near Gragin 

Station, 30 miles from Warialda. 

How he came to be there, there is no evidence to show. 

This Travelling Gavel was presented into 13 Lodges in NSW 

It was then presented into Masonic Lodges in the southern sector of Queensland 

------:------ 

*QUEENSLAND – AUSTRALIA 

Arms 

Queensland Flag Web Site: www.qld.gov.au Coat of 

1921-2012 

Queensland (abbreviated as QLD) is the second-largest and third-most populous state in Australia. Situated in 

the north-east of the country, it is bordered by the Northern Territory, South Australia and New South Wales to 

the west, south-west and south respectively. To the east, Queensland is bordered by the Coral Sea and Pacific 

Ocean. Queensland has a population of 4,560,059, concentrated along the coast and particularly in the 

state’s South East. The state is the world’ssixth largest sub-national entity, with an area of 1,852,642 km 2 . The 

capital and largest city in the state is Brisbane, Australia’s third largest city. Referred to as the ‘Sunshine State’, 

Queensland is home to 10 of Australia’s 30 largest cities and is the nation’s third largest economy. 

Queensland was first occupied by Australian Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders, who arrived at least 60,000 

years ago. [5][6] The first European to land in Queensland (and Australia) was Dutch navigator Willem 

Janszoon in 1606, who explored the west coast of the Cape York Peninsula near present-day Weipa. In 1770, 

Lieutenant James Cook claimed the east coast of Australia for the Kingdom of Great Britain. The colony of New 

South Wales was founded in 1788 by Governor Arthur Phillip at Sydney; New South Wales at that time 

included all of what is now Queensland, Victoria andTasmania. Queensland was explored in subsequent decades 

until the establishment of a penal colony at Brisbane in 1824 by John Oxley. Penal transportation ceased in 1839 

and free settlement permitted in 1842. 

The state was named in honour of Queen Victoria, [7] who on 6 June 1859 signed Letters Patent 

separating the colony from New South Wales. The date 6 June is now celebrated state-wide as Queensland Day. 

Queen Victoria, who went on to become Britain’s longest reigning monarch, chose an eponymous name for the 

colony over Cooksland, which had been suggested by the influential local Presbyterian minister John Dunmore 

Lang in honour of navigator James Cook. [8][9] Queensland achieved statehood with the Federation of Australia on 

1 January 1901.

26 

Queensland’s Governor is Penelope Wensley, and the Premier is Campbell Newman of the Liberal National 

Party of Queensland. 

Queensland is a state of Australia, located in the north-east of 

the country. It is bordered by the Northern Territory, South 

Australia and New South Wales to the west, south-west and 

south respectively. To the east, Queensland is bordered by the 

Coral and Pacific Ocean. The state is Australia’s second largest 

by area, following Western Australia, and the country’s third 

most populous after New South Wales and Victoria. The capital 

and largest city in the state is Brisbane. 

Queensland was first occupied by Indigenous 

Australians and Torres Strait Islanders, who arrived between 

40,000 and 65,000 years ago, according to various dating 

methods. [3] Queensland was made a British Crown Colony that 

was separated from New South Wales on 6 June 1859, a date 

now celebrated state-wide as Queensland Day. 

Queensland is often referred to as “Australia’s Sunshine State” 

This information was copied from 


For more information on Queensland http://www.aussie-info.com/logo.gif 

Floral Emblem for Queensland Bird Emblem Animal 

Emblem Cooktown Orchid Brolga 

Koala 

Copyright 

The Queensland Government supports and encourages the dissemination and exchange of information. 

However, copyright protects material on this website. 

The State of Queensland has no objection to this material being reproduced but asserts its right to be 

recognised as author of its original material and the right to have its material remain unaltered. 

Enquiries regarding the reproduction of Queensland Government material may be emailed.or in writing to: 

Administrator (Crown Copyright and Other IP) 

Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation 

PO Box 15168 

CITY EAST BRISBANE QLD 4002 

Queensland is often referred to as Australia’s Sunshine State. They have a motto 

, (Good one day, better and the next). 

These are some of the products of Queensland: 

Timber and woodchip exports, Sugar, Silica sand, Petroleum products, Molasses, Metals and minerals, Meat and 

livestock products, Grains and cereals, Coal, Chemicals, Cement products, Bauxite, Alumina/aluminium, 

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 

2.5 Australia Licence. 

This is a Link to all Trade Statistics in Queensland 

Trade statistics for Queensland ports (Department of Transport and ...

27 

You are free to copy, communicate and adapt the work, as long as you attribute the authors. To attribute this 

material, cite State of Queensland (Department of Transport and Main Roads) [2012], [Trade Statistics for 

Queensland Ports] 

http://www.qld.gov.au/ 

If you have any queries about our privacy and security practices, 

, please contact privacy@tmr.qld.gov.au . 

Click onto the link below for almost every town in Queensland 

Each letter indicates a town 

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | Y | Z 

Home | Queensland Places 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 

QUEENSLAND 

United Grand Lodge of Queensland (Australia) 21 st April 1921 

Journal – http://www.ausfm.com/ 

Freemasons Queensland 

Ph: (07) 3229 3533 

www.uglq.org.au 

This Travelling Gavel first started its journey on this symbol 


And was presented into Lodges in this part of Queensland 

Tamworth NSW 

in 

As of 2012 Queensland has 286 Craft Masonic Lodges 

This Travelling Gavel visited these Towns in Queensland * Warialda NSW, 

(Queensland) St. George, Wallumbilla, Injune, Roma, Surat, Kedron, Pomona, Warwick. Goondiwindi 

And was presented into 11 Masonic Lodges; 

McIntyre Lodge No. 116 * Balonne Lodge No.294 * Raphael Lodge No.30 * Corona Lodge No.318 

Bonnie Doon Lodge No.504 * Maranoa Lodge No.47 * Wahoo Lodge No. 397 * 

Aspley Bald Hills Lodge No 430 * Bon Accord Lodge No.483 * Cooroora Lodge No. 232 

Warwick Lodge No. 160 

Masonic Lodges that this Travelling Gavel visited in Queensland 

Queensland Lodge Link address 

http://www.ausfm.com/ 

This Travelling Gavel having been presented into the Lodges of NSW for some time, is about to be presented 

into Craft Lodges through-out Queensland, with the first Lodge being McIntyre Lodge No. 116 which is situated 

in the town of Goondiwindi. 

The first Lodge to receive this Travelling Gavel in Queensland, Australia was 

McIntyre Lodge No.116 

Where it was presented into another eleven (11) Masonic Lodges

28 


4 th Sept. 1997 

McIntyre Lodge No.116 

Masonic Centre 

25 Brisbane Street, 

4390, Queensland 

Goondiwindi 

UGL Queensland 

Phone: 0419 731 035 

Get Directions 

Meets: 3 rd Monday 7.30pm 2 nd . Saturday in December* Installation: 3 rd Saturday December 

The Secretary for 1997 was D. W., Hope 

A Link for 

Goondiwindi 


Just a short note to inform you that the Travelling gavel will be presented to the Master of 

Balonne No. 294 UGL Queensland 

P. O. Box 149 

St. George 4487 

McIntyre Lodge is one of the Lodges in Queensland to be presented with this Jewel 

The Hallstone Jewel 

Narrated by R.W. Bro. John Dacey of Enogerra Lodge and W.M. Samford Lodge 

Compiled by W. Bro. Ralph Bailey, W.M. Albion Lodge 1991-1993 

Very few brethren, even the Worshipful Masters who wear them at all Lodge Meetings and 

Festive Boards know the history of the Hallstone Jewel, struck by U.G.L.Q. in 1925. The 

story is closely allied to the erection of the Masonic Memorial Centre at 133 Ann Street. 

Shortly after the establishment of the United Grand Lodge of Queensland, 

Rt. W. Bro. F.W. Buckham suggested that it was timely – To erect a significant building 

to house the Headquarters of U.G.L.QA site was chosen at what is now 133 Ann Street, 

Brisbane when Most W. Bro Alexander Gorrie was Grand Master in 1921-1922. His 

successor, Rt. W. Bro. Charles Stumm, who was Grand Master from 1922 until his death 

in 1929, was the real driving force behind the erection of the new centre, being ably 

assisted by the Grand Secretary Rt. W. Bro C.H. Harley. 

W. Bro. Eric Glasser 

Binalong 

Toobah 4497 

N.S.W 


All the brethren of the jurisdiction were levied 4 Guineas (Approx. $8.40) but the members of 93 Craft Lodges, 

The District Grand Lodge of England in Queensland, The District Grand Lodge of Carpentaria (U.G.L.Q.) The 

Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Queensland, The Supreme Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of 

Queensland and the District Grand Lodge of Mark Masons E.C. went a step further. They levied themselves an 

additional 2 Guineas (Approx. $4.20) to add to the funds. It is these lodges and chapters that are entitled to the 

Hallstone Jewel. (Refer List following) In 1925 two lodges, Prince of Wales No.3 and Jubilee No107 received 

their Hallstone Jewels. All others were presented before the dedication of the Centre in 1930 when the fund 

closed. Fortunately, Rt. W Bro John Dacey of Enogerra Lodge is Still Alive (at original time of writing 1994) to 

provide details about the Jewel and what each has a value of today. John was an apprenticed jeweller with 

Wallace Bishop, Jeweller of Albert Street Brisbane, were the Jewels were made. The actual craftsman who 

constructed them was Eric Faux, to a design by Rt. W. Bro. F.J. Wilkes who also designed the Grand Lodge 

Standard, The Grand Lodge Crest and the Clock in Grand Hall.

29 

Right W Bro. Wilkes was initiated into North Australia Lodge No 1 in 1910. Eric Faux and C.W. Bishop were 

both members of Brisbane Lodge No 279. 

The Jewels are made from Gold. They were composed of 22 Carat gold alloyed to 9 Carat, Melted and Rolled to 

16 Gauge roughly in the form of a square. These were placed in a lathe and recessed leaving two mm’s, the 

letters “HALLSTONE JEWEL U.G.L.Q.” were stamped on the die (A block of steel) and soldered into position. 

The wreath at the bottom was cut out by hand. The silver disc enamelled blue and surmounted by the U.G.L.Q. 

Coat-of Arms and silver lined was also stamped on the die and fixed in the centre of the Jewel. 

Above the Jewel, The Square, Compasses and the letter “G” mounted on a cube were made by hand. The cube 

being shaped from a block. 

The frame above this section was cast in “Cuttlefish” (I.E. two Halves), one with the template impressed and the 

other plain and the two sections wired together for the molten gold to be poured in. 

Inside the frame the Lodge Name is enamelled in dark blue. All the engraving on the Jewels was done by Jack 

Lowe whose business was in Burnett Lane off Albert Street, Brisbane. All jump rings, as well as fastener at 

ribbon around the neck are 9 Carat gold. At the bottom of the Jewel on the reverse side is stamped W.B.9CT. 

The years 1925 to 1930 were the times of the great depression. The average weekly wage at that time was the 

equivalent of $11.17. 

Today the average wage is computed at $420 Plus. These early brethren sacrificed more than one third of their 

week’s wage (extra) to build our magnificent centre. Are we as generous and devoted today? 

The Masters of Lodges granted Hallstone Jewels were among the official guests at the dedication of the Temple 

on 9 th December 1930. No further Hallstone Jewels could be struck after this date. 

Consider and wear with pride your Hallstone Jewel. Their present Material value is over $3,000 and is no longer 

replaceable. Their Masonic worth is beyond price...The Hallstone Jewel 

Fact about Goondiwindi: 

Goondiwindi, is town of approximately 5,629 people, (2006) a centre for 

agriculture, producing a diverse range of crops and fibres including wool 

and beef, cotton, sorghum, corn, wheat, barley and chickpeas. Average 

annual rainfall for this region is 525 millimetres (20.7 in). 

Goondiwindi hosts the Natural Heritage and Water Park. The development 

of the Park is a result of the closure of nearby Boobera Lagoon to power 

boats. The Lagoon had been a favourite spot for waterskiing for the local 

area and was the only suitable water body for the purpose. The 

Goondiwindi Town Council petitioned the Federal Government, which 

responded (through Environment Australia) by funding the National 

Heritage & Water Park, to make available skiing and boating facilities and 

to provide a focal point for tourism and recreation in the town and district. 

The 210 ha recreational water park opened in early 2004, and offers 

activities for all ages. The purpose built 3 km water channel allows water 

sports such as waterskiing, wakeboarding, canoeing and boating. It is home to a varied bird life; it provides 

picnic and swimming areas. Remedial work was performed in 2008 to seal leaks, which caused the lagoon to be 

dry for a period. [9] 

Goondiwindi has an active sporting community, with rugby union, rugby league, cricket, golf, tennis, Australian 

football, netball, swimming etc. The town built a large indoor gymnasium for use by the general public and 

school groups. A major sports highlight is the annual “Hell of The West” triathlon, in February, which sees 

entrants from across the country. 

Boobera Lagoon is a permanent water hole to the west of the town. Bendidee National Park is located a short 

drive to the north east of the town.

30 

Fishing 

There are numerous things that one can do in Goondiwindi, including spectacular bush walks. The district 

boasts some of the best inland fishing in Australia with catches of Golden Perch (Yellowbelly) and Murray Cod 

firmly on the agenda. A free Camping and Fishing Guide is available at the Goondiwindi Visitor’s Information 

Centre. Be aware that bag, size and seasonal restrictions on catches apply. 

This information was copied from the 

Wikipedia free Encyclopedia Files 

------:------ 


13 th Sept.1997 

Balonne Lodge No.294 

Scott Street, 

St George; 4487 

Mailing address: 

P. O. Box 149 

St. George 4487 

UGL Queensland 

Phone: 07 4625 3596 


Balonne Masonic Lodge 

Lodge Meets 2 nd Saturday, Installation September 

Secretary for 1997 was P. C. Cameron 

PO Box 195, St George QLD 4487 

A link for St. George: 

St George 


W. Bro. Jack Hammond 

St GEORGE, Qld. 4487. 

18 th ’December.1997 

Further to your enquiry by phone on 16 th inst; this is to advise that the Travelling Gavel was presented 

to me by W. Bro. Erie Glasser of McIntyre Lodge at our Installation on 13 th September 1997. 

Subsequently it was presented to W. Bro. Grant Kinmen, of Raphael Lodge Roma Qld. On 20 th September 1997, 

when Balonne Lodge visited Raphael at the time of their Installation of W. Bro. Kinman. 

My enquiries reveal that the Travelling Gavel has since then been presented to Corona Lodge Wallumbilla 

Secretary: M. J. Wright P.0. Box 219 Roma Queensland. 4455, and it is due to be presented to Bonnie Doon 

Lodge at Injune Queensland in the near future 

2 nd letter: 

8”’ January 1998 

Having returned home after a few days of different lifestyle over the festive season, I was presented with your 

mail, re “The Lodge Wyong Travelling Gavel Collection”. There by, I was enlightened as to the scope that your 

venture embraces, undoubtedly leading in the direction of the universality of the Craft. I congratulate you on 

your enterprise and in support and as requested, submit some brief notes relevant to the Balonne Lodge 294 

U.G.L.Q. and the town of St. George, Q.4487. 

Information about St. George: 

St. George; situated in S.W. Queensland on the Balonne River (Pronounced BAL-on) approximately 600 klms 

West of Brisbane. Population about 2300, and for several decades was the largest Town in the Eastern States 

that was not served by the Railway. This distinction has in recent times been taken over by Lightning Ridge in 

N.S.W. due to the boost that opals have generated with new discoveries.

31 

To receive this Gavel The name St. George evolved from the Historical event when Sir Thomas Mitchell 

(Explorer Pioneer, ect) crossed The Balonne River by way of a natural Rock Bar, (now submerged) on St. 

Georges Day in mid 19 th Century. He named it St. George Bridge hence the name of the town, 

St. George is the Administration Centre of the Balonne Shire which embraces some 

12,000 square Klms and six towns. The Balonne shire has since original settlement, 

been essentially an area where Grazing of livestock has predominated. With an 

annual rainfall varying from 15 to 18 inches of rain per year, the area has proved to 

be an excellent sheep and cattle breeding and fattening District. With the advent of 

water storage in the Beardmore Dam & the Jack Taylor Weir, in the Balonne 

Culgoa River system, several farming industries have developed & are expanding, 

in the area adjacent to the water courses. 

Irrigated Cotton, Grapes, Grain, Peanuts, and gardens of melons & Pumpkins’. 

The local cotton Gin has been enlarged at least twice since establishment & a 

Winery has been established also, River Sand Winery. Outside of the Shire, our 

nearest towns are (with Lodges, Goondiwindi, Dalby, Surat, Rona, Mitchell, 

Meandarra & 

Collarenebri, which is in N.S.W.) Fortunately all but the latter are on bitumen road system, but you will 

appreciate that visiting a Lodge can become a fairly major exercise. We try to get enough starters to engage a 

coach, or a mini-bus, as the distances range from 120 Klms to 300 Klms, & the return journey at night is a 

fairly hazardous one with the Kangaroo feeding by the roadside. 

St George essentially a great place, as the plentiful water supply allows for generous flora growth, it is also a 

friendly town and since the link up of the inland tourist “Link It has enjoyed a burgeoning tourist population 

from the Southern States. Being the point where the Carnarvon Highway meets up with the Moonie Highway, 

the Balonne Highway and the “Link” road from lightning Ridge, as well as being on the direct road system 

towards the Jackson Oil Fields places the town in a very strategic position. 

You should come up and visit us sometime. 

With best wishes and encouragement in your Travelling Gavel activities 

Fraternally 

Jack Hammond wm of Balonne Lodge 

PS. I will be making a précis of your correspondence and presenting it to our members at 

the next “Merry” meeting. 

This Travelling Gavel having been presented into Craft Lodges through-out the southern sector of Queensland, 

once again it was presented into the following Lodge on the 20 th September 1997 

------:------ 


20 th Sept. 1997 

Raphael Lodge No.30 


38 Jackson Street 

Roma 4455 

Phone: 0429 933 087 


A link for Roma: 

Roma 


Meets: 2 nd Wednesday 7.30 pm except January * Installation: 2 nd Saturday July. Contact: Brian Reardon Ph: 

4622 1733 

Worshipful Master: W. Bro. Grent Kinman (1997) 

Secretary in 1997 was C. D. Millford 

Secretary: V W Bro John Lethbridge – phone: 4626 8386 (2012) 

Secretary: W Bro Bob Fowles - Phone: 4622 7071 (2012)

32 

Some of the information that I read can be a little confusing sometimes, I can’t work out who is the Secretary of 

this Lodge maybe they have two Secretaries. 

W. Bro. Grant Kinman, of Raphael Lodge Roma, Queensland received this Travelling Gavel.20 th September 

1997, when Balonne Lodge visited Raphael at the time of their Installation of W. Bro.Kinman. 

This is a Link address for Business’s in Roma 

http://www.truelocal.com.au/map.do?search.location=Information+about+roma%2Cqld# 

Some interesting things that you can do and see in Roma are: 

Information Centre: 

At the eastern edge of Roma on Warrego Highway, a brand new Centre providing Tourist Information, sales of 

local Arts & Crafts and Souvenirs. Open every day from 9am-5pm. Phone (07) 4622 4355. 

Oil & Gas Museum: 

On the eastern side of the Information Centre, built in the same neo-colonial style, is the Oil & Gas Museum 

building. Newly built, this structure will supplement the Big Rig and other exploration and production 

equipment. 

Romavilla Winery: 

Along the northern Road.Wine tasting and cellar sales, Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm, Saturday 9am to 12pm 

and 2pm to 4pmTree of Knowledge: 

Planted at the Post Office on 20 th September 1918.The tree is some 6:7 meters in circumference (not the largest 

in Roma). The tree was named from more leisurely days when it was common to see locals seated around the 

Tree, solving the world’s problems in general 

WALL OF FAME: ROMA BUNGIL RECREATION CENTRE 

This indoor sports complex caters well for the sports enthusiast and assures that the Roma district continues its 

reputation for producing superior sportspeople. The Wall of Fame displays photographs of locals who have 

represented Australia in various sporting activities. 

Steam Train Locomotive: 

Narrow gauge (7%”) coal tired Locomotive, capable of hauling 80 adults, situated 3km north east of Roma on 

Ashburn Road. BBQ facilities, for hourly hire by appointment weekends only 

Roma is a town in the western Darling Downs area of South West Queensland, Australia, and 515 km (320 mi) 

by rail WN.W. of Brisbane. It is situated at the junction of the Warrego and Carnarvon highways. It is the centre 

of a rich pastoral and wheat-growing district, The town was incorporated in 1867 and is named after 

Lady Diamantina Bowen (née Roma), the wife of Sir George Ferguson Bowen, the Governor of Queensland at 

the time. Beef, grain and wool are its chief industries. It is in the Maranoa electoral district. It also serves as a 

centre for the larger Maranoa Region. At the 2011 census, Roma had a population of 7,991. [1] 

Bore water for the town is obtained from the Artesian Basin. [2] Many homes have a tank for rainwater delivered 

by a third tap at the kitchen sink as the town water has a strong taste. 

Hotels, pubs, and churches feature prominently near the centre of town. The ten hotels are within easy walking 

distance with most adjacent to another hotel. [3] St Paul’s Anglican Church is a 

copy of a 13 th Century English Church in the shape of crucifix. 

In and around April 2011, Queensland had devastating floods with the southern 

part of the State, being one of the hardest effected. Roma came under attack with 

this devastating flood. Queensland over the years seems to have got more than 

their share of rain, this State gets more than their share of cyclones and we all 

know what kind of damage they can do. 

Agriculture 

The Maranoa’s agriculture industry is worth approximately $620 million annually, 

64.3% being generated from crops. 58.7% of businesses in the Maranoa are in the 

agriculture, forestry and fishing sector, which employs 32.7% of the region’s workforce. 2005 was a record year

33 

for Roma saleyards processing 390,000 head of cattle. Roma is home to Australia’s largest cattle saleyards. [9] 

Forestry plantations include Hardwood and Cypress Pines. Roma and the Maranoa region is home to Australia’s 

most active native Cypress Pine sawmilling. 

Some of this information was copied from 


------:------ 

Wikipedia The Free Encyclopedia 

What would I have done without their websites, for an organization that only operates by generous donations 

from whoever uses their websites, for this magnificent achievement I feel that I have to deeply thank your 

organization for your efforts 

From Wikipedia programmer Brandon Harris 

I feel like I’m living the first line of my obituary. I don’t think there will be anything else that I do in my life as 

important as what I do now for Wikipedia. We’re not just building an encyclopedia, we’re working to make 

people free. When we have access to free knowledge, we are better people. We understand the world is bigger 

than us, and we become infected with tolerance and understanding. Wikipedia is the 5 th most visited website in 

the world. I work at the small non-profit that keeps it on the web. We don’t run ads because doing so would 

sacrifice our independence. The site is not and should never be a propaganda tool. 

Our work is possible because of donations from our readers. Will you help protect Wikipedia by donating $10, 

$20, $30 or whatever you can afford? I work at the Wikimedia Foundation because everything in my soul tells 

me it’s the right thing to do. I’ve worked at huge tech companies, doing some job to build some crappy thing 

that’s designed to steal money from some kid who doesn’t know it. I would come home from work crushed. 

You might not know this, but the Wikimedia Foundation operates with a very small staff. Most other top-ten 

sites have tens of thousands of people and massive budgets. But they produce a fraction of what we pull off with 

sticks and wire. When you give to Wikipedia, you’re supporting free knowledge around the world. You’re not 

only leaving a legacy for your children and for their children, you’re elevating people around the world who 

have access to this treasure. You’re assuring that one day everyone else will too. 

Thank you, 

Brandon Harris: Programmer, Wikimedia Foundation 

Susan Hewitt; Wikipedia Author 

Our mailing address: 

Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 

P.O. Box 98204 

Washington, DC 20090-8204 

USA 

Free content 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page 

WIKIPEDIA 

Why your donation is needed: 

http://en.wikipedia.org 

• Wikipedia is non-profit, but it’s the #5 website in the world – serving 470 million people every month with 

billions of page views. 

• We work hard to keep our operation lean. Google might have close to a million servers. Yahoo has 

something like 13,000 staff. We have 679 servers and 95 staff. 

• We will never run ads. Commerce is fine. Advertising is not evil. But it doesn’t belong in Wikipedia. 

• If everyone reading this made a small donation, we would only have to fundraise for a few hours. Not 

everyone can or will donate, but each year just enough people decide to give. 

• We only raise what we need. When we’ve raised our budget, we stop fundraising for the year. 

This year, please consider making a donation of $5, $20, $50 or whatever you can to protect and sustain 

Wikipedia 

Brethren around the world, don’t forget, if you copy from Wikipedia, please do the right thing & send them 

some cash. As Masons mainly work for Charity, just consider them as a charity. Just imagine for a moment, the

34 

impact and benefit that this website has on worlds Children population, in their learning years. This website has 

everything that one would need for all information 

As this Gavel continues to travel around Queensland, it leaves the town of Roma and is presented into a Lodge 

in Mullumbilla which is a small town east of Roma and northwest of Brisbane 

------:------ 


Corona Lodge No.318 

Wallumbilla Masonic centre 

Hill Street 

Wallumbilla; 4428 

Phone: 0412 971 888 


Meets: 3 rd Saturday * Installation March 

Secretary: W Bro Kevin Harker, ph 4622 8612, (2012) 

The Secretary for 1997 was M. J. Wright 

Welcome to the Maranoa Freemasons Website. 

The Freemasons of Wallumbilla, Roma, Mitchell, Injune and surrounding region welcome you to the district. If 

you are interested in joining Freemasonry, feel free to Contact Us for further information. 

Alternatively if you’re visiting in the region be sure to come visit us. Click Here for meeting nights. 

We hope you enjoy your stay. 

Corona and Maranoa Lodge Link address 

http://www.maranoafreemasons.org.au/ 

Watch You tube video’s about Freemasonry on the Link below 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SX643f3kNDc&feature=share 

My enquiries reveal that the Travelling Gavel has since then been presented to Corona Lodge Wallumbilla 

Secretary: M. J. Wright P.0. Box 219 Roma Queensland. 4455, and lt is due to be presented to Bonnie Doon 

Lodge at Injune Queensland in the near future 

A Link for Wallumbilla: 

Wallumbilla 


Wallumbilla information: 

Wallumbilla, a rural town of 230 people, is on the Warrego Highway, 380 km north-west of Brisbane and 40 

km west of Roma. Wallumbilla is the largest of three towns in the former Bendemere Shire, and was named 

after the Wallumbilla pastoral run, taken up in 1852. 

The main western railway line was extended from Miles to Roma in 1879-80, coinciding with the opening up of 

some pastoral stations for farm selections. Most selections were clustered in a corridor along the railway. The 

Wallumbilla Township was surveyed in 1889, and a school was opened in 1893. The infant town’s nearest 

neighbour was Yuleba, 20 km eastwards, and the latter gained ascendancy by being a transport interchange for 

goods and passengers bound for Surat and St George. When the Bendemere Shire was created in 1914, by 

severance from Bungil Shire, Yuleba won the contest for hosting the shire offices. Other facilities, however, 

went Wallumbilla’s way: the hospital, the racecourse, the showground and, much later, the high school 

department (to Grade 10) which was added to the State primary school in 1964. 

In terms of population Wallumbilla was slightly ahead of Yuleba for most of the twentieth century. When it had 

about 400 people in 1924, Pugh’s Queensland Directory recorded two hotels, two general stores and sundry

35 

other shops and tradespeople. A picture theatre, the Nostalgic Queen’s, was erected in 1939, and is listed on the 

Queensland Heritage Register. 

Wallumbilla acts as a service town to surrounding primary industries and natural gas undertakings. Grainco and 

Elgas have silos and gas tanks near the railway. Elgas draws gas from the Surat Basin and it is processed at the 

Wallumbilla LPG plant. In addition to the civic facilities already mentioned Wallumbilla has a swimming pool, 

sports ground, shire library and general store. Its census populations have been: 

The information above was copied from 


: 

PO. Box 3300, South Brisbane, BC, Queensland 4101 

Phone: +61 (0) 7 3840 7555 

Email: discoverycentre@qm.qld.gov.au 

Write the town name where it says Search 

In this link for information about Wallumbilla 

http://www.qm.qld.gov.au/~/media/Images/Banners/07-qldmuseum-banner-1.jpg 

http://queenslandplaces.com.au/sites/queenslandplaces.com.au/themes/qldplaces/images/uqlogo.jpg 

Queensland Government Information 

Wallumbilla 

The Grand Secretary 

United Grand Lodge of Queensland 

311 Ann St, 

Brisbane QLD 4000, Australia 

*Queensland District Sectory 1998 

GPO Box 2204 

Brisbane 

QLD 4001 

Phone : (07) 3229 3533 

Fax : (07) 3229 9288 

Office Hours : 8.30am to 4:30pm 

Monday to Friday (expect public holidays) 

The United Grand Lodge of Queensland (Masonic Memorial Temple) is 

located at 311 Ann St, Brisbane 

Grand Lodge of Queensland

36 

Link address: www.uglq.org.au/ 

The Grand Hall 

The furniture in the Grand Hall and throughout the building is made of Queensland timbers – silky-oak, maple 

and cedar. It was constructed on-site as the Center was built. The cost of the furniture for the whole Center at the 

time of construction was £10,000 ($20,000), and now has a 36entioned3636 cost of over $1.2 million. The 

Grand Hall also houses a large master clock which came from the Alice Street Temple. 

Situated at the rear of the Choir Loft in Grand Hall, the Organ is a comprehensive instrument equal to any in the 

State of Queensland. A new Electric Action was installed with the organ in 1985 at a cost of $35,000 which 

include a new Swell sound board; Great sound board; a reconditioned bellows fitted with new leathers. It is the 

fifth largest Pipe Organ of its kind in Queensland. 

Our Grand Hall, viewed from the Senior Warden’s Chair, has a seating capacity of 700, and is the only 

dedicated Grand Hall in Australasia capable of accommodating a Grand Installation. 

Tours – Masonic Memorial Temple – Ann Street 

Free tours of the Ann Street Centre are conducted at 2pm Monday – Friday. Group bookings are requested to 

pre book with the Grand Secretariat at least 3 days prior. 

For bookings please phone 3229 3533 

Link to Queensland below: 

Queensland 

------:------ 


*Bonnie Doon Lodge No.504 


Masonic Centre, Ronald St, 

Injune 4454 

Phone: 07 4626 1664 



Meets: 1 st Friday, Installation: 1 st Saturday Sepetmber, 

Masonic Centre, Allandale St, Injune 

Secretary for 1997 was H. C. Humphries 

Secretary – W Bro Matthew Bidgood, ph 4626 1448 (2012) 

Information about Injune: 

Injune is a small town in South West Queensland, Australia. The town is located on the Carnarvon Highway, 

92 kilometres (57 mi) north of the regional centre of Roma. A railway connected Injune with Roma from 1920 

until 1966. At the 2006 census, Injune had a population of 362. 

It was formerly a hub for cattle and dairy industries, but now serves as a 

staging point for expeditions to the nearby Carnarvon National Park. More 

recently, gas and timber have served as the major primary industries. . . 

Injune 

The information about Injune was copied from 


Bonnie Doon Lodge is one of many Lodges that failed to write back to me with 

their Lodge information.

37 

However the next Lodge to receive this gavel was Maranoa Lodge No. 47, in Roma, this was the second time 

that this Gavel was presented into a Lodge in Roma. 


25 th April 1998 

*Maranoa Lodge No.47 


38 Jackson Street, 

Roma 4455 

normandy@bigpond.com 

Link Address: 


Phone: 0408 727 306 

Email: free.mason@internode.on.net 

Meets: 4 th Saturday – Installation: 4 th Saturday June 

Secretary – V W Bro John Lethbridge – ph 4626 8386 

The Secretary; for 1998 was, N. W. Somers 

Link address 


Maranoa No 47 

Lodge Website 

Lodge Email: normandy@bigpond.com 

A Link for Roma: 

Roma 


Secretary: 

R.W. Bro. N.W. Somers P.A.G.M. 

Dear Brother Rick, 

Further to our discussions on the phone I have finally made time to give you some information regarding the 

Travelling Gavel which originated from Wyong Lodge due to your generosity. 

The Travelling Gavel was presented to W. Master W. Bro. W. P. Scott of Maranoa Lodge ho.47 on Saturday 

evening 25 th April 1998 by W. Bro. Ian Hamilton the Master of Bonnie Doon Lodge No.504. 

On Saturday 1 st August 1998 I had the pleasure to present the Gavel to W. Bro. E.G.T. Gane, Master or 

Aspley Bald Hills Lodge No.430 (my Mother Lodge) at his Installation at which the M.W. Grand Master was 

present, I had proposed W. Bro. Gane into Freemasonry so it was an added pleasure to attend his Installation 

and make the presentation. 

I have just received information that the Gavel is intended to be presented to Bon Accord Lodge 485 at their 

Installation on 16 th October. The Town of Roma where we meet is served by two Lodges, the other being 

Raphael Lodge No.50. 

The History of Maranoa Lodge dates back to 1886 when it was formed under the Scottish Constitution and in 

1992 under the United Grand Lodge or Queensland. 

The area is mainly agricultural, Sheep, Wheat, and Cattle with pockets of Gas Wells in surrounding arears.This 

year Wheat production is on the increase while Sheep are on the decline. The population of Roma would be 

around 6500 and the Town is surrounded by the Shire of Bungil. 

I am enclosing a recent publication which will give you a better description of the area than I could possibly do.

38 

On behalf of the members of Maranoa Lodge I would like to thank you for the opportunity of sharing the 

pleasure of having the Gavel pass through our Lodge. 

Information about Roma: 

Roma, a rural town of 6000 people in the Maranoa, is 420 km west of Brisbane on the Warrego Highway. The 

district was explored by the New South Wales Surveyor-General, Sir Thomas Mitchell, on his fourth expedition 

in 1846-47. Travelling from the south he established a depot on the Balonne River at St George. Pushing 

northwards, he came to a ridge from which he observed a ‘double topped hill ... in the centre of this fine open 

country, and from the abundance of good pasturage ... named it Mount Abundance’. The next day, Mitchell 

ascended a north-eastern extremity of Mount Abundance and from it ‘beheld the finest country ... A Champaign 

region, spotted with wood, stretching as far as human vision ... could reach’. Mitchell was eager to inflate the 

importance of his discoveries. Later writers helped his exaggeration by rendering his ‘Champaign region’, 

meaning level, open country, as ‘champagne region’ 

ABORIGINAL RESISTANCE: 

Within a year Allan Macpherson took up the Mount Abundance pastoral run, but was soon forced to retreat in 

the face of strong Aboriginal resistance. Stephen Spencer took up the run in 1857 and by 1860 had made the 

station homestead into a supply depot for the district. In the following year a shanty stopping place was 

established on Bungil Creek, about 7 km southwards, anticipating a government decision to survey a township 

site for the district. The Bungil Creek location, known as Reids Crossing after the shanty’s proprietor, Thomas 

Reid, was chosen for survey, and named Roma after the Queensland Governor’s wife, Diamantina Roma 

Bowen. A court and a post office were established by 1864, and Roma was connected by telegraph to Dalby and 

Brisbane in 1866. 

Declared a municipality in 1867, Roma had a census population of 841 people in 1871. This more than doubled 

by the 1881 census, the year after the railway connection from Miles. For a couple of years Roma enjoyed the 

position of a railhead, but a westwards extension in 1883 withdrew the privilege and a minor downturn 

occurred. 

By then wheat growing was replacing grazing. Maranoa wheat won exhibition prizes, and in the early 1890s a 

flourmill opened in Roma. Vineyards also developed with an estimated 50 growers in the Roma district, the first 

vines having been planted at Mount Abundance around 1870. 

The township acquired the usual range of facilities: a government school (1870), the Roma Show Society 

(1873), Western Star newspaper (1875), and Anglican and Catholic churches in the 1870s. The Australian 

Handbook of 1903 described a mature rural town of nearly 2500 people: 

Copied From the Queensland Government website 

The information above was copied from 

Queensland Museum: 

P.O. Box 3300, South Brisbane, BC, Queensland 4101 

Phone: +61 (0) 7 3840 7555 

Email: discoverycentre@qm.qld.gov.au 

http://www.qm.qld.gov.au/~/media/Images/Banners/07-qldmuseum-banner-1.jpg 

http://queenslandplaces.com.au/sites/queenslandplaces.com.au/themes/qldplaces/images/uqlogo.jpg 

Queensland Government Information

39 


Warroo Lodge No. 397 

Masonic centre 

Charlotte Street, 

4417 Surat; 

South And West Queensland 

Phone: 07 4626 5410 

Get Direction 

Meets: 4 th Saturday at 7.30pm – Installation 4 th Saturday in May 

Surat Link address 

Stuart 


The Secretary; for 1998 was L. J. Harth 

Information about Surat: 

Surat is a small rural town on the Balonne River, approximately 75 kilometres (47 mi) south of Roma on 

theCarnarvon Highway in South West Queensland. It is 450 kilometres (280 mi) west of Brisbane. At the 

2006 census, Surat had a population of 436. 

The district was first mapped by Surveyor-General Sir Thomas Mitchell in 1846. By the end of the 1849s 

pastoralists had penetrated the area, and in 1849 Mitchell directed a surveyor, Burrowes, to select a township 

site on the Balonne River. Burrowes did so and named it after the diamond-polishing city of Surat, after his 

former place of residence in present day Gujarat Province then known as the Bombay Province, India. 

There are oil fields further south. 

This information about Surat was copied from 


------:------ 

21 st Lodge to receive this Gavel 

1 st Aug. 1998 

Aspley Bald Hills Lodge No 430 

Masonic Centre: 

393 Gympie Road 

4031 Kedron; 

Queensland 

WaySearch 

Email: Email 

Contact Person: W. Bro. J. T. Browne 

Phone: 07 32690905 

Link address 

Kedron 


The Secretary; for 1998 was, K. A. May 

Lodge meets: 1 st Monday of every month except January and August – Installation: 1 st Sat August 

Visitors most welcome

40 

Secretary: W. Bro. M.K. Wegener 

24 October 1998 

Dear Bro. Howes, 

Thank you for your call last Sunday. L apologise for not being there to talk to you and for not having written to 

you before this about the travelling gavel. Lt was presented to our Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Edward George 

Turner Gane, at his installation on 1 August 1998 by Rt W. Bro. Somers who is a member of Maranoa Lodge at 

Roma in South West Queensland. Bro. Somers has lived in the Roma district since he left Bald Hills over 30 

years ago but has remained a member of this lodge for all of that time. He was, by coincidence, the proposer or 

the current Master and was there as part of a Grand Lodge team who attended the installation. The Gavel had 

previously moved among lodges in northern New South Wales and south west Queensland. 

Aspley-Bald Hills Lodge meets at the Kedron Masonic Centre in one of the inner northern suburbs of Brisbane. 

When the lodge was formed in 1952, they met at Bald Hills which was then a farming area beyond the extent of 

the Brisbane urban area. Most of the members were drawn from the local area and included a number of farmers 

as well as the local garage proprietor (the brother mentioned above) the local butcher (current Master of the 

lodge), the hotel proprietor, postmaster, operators or several small businesses in the area, and so on. In the early 

1960s, the Masonic centre at Kedron was built and a number of lodges from nearby areas moved in. It is the 

meeting place for about 15 craft lodges, many with names that reflect their origin in the northern Brisbane 

suburbs, and other Masonic Orders. 

While our lodge has not had many new initiates in recent years, we have been able to attract and retain a lot of 

affiliates who have found their own lodges closing down through lack of members. We have about 55 members, 

and regularly get 20 or so of them along to meetings, which are quite a good achievement, since many of them 

are now getting on in years. We still have one foundation member who is a regular attender. We are widely 

known as a friendly lodge where visitors nearly always go home with something from the night’s raffle at the 

festive board. We have always had members with farming connections and access to a few vegetables to give 

away. Lettuce and carrots from one member, potatoes and broccoli from others at different times, while 

pumpkins and custard apples are the most popular give-away at meetings at present. 

The Gavel will be passed on to Bon Accord Lodge which also meets in the Kedron centre. It would have been 

passed on by now, at their installation on 16 October, except for the fact that l was unavailable on that night. 

Aspley Bald Hills Lodge members appreciate your efforts to promote interest in the Masonic fraternity by 

supplying these Travelling Gavels. It has been interesting to read the information supplied by the various lodges 

who have been custodians of the gavels about their lodges and the districts where they meet. We hope you enjoy 

our contribution. 

Information about Kedron: 

Upper Kedron, with a population of, 11,003 (2001 census, is an outer suburb of Brisbane, Australia located 

15 km north-west of the Brisbane CBD. Upper Kedron is a residential suburb on the edge of the Brisbane Forest 

Park. 

The suburb contains the headwaters of the two tributaries of Kedron Brook, namely Kedron Creek and Cedar 

Creek. 

Kedron Brook is a creek that flows through the northern suburbs of Brisbane, Australia. It starts near the outer 

suburb of Upper Kedron and flows in an easterly direction. Kedron Brook then meanders through suburbs 

including Stafford, Grange, Lutwyche,Wooloowin, Kalinga Park, Toombul and Hendra before it empties 

into Moreton Bay. 

For much of its length, Kedron Brook is lined with parks and sporting facilities such as bikeways and football 

fields. Kedron Brook has been 40entioned4040 where it passes suburbs such as Lutwyche and Wooloowin. 

Tidal influence reaches as far as Toombul. [1] 

The original course of Kedron Brook has been significantly altered in the vicinity of Brisbane Airport, where it 

has been redirected to a canal named the Schulz Canal. This was done to allow expansion of the airport in recent 

decades. The canal empties into Moreton Bay adjacent to the small bayside village of Nudgee Beach. 

This information is copied from 

Wikipedia the Free Encyclopedia

41 

The next Lodge to receive this Travelling Gavel was also situated in Kedron, Queensland 

22 nd Lodge to receive this gavel 

20 th November. 1998 

Bon Accord Lodge No.483 

Masonic centre 

Kedron Masonic Centre 

393 Gympie Road 

4031 Kedron; 

Phone: 07 3261 2151 

Link address: 

http://bonaccordlodge.com/ 

Meets: 3 rd Friday at 7.15pm., Except January, Installation: 3 rd Saturday October 

According to the Queensland Lodge Direcrory, the Secretary for 1998 was, A. J. Campbell 

However, one of the letters which I received back from Bon Accord Lodge, the Secretary: A.L. Mangan 

W. Master; for 1998: W. Bro. D. A. Alsbury 

Worshipful Master for 2012: W. Bro. Ken S. Wiseman 

Secretary for 2013 – David Alsbury – (07) 3261 2151 

History of Bon Accord Lodge 

Taken from 25 th Lodge Anniversary Installation Card 

as recalled by our passed Brother W. Bro. Gordon Amos Williams 

and revised 1 st December 2006. 

To us, “Bon Accord” means loyalty to the Craft, to the lodge and to each other, and the common usage is 

“Happy to meet, sorry to part, happy to meet again”: 

The meaning of Bon Accord is given in most English dictionaries as 

“Agreement, Goodwill, Good Fellowship”. 

Although the words are French in origin, their most common usage is Scotch. They are frequently used in 

titles of Scottish charitable and convivial societies and form the motto on the Arms of the City of Aberdeen, 

which is often called the “City of Bon Accord” 

A group of Brethren meet to form new Lodge, which was to be called “Bon Accord”. A good proportion of 

these Brethren came from Scotia and Stafford Lodges – hence we have been classed as a Daughter Lodge of 

Stafford and a Grand Daughter Lodge of Scotia. 

On Friday, 4 th December, 1959 the consecration of Bon Accord Lodge No. 483, U.G.L.Q., was conducted in the 

Grand temple by the Grand Master, Most Worshipful Bro. H.B. Milliner. 

Letter: 

Dear Brother Rick, 

We had much pleasure in receiving the Lodge Wyong Travelling Gavel at our regular meeting 20 th November 

1998 from W. Bro. Gordon Nielsen P. M of Aspley / Bald Hills Lodge No.430. We did not receive the Gavel at 

our installation on 16 October, 1998 as mentioned in the letter from the Bro.Secretary of Maranoa Lodge No.47. 

We have displayed the Gavel in front of the Alter at our December Meeting, and at our next practice meeting in 

February, the lodge members will decide who will be the next participant of the Gavel; as Bon Accord does not 

meet in January, so our Lodge Meets at the Kedron Masonic Centre on the third Friday of each month except 

January.

42 

Our Lodge meets at the Kedron Masonic Centre which is situated in the northern suburbs of Brisbane Approx 7 

km north of the C.B.D. of Brisbane. The Lodge at present has 62 members and an average of 20 members and 

10 visitors attend each monthly meeting. Unfortunately we are like most other Lodges in Australia and are 

experiencing a decline in membership. The last initiation in Bon Accord Lodge was I on the 20 th . September, 

1991. Seven years without a Candidate is a long time. 

We have had several affiliations however, from Lodges such as Stafford, Wilston and Sarina which has 

Maintained our membership, we see many Lodges surrendering their Charter and it is very saddening to Free 

Mason’: everywhere. 

The meaning of Bon Accord is given in most English dictionaries as “agreement, good-will, and good 

Fellowship, although the words are French in origin, their most common usage is Scotch. They are frequently 

used in titles of Scottish charitable and convivial societies and whey form the motto on the Arms of the city of 

Aberdeen, which is often called the “City of Bon Accord”! 

To us “Bon Accord” means loyalty to the Craft, to the Lodge and to each other, and the common usage 

Is “Happy to meet, sorry to part, happy to meet again? 

From the earliest, pre-foundation meetings, it was always envisaged that the April meeting would be Devoted to 

an Anzac Ceremony. At each of these services we utilised the “Vacant Chair” decorated with our National Flag 

and enhanced by a Masonic Apron, The tradition still continues today. 

The Lodge was consecrated on Friday the 4 December, 1959 by The Grand Master, Most Worshipful Bro. H. B. 

Milliner. There were 24 foundation members present on the night, and each were presented with a foundation 

jewel on the night of consecration. 

A good portion of the Brethren are from Scotia and Stafford Lodges. Hence we have been classed as a daughter 

lodge of Stafford Lodge and a sister lodge of Scotia. 

One member didn’t attend the consecration – or any subsequent meetings and his jewel was presented to W. 

Bro. L. Horder on16th. April, 1982 and is passed on to each new Master at the Lodge installation. The only 

remaining foundation member of Bon Accord is R.W. Bro. W.C.R. Harvey P.J.G.W. (Roy Harvey) who was a 

former Lord Mayor of Brisbane from 1982 to 1985 

On behalf of the Members of “Bon Accord Lodge” l would thank you for starting and continuing such a 

worthwhile project which promotes good fellowship amongst Free Mason’s. L will advise when we select a 

Lodge to present the Gavel to, and of the date of that presentation. 

Yours faithfully 

W. Bro. D. A. Alsbury 

2 nd letter, 

We at Bon Accord Lodge have held the Lodge Wyong Travelling Gavel since the 20 th November 1998. We 

have only had 2 meeting since then, one being our Christmas meeting in December and the other our February 

Meeting which was on Friday 19 th We have displayed the Gavel in front of the Alter and at the festive board at 

each meeting and it has attracted much interest from visiting Brethren. 

We have decided to present the Travelling Gavel to Cooroora Lodge No. 232, Pomona on Saturday 27 th 

February 1999. The reason for this is that Cooroora is a country Lodge and is Famous for the Murals painted on 

the walls. We thought that this would be of interest to other lodges. 

Pomona Lodge at Pomona is inland from Noosa just off the Bruce Highway and is approximately 90 minutes 

north of Brisbane, Cooroora Lodge No. 232 Pomona Meets 4 th Saturday in the Masonic Hall Pomona. 

Secretary: A.L. Mangan 

It has been an honour to be the holders of the Travelling Gavel for the last 3`Months, 

Thanks once again for all your efforts in promoting Freemasonry. 

------:----

43 


27 th Feb. 1999 

Cooroora Lodge No. 232 

P.O. Box 232 

Pomona; 

Queensland 4568 

United Grand Lodge of Queensland 

Link address below 

Pomona 


Worshipful Master for 1999, W. Bro. Geoff Richards – Secretary: W. Bro. Lee Mangan 

Please be advised that the Travelling Gavel was presented to the Worshipful Master of Warwick Lodge of the 

Provincial Grand Lodge Warwickshire, England, on Saturday 10 th July 1999 

Lee Mangin, Secretary of Cooroora Lodge No. 232. 

I can only write what has been sent to me. It seems that when I received the letter from Warwick Lodge, it read 

a little different than the previous letter from Cooroora Lodge. However, I see it this way, there hasn’t been a 

man born that hasn’t done something wrong, if there is such a man that hasn’t made a mistake in life, I’d like to 

meet him, for he definitely is not human. 

Information about Pomona: 

Pomona is a town located at the base of Mount Cooroora at the northern end of the Sunshine 

Coast, Queensland, Australia. With a population of, 1,004 (2006 census) The town was originally 

called Pinbarren siding and was renamed Pomona in 1906, after the Roman goddess of fruit and 

orchards. Pomona is 166 kilometres north of Brisbane, and approximately 30 minutes driving time from Noosa 

Heads. 

History: 

Now a heritage and lifestyle town and formally declared the region’s ‘friendliest town’ (2004 and 2010), 

Pomona was first settled by Europeans in the late 1880s, but had been home to the Gubbi Gubbi indigenous 

peoples for thousands of years before that. The railway to Pomona was opened in 1891. The town became the 

administrative centre of the Noosa Shire Council in 1909 until 1 December 1985 when the Council moved to 

it’s Tewantin premises. The original headquarters for the Shire were constructed in Pomona in 1911 on a site 

now used (since 1985) by the Cooroora Historical Society and Noosa Museum. 

Pomona is notable for three things: a relaxed streetscape of distinctive timber and art deco buildings, the 

heritage-listed Majestic Theatre and the annual King of the Mountain race up the nearby, Mount Cooroora. The 

Majestic, built in 1921, is claimed to be the world’s oldest continuously operating silent movie theatre built for 

that purpose. However, it is not the first theatre in the world in which silent films were screened. The Majestic 

has been a community-owned enterprise since October 2006. 

Australian musician Darren Hanlon’s album “Fingertips and Mountaintops” was entirely recorded in the 

Majestic Theatre. 

For further information about Pomoan, click the Link below: 

http://www.queenslandholidays.com.au/index.cfm 

The next Lodge to receive this Gavel was Warwick Lodge No. 160.Which is situated in the town of Warwick 

------:------

44 


10 th July 1999 


Masonic Centre: 

50 Guy Street 

4370 Warwick; 

Secretary for 1999: W. Bro. T. G. Meiklejohn 

Link address Below 

Warwick 

Phone: 0428 618 895 


Meets Second Thursday – Installation September 

Secretary: V. W. Bro, Les T. G. Mciklcjolm, (1999) 

Warwick Lodge also received the Hallstone Jewel 

My I extend fraternal greetings 

. 

I wish to inform you of information regarding The Australian Travelling Gavel Collection — 

“Tamworth” (Aust.) 1993 Gavel. 

3 rd September 1999 

This gavel was presented by V. W. Bro P. Hansen of Cooroora Lodge No 232, to the W. Master of The Lodge 

Warwick No 8011, Province of Warwickshire, UK, W. Bro John Walker-Smith, 294 Lower Eastern Green Lane, 

Coventry, West Midlands, LV5 7DT, England, on the occasion of his visit to our Lodge. 

I understand it has been present to Warwick Lodge (just outside New York, USA) on the occasion of the 

meeting of the W. Masters of the four Warwick Lodges of the world (New York, Rhode Island, Australia, and 

England). 

The W. Master: of our lodge is James Bax. Our Secretary: Les Meiklejohn, 

Warwick Lodge, is one of three Craft Lodges in Warwick, Queensland, it was formed in 1906. 

Warwick, Queensland is a city of approximately 11,000 people with a shire population of 21,000. It was the first 

free settlement (1840) in Queensland outside the penal settlement at Moreton Bay. 

The shire is a rich agricultural area involving dairying, grain growing, horse studs and wool growing to the west. 

The principal employment is provided in the cheese factory, export meat abattoir, wool scouring plant and a 

BIG W., distribution centre that services northern NSW, Queensland and the Northern Territory. ` 

A large intensive piggery and abattoir expected to provide employment for up to 500 is planned to commence in 

the near future. 

I trust this is the information sought by you to keep in touch with the movement of the Gavel and that it 

continues to achieve your intentions. 

Yours fraternally, 

V. W Bro Les Meiklejohn (sec.) 

October l7, 1999 

.

45 

Dear W. Bro Rick, 

Regarding your inquiry as to the address of Warwick Lodge, near New York, I advise that the secretaries’ 

address is: 

Rt. W Bro Robert F. Toms, · 

PO Box 69, 

Warwick I09904)069, 

New York, USA. 

Our Immediate Past Master has indicated to me that the travelling gave] was presented by the WM of 

Lodge of Warwick, England to W. Bro Stephen Krell, WM, of Warwick Lodge No.544, New York and 

the next day he presented it to W. Bro Franklin Bull, WM of Warwick Lodge, Rhode Island. I understand 

that you may have that information. 

This much travelled Travelling Gavel having been presented into thirteen (13) Lodges in New South Wales, had 

then crossed over the Border and then presented into nine (9) Lodges in Queensland. 

As this Travelling Gavel was presented into Warwick Lodge No.160 in Queensland on Saturday 10 th July 1999, 

they had a visitor from Warwick Lodge No. 8011 of Warwickshire, in England visit them, during the Lodge 

procedures, they then presented this much travelled Travelling Gavel to W. Bro. John Walker Smith of Lodge 

Warwick No. 8011, who then on his return back to England, presented this Travelling Gavel into his own Lodge 

on Monday 2 nd August 1999. 

Information about Warwick, Queensland: 

Warwick 


Warwick,is a town in Queensland, Australia, lying 130 kilometres (81 mi) south-west of Brisbane. It is the 

administrative centre of the Southern Downs Local Government Area. In 2006 the town of Warwick had a 

population of 12,562.The surrounding Darling Downs have fostered a strong agricultural industry for which 

Warwick, together with the larger city ofToowoomba, serve as convenient service centres. Warwick is situated 

on the Condamine River. The Cunningham Highway and the New England Highway pass through the town. 

History: 

The Warwick Green Belt, on the banks of the Condamine river features a Sculpture of Tiddalik the mythical 

frog that drank all of the fresh water in a renowned Aboriginal Dreamtime story. [3] 

Second St. Mark’s Church of England, Warwick, ca. 1872, the first (wooden) church can be seen in the 

background. 

Patrick Leslie and his two brothers originally settled in the area as squatters, naming their run Canning Downs. 

In 1847 the NSW government asked Leslie to select a site on his station for a township, which was to be called 

‘Cannington,’ although the name ‘Warwick’ was eventually settled on. Land sales were held in 1850, and the 

first allotment was bought by Leslie. [4] The telegraph to Brisbane was operating by 1861. The 1870s were boom 

years for this new town. In 1871 the railway reached Warwick, [5] a brewery was built in 1873, then a 

cooperative flour mill and brickworks were completed during 1874.

46 

An event officially known as the Warwick Incident occurred on the 29 

November 1917, which would lead to the formation of the Australian 

Commonwealth Police with the first commissioner for Commonwealth 

Police appointed eight days later. As Prime Minister William Morris 

Hughes was addressing a crowd at the Warwick railway station, a man in 

the crowd threw an egg dislodging the Prime Minister’s hat. Hughes 

ordered his arrest but the Queensland State Police allegedly refused to 

carry out the order. 

The United Grand Lodge of Queensland; Link 

www.freemasonsqld.org.au 

------:------ 

Warwick Lodge No. 160 was the last Lodge in Australia to be presented with this International 

Travelling Gavel. It is now in the hands of the Brethren of Warwick Lodge No. 8011 in; 

Warwickshire, England 

The Travelling Gavel now being in England, I will proceed to include some information about that 

country. 

------:------ 

FACTS ABOUT 

ENGLAND 

Area ~ 244, 100 sq km / 94, 247 sq ml ~ Capital London ~ Language ~ English ~ Currency ~ Pound Sterling 

Population ~ 60, 094, 648, (2005) ~ Religion ~ Church of England ~ Physical features ~ Grampian Mountains 

in Scotland, Pennines in north England, 

Cambrian Mountains in Wales, River Thames, Seven and Spey, Imports ~ industrial and electrical machinery, 

petroleum, consumer goods, textiles, paper. Exports ~ automatic data processing equipment, motor vehicles, 

chemicals, agricultural products and foodstuffs, Industrial and electrical 

FACTS ABOUT ENGLAND 

England is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. [6][7][8] It shares land borders with Scotland to the north 

and Wales to the west; the Irish Sea is to the north west, the Celtic Sea to the south west, while the North Sea to 

the east and the English Channel to the south separate it from continental Europe. Most of England comprises 

the central and southern part of the island of Great Britain in the North. The country also includes over 

100 smaller islands such as the Isles of Scilly and the Isle of Wight. 

The area now called England was first inhabited by modern humans during the Upper Palaeolithic period, but it 

takes its name from the Angles, one of the Germanic tribes who settled during the 5 th and 6 th centuries. England 

became a unified state in AD 927, and since the Age, which began during the 15 th century, has had a significant 

cultural and legal impact on the wider world. The English language, the Anglican Church, and English law-the 

basis for the common law legal systems of many other countries around the world—developed in England, and 

the country’s parliamentary system of government has been widely adopted by other nations. [10] The Industrial 

Revolution began in 18 th century England, transforming its society into the world’s 

first industrialised nation. England’s Society laid the foundations of modern experimental science. 

England’s terrain mostly comprises low hills and plains, especially in central and southern England. However, 

there are uplands in the north (for example, the mountainous Lake District, Pennines, and Yorkshire Dales) and

47 

in the south west (for example, Dartmoor and the Cotswolds). The former capital city of England 

was Winchester until London took over in 1066. Today London is the largest metropolitan area in the United 

Kingdom and the largest urban zone in the European Union by most measures. England’s population is about 

51 million, around 84% of the population of the United Kingdom, and is largely concentrated in London, 

the South East and conurbations in the Midlands, the North West, the North East and Yorkshire, which each 

developed as major industrial regions during the 19 th century. Meadowlands and pastures are found beyond the 

major cities. 

The Kingdom of England—which after 1284 included Wales-was a sovereign state until 1 May 1707, when 

the Acts of Union put into effect the terms agreed in the Treaty of Union the previous year, resulting in 

a political union with the Kingdom of Scotland to create the new Kingdom of Great Britain. In 1801, Great 

Britain was united with the Kingdom of Ireland through another Act of Union to become the United Kingdom of 

Great Britain and Ireland. In 1922, the Irish Free State was established as a separate dominion, but the Royal 

and Parliamentary Titles Act 1927 reincorporate 

England Statistics: 

Location: Europe 

Status: UN Member Country 

Capital City: London 

Main Cities: Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast. 

Population 60,943,912 

Area: 244,880 km2 

Currency: 1 pound sterling = 100 pence 

Languages: English, Welsh, Scots, Scots Gaelic, Irish Gaelic, British, Sign Language (All official 

Religions: Protestant, Roman Catholic, Muslim, Hindu, Judaism 

From Wikipedia 

United Grand Lodge of England 

Freemasons’ Hall 

60 Great Queen Street, London WC2B 5AZ 

Nearest Underground Station: Holborn 

Telephone: 44 (0) 20 7831 9811 

www.ugle.org.uk 

Grand Lodge of England 24 th January 1717 

Duke of Kent 

Grand Master of England

48 

About United Grand Lodge of England, UGLE 

the United Grand Lodge of England UGLE) is the main governing body 

of freemasonry within England and Wales and in other, predominantly ex-British 

Empire and Commonwealth countries outside the United Kingdom. It is the oldest Grand Lodge in the world, 

deriving its origin from 1717. [2] Together with the Grand Lodge of Ireland and the Grand Lodge of 

Scotland they are often referred to, by their members, as “the home Grand Lodges” or “the Home 

Constitutions”. 

This information was copied from 


13/03/2012 

About Freemasonry from past days: 

I can remember some years ago, that there was a lot of talk going on about whether freemasonry was an evil 

item, which was being talked about not only in England but all over the world. Religious groups were to blame 

for all this with a few Government movements chucked in for good measure. 

If Freemasonry was all that bad, why were there so many very important people around the world attached to it? 

There were Presidents, (Theodore Roosevelt, 1858-1919, (26 th President of the USA) & George Washington, the 

1 st President of the USA. Who was a member of Fredericksburg Lodge in Virginia) Prime Ministers, 

Politicians’, early explorers, some of our greatest film stars, such as John Wayne, Fred Astaire, etc., Mark 

Twain,(famous American writer), Will Rogers (Comedian), Roy Rogers, (Film star Cowboy) just to mention a 

few. Click onto Famous Freemasons on Google to see the 100’s of world famous Masons 

Freemasonry in this country has been undergoing intense public scrutiny over the last two or three years, and 

two lengthy investigations have been undertaken by a very powerful Committee of Members of Parliament. 

They have recommended the setting up of registers in certain professions; the judiciary and the police are two 

examples, so that the public may inspect them and see who the Masons are. The Government is backing this 

move, but we are resisting since we object to being singled out and we find the whole thing oppressive and 

discriminatory. Freemasonry has existed in this country for 300 years as a lawful and law-abiding association, 

and its members are men of integrity and high moral principles. I spend a lot of my time, as the Information 

Officer for the Province, in promoting Freemasonry to the public as well as defending it. It was very kind of you 

to write and we wish you well in the future. 

Yours sincerely and fraternally, 

Provincial Deputy Grand Secretary 

Rodney Pitham

49 

ENGLAND LODGE INFORMATION 

I had much pleasure in phoning and writing letters to the Grand Secretary of the Provincial Grand Lodge of 

Warwickshire, Rodney Pitham PAGDC; this is his letter; 

Provincial Grand Lodge of Warwickshire 

R. W. Bro. Stanley A. Lates 

Provincial Grand Master 

Rodney Pitham, P.A.G.D.C. 

Provincial Deputy Grand Secretary 

Telephone: 

Tel: 0121-454-442 

Fax; 0121-456 2205 

Warwickshire Masonic Temple, 

2 Stirling Road, 

Edgbaston, 

Birmingham 

B 16 9SB 

11 th August 1999 

Lodge Wyong Tuggerah Lakes 247 


Australia 

The Travelling Gavel Collection: 

I thank you for your letter which followed quickly after our most interesting telephone conversation. I was 

delighted to read the information about the Travelling Gavels and you are to be congratulated on your initiative 

and workmanship, and we wish you continued success. 

The Secretary of the Lodge of Warwick No 8011, which meets in the historic town of Warwick (and where 

Warwickshire Freemasonry started as long ago as 1728) is W Bro S L Price of 3 Cherry Lane, Hampton Magna, 

Warwick CV 35 8SL, Tel: 01926 494980. I have asked him to get in touch with you to tell you of the 

whereabouts of the Gavel presented to one of his Brethren in Queensland on 10 July. 

I am enclosing a few documents to tell you something about us, but in particular have pleasure in sending you a 

book published as part of the Province’s 250 th Anniversary celebrations in 1978. 

We now have 200 Lodges in the Province, the latest having been consecrated on 5 th December 1998, and which 

bears the name of our Provincial Grand Master, Stanley Lates, who has been a Freemason for nearly 52 years. 

The Warwickshire Installed Masters’ Lodge is the largest Lodge in the Province with some 450 members (but 

not all attend! And the Provincial Grand Secretary, Robert Swain, will be installed as its Master on 30 th 

September. At the same meeting the Provincial Grand Master will invest and obligate the latest Assistant 

Provincial Grand Master, W Bro David Rawlins. 

There are about 6,500 Masons who subscribe to Lodges in the Province, and the average size of Lodges is about 

30/35. Most Lodges meet in purpose built or adapted premises, but some still meet in hotels and upper rooms of 

public houses. Some of our smaller towns only have one Lodge. 

Freemasonry in this country has been undergoing intense public scrutiny over the last two or three years, and 

two lengthy investigations have been undertaken by a very powerful Committee of Members of Parliament. 

They have recommended the setting up of registers in certain professions; the judiciary and the police are two 

examples, so that the public may inspect them and see who the Masons are. The Government is backing this 

Move, but we are resisting since we object to being singled out and we find the whole thing oppressive and 

discriminatory. Freemasonry has existed in this country for 300 years as a lawful and law-abiding association, 

and its members are men of integrity and high moral principles. I spend a lot of my time, as the information 

Officer for the Province, in promoting Freemasonry to the public as well as defending it.

50 

It was very kind of you to write and we wish you well in the future. 

Yours sincerely and fraternally, 

Rodney Pitman 

Provincial Deputy Grand Secretary. 

The following information was sent to me by the Grand Secretary of the 

Provincial Grand Lodge of Warwickshire: 

Ancient Fraternity of Free and accepted Masons under the United Grand Lodge of England 

Mission Statement 

August 1998 

As Freemasons we must recognise that as we approach the Millennium we ought to be even more prepared to 

promote greater public awareness of the Fraternity, and continue to dispel the myths and fictions so often 

published by our detractors. We should demonstrate our pride in Freemasonry, and illustrate the principles and 

tenets by which we stand. 

To help in achieving this, l commend to all the Brethren in the Province this Mission Statement. It will enable 

all of us to reflect on why we are Freemasons, what we hope to do with and in our Masonic lives and our 

relationship with the rest of the world. 

Stanley A Lates 

Provincial Grand Master 

August 1998 

OUR MISSION 

To serve, support, advice, and guide the Masters Wardens and Brethren of all Lodges in the Province: 

To be good citizens 

To practise the highest moral and social standards 

To be men of friendship, charitable disposition, and integrity. 

OUR OBJECTIVES 

For All Freemasons in the Province 

To encourage them; 

l. To achieve and maintain the highest moral standards 

2. To serve their own religion and community 

3. To demonstrate that we are a society of upright men 

4. To enjoy each other’s company and develop team spirit and fellowship 

5. To practise charity and be charitable with all humankind. 

OUR AIMS 

The Provincial Grand Lodge of Warwickshire will seek; 

l. To achieve and maintain the highest moral standards in Freemasons by reinforcing: 

(a) The distinction between good and bad and right and wrong 

(b) Obedience to the laws of the land 

(c) Living peaceably and creditably 

(d) Acting honourably and with understanding and charity to all, 

2. To encourage all Freemasons to serve their own religion by emphasising that; 

(a) Freemasonry is not a religion, but is about man’s relationship with man and his God 

(b) Freemasonry admits members of any faith who express a belief in a Supreme Being

51 

(c) Freemasonry offers neither Grace nor Redemption but its members are expected to be supporters of an . . . 

. Established religion which they practise through their own churches or other acknowledged places of 

Worship. 

3 To stimulate all Freemasons to serve the community by encouraging them to fulfil their responsibilities to . 

. Their families, their neighbours, their country, their Sovereign and their Lodges. 

4. To demonstrate that Freemasonry is a society of upright men by acknowledging that: 

(a) Membership is open to men of any race or religion who are of good reputation and express a belief in a. . . 

. Supreme Being 

(b) Members must not expect or pursue any material advantage 

Arising from their membership. 

(c) 

Freemasons who abuse the trust placed in them in their public or private lives or who fail to uphold the 

rules of Freemasonry will be excluded 

(d) Our ceremonies contain dramatic presentations of moral lessons and include traditional passwords and 

signs of recognition which are only used in those ceremonies, and solemn promises which are no different from 

those taken elsewhere 

(e) Freemasons are encouraged to be open about the Order and to acknowledge membership when properly 

asked. 

5. To emphasise that Freemasonry is for the enjoyment of each other’s company and the development of team 

spirit by understanding that: 

(a) The objectives of Freemasonry are serious but our members are ordinary, fun—loving individuals who 

seek a good balance in life. 

(b) Family and friends are important to Freemasons and they are actively encouraged to participate in our 

social activities just as we participate in theirs 

(c) Freemasons develop team spirit and fellowship through all their activities and gain an understanding of the. 

Needs of others which in turn leads to increased tolerance and respect 

(d) Freemasonry is a way of life which when practised makes Freemasons better citizens. 

OUR GOALS 

1. To achieve good citizenship by: 

(a) Making good men better and developing their knowledge of themselves as individuals and of the world . 

. . around them through education, discussion and social exchange 

(b) Making proper use of their time, dividing it between worship, world leisure, and service, thus making the. . 

. best use of their mental and physical abilities 

(c) Using their talents for the benefit of themselves, their families, their neighbours and their communities. .... 

Throughout their private, public, business and professional lives 

(d) Members promising not to use membership to promote their own or anyone else’s private, public, 

business or professional interests, 

2. To achieve the highest moral and social standards by: 

(a) Behaviour towards others as we would have them behave towards us. ° 

(b) Aiming to be constructive in our approach to life and upholding the importance of the welfare and .. 

Independence of everyone. 

3 To acknowledge friendship by; 

(a) The encouragement of members from every ethnic group 

(b) The belief that all individuals are equal and dependant on each other 

(c) Respect for the ideals and beliefs of others 

(d) Cherishing all life and the well—being of all. 

The only Lodge in England to receive this Travelling Gavel was; 

Warwick Lodge No. 8011 of Warwickshire,

52 


2 nd August 1999 

Lodge of Warwick No.8011 

Of Ancient Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons 

Warwickshire – England 

UNDER THE UNITED GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND 

Click onto the links in this website for information about their Lodge and English Freemasonry in 

general 

Warwick Lodge Website: 

www.lodgeofwarwick.org.uk 

Warwickshire 

http://www.lodgeofwarwick.org.uk/wpimages/wp698df5d9_06.png 

Masonic lodge meeting: 2 nd Wednesday in October – 

April in W 

Lodge and Lodge room Alderson House 

This Letter below was written by W. Bro. John Walker-Smith 

of The Warwick Lodge No. 8011, of 

Warwickshire, England it was this 

Mason that was responsible for 

this Travelling Gavel to be 

presented into, not only England 

and America, but into many 

Masonic Lodges throughout other 

parts of the world, for this I am most gracefully grateful. The progress in the 

journeys of this Travelling Gavel will astound you somewhat. 

W. Bro Rick Howes 


AUSTRALIA 

Dear Sir & Brother 

2 nd August 1999 

Re: Lodge Wyong 247 Travelling Gavel No. 2 

1 thought you would like to know how your Travelling Gavel is doing. 

Saturday 10 th July 1999 

The Travelling Gavel was presented to Warwick Lodge No. 160 Queensland, Australia C. 

by Bro. Chris Hansen & his father W. Bro Hansen 

From Cooroora Lodge Lodge No.232 

Saturday 10 th July 1999 

This Travelling Gavel was presented to me, W. Bro. John Walker-Smith, the Master of The Lodge of Warwick 

No. 8011 in The Province of Warwickshire, England whilst 1 was visiting Warwick Lodge No.160 in 

Queensland, Australia.

53 

Monday 2 nd August 1999 

Presented to my lodge The Lodge of Warwick No. 8011 England 

Tuesday 10 th August 1999 

I present the Gavel to Warwick Lodge No.544 Grand Lodge District of New York, America 

Thursday 12 th August 1999 

The Gavel was presented to Warwick Lodge No.16, Grand Lodge District of Rhode Island, America 

At the time of writing there are 21 plaques left to be filled. You may have gathered that during my year in 

Office. 1 visited every Warwick Lodge in the world, and when the Gavel is returned to you it will have been 

inscribed accordingly. It is a beautiful piece of work, and everyone who sees it marvels, well done sir!! 

Yours Sincerely & Fraternally · 

John Walker-Smith, Master of; 

Lodge of Warwick 8011 Alderson House, High Street, Warwick, England. 

If you, or any of your Brethren visit the UK. Please do visit; we meet September 

to April inclusive. Warwick is in the centre of England about 20 kilometres from 

Stratford-upon-Avon. Also visit Grand Lodge in Great Queen Street, London, it 

is fantastic. 

During his Mastership of the Lodge of Warwick W. Bro John Walker-Smith set 

himself the challenge of visiting all the Warwick Masonic Lodges in the World. 

He personally took greetings from Warwick, England to Brethren of all 

Warwick Lodges to help unite three continents. 

It has been John’s vision & Tremendous work which has helped to cement 

Fraternal links with the worldwide family of Warwick Lodges 

This is John’s Story. 

I became so fascinated with how Freemasonry had spread throughout the World that during my term as Master 

of the Lodge in 1999, l visited every other Lodge in the world bearing the name of “Warwick”. 

There are three that are acknowledged by the United Grand Lodge of England 

Warwick Lodge No. 160 United Grand Lodge of Queensland Australia 

Warwick Lodge No. 544 Grand Lodge of the State of New York the United States 

Warwick Lodge No. 16 Grand Lodge of Rhode Island the United States 

Our first visit was the town of Warwick; Australia situated about 70 miles inland 

from Brisbane on the East Coast. The population was about 12,000, in 1999 my wife 

and l were very kindly accommodated in the home of a Mason, they took time off 

work to show us around and it was a wonderful experience. 

Whilst there l joined the, J.W. Jackson No. 32 Lodge of 

Mark Master Masons. Everyone we met was very 

friendly, and we got a real inside glimpse of how the 

locals lived and worked. 

The Lodge building was over 120 years old, it was 

fascinating to see first- hand how Freemasonry has been an integral part of the community and country as 

Freemasonry is very open –indeed the Lodge building is on the local Tourist map.

54 

We visited the grave of J.W. Jackson, the Mason who had 

introduced the Craft to Queensland, it was extremely well 

kept, and looking across the cemetery there were broken 

pillars, I said “ vandals have been here Oh no, they said, 

they’re the graves of Freemasons. There were hundreds of 

them, as far as the eye could see. 

They arranged afternoon tea with the Mayor, and he proudly 

showed us his Chain of Office, it’s an exact replica of our 

own Mayor’s Chain. We left Australia to return home, the 

flight was 23 hours, but we were determined to return. 

New York New York: it’s a hell of a town. In August 1999 

we set off for USA 

Grand Lodge is an incredible building. The Grand Secretary gave us a tour of the 12 temples that building, each 

one furnished with its own theme such as Colonial, French and Egyptian. The pretty town of Warwick is about 

60 miles north of New York in the hills. 

To mark the occasion the Mayor had declared it to be “Masons Day in the Town” 

The Lodge Meeting was packed and l was surprised to see about a third of the Members wearing jeans and 

lumber shirts (we wear Dinner Suits, black bow tie etc). 

It was a very happy occasion, especially as the Master from Rhode Island had travelled down with a party of 8, 

and the Master from Warwick, Australia had also made the special journey. 

They baked a big cake and couldn’t have been more hospitable. One of the guys said he’d been a member for 

over 40 years and it was one of the most memorable occasions he had attended. 

The next day we travelled with the visitors back to Rhode lsland, the 

journey took over 4 hours, they told us stories of their Lodge history and 

how The Grand Lodge of Rhode lsland was the first foothold for 

freemasonry in America. 

They took us straight to the Hotel, we thought “this can’t be right” as it 

was a 5 * Star, however they assured us it was, and our accommodation 

and meals had been paid for! 

The meeting at the Lodge was again very special. Once again Masons took time 

off work to show us around and we visited many homes and families. Our flight 

home was from New York and we hadn’t made the necessary arrangements to 

get back there, no problem” said the Secretary of the Lodge “l’ll drive you 

there”, the journey again took over 4 hours (and the same back home for him), 

and he wouldn’t even accept petrol money. 

If that’s not true friendship, tell me what is. 

One of the main objects of Freemasonry is Charity, and in America they have a Masonic Order 

called 

The Shiners. 

Their charity is the upkeep of 22 Hospitals across America that specialise in orthopaedic care to 

children from birth to the age of 18 years. Kids whose parents couldn’t afford hospitals, or 

whom the insurance companies were no longer prepared to support. 

Treatments are free of charge, and no questions are asked. 

They took me to one of the Hospitals; there were unbelievable cases of hardship and suffering, 

and also cases for great hope and compassion.

55 

That day I cried every kind of tear. 

At every visit l took with me a copy of the painting of our own 

Lodge Rooms, and now I’m proud to say that Alderson House, 

High Street, Warwick, England is hanging in every other 

“Warwick” Lodge room in the world. 

You may have noted that no names have been mentioned, this isn’t 

due to any kind of secrecy, but if l mentioned particular names 

some persons may feel left out, the fact is my wife and I have to 

thank everyone for making our visits so special. 

We never asked for any special treatment or insisted on any special hospitality- all l ever did was to write to the 

Lodge Secretary simply informing him that I was the current Master of Warwick Lodge No.8011, and could I 

visit one of their Masonic Meetings. 

The friendship and kindness was overwhelming, and l still keep in contact with them all. 

The history of Freemasonry in their land and communities was completely fascinating. 

When l returned to Australia last year I was installed as Worshipful Master of J.W. Jackson no. 32 Lodge 

of Mark Master Masons ; An honour and privilege that will always be cherished. 

The folks we met, their families and friends were just like It was the greatest of pleasures to be associated with 

such fine, hard working, God fearing, honest and decent people 

The story of the Historic meeting on 10 th August 1999, when Masters of all four Warwick Lodges met has been 

recorded in “The Queensland Mason”. 

Worshipful Brother John Walker-Smith 

This globe travelling Gavel has certainly bought a lot of happiness to a lot of Brethren through-out the world, 

having journeyed around NSW, Queensland, England and now in Americe where it was presented into around 

ten (10) Masonic Lodges over all. 

Information about Warwick,Warwickshire, England: 

Warwick is the county town of Warwickshire, England. The town lies upon the River Avon, 11 miles (18 km) 

south of Coventry and just west of Leamington Spa and Whitnash with which it is conjoined. As of the 2001 

United Kingdom census, it had a population of 23,350. 

There has been human activity at Warwick as early as the Neolithic, and constant habitation since the 

6 th century. A Saxon burh was created at Warwick in the 9 th century and Warwick Castle was established on the 

site in 1068 as part of the Norman conquest of England. Warwick School claims to be the oldest boys’ school in 

the country. The earldom of Warwick was created in 1088 and the earls controlled the town in the medieval 

period. During this time Warwick was given town walls; Eastgate and Westgate survive. The castle developed 

into a stone fortress and then a country house and is today a popular tourist attraction. 

The Great Fire of Warwick in 1694 destroyed much of the medieval town and as a result most of the buildings 

post-date this period. Though Warwick did not become industrialised in the 19 th century, it has experienced 

growth since 1801 when the population was 5,592. Racing Club Warwick F.C., founded in 1919, are based in 

the town. The town is administered by Warwick District Counil and Warwickshire County Council has its 

headquarters in Warwick. 

The five districts of North Warwickshire, Nuneaton & Bedworth, Rugby, Warwick and Stratford-on- 

Avon together form the Warwickshire County Council area, and are within the 1974 boundaries. The shape of 

the administrative area of Warwickshire differs considerably from that of the historic county, which also 

includes the now autonomous unitary authorities of Coventry and Solihull, as well as a small area around central 

and northeast Birmingham. 

For Eurostat purposes it is a NUTS 3 region (code UKG13) and is one of three counties that comprise the 

“Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Warwickshire” NUTS 2 region.

56 

Description: Great Britain, Warwick Castle 

Date: 26 th August 2007 

Source: own work 

Author: Gernot Keller, www.gernot-keller.com 

This information is copied from the 

Wikipedia 

Warwickshire 

This much travelled Globe Trotting Travelling Gavel was only presented into one Lodge in England, being 

Warwick Lodge No. 8011, is about to be taken a few thousand kilometres (miles) across the sea to America, 

where it was presented into another Warwick Lodge, this time to New York 

AMERICA 

Area ~ 9,372, 610 sq km * 3, 618, 754 sq ml ~ Capital ~ Washington ~ Language ~ English ~ Currency ~ 

Dollar 

Population ~ 290, 342, 554, (2005) ~ Life expectancy ~ 73, (men), 80 (women) ~ Literacy rate ~ 99% 

Religions ~ Roman Catholic 26%, Baptist 19%, Methodist 8%, Lutheran 5% 

Physical features ~tropical in Hawaii, arctic in Alaska, mountain ranges parallel to the east and west coasts 

Imports ~ machinery and transport equipment, crude petroleum, office machinery, textile and clothing 

Exports ~ machinery, motor vehicles, agricultural products and foodstuffs, aircraft, weapons, chemicals, 

electronics 

------:------

57 

*NEW YORK 

Grand Lodge District of New York 

New York Flag 

Seal 

About Our Grand Lodge 

Grand Lodge of New York F. & A .M. 

of Free and Accepted Masons 

Established: 16 th December 1787 

Jurisdiction: New York 

Location: New York City, New York USA 

Website: NYMasons.org 

The Grand Lodge of the State of New York has a long history dating back over 228 years and is the governing 

body of Freemasonry in the State of New York. Like many organizations Masons elect their leaders. The Grand 

Lodge of the State of New York is headed by the Grand Master who is aided by a team of officers both elected 

and appointed. 

The Grand Lodge of the State of New York acts as the coordinating body for many functions undertaken 

throughout the state. Its various committees organize blood drives, Child ID programs and charitable events 

around New York. 

A Brief History of the Grand Lodge of New York 

The Grand Lodge of New York was organized on December 15, 1782 under a Provincial Grand Warrant 

dated September 5, 1781 from the “Athol” or modern Grand Lodge of England. Our Grand Lodge declared its 

independence on June 6, 1787 and assumed the title “Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of 

New York.” 

As early as the mid 1730’s Freemasonry was present in the American colony of New York. Daniel Coxe was 

appointed by the Duke of Norfolk as Provincial Grand Master for the provinces of New York, New Jersey and 

Pennsylvania. As no authenticated records exist of his tenure as Provincial Grand Master it seems doubtful that 

he exercised any authority in Masonic 57ndeavours. 

The last of the Provincial Grand Masters was Sir John Johnson who assumed office in 1771. The new Grand 

Lodge of New York elected Reverend William Walter as the first Grand Master. He served for almost three 

years. 

In 1784 Robert R. Livingston was appointed Grand Master and was elected to the office for the next sixteen 

years. He presided at the swearing in ceremony of the only President of the United States to take the oath of 

office in New York City. The Bible (published in 1767) that was used at the swearing in ceremony of Brother 

George Washington as the first President of the United States, is owned by St. John’s Lodge No. 1 and is still in 

use today at the swearing in of the Grand Master and, by request, at the swearing in of the President of the 

United States. 

In the 228 year history of the Grand Lodge of New York there have been 100 Grand Masters. Each has 

contributed to the welfare of both Masons and people of the State of New York and the United States of 

America through their service as Governors, Senators, Representatives, Judges, Doctors, Lawyers, Teachers and 

everyday people through their many philanthropic 57ndeavours. 

The Grand Lodge of New York is proud of its Masonic Hall, which houses our Grand Lodge offices in New 

York City, the Masonic Medical Research Laboratory, Acacia Village and Masonic Home in Utica; the 

Chancellor Robert R. Livingston Library and Museum in New York and Utica; the Masonic Youth Camp at 

Camp Turk in Woodgate; the DeWint House at Tappan and its many charitable activities of its annual 

Brotherhood Fund Drive.

58 

The Grand Lodge of New York is one of 29 independent organizations of Freemasons in the U.S. state of New 

York. [1] [citation needed] 

It was at one time the largest grand lodge in the world in terms of membership. 

The Grand Lodge is over 220 years old, having been founded December 15, 1782. GloNY acts as the 

coordinating body for many functions undertaken throughout the state. Its various committees organize blood 

drives, the New York Masonic Safety Identification Program – (NYMSIP) and charitable events around New 

York. The GloNY has jurisdiction over approximately 60,000 Freemasons, organized in more than 800 Lodges, 

most of them located within New York State. [2] 

Information about New York: 

New York is a state in the North eastern region of the United States. New York is the 27 th most extensive, 

the 3 rd most populous, and the 7 th most densely populated of the 50 United States. New York is bordered 

by New Jersey and Pennsylvania to the south, and by Connecticut, Massachusetts and Vermont to the east. The 

state has a maritime border with Rhode Island east of Long Island, as well as an international border with the 

Canadian provinces of Ontario to the west and north, and Quebec to the north. The state of New York is often 

referred to as New York State to distinguish it from New York City. 

New York City, with a population of over 8.1 million, is the most populous city in the United States. Alone, it 

makes up over 40 percent of the population of New York State. It is known for its status as a centre 

for finance and culture and for its status as the largest gateway for immigration to the United States. According 

to the U.S. Department of Commerce, New York City is also a destination of choice for many foreign visitors. 

Both the state and city were named for the 17 th century Duke of York, James Stuart, future James II and VII of 

England and Scotland. 

New York was inhabited by various tribes of Algonquian and Iroquoian speaking Native American tribes at the 

time Dutch settlers moved into the region in the early 17 th century. In 1609, the region was first claimed 

by Henry Hudson for the Dutch. Fort Nassauwas built near the site of the present-day capital of Albany in 1614. 

The Dutch soon also settled New Amsterdam and parts of theHudson River Valley, establishing the colony 

of New Netherland. The British took over the colony by annexation in 1664. 

The borders of the British colony, the Province of New York, were roughly similar to those of the present-day 

state. About one third of all the battles of the Revolutionary War took place in New York. The state 

constitution was enacted in 1777. New York became the 11 th state to ratify the United States Constitution, on 

July 26, 1788. 

New York – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia 

Grand Lodge of New York; www.nymasons.org/ 

Grand Lodge of New York 5 th September 1781 

This Gavel having been presented into two Warwick Lodges in the world, these being, Queensland and 

Warwickshire, England is about to be presented into the third Warwick Lodge, this time into New York in 

America 

------:------

59 




Warwick; 

New York 

Warwick Lodge No. 544 F & A M 

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Warwick-Lodge-No-544-F-A-M/166569233383145 

Grand Lodge F.& A. M. State of New York 

Masonic Hall 

71 West 23 rd Street 

New York, NY 10010 

Telephone: 1 (212) 741-4520 

www.nymasons.org 


The Grand Lodge of New York was organized on December 15, 1782 under a Provincial Grand Warrant dated 

September 5, 1781 from the “Athol” or modern Grand Lodge of England. Our Grand Lodge declared its 


New York.” As early as the mid 1730’s Freemasonry was present in the American colony of New York. Daniel 

Coxe was appointed by the Duke of Norfolk as Provincial Grand Master for the provinces of New York, New 

Jersey and Pennsylvania. As no authenticated records exist of his tenure as Provincial Grand Master it seems 

doubtful that he exercised any authority in Masonic endeavours. 



years. 










everyday people through their many philanthropic 59entioned59. 



Chancellor Robert R. Livingston Library and Museum in New York and Utica; the Masonic Youth Camp at 


Brotherhood Fund Drive.

60 

Once again this much travelled Tamworth Travelling Gavel is on the march yet again, leaving New York it finds 

its way to another part of America, this time to; ~ where it was presented into the 4 th Warwick Lodge. 

------:------ 

RHODE ISLAND 

Grand Lodge District of Rhode Island F. & A. M. 

The Grand Lodge 

Of the Most Ancient and Honourable Society of 

Free and Excepted Masons 

For the State of 

Rhode Island 

Grand Lodge of Rhode Island 27 th June 1791 

and 

Providence Plantations 

Grand Lodge of Rhode Island, F&AM 

222 Taunton Ave. 

East Providence, RI 02194 

(401) 435-4650 (401) 435-4650 

Hours: 8.00am to 4.00 pm 

www.rimasons.org 

Flag 

Grand Lodge of Rhode Island 

RI Lodges 

Grand Lodge of Rhode Island; www.rimasons.org 

The Masonic Temple (known locally as the “Mason Building”) is one of two monumental buildings in 

central Providence that remained unfinished and abandoned for decades. Originally planned as a meeting hall 

for the Freemasons, construction work was abandoned in 1929 as a result of financial difficulties caused by 

the Great Depression. With the outbreak of World War II construction was halted permanently. 

The building, constructed in the Greek Revival style, is located prominently on Francis Street opposite 

the Rhode Island State House. The opening of the Providence 

Place Mall next door across Hayes Street has made the site prime real 

estate. In 2004, the building was purchased by Sage Hospitality 

Resources, which converted it into a luxury hotel. The Renaissance 

Providence Hotel opened in June 2007. 

The adjoining building known as the Veterans Memorial 

Auditorium, located between the Mason Building and Interstate 95, 

was originally part of the same complex, and was connected to the 

Temple by a small structure at ground level. While construction 

halted at the same time as the Temple building, it was completed in 

the 1950s. 

Masonic Temple, Providence of Rhode Island 

About Rhode Island:

61 

Rhode Island officially the State of Rhode Island and Providence 

Plantations, [6] is a state in the New England region of the United States. Rhode 

Island is the smallest in area, the eighth least populous, but the second most 

densely populated of the 50 US states behind New Jersey. Rhode Island is 

bordered by Connecticut to the west andMassachusetts to the north and east, and 

it shares a water boundary with New York’s Long Island to the southwest. 

Rhode Island was the first of the 13 original colonies to declare independence 

from British rule, declaring itself independent on May 4, 1776, two months before any other colony. The State 

was also the last of the thirteen original colonies to ratify the United States Constitution. [7][8] 

Rhode Island’s official nickname is “The Ocean State”, a reference to the State’s geography, since Rhode Island 

has several large bays and inlets that amount to about 14% of its total area. Its land area is 1,045 square miles 

(2,710 km 2 ), but its total area is significantly larger. 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 




Harmony; 

Rhode Island ~ USA 

W. Franklin A. Ball 

Providence Rhode Island. U.S.A. 

The Travelling Gavel 

Letter: 

On 10 th August 1999 (5) five brothers from Warwick Lodge #16 East Greenwich Rhode Island. U,S.A. 

met in Warwick Lodge #544.Warwick.New York USA. to visit with The Lodge of Warwick #8011 England 

(W. John Walker- Smith) But not knowing that there was going to have another Warwick Lodge #160 

from Australia. As it came to pass that night there were (4) Warwick Lodges From around the world 

The Master of the lodges are; 

W. Bro. James Bax of Australia 

W. Bro. John Walker-Smith of England 

W. Bro. Steven Krell of New York 

W Franklin A. Ball of Providence Rode Island. 

On August 10,1999 W. Bro. James Bax presented W. Bro. Steven Kroll with a beautiful Travelling Gavel 

On the August 1999 W. Bro. Steven Krell presented me W. Bro. Franklin A. Ball with the Travelling Gavel at 

Warwick Lodge #16 East Greenwich, Rhode Island. And on August 21 st 1999 the Gavel was presented to Ionic 

Lodge #28 in Green Rhode Island. To, W. Bro. Glenn Gardner 

The Master of Warwick Lodge #16: 

W. Bro. Franklin A. Ball 

Providence Rhode island U.S.A. 

Receiver of the gavel Ionic Lodge # 23: 

W. Bro. Glenn R. Gardner 

Exeter, Rhode Island. · 

02822. 

Secretary Warwick Lodge #16: 

W. Bro. Malcolm Daniels 

Cranston Rhode Island 

02910 

Secretary of Ionic Lodge #28: 

W. Bro.Thomas R. Yeaw 3 Brightman Hills R.d 

Hopkinton, Rhode Island 

02833 · 

Fratemally 

Worshipful Brother, Franklin A. Ball 

For Visitors for this part of the world, click onto the Link below: 

Providence Warwick, Rhode Island http://www.goprovidence.com/visitors/ 

------:------

62 



Ionic Lodge No. 28 

10 Benefit St. In the village of Greene, in Coventry, RI, is a MOON LODGE. 

Free and Accepted Masons 

of the 

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations 

Dispensation Granted – January 15, 1870 

Charter Granted – May 16, 1870 

Constituted – January 7, 1871 

Stated Communications are at 7:30 PM on each Saturday on or before the Full of the Moon. 

The Annual Communication and Election of Officers is on the last Tuesday in September. 

Phone:401-397-4544, Mailing Address: PO Box 603 North Kingstown, RI 02852 

e-mail: ionicri@yahoo.com 

CONTACT US ONLINE 

Secretary: Don E. Mathieu - Don Mathieu 401-295-2708 ~ (2013) 

F & A.M. 

10 Benefit St. 

Greene, Rhode Island 02827 

(401)397-4544 

Lodge hall 

10 Benefit St.Greene, RI 02827 

Click to Email: CentralDistrict@RImasons.org 

Dispensation granted: January 1, 1870 

Charter granted May 16, 1870 

Constituted January 7, 1871 

Stated Communication: Saturday on or before the full moon in each month. 

Annual Communication: Last Tuesday in September. Rehearsals on Tuesdays 7:00-8:30PM. 

Visit Ionic Lodge No.28 on the web for current events. 

To read Rhode Island Masonic Journals click below: 

http://www.rimasons.org/joomla/ri-freemason 

Stated Communication: Saturday on or before the full moon in each month. 

Annual Communication: Last Tuesday in September. Rehearsals on Tuesdays 7:00-8:30PM.

63 

Letter from Ionic Lodge #28: 

To. W. Bro. Howes 

Lodge Wyong #247 

Wyong, NSW 

Secretary: 

W. Bro. Thomas R. Yew 

Ionic Lodge #28, F. & AM 

Greene Rhode Island U.S.A 

Re. Travelling Gavel November 1999 

Dear Bro. Rick, 

On behalf of our Worshipful Master and Brethren of Ionic Lodge # 28, I wish to extend to you and all the 

Brethren of Wyong Lodge our warm and fraternal greetings. We at Ionic Lodge wish to thank you for allowing 

us to be a part of your Travelling Gavel Program. I would also like to congratulate you for creating this program 

which is sending goodwill to Masonic Lodges all over the world. 

Ionic Lodge # 28 F. & AM is located in the village of Greene, which is located in the town of Coventry, which 

is in the State of Rhode Island, and which is located in the United States of America. Rhode Island is the 

smallest state in the United States and it is located on the Atlantic Ocean in the northeast corner of America. It is 

a State of about a million people and fishing and jewellery manufacturing is some of the main industries. Some 

call Rhode Island the jewellery capital of the world. 

Ionic Lodge was charted in 1871, when it was separated from Manchester Lodge # 12 in Coventry, Rhode 

Island. Ionic is part of the Grand Lodge jurisdiction of the State of Rhode Island, which consists of about 40 

Lodges, Ionic presently has 125 members, many of which are very active. Ionic is a moon Lodge, which it meets 

the 1 st Saturday on or before the full moon of each month. 

The Travelling Gavel was presented to Ionic Lodge on August 21, 1999 by Worshipful Master Frank Ball of 

Warwick Lodge #16 in the State of New York. I understand that the Gavel has been presented to several 

Warwick Lodges around the world. Worshipful Glenn R. Gardner, Master of Ionic Lodge #28 at the same time 

the Gavel was presented to Ionic, will be presenting the Gavel to Moosup Lodge #113, located in the town of 

Moosup, in the State of Connecticut. 

The presiding Master of Ionic Lodge is James J. Fitzhugh, and I am Thomas R. Yeaw the Secretary of Ionic, and 

my address is P.O. Box 25 Hopkinton Rhode Island. Once again, thanks for allowing us to be a part of your 

Travelling Gavel Programme 

Best of luck always. 

` 

Information about Rhode Island: 

Rhode Island officially the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, is a state in the New 

England region of the United States. Rhode Island is the smallest in area, the 8 th least populous, but the 2 nd most 

densely populated of the 50 United States. Rhode Island is bordered by Connecticut to the west 

and Massachusetts to the north and east, and it shares a water boundary with New York’s Long Island to the 

southwest. 

Rhode Island was the first of the 13 original colonies to declare independence from 

British rule, declaring itself independent on May 4, 1776, two months before any 

other state in the whole U.S. and the convention. The state was also the last to 

ratify the United States Constitution. 

Rhode Island’s official nickname is “The Ocean State”, a reference to the state’s geography, since Rhode Island 

has several large bays and inlets that amount to about 14% of its total area. Its land area is 1,045 square miles 

(2706 km 2 ), but its total area is significantly larger. 

Climate 

Rhode Island is an example of a humid continental climate with warm, rainy summers and chilly winters. The 

highest temperature recorded in Rhode Island was 104 °F (40 °C), recorded on August 2, 1975, in 

Providence. The lowest recorded temperature in Rhode Island was −23 °F (−31 °C), on February 5, 1996, in 

Greene. [20] Monthly average temperatures range from a high of 83 °F (28 °C) to a low of 20 °F (−7 °C). 

Wikipedia 

This Globe Trotting Travelling Gavel, once again is on the move. After spending some months in Rhode Island 

USA., it travelled to Connecticut, where it was presented to the Worshipful Master of Moosop Lodge #113

64 

------:------ 

CONNECTICUT 

State Flag 

Grand Lodge of Connecticut 8 th July 1789 

Grand Lodge of Connecticut 

P.O. Box 250 

Wallingford, Connecticut 06492, USA 

Telephone: 1 (203) 679-5903 

www.ctfreemasons.net 

Connecticut is a state in the New England region of the northeastern 

United States. It is bordered by Rhode Island to the 

east, Massachusetts to the north, and the state of New York to the west 

and the south (with which it shares a water boundary in Long Island 

Sound). 

Connecticut is named for the Connecticut River, the major U.S. river that approximately bisects the state. Its 

capital city is Hartford. Much of southern and western Connecticut (along with the majority of the state’s 

population) is part of the New York metropolitan area; three of Connecticut’s eight counties are statistically 

included in the New York City combined statistical area, the same area is widely referred to as the Tri-State 

area. Connecticut’s center of population is in Cheshire, New Haven County, which is also located within the Tri- 

State area. 

Connecticut is the 3 rd least extensive, the 29 th most populous, and 4 th most densely populated of the 50 United 

States. Called the Constitution State, Nutmeg State, and “The Land of Steady Habits”, Connecticut was 

influential in the development of thefederal government of the United States. 

Connecticut’s first European settlers were Dutch and established a small, short-lived settlement in present-day 

Hartford at the confluence of the Park and Connecticut rivers, called Huys de Goede Hoop. Initially, half of 

Connecticut was a part of the Dutch 

colony, New Netherland, which 

included much of the land between 

the Connecticut 

and Delaware rivers. 

The first major settlements were 

established in the 1630s by the 

English. Thomas Hooker led a band 

of followers overland from the 

Massachusetts Bay Colony and 

founded what would become 

the Connecticut Colony; other 

settlers from Massachusetts founded 

the Saybrook Colony and the New 

Haven Colony. Both the 

Connecticut and New Haven 

Colonies established documents of 

Fundamental Orders, considered the 

first constitutions in North America.

65 

In 1662, the three colonies were merged under a royal charter, making Connecticut a crown colony. This colony 

was one of the Thirteen Colonies that revolted against British rule in theAmerican Revolution. 

The Connecticut River, Thames River, and ports along the Long Island Sound have given the state a 

strong maritime tradition, which continues today. Connecticut’s other traditional industry is financial services; 

for example, insurance companies in Hartford and hedge funds in Fairfield county. As of the 2010 Census, 

Connecticut features the highest per capita income, Human Development Index (0.962), and median household 

income in the United States. Although Connecticut is a wealthy state by most measures, the income gap between 

its urban and suburban areas is striking, with several of Connecticut’s cities ranking among the nation’s poorest 

and most dangerous. 

Map from Wikipedia 


2 nd Jan. 2000 

Moosup Lodge No.113 

A.F. & A.M. 

Moosup; 

Connecticut USA 

Moosup Lodge 

69 Prospect St. 

Moosup (860) 564-4232 

District: 8A 

Directions: Click Here 

Website: Click Here 

Stated Communications: 7:30 pm, First Tuesday, except 

July and August 

Connecticut Grand Lodge 

Established: May, 1789 

Jurisdiction: Connecticut 

Location: Wallingford, Connecticut USA 

Website: ctfreemasons.net 

The Grand Lodge of Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of the State of Connecticut is the main governing 

body of Freemasonry in the U.S. state of Connecticut as recognized by the United Grand Lodge of 

England. [1] The Grand Lodge of Connecticut is headquartered at Wallingford, Connecticut. 

Grand Lodge of Connecticut; http://www.ctfreemasons.net/ 

Our Mailing Address: 

Grand Lodge of Connecticut A.F. & A.M. 

Attention: Robert G. Fitzgerald 

Grand Secretary 

P.O. Box 250 

Wallingford, Connecticut 06492, USA 

Street Address: 

69 Masonic Avenue, Wallingford, CT 

Tel No: (203) 679-5903 

Fax No: (203) 679-5996 

The article below was written by Moosuo Lodge No.113

66 

125 YEARS OF MAKING GOOD MEN BETTER 

Wyong Lodge Traveling Gavel Collection 

Worshipful Brother Rick Howes of New South Wales, Australia is one busy fellow --- or ‘bloke’, as 

they say down under. A retired carpet layer, Brother Rick decided he wanted to bestow a lasting 

memento on another lodge to which he travelled witnessing a friend’s third degree. He struck upon the 

travelling gavel idea – beginning a monumental worldwide undertaking. 

Finding that other brothers warmed to the idea, Rick began creating more and more of the artefacts, 

putting them into circulation throughout Australia, Europe, Asia, and now – with the gavel which 

travelled through Moose Lodge – America. In all, there are now 12 Wyong Lodge Gavels spanning the 

globe. 

The Wyong Lodge Travelling Gavel enjoys a place of honour in Moosup Lodge 

A delight to speak with, WB Rick has that familiar Aussie brogue, and is a one-man tourism bureau for his 

native land – bragging not only of its beauty and charm, but of its residents’ famous grit. [This information for 

you though Rick: 5 below Celsius is a balmy 23 above Fahrenheit. Here in New England we call that ‘summer’. 

Going to great pains to fabricate these gavels, Rick cuts matchstick-sized pieces of wood to create the desired 

effect, with some of the gavels numbering over 23 odd thousand individual pieces. Rick also revealed that he is 

currently working on a forty thousand piece gavel! As they would say in Australia,”Blimey! The boy’s a loon!” 

Brother Rick tracks each individual gavel in its travels, calling to assure that the custodian lodge keeps the gavel 

moving on in a timely fashion. Rick also requests a letter from each lodge detailing a brief history of the area 

and the lodge itself. Rick sends copies of these letters to each lodge on the gavels’ trails, uniting lodges 

worldwide. Whenever these gavels have come to their collective end, Rick plans to turn the documents over for 

posterity. 

Thanks to Ionic Lodge No. 28, of Rhode Island for providing us with the opportunity to host this marvellous 

symbol of worldwide brotherhood and friendship. [Ionic received the gavel from Warwick Lodge of Providence, 

which had received it from Warwick Lodge of New York, which in turn had received it from Warwick Lodge of 

Warwick, England!] And another thanks and large tip of the hat to Wyong Lodge and WB Rick Howes, through 

whose dedication and effort, Moosup Lodge was able to share for a time one of Wyong Lodge’s fabulous 

Travelling Gavels. 

There being no more information about Moosup Lodge, once again this Gavel is on the march again, this time it 

travels to Massachusetts where it is presented into three (3) Lodges 

Moosup 

Moosup is a village in the town of Plainfield, Connecticut in the United States. 

The population was 3,237 at the 2000 census (January 2000) 

------:------

67 

MASSACHUSETTS 

Massachusetts was the 6 th State in the U.S.A. it became a State on 

6 th February 1788 

The Capital is Boston 

The population in 2000 was 6,349.097 

Massachusetts is the 13 th most populous State in USA 

Massachusetts, according to the 2010 United States census, has a population of 6,547,629 * The Capital, Boston 

with a population of 617,594 

The MostWorshipful Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, AF&AM 

186 Tremont Street 

Boston, MA 02111 

(617) 426-6040 (617) 426-6040 

Link 

Grand Lodge of Massachusetts; 

http://www.glmasons-mass.org 

www.massfreemasonry.org 

 


30 th May 2000 

John Warren Lodge, 

A. F & A. M. 

Lodge Address: 

6 Main Street 

Hopkinton, 

Middlesex 01748 

Lodge Phone No: (508) 435-4631 

Contact information: 

R. Arlen Johnson 

W: 508.473.7600// Mobile: 508.498.2759 508.498.2759 

johnwarren@massfreemasonry.net 

Meeting information: Second Tuesday of each month between September and June. 

Australian Travelling Gavel 

Visits John Warren Lodge 

John Warren’s Link Address 

http://www.massfreemasonry.org/index.tpl?&NG_view=93&ng_id=99 

Masonic year 2000 was the occasion we were honoured to be presented this Gavel from visiting Brethren of 

Moosup Lodge in Connecticut. We continued its journey by presenting it to Charles A. Welch Lodge in 

Maynard. 

This project is a rather daunting endeavour by Very W. Rick Howes (Past 

District Grand Inspector of Workings), a member of Lodge Wyong

68 

Tuggerah Lakes No. 247 NSW Australia, there is now a web site available documenting the gavels and their 

travels. Visit it by clicking onto www.travellinggavels.com The 12 Travelling Gavels were presented into 

the world, the Gavel that we held for a while was Gavel Number 10 (Tamworth). The Tamworth Gavel journey 

is nearing competition! View the most recent status update from V.W. Rick Howes. Visit the United Grand 

Lodge of New South Wales 

Introduction: 

In July of 1860, twelve Masonic brethren of Hopkinton petitioned the Grand 

Lodge of Massachusetts for a dispensation for a lodge. On July 25, the 

dispensation was granted by M.W. Winslow Lewis, Grand Master, and 

Lucius H. Wakefield was appointed the first Master. The Lodge was named 

in honour of M.W. and Dr. John 

Warren, brother of M.W. and General Joseph Warren who was killed at the 

Battle of Bunker Hill, and one of the founders of the Massachusetts General 

Hospital. The first meeting was held November 23, 1860 and on June 12, 1861, John Warren Lodge was 

officially chartered. . 

John Warren Lodge has always been a small, friendly country lodge. With about 120 members, the membership 

is small by some standards, but no less enthusiastic. Our lodge has never been particularly affluent and met in a 

variety of rented facilities before building is current quarters during the 1950’s. On at least two occasions, 

before moving to its present facilities, our lodge suffered disastrous fires. While the brethren lost their physical 

possessions, ‘they did not lose their interest in Masonry and our lodge prospered. 

John Warren Lodge is an active lodge which supports the community and its members. We supply Masonic 

highway signs to other lodges. We administer the John Warren Masonic Angel Fund... We support the Little 

League. We have an active Blood Program with the American Red Cross. Organizations in the community 

utilize our facilities. We have events for our members such as Octoberfest, a holiday party, Ladies and Widows 

luncheon, a Table Lodge and other events. At the start of the Boston Marathon, we welcome Masons from 

around the world. 

Ln summary, John Warren Lodge and its members have a rich history and are proud of their service to their 

community and to their fellow men. We have always welcomed good men with an ` interest in joining our 

fraternity. Lf you are interested in joining our lodge, call our Master and arrange a meeting. 

Letter: 

Worshipful Master: Everett G. Carr 


W. Bro. Rick Howes 

Dear Brothers, 

A surprise came from visiting Brethren of Moosup Lodge #113 (located in Canterbury, CT DG331 USA) at our 

30 May special Communication held for purpose of conferring the 1 st Degree and to have a Past Masters Night, 

W. Bro. G. Al Bender presented our Lodge with one of your Travelling Gavels. Before I continue its journey, 

minor repairs to reset 2 or 3 brass plates as well as the brass frame that holds your background letters which 

have come loose will be done. 

Located just a couple of hundred feet from the start of the Boston Marathon, John Warren Lodge A.F. & A.M.is 

one of the older Lodges in our District (Natick 23 rd ). There is a reasonable chance that you may have seen our 

Lodge should anyone happen to watch the start of the Boston Marathon. As a reference point, there is a large 

white Church with a white spire closer to the start line, our lodge is adjacent to that Church move back from the 

Start- line. It is ironic that your Travelling gavel not only made it to the jurisdiction of the oldest Masonic Lodge 

in The United States but also to the start of one of the world’s Premier Marathons. So maybe next year a few of 

you will be intently peering at your television in hope of getting a glimpse of our Lodge building!

69 

The Hopkinton area (Framingham, Ashland, Holliston, Upton are some of the other towns is primarily a 

residential area located 20-30 miles west of Boston. Massachusetts ‘second largest city. Worcester is also about 

the same distance further to the west. Commercial enterprises consist principally of computer genetic 

technology related companies. EMC is headquarters in Hopkinton & is one of the world’s largest providers of 

disk storage systems. Genzyme (genetic research & products) is also located in nearby Framingham along with 

Bose (speakers). There is very little heavy industry General motors’ used to have a plant at Framingham 

however, that was closed several years ago. 

I have enclosed our Lodge Communications (monthly notice) for our Masonic year 2000 which runs from Oct 

1999 through to September 2000 as another way of sharing what might be described as a “typical” Masonic year 

for us. Lodges in Massachusetts typically meet September through June, taking the hot summer months of July 

and August off The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts has a web site located at http://www.glmasons-mass.org 

: Our Lodge also has a web site located at http://www.ultranet.com/~pageau/. Our members and Officers are 

also very active with local churches and Boy Scout organizations. Lodges in Massachusetts are not 

numbered.This is because Lodges in MA were charted by Grand Lodges in England and Scotland & at the 

formation of Massachusetts Grand Lodge after the American Revolution a decision was made to avoid any 

appearance of preference or hierarchy that might be inferred from assigning numbers, instead all Massachusetts 

Lodges are known only by name. 

John Warren Lodge was named in honour of Doctor Warren (brother of General Joseph Warren who was born 

in Roxbury, MA, July 27, 1753 and died April 4 th 1815. He was the “Beloved physician,” patriot: and Teacher – 

A man in the largest and truest sense, respected and loved by all, the peer of many of his chosen profession. Of 

sturdy New England stock, he made the most of his advantages. Eloquent, honest, capable, he was often called 

upon to address large convocations of the most cultured of his day. He was elected Hersey Professor of 

Anatomy and Surgery of Harvard University November, 1782, and a month later, December 6, was 

unanimously chosen Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts, and maintained his interest in the Fraternity 

throughout life. His was not a long life, but the estimate of a true man is deeds and not years. “He most lives 

who thinks most, feels the noblest, act the best.” At his death full Masonic honours were accorded him. His 

mortal remains rest in the family tomb at the foot of Boston Common, his portrait adorns the walls of the Grand 

Lodge at Boston. This lodge has been proud of the noble man who’s name we bear, and if we ever rise to 

measure up the life of this noble man, then will the world be better for our having lived in it. 

A brief background summary on me. 

- Raised to Master Masons degree in 1976 

- Affiliated with John Warren Lodge and was inactive for many years. 

- Educated: Suffolk University: RS-accounting, MBA, Bentley College: Master in computer information 

systems – Worked as an accountant in the computer and electronics manufacturing industries, as a software 

developer and information Systems support specialist in computer, electronics, tire protection, wire and cable, 

and software development industries, currently working in the educational arena at the College of the Holy 

Cross. 

L have been married for 21 years have a wonderful daughter who will be 6 this coming Halloween 

Fraternally 

Everett G. Carr 

Worshipful Master 

Ashland MA 01721-1443 

U.S.A 

Telephone, 508- 881-3551 

PS: Lodges in this Geographic region “go dark” during July and August. Therefore 

Your gavel will resume its journey in September. 

Massachusetts America 

Secretary: 

Everett G. Carr 

You mentioned past master aprons so I thought I send you a couple of pictures as well as a scan of my Past 

Master’s pocket jewel. It is worn on the left breast pocket of a tux or suit jacket and only to blue lodge meetings. 

No public display is allowed by Grand Lodge.

70 

Also in Massachusetts a Past Master’s Emblem is the square compasses and quadrant which easiest to see 

looking at the pm jewel. On the apron, it is also shown and is surrounded with a wreath of acacia leaves – all in 

gold bullion thread. Most other States in USA just have the square and compasses as the Past Master Emblem 

Both PM jewels and aprons differ widely though the state of Massachusetts (MA). Additionally most Masonic 

jurisdictions in USA don’t have as ornate aprons or jewels as we do. To my understanding Nevada and 

California have similar designs. 

My jewel goes back to 1921. It originally was a Putnam Lodge (city of Cambridge- next to Bonon). That lodge 

has long since folded. The jewel surfaced at a Jewellers auction. Many jewellers especially those who are 

masons, snap such items up in order to preserve them. PM jewels “are supposed” to be returned to the Lodge 

upon the Masters death. But unfortunately that doesn‘t always happen especially with the more valuable ones. 

My jewel was altered only by polishing off Putnam Lodge name and replacing with John Warren. Additionally, 

the diamond in the centre was “long gone”. In its place is a diamond that my dad gave me. He was given it from 

my Grandfather and wore it as a pinkie ring for many years. Wearing it as a ring had no appeal to me. But it has 

enormous meaning to be able to wear it as part of my jewel, my grandfather as well as my dad are masons 

(grandfather long since departed). When the time comes, I’ll replace the diamond with a zirconia and pass it on 

to my daughter. The jewel falls into the category of among the nicer jewels you would End in MA. Some are 

14k gold plated others are 10 or 14k gold. Mine is 14k gold. The ones acquired built in the l920’s thru 40’s tend 

to be 14k gold and the detail engraving much nicer. Since I had the opportunity to obtain this one at double the 

price of replating and reworking one of John Warren’s then currently available jewels I figured that was the way 

to go. This way John Warren and I split the cost of acquiring it and we now have one more really nice Jewel for 

our Lodge. The cost to acquire was about 30 percent of the cost to make it new. At an estimated value of over 

$2100 without the diamond most lodges including mine wouldn’t expend that kind of resources. 

As for Past Master Aprons. Our Grand Lodge has an “official recommendation” and the style is very close to the 

second attached apron picture. Lodges charted many years ago are allowed to keep their original designs which 

makes another interesting item to observe when visiting other Lodges. Our lodge falls into the older group being 

over l50years. So we have our own apron style and is the same as shown in the attached picture EXCEPT 

eliminate the acacia gold leaves that are in the blue outside border. Most USA jurisdictions don‘t have the 

fancy aprons that MA presents to Past Masters. Our supplier www.lafsco.com told me that 

Nevada, California, Montana, and just a few other states are similar. Nevada differs with the bullion thread 

always being silver since they are the silver state while California is always gold bullions thread since they are 

the “gold rush” state. John Warren Aprons have silver bullion thread used for the fringe that you see on the 

picture while the past masters emblem and all-seeing eye are gold bullion thread. 

The Grand Masters Apron in MA is all gold bullions against a purple background. Only Grand Lodge Officers 

and aprons are allowed to have purple. So that is another difference in MA vs other states which from browsing 

Lafsco’s aprons appear to use purple backgrounds for Past Master aprons.

71 

John warren Lodge 

The Officers for 1999-2000 

Worshipful Master: W. Bro. Everett Gregory Carr * Senior Warden: W. Bro. Christopher Nestor 

Junior Warden: Bro. Charles S. Wade * Treasurer: W. Bro. Norman Robinson 

Secretary: W. Bro. Stephen D. Mayo, 70 Russell Road, West Newton, MA 02l65-l l 13, Phone: 6l7-527-6585 

Email: stephmayo01@aol.com 

Chaplain: W. Bro.Pete Macgregor * Organist: W. Bro. Craig Reynolds Senior Deacon: Bro. Paul Chouinard 

Junior Deacon: Bro. Thomas J. Last * Senior Steward: Bro.Joseph F. Brewin, Jr. 

Junior Steward: Bro. John Coutinho * Tyler: Bro. John Cowern 

Marshal: W. Bro. Ceann Paul Daly * Assistant Chaplain: Bro. Stephen Mayo 

Inside Sentinel: W. Bro. John Knowles 

John Warren Lodge Link 

http://johnwarr enlodge.org/ 

History of John Warren Lodge: 

In July of 1860, twelve Masonic brethren of Hopkinton petitioned the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts for a 

dispensation for a lodge. On July 25, the dispensation was granted by M.W. Winslow Lewis, Grand Master, and 

Lucius H. Wakefield was appointed the first Master. The Lodge was named in honor of M.W. and Dr. John 

Warren, brother of M.W. and General Joseph Warren who was killed at the Battle of Bunker Hill, and one of the 

founders of the Massachusetts General Hospital. The first meeting was held November 23, 1860 and on June 12, 

1860, John Warren Lodge was officially chartered. 

John Warren Lodge has always been a small, friendly country lodge. With about 120 members, the membership 

is small by some standards, but no less enthusiastic. Our lodge has never been particularly affluent and met in a 

variety of rented facilities before building is current quarters during the 1950’s. On at least two occasions, 

before moving to its present facilities, our lodge suffered disastrous fires. While the brethren lost their physical 

possessions, they did not lose their interest in Masonry and our lodge prospered. 

Our lodge has been honoured by the appointment of six of its members as District 

Deputy Grand Masters, one as Grand Standard Bearer and one as District Deputy 

Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, and currently serves our fraternity as Grand 

Master. Nine brothers have served as Master of our Lodge of Instruction. Our history 

was expanded with the election of M.W. Roger Pageau on 12 Dec 2007 to serve as 

Grand Master of Massachusetts for the 2008-2010 term. 

John Warren Lodge is an active lodge which supports the community and its 

members. We supplied the first statewide approved progam Masonic highway signs to 

other lodges. We administer the John Warren Masonic Angel Fund.. We support the 

Little League. We have an active Blood Program with the American Red Cross. 

Organizations in the community utilize our facilities. We have events for our members 

such as Octoberfest, a holiday party, Ladies and Widows luncheon, a Table Lodge and 

other events. At the start of the Boston Marathon, we welcome Masons from around the world. 

In summary, John Warren Lodge and its members have a rich history and are proud of their service to their 

community and to their fellow men. We have always welcomed good men with an interest in joining our 

fraternity. If you are interested in joining our lodge, call our Master and arrange a meeting. 

Information about Hopkinton, Massachusetts: 

Hopkinton is a town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, less than 30 miles (48 km) west of Boston. The town 

is best known as the starting point of the Boston Marathon, held annually on Patriots’ Day in April, and as the 

home of computer storage firm EMC Corporation. As of the 2010 census, the town had a population of 

14,925. The US Census recognizes a village within the town known as Woodville, reporting a population of 

2,550. (Hopkinton is marked with a red star on the Map of Massachusetts below) Hopkinton is a town 

in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, less than 30 miles (48 km) west of Boston. The town is best known as the 

starting point of the Boston Marathon, held annually on Patriots’ Day in April, and as the home of computer 

storage firm EMC Corporation. As of the 2010 census, the town had a population of 14,925. The US Census 

recognizes a village within the town known as Woodville, reporting a population of 2,550.

72 

Hopkinton Climate: 

The climate in Hopkinton tends to be quite warm during the summer, with daily high temperatures averaging in 

the 80s. Temperatures in the 90s are also known to occur between June and August as high-pressure air masses 

push in from the south. Winters are typical of a Northeastern coastal climate, being considerably colder than the 

southern states, but not as cold as the Upper Midwest/Plains. Daily high temperatures from late December to 

March tend to be in the 30s increasing gradually to 40s, with some days dipping considerably lower or even 

higher. Nightly low temperatures are proportionately cooler. 

The warmest month of the year is July with an average minimum and maximum temperature of 65 

°F (18 °C) and 84 °F (29 °C) respectively. The coldest month of the year is January with an average minimum 

and maximum temperature of 16 and 35 °F (-9 and 2 °C) respectively. 

Temperature variations between night and day tend to be fairly limited during summer with a difference that can 

reach 18 °F (10.0 °C), and fairly limited during winter with an average difference of 16 °F (8.89 °C). 

The annual average precipitation at Hopkinton is 51.25 inches (1,302 mm). Rainfall in is fairly evenly 

distributed throughout the year. The wettest month of the year is November with an average rainfall of 4.69 

inches (119 mm). 

Hopkinton is marked with a red star ( ) on the map of Massachusetts below 

Information about Massachusetts: 

Massachusetts is a U.S. state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. It is 

bordered by Rhode Island and Connecticut to the south, New York to the west, and Vermont and New 

Hampshire to the north; at its east lies the Atlantic Ocean. Massachusetts is the 7 th least extensive, but the14th 

most populous and the 3 rd most densely populated of the 50 United States. The state features two separate 

metropolitan areas – the eastern Boston metropolitan area and the western Springfield metropolitan area. 

Approximately two thirds of the state’s population lives in Greater Boston, most of which is either urban or 

suburban. Western Massachusetts features one urban area – the Knowledge Corridor along the Connecticut 

River – and a mix of college towns and rural areas. Massachusetts is the most populous of the six New England 

states and has the US’s sixth highest GDP per capita. 

Massachusetts has played a significant historical, cultural, and commercial role in American 

history. Plymouth was the site of the colony founded in 1620 by the Pilgrims, passengers of 

the Mayflower. Harvard University, founded in 1636, is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United 

States. In 1692, the towns surrounding Salem experienced one of America’s most infamous cases of mass 

hysteria, the Salem Witch Trials. In the 18 th century, the Protestant First Great Awakening, which swept the 

Atlantic world, originated from the pulpit of Northampton, Massachusetts preacher Jonathan Edwards. In the 

late 18 th century, Boston became known as the “Cradle of Liberty” for the agitation there that led to 

the American Revolution and the independence of the United States from Great Britain. In 1777, General Henry 

Knox founded the Springfield Armory, which during the Industrial Revolution 72entioned numerous important 

technological advances, including interchangeable parts. In 1786, Shays’ Rebellion, a populist revolt by Western 

Massachusetts farmers, led directly to the United States Constitutional Convention. Before theAmerican Civil 

War, Massachusetts was a center for the temperance, transcendentalist, and abolitionist movements. In 

1837,Mount Holyoke College, the United States’ first college for women, was opened in the Connecticut River 

Valley town of South Hadley. In the late 19 th century, the (now) Olympic sports of basketball and volleyball 

were invented in the Western Massachusetts cities of Springfield and Holyoke, respectively. In 2004, 

Massachusetts became the first U.S. state to legally recognize same-sex marriage as a result of the decision of 

the state’s Supreme Judicial Court. The state 

has contributed many prominent politicians to 

national service, including members of 

the Adams family and of the Kennedy family. 

The information above was copied from; 

Wikipedia 

Originally dependent on fishing, agriculture, 

and trade, Massachusetts was transformed into 

a manufacturing center during the Industrial 

Revolution. During the 20 th century, the state’s 

economy shifted from manufacturing to 

services. In the 21 st century, Massachusetts is a 

leader in higher education, health care 

technology, high technology, and financial 

services.

73 

Minerals: 

Although valuable mineral resources are not usually credited to 

Massachusetts, the mining of non-metallic minerals is a considerable 

industry within the state. Clay, lime, marble, sand and gravel, silica, 

quartz, granite, limestone, sandstone, slate, and traprock are all mined to a 

varying extent. From time to time small deposits of alum, asbestos, barite, 

feldspar, graphite, mica, peat, and semi-precious stones, such as the beryl, 

aquamarine, and tourmaline have been worked. Test borings in the 

Narragansett Basin (southeastern Massachusetts) indicate the possibility of fairly substantial coal deposits. 

There is no metal mining in Massachusetts, but ores of copper, gold, iron, lead, silver, zinc, and other metallic 

minerals have at times been discovered. 

Dolomitic marbles are found in Ashley Falls, West Stockbridge, and Lee, all in Berkshire County. Verd antique 

is quarried near Westfield, in Hampden County. The Quincy quarries produce monumental granite (including 

that used for the Washington Monument), while building granites come chiefly from Milford, West Chelmsford, 

Becket, and Fall River. Diatomite, a hydrous or opaline form of silica is found in South Framingham. Mineral 

production within the state was valued at $101,100,000 in 1984. The valuation was based on returns from clay, 

lime, sand, and stone (mostly granite and basalt). 

Farming 

Major farm products, on the basis of income, are milk, nursery and greenhouse, eggs, vegetables, cattle, hogs, 

sheep, cranberries, and fruit. According to the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, the total 

cash receipts from farm marketing in 2007 were $489,000,000 of which greenhouse/nursery accounted for 35%, 

fruit/vegetables 19%, cranberries 17%, and milk and livestock/poultry 21%. 

The next Lodge to receive this Travelling Gavel was 


13 th Sept. 2001 

Charles A. Welch Lodge A.F. & A.M. 

Maynard, Middlesex, 01754 

Instituted March 1 ST 1872 in Maynard Massachusetts. 

THE MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND LODGE OF MASONS IN MASSACHUSETTS 

100 Main Street · MAYNARD · MA – 01754-2516 


W. Bro. Forrest E. Shaw, 2001 

Contact Information 

Christopher J. Belmont, Masonic Ambassador 

978.870.4296 978.870.4296 

Click on Link below 

charlesawelch@massfreemasonry.net 

Meets: on the third Wednesday of each month

74 

Worshipful Master................... 

Senior Warden......................... 

Kunior Warden........................ 

Marshal.................................... 

Treasurer.................................. 

Chaplain.................................. 

Senior Deacon.......................... 

Junior Deacon.......................... 

Senior Steward.......................... 

Junior Steward......................... 

Inside Sentinal......................... 

Tyler......................................... 

Organist................................... 

W. Bro. Dean H. Storm 

(Acting) W. Bro. Richard A. Ellis 

Bro. Paul C. Eckler 

W. Bro Charles F. Williams 

Bro. David C. Ellis 

Bro. Michael L. Scribner 

Bro Charles F. Lombardo 

Bro. Joseph E. Carlson 

Bro. Steven G. Bartlett 

Bro. Phillip B. Erlanger 

Bro. Seth A. Hunter 

Bro. Joseph C. Machowski 

Bro. William A. Klauer 

Secretary; W. Bro. Donald F. Boas, 11 Forsyth Road, Leominster, MA 01453 978-534 5559 * 

DonBoas@comcast.net 

2013 Information 

Lodge Address for Charles A Welsh Lodge 

Instituted March 1, 1872 in Maynard, MA. 

Address: 

100 Main Street 

Maynard, Middlesex 01754 

Contact Information: 

Joseph E. Carlson, Masonic Ambassador 

978.793.9247 

CharlesAWelch@MassFreemasonry.net 

The third Wednesday of each month 

MORE INFORMATION 

Click Link below 

Tell me more about this lodge 

The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts is the third oldest in the world. Only the grand lodges of 

England and Ireland are older. The premier leader of the Revolution and our first president 

was George Washington, also a freemason. 

Read more: Maynard Masonic Lodge open house – Maynard, MA – The Beacon-Villager 

For more information, visitmassfreemasonry.com 

Grand Lodge 

Most Worshipful Richard J. Stewart 

Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts 

Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts 

186 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02111-1095 

1-800-882-1020 

www.massfreemasonry.org 

Education Website: www.educatemasons.org 

Members Website: www.massmasons.org 

District 15 

Right Worshipful Robert G. Jessee 

District Deputy Grand Master, 15 th North Masonic District 

DDGM-N@MaMasonic15.org 

774-278-0738 

http://www.mamasonic15.org/ 

W. Paul R. Gaudet 

District Deputy Grand Marshal 

W. Donald F. Boas 

District Deputy Grand Secretary 

W. Jeffrey Stoller 

District Ambassador

75 

Knights of Columbus group in Ashland, Massachusetts, 

U.S.A. No.6 

Where it was received by Grand Knight Michael Breslin 

I am becoming very impressed at the movement of this Travelling Gavel which is being presented into 

American States at a rapid rate. Who would ever have thought that a simple item, like a Masonic Gavel could be 

presented into Lodges all over the world by dedicated Masons, who go that little bit further in seeing that we 

Masons join unity, as one body world-wide. 

The next Lodge that this Gavel visited was Plymouth Lodge #16 which is in the State of New Hampshire, where 

it was presented to their Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Bruce Kominz 

Information about Maynard – Massachusetts: 

Maynard is a town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. The town is located 20 miles west 

of Boston, in theMetroWest region of Massachusetts. As of the 2010 census, the town population was 10,106. 

Maynard was the site of the Assabet Woolen Mill, which 

produced wool fabrics near the Assabet River for over 

100 years, from 1846 to 1950, under various 

owners. Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) was 

headquartered in the mill buildings in Maynard from 1957 

until 1998, when it was bought by Compaq and 

subsequently closed. The mill complex currently operates 

as 

Clock Tower Place, renting space to office and light 

Maynard 

industry businesses 

------:------ 

NEW HAMPSHIRE 

USA 

Grand Lode of New Hampshire 8 th July 1790 

Grand Lodge of New Hampshire 

LETTER. New Hampshire G,Lodge 

Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, F&AM 

813 Beech Street 

Manchester, NH 03104 

(603) 668-8744 (603) 668-8744 

Link for New Hampshire Grand Lodge 

www.nhgrandlodge.org 

Link for New Hampshire Lodges below, 

http://www.nhgrandlodge.org/list-of-nh-lodges 

NH Grand Lodge | Free and Accepted Masons | New Hampshire ... 

Grand Lodge of New Hampshire; www.nhgrandlodge.org

76 

New Hampshire information: 

New Hampshire is a state in the New England region of 

the northeastern United States of America. The state was named after the 

southern English county of Hampshire. It is bordered by Massachusetts to 

the south, Vermont to the west,Maine and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and 

the Canadian province of Quebec to the north. New Hampshire is the 5 th 

least extensive and the 9 th least populous of the 50 United States. 

It became the first post-colonial sovereign nation in the Americas when it 

broke off from Great Britain in January 1776, and six months later was one of the original thirteen 

states that founded the United States of America. In June 1788, it became the ninth state to ratify the United 

States Constitution, bringing that document into effect. New Hampshire was the first U.S. state to have its own 

state constitution. 

It is known internationally for the New Hampshire primary, the first primary in the U.S. presidential election 

cycle. Concord is the state capital, while Manchester is the largest city in the state. It has no general sales tax, 

nor is personal income (other than interest and dividends) taxed at either the state or local level. [7] 

Its license plates carry the state motto: “Live Free or Die”. The state’s nickname, “The Granite State”, refers to 

its extensive granite formations and quarries. 

Among prominent individuals from New Hampshire are founding father Nicholas Gilman, Senator Daniel 

Webster, Revolutionary War hero John Stark, editor Horace Greeley, founder of the Christian 

Science religion Mary Baker Eddy, poet Robert Frost, astronaut Alan Shepard, and author Dan Brown. New 

Hampshire has produced one president: Franklin Pierce. 

With some of the largest ski mountains on the East Coast, New Hampshire’s major recreational attractions 

include skiing, snowmobiling and other winter sports, hiking and mountaineering, observing the fall foliage, 

summer cottages along many lakes and the seacoast, motor sports at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, 

and Motorcycle Week, a popular motorcycle rally held inWeirs Beach near Laconia in June. The White 

Mountain National Forest links the Vermont and Maine portions of the Appalachian Trail, and boasts the Mount 

Washington Auto Road, where visitors may drive to the top of 6,288-foot (1,917 m) Mount Washington. 

The above information was copied from 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 


29 th December. 2001 

Olive Branch Lodge No. 16 

Free & Accepted Masons F. & A. M. 

Plymouth; 

New Hampshire 

Olive Branch Lodge No. 16, Holderness, Charter 27 th June 1803 

Meetings: 3 rd Tuesday, Annual, December 

Secretary: Bruce H. Kominz, Phone: (603) 726 9882 

Routes: 3 and 25 (Approx. 3 miles north of Meredith Ctr) Meredith, New Hampshire 03223 

AUSTRALIAN TRAVELING GAVEL 

ON THE ROAD AGAIN 

By Susa B. Kominz 

Photos by: Susan B. Komniz 

The weather was chilly but the reception was warm for Worshipful Master, Forrest E. Shaw, Charles A. Welch 

Lodge (Maynard, MA) as his delegation was greeted at Olive Branch Lodge #16, Holderness, 

New Hampshire (constituted April 7, 1803). The seven Brother Masons arrived bearing a Travelling Gavel 

from Australia, made from Australian timbers.

77 

The Gavel originated in Lodge Wyong #247 (New South Wales, Australia) 

and has travelled from its home, through New South Wales, Queensland, 

Australia, England, and America since it began its bon voyage in 1993. It 

immigrated to America by way of New York, travelled through Connecticut, 

Rhode Island and Massachusetts before visiting the White Mountain and Green 

Mountain states. 

The handmade piece arrived in due form for the Olive Branch Installation of 

Officers, December 29, 2001 and was received by newly installed Worshipful 

Master, Bruce Hart Kominz and Jeremy J. Sawyer (presiding Grand Master, 

2000-2001). 

The unusual Gavel was brought forth from its small, 

handmade suitcase and displayed throughout the 

Lodge. 

An engraved plaque bears the names of all the 

Lodges where the travelling Gavel has been given 

temporary homes. The transient Gavel, (one of I 2 

sent out “across the globe” to encourage Brother Masons to visit other Lodges and 

foster unity) generally resides with a Lodge for three months or ·less. It is hoped the 

gavel (made by Worshipful Brother, Rick Howes will travel through much of the 

United States and Canada before returning home to Lodge Wyong. 

In his first official act from the East, Kominz gave the honour of closing the Lodge 

with the unique, two-toned wooden mallet to the Grand Master. 

Although the Tamworth Gavel (as is sometimes called) arrived in the state of New 

Hampshire on a cold winter’s 

Day, it was carefully packed for the next leg of its journey across America on a warm April morning. 

Horace Chase Lodge #72 (Penacook, New Hampshire) was chosen as the next honoured recipient of the gavel, 

after some deliberation among the Olive Branch officers. “I think the Grand Master (Jeremy Sawyer) really likes 

the gavel,” said Kominz, “and he’d like to have it for his Lodge. What the Grand Master wants the Grand 

Master gets, he added, “even though he didn’t ask for it.” 

Robert J. Norton Worshipful Master, Jeremy J. Sawyer (GM. 2000-2001) and Acting Grand Marshal, Albert P. 

Burgess (S.G.W. 2000-2001) received the contingent bearing the gavel on a foggy Sunday, April 7 th , 2002. The 

Veterans and Special Ladies Program was chosen by the Lodge as an appropriate occasion upon which to 

receive the honoured implement. 

As the annual program came to an end Sawyer was invited to close Horace Chase Lodge. As he admired the 

gleaming wood of the Australian Gavel, Sawyer stated, “It will be a pleasure to close a Lodge, again, with the 

Australian Travelling Gavel. This is the second time I’ve closed a lodge with this gavel. The first time was at 

Olive Branch Lodge.” 

On November 11 th 2002 the gypsy gavel left the State of New Hampshire for its next, temporary home, at Island 

Pond Lodge #44 Island Pond, Vermont (constituted January 14, 1858). The Lodge is only about 15 miles from 

the New Hampshire and Canadian borders, Worshipful Master; Kenneth Frizzell received the contingent from 

Horace Chase Lodge at their regular stated meeting. 

Although the Travelling Gavel will be missed in the Granite State, Bruce Kominz will carry on tradition by 

using the gavel of his grandfather, Brother Michael “Sam” Hart, 33 rd degree Mason and Past Master of the New 

Orleans, LA Lodge of Freemasons: a gavel which has travelled quite a distance in its own right.

78 

Jeremy Sawyer (on the right) and Bruce Kominz at Olive Branch Lodge receiving . 

The Gavel into New Hampshire on December 29 th 2001 

Bruce H. Kominz at the Helm Tortola British Virgin Islands, on the Bark Endeavor 

Local Masons receive Australian Gavel 

By susan B. Kominz 

HOLDERNESS – The weather was chilly but the reception was 

warm for Worshipful Master Forrest Shaw Charles A. Welch 

Lodge, Ancient Free & Accepted Masons, Maynard, 

Massachusetts as his delegation was greeted at Squam Valley 

Masonic Association, Holderness, N.H. The seven Brother 

Masons, bearing a travelling Gavel from Australia were 

honoured guests at the (Plymouth) Olive Branch Lodge #16 

Installation of Officers. Eighty-six Master Masons and invited 

guests filled the lodge room to capacity as the ceremony began at 

11am 29 th December 2001. 

“We are taught that no man should ever enter upon any great or 

important undertaking without first invoking the blessing of 

God, began Installing Office Grand Lodge, Deputy Grand 

Lecturer Darrell D. Smith. We will, there-fore, unite with our 

Chaplain, in an address to the Throne of Grace. Allen S. Wright,

79 

Installing Chaplain opened with prayer; Installing Secretary Clifford H. Eastman Jr. Then announced the names 

of the brethren chosen to serve as officers for the year 2002. 

New officers are Bruce Hart Kominz, Worshipful Master, J Edward R. Gempka, Senior Warden; Fremont H. 

Swain, Junior Warden; Clifford Eastman, Jr. Secretary; 

Kenneth J. MacDonald, Treasurer; Robert I. Uhlendorff, Grand Lodge Representative; Harry A. Welch, Jn, 

Junio1§ Q Deacon; Ernest E Brown, Senior Steward; Gabriel Nizetic, Junior Steward; Harold C. Long, Tyler 

and Assistant Treasurer; E James Welch, Assistant Secretary} Harry A. Welch, Sr. Chaplain; Charles B. Durgin, 

Marshall. (Six of these officers are Past Masters.) 

Installing Marshall, Eighth Masonic District Deputy Grand Lecturer-Paul M. Leary escorted Master Elect Bruce 

H. Kominz to be installed. After receiving the benefit of .praye1, Kominz was charged with the regulations of 

Freemasonry and presented with the jewel of his office by Installing Officer Smith. 

The Three Great Lights of Masonry (the Bible, Square and Compass) were presented with the admonition to live 

by the principles each stand for truth, duty harmony and respectability The Rule and Line (representing virtue 

and morality) were presented,-as were the traditional Constitution, Warrant and Bylaws of the Lodge 

(constituted April 17, 1803, in Plymouth, New Hampshire. 

“By ancient custom and usage the Tile (tall silk top hat) has ever been regarded as a symbol of dignity and high 

office,” stated Smith; I now urge you to wear this Tile, that belonged to your wife’s grandfather; Frank A. 

Moore (Past Master of a Massachusetts Lodge) and ever be reminded of the dignity and importance of the high 

office you now hold.” Smith then placed the hat upon the head of the new Master and presented him with the 

gavel of his office. ~The gavel belonged to Michael S. Hart (Kominz’s grandfather) 33 rd degree Mason and Past 

Master of his Blue Lodge in New Orleans, La. Installing Marshall Leary then escorted Kominz to his chair in 

the East. Public Grand Honours were given and all other officers present were installed and invested with the 

jewels and implements of their office. 

The delegation from Massachusetts was then recognized and invited to present the travelling, Gavel to M.W 

Grand Master of N.H., Jeremy J. Sawyer; and Worshipful Master Bruce H. Kominz., The Gavel, which 

originated in Lodge Wyong 247, (New South Wales, Australia,) has travelled from its home, then through-out 

the top of New South Wales, the through-out the Southern sector of Queensland, (Australia), England and 

America since it began its bon voyage in 1993. In a short trip around the room, Sawyer and Kominz displayed 

the Gavel and its engraved holding plaque. In three months its small, handmade suitcase will be packed and the 

Gavel will travel to a new hitherto undermined Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons. Accompanying Forrest E. 

Shaw (WM) was George S. Bayley (S.W.) 

Charles E ‘Williams (JW); David C. (Ellis Secretary,) Edwin E. Sarvela (J.D.); Christopher J. Belmont and 

Raymond J H. Salminen. 

In his official remarks to the assembly Kominz gave an analogy of his office, saying “Being the Master of the 

Lodge is like being the Captain of a Pirate Ship; you’re voted in by the crew and you have virtually unlimited 

power until you get killed, over- thrown or relieved of command.” Closing remarks were made by the Grand 

Master: 

Grand Lodge Officers in attendance were Jeremy V J. Sawyer (M.W.G.M.); Wendell L. Woodward (D.G.M.); 

Albert R Burgess`(S.G.W); David J. Lamprey Sr: (J.G.W); David G.· Thompson ·(G.T.);. Darrell D. 

Smith (D. G.L.); Robert G. Hatfield (S.G.D.); C. Wayne Libby Jn (J.G.D.); Andrew E Hirst (G.M.); Paul M. 

Leary (D.D.G.L.); Allen S. Wright (D.E.O.) and Clifford H. Eastman Jr: (D.E.O.). 

Other special guests included Eleanor (Hart) Condliffe and Dr: Peter Condliffe (Kensington, Md.), Robert E. 

Killham Jn (Rockingham Lodge #76, District 2, Candia, N.H.) and many Grand Lodge wives. 

As the scent of a full course Italian dinner wafted through the doorway (prepared by Patrick Mohan, former 

head chef, Italian Farmhouse, Plymouth) the lodge was closed. Chaplain Harry A. Welch, Sr. Was called upon 

for the blessing of the food and centre- pieces were given away Teddy bears in sweaters, snowman mugs, 

poinsettias and one hand crafted bubblegum snowman went home with lucky guests. Royal Blue ‘Christmas tree 

decorations (with a white dove of peace were also given as gifts. 

.

80 

Letter from Olive Branch Lodge #16: 


Bruce Kominz, W. Master 

Campton, New Hampshire 03223, U.S.A. 

January 1 st 2002 

Dear Bro. Rick, 

Fraternal greetings to you, your, W. Master, and all the Brethren in Lodge Wyong #247, from myself and all the 

Brethren of Plymouth Olive Branch #16, New Hampshire, United States of America. It is indeed an honour to 

receive your gavel for a short stay in our Lodge. First, the information requested: 

29 th December 2001, the Gavel was presented to us (Olive Branch #16) on the occasion of our Installation of 

Officers. Presented by Brothers of Charles A. Welsh Lodge, AF & AM, Maynard, Massachusetts. In attendance 

was Jeremy J. Sawyer, Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Ancient and 

Honourable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New Hampshire. 

Olive Branch Lodge #16 was constituted in 1803, and will celebrate its 200 th Anniversary next year. Our 

membership has ebbed & flowed and now stands at 91. We moved into a new building in 1999 in Holdemess, 

New Hampshire, which we share with Mt. Prospect Lodge # 69 and Chocorua Lodge #83 (plus other Masonic 

related groups). I became W.M. at our installation on 29 th December 2001, and expect to be in the East 2 or 3 

years. 

The Town: 

The town of Plymouth, New Hampshire, is located at the base of the White Mountains and just north of the 

lakes, about 40 miles north of our State Capitol of Concord, it is a college town, and relies on tourism- skiing & 

winter sports, fall foliage, hiking & summer activities. This area of New Hampshire, is known for its covered 

bridges, including the newest – the Smith Covered Bridge, which is the strongest covered bridge in the worldjust 

completed here in Plymouth in June 2011. The town’s central settlement, where 4,456 people resided at the 

2010 census. 

That should take care of the official information. How many other Travelling Gavels do you (or Lodges that you 

know of) have going around? If only I could travel as much as they do. Your endeavour to “promote the craft, & 

to unite Masons throughout the world” is a laudable one. While I personally have only been a Master Mason for 

five years (my Grandfather, father- in-law, and great grandfather in-law were all Masons and Masters of their 

Lodges), I share in your enthusiasm and look forward to doing good work both in and out of the lodge. I have 

been to Australia, in 1990 (on a choral tour), and have travelled on the Indian-Pacific, and saw the H.M. Bark 

Endeavour Replica under construction in Fremantle. Most enjoyably, I later sailed on her as a voyage crew 

member (from Tortola, B.V.I.) in 1998. I promise if I am lucky enough to return to your fair country, I shall 

make every effort to make it to Lodge #247 in Wyong. And, if any of your Brothers make it to the United States 

you are always welcome! 

Thank you for the opportunity to participate in your project. 

Sincerely & Fraternally, 

Bruce H. Kominz, W. Master

81 

Travelling Gavel update 

Bruce Kominz 

bkominz@mail.plymouth.edu 

Thursday, 2 nd May 2002 

Dear Rick, 

My most respectful Fraternal Greetings to you and your Lodge! We still get a little snow here and there, but 

spring has shown up and our flowers are starting to bloom, along with the mud! 

On Sunday April 7 th , we passed your Travelling Gavel on to Horace Chase Lodge, in Penacook, New 

Hampshire, to their Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Robert Norton, during their Veterans and Ladies Day 

Ceremony. Our NH Grand Master was present, and enjoyed closing the proceedings with the T/Gavel (he did 

the same during my installation in December). Horace Chase Lodge is NH’s wealthiest lodge. 

My Lodge, Olive Branch #16, Holderness, New Hampshire, greatly enjoyed having the Travelling Gavel in our 

presence. It is a fine work of art – useful, too! It has inspired my wife and I to possibly do something along the 

same lines. 

Please thank your Brethren, and let them know they are always welcome at our Lodges in New Hampshire! If I 

ever make it back to Australia, I promise I will try to make it to your Lodge. 

Respectfully, 

Bruce Kominz, 

Olive Branch Lodge 

This Gavel was presented into two (2) Lodges in New Hampshire, here is the second Lodge. 

Information about Plymouth, New Hampshire USA: 

Plymouth is a town in Grafton County, New Hampshire, United States, in the White Mountains Region. 

Plymouth is located at the convergence of the Pemigewasset and Baker rivers. The population was 6,990 at the 

2010 census. [1] The town is home toPlymouth State University, Speare Memorial Hospital, and Plymouth 

Regional High School. 

The town’s central settlement, where 4,456 people resided at the 2010 census, [1] is defined as the 

Plymouth census-designated place (CDP), and is located along U.S. Route 3, south of the confluence of the 

Baker and Pemigewasset rivers. 

Geography: 

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 28.7 square miles (74.3 km 2 ), of 

which 28.1 square miles (72.8 km 2 ) is land and 0.6 square miles (1.6 km 2 ) of it is water, comprising 2.00% of 

the town. [4] Plymouth is drained by thePemigewasset and Baker rivers and lies within the Merrimack 

River watershed. Plymouth Mountain, elevation 2,193 feet (668 m) above sea level, the highest point in 

Plymouth, is in the south, and the slopes of Tenney Mountain are in the west. (The 2,310-foot (700 m) summit 

of Tenney Mountain lies in the town of Groton.) 

The main village of Plymouth, a census-designated place, has a total area of 3.8 square miles (9.8 km 2 ). 

3.7 sq mi (9.6 km 2 ) is land and 0.1 sq mi (0.26 km 2 ) of it (1.59%) is water. 

History: 

Plymouth was originally the site of an Abenaki village that was burned to the ground by Captain Thomas Baker 

in 1712. This was just one of the many British raids on American Indian settlements during Queen Anne’s War. 

Part of a large plot of undivided land in the Pemigewasset Valley, the town was first named New Plymouth, 

after the original Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts.Colonial Governor Benning Wentworth granted Plymouth 

to settlers from Hollis, all of whom had been soldiers in the French and Indian War. Some had originally come

82 

from Plymouth, Massachusetts. The town was incorporated in 1763. [2] Parts of Hebron andCampton were 

annexed in 1845 and 1860. 

In 1806, then-lawyer Daniel Webster lost his first criminal case at the Plymouth courthouse, which now houses 

the Historical Society. [3] The author Nathaniel Hawthorne, while on vacation in 1864 with former U.S. 

President Franklin Pierce, died in Plymouth at the second Pemigewasset House, which was later destroyed by 

fire in 1909. In the early 20 th century, the Draper and Maynard Sporting Goods Company (D&M) sold products 

directly to the Boston Red Sox, and players such as Babe Ruth would regularly visit to pick out their equipment. 

The Plymouth Normal School was founded in 1871 out of the already existing Holmes Plymouth Academy, 

becoming the state’s first teachers’ college. It would later evolve into Plymouth Teachers’ College in 1939, 

Plymouth State College in 1963, and finally Plymouth State University in 2003. 

Grafton County 

Motto: Bridging the Lakes Region and the White Mountains 

Website for Plymouth: www.plymouth-nh.org 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 

2 nd Lodge to receive this Gavel in New Hampshire 



Horace Chase Lodge No.72 

F. & A. M. 

53 North Main Street 

Penacook – Boscawen 

New Hampshire 

Email address 

worshipfulmaster@horacechase.org 

Link address: 

Horace Chase Lodge #72 F. & A.M., Penacook, New Hampshire 

Meets: 3 rd Thursday except July and August * Annual Installation: January 

Secretary 2012: James M. Triacca Tel: (603) 224-2563 

http://www.horacechase.org/

83 

Well, it was 7 th April 2001l when Horace Chase Lodge #72 received one of my International Travelling Gavels, 

this Travelling Gavel was called “The Tamworth Gavel” as you will see by my Travelling Gavel website; 

www.travellinggavels.com 

webmaster@horacechase.org 

Horace Chase Lodge No. 72, Penacook: Charter, 6-12-1861 

53 North Main St., (Penacook) Boscawen 

Meets: 3 rd Thursday, except July and August; Annual, January 

W.M. David A. Hardy, 12D Baker Avenue, Deerfield 03037-1112 

Tel. 568-6786 

SEC. James M. Triacca, 262 Hopkinton Road, Concord 03301-7911 

Tel. 224-2563 

TR. Peter D. Crouch, 19 North Village Road, Loudon 03307-7911 

Tel. 545-4858 

Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, F&AM 

813 Beech Street 

Manchester, NH 03104 

(603) 668-8744 (603) 668-8744 

www.nhgrandlodge.org 

Information about Penacook: 

Penacook, originally called “Fisherville”, [ is a village within the city of Concord in Merrimack County, New 

Hampshire, USA. It lies along Concord’s northern border with Boscawen. The name comes from 

the Pennacook tribe that lived in the area. Penacook (Pennycook) was the original name of the plantation 

incorporated by present-day Concord. 

Penacook is located along a stretch of the Contoocook River that falls 100 feet in slightly over one mile, just 

before joining the Merrimack River. Early hydro-powered industry was attracted to the site, and Penacook grew 

as a mill town. While dams on the river still generate electricity, most of the 19 th - and 20 th -century factories, 

such as Allied Leather, have long since closed. 

Penacook has its own phone exchange (753), which includes a portion of Boscawen, and its own ZIP code 

(03303), shared with Boscawen, Webster, and parts of northern Concord east of the Merrimack River. Most of 

Penacook is located in the Merrimack Valley School District, though part is in the Concord School District. 

The information about Penacook was copied from, 

Wikipedia the Free Encyclopedia ******** 

The next Lodge didn’t receive my Travelling Gavel I included it because they have a Travelling Gavel with a 

BIG difference, they don’t come much larger than this one. I’m sure that carrying this travelling by public 

transport that they would have to pay for an extra seat, just for this Gavel. 

http://www.freemason-international.com/ 

New Hampshire 

St’Johns Lodge No.1 

of Free and accepted Masons 

Portsmouth, New Hampshire 

Constituted 24 th June 1736 

http://portsmouthfreemasons.org/images/header.png

84 

St. John’s Lodge No. 1 is one of two Masonic Lodges that regularly meet in the Masonic Temple at 351 

Middle Street in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The other is St. Andrew’s Lodge No. 56 

275 Anniversary St. John’s Lodge proudly dates its history to the year 1736 and was one of the earliest Lodges 

to be formed in what is now the United States. According to written records, only the larger cities of Boston, 

Massachusetts (a Lodge chartered in 1733); Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Lodge records from 1731); Charleston, 

South Carolina (a Lodge chartered in 1736); and Savannah, Georgia (a Lodge chartered in 1734) had Lodges 

before the small city of Portsmouth. All these Lodges were at some time or other faced with situations or 

conditions that forced meetings and operations to be suspended temporarily. St. John’s is proud to be the oldest 

continuously meeting Lodge in the United States, and indeed the Americas, as we are fortunate that 

Portsmouth was spared the many calamities and wars that interrupted the meetings and destroyed the records of 

other Lodges. 

Today, St. J ohn’s Lodge has approximately 243 members, and some 3400 Masons have been members of the 

Lodge since its founding. The Lodge welcomes Masons who visit or relocate to the Portsmouth area as well as 

inquiries from men interested in the teachings and fellowship of Masonry. The Lodge maintains a full program 

of business meetings, degree work, and social functions. The Lodge is also is active in the Portsmouth 

community providing scholarships and helping support several charities and community service organizations as 

well as holding community events such as the annual “5K Out of Hibernation” road race. 

St. Johns Lodge holds it’s Stated Communication the Hrst Wednesday of every month with the Lodge opening 

at 7:00 p.m. Stated Communications are preceded by a supper which begins at 6:00 p.m. Details concerning 

Stated Communications, suppers, and other meetings may be found in the monthly Trestle Board and in the 

“Events” section of this site. 

OFFICERS FOR 2012 

Secretary………………………………………………… Robert L. Sutherland, Jr., P.M. 

Assistant Secretary……………………………………….. Thomas W. Haslam, P.M. 

Chaplain ………………………………………………… Nelson D. Hersey*, P.M. 

Associate Chaplain……………………………………….. Daniel G. Stolworthy, P.M. 

Historian………………………………………………… Alan M. Robinson, P.M. 

Senior Deacon…………………………………………….. Roderick M. MacDonald 

Junior Deacon…………………………………………….. Matthew J. Henderson 

Marshal……………………………………………………. Timothy H. Neihart 

Senior Steward……………………………………………. Nicholas Pesarik 

Junior Steward…………………………………………….. Martin Nilsen 

Alternate Steward…………………………………………. Brian Orluk 

Alternate Steward………………………………………… .Howard Kalet 

Musician………………………………………………… . Nelson Ward 

Tyler………………………………………………………. Wesley J. Rowe, P.M. 

Electrician……………………………………………… Ronald E. Metcalf*, P.M. 

Grand Lodge Representative………………………… ….. Robert Padian 

(St. Andrew’s Lodge No. 56) 

St. John’s Lodge, Portsmouth, New Hampshire – Wikipedia, the free ...

85 

Plymouth Lodge A. F. & A. M. 

“W. Paul Malley Sr. & Bro. Paul Jr. RW Nickerson, my brother 

Sonny and I, travelled to 

Franklin Lodge in N. Grafton, Massachusetts 

to claim their Travelling Gavel.” ~ W. Jonathan Jesse 

Information about Portsmouth: 

Portsmouth is a city in Rockingham County, New Hampshire in the United 

States. It is the largest city but only the fourth-largest community in 

the county, with a population of 21,233 at the 2010 census. A historic seaport and 

popular summer tourist destination, Portsmouth is served by Portsmouth 

International Airport at Pease, formerly the Strategic Air Command’s Pease Air 

Force Base. 

The information above is copied from, 


Again this Globe Trotting Travelling Gavel is transported into another State in America, this time it is presented 

into three Lodges in Vermont. 

*VERMONT 

Capital; Montpelier = Area; 9,614 sq mi ~ 24,900 sq mi * Population; 608,827 2000 census 

Major Cities; Burlington (38,889) ~ Rutland (17,292) ~ South Burlington (15,814 ~ Barre (9,291) 

Essex (8,591 = Major Rivers; Connecticut ~ Otter Creek ~ Missisquoi ~ Lamoille ~ Winkoski = 

Highest point; Mt.Mansfield, 4,393 feet ~ 1,339 mts = Industry; electrical equipment ~ 

fabricated metal products and publishing ~ paper products ~ tourism = Agriculture; beef cattle ~ 

dairy products ~ hay ~ apples ~ maple products = Minerals & Resources; granite ~ dimension stone ~ crushed 

stone ~ construction sand & gravel ~ asbestos 

Vermont is a state in the New England region of the 

northeastern United States. Vermont is the 6 th least extensive and 

the 2 nd least populous of the 50 United States. It is the only New 

England state not bordering the Atlantic Ocean. 

Lake Champlain forms half of Vermont’s western border, which it 

shares with the state of New York. The Green Mountains are within 

the state. Vermont is bordered by Massachusetts to the south, New 

Hampshire to the east, New York to the west, and the Canadian 

province of Quebec to the north.

86 

Originally inhabited by two major Native American tribes (the Algonquian-speaking Abenaki and the Iroquois), 

much of the territory that is now Vermont was claimed by France during its early colonial period. France ceded 

the territory to the Kingdom of Great Britain after being defeated in 1763 in the Seven Years’ War (in the 

United States locally referred to as the French and Indian War). For many years, the nearby colonies, especially 

New Hampshire and New York, disputed control of the area (then called the New Hampshire Grants). Settlers 

who held land titles granted by these colonies were opposed by the Green Mountain Boys militia, which 

eventually prevailed in creating an independent state, the Vermont Republic. Founded in 1777 during the 

Revolutionary War, the republic lasted for fourteen years. Aside from the Thirteen Colonies, Vermont is one of 

only four U.S. states (along with Texas,Hawaii, and California) to have been a sovereign state in its past. In 

1791, Vermont joined the United States as the 14 th state, the first in addition to the original 13 Colonies. It 

abolished slavery while still independent, and upon joining the Union became the first state to have done so. 

Vermont is the leading producer of maple syrup in the United States. [7] The state capital is Montpelier, which 

has a population of 7,855 and is the least populous state capital in the country. [8] Vermont’s most populous city 

is Burlington, with a 2010 population of 42,417, [9] which makes it the least populous city in the United States to 

be the largest city within a state. Burlington’smetropolitan area has a population of 211,261. 

Wikipedia 

 

Link Address 

Grand Lodge of Vermont 

OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS FOR THE STATE OF VERMONT 

Grand Lodge of Vermont 14 th October 1794 

Grand Lodge of Vermont, F&AM 

49 East Road, 

Barre, Vermont, 05641-5390 

(802) 223-1883 (802) 223-1883 

www.vtfreemasons.org 

Grand Lodge of Vermont; www.vtfreemasons.org/ 

The Grand Lodge of Vermont F. & A.M. 

Masonic History in the United States and Vermont 

It was inevitable that Freemasonry should follow the colonists to America and play a most important role in the 

establishment of the thirteen colonies. Freemasonry was formally recognized for the first time in America with 

the appointment by the Grand Lodge of England of a Provincial Grand Master in New York, New Jersey and 

Pennsylvania in 1730. American Masons worked under foreign jurisdiction until 1731, when the first American 

Grand Lodge was established in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Some of the earliest Grand Lodges in 

America received their charters from the Premier Grand Lodge of England with warrants authorizing them to 

issue Charters for other states. 

One of the most romantic portions of all Masonic history lies in the story of the part played by Freemasons in 

the formation of our country. Without exaggeration, Freemasonry and Masonic thinking contributed most 

significantly to founding of this great republic. Many of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, as well 

as the drafters of the Constitution, were members of the Fraternity. George Washington was a staunch 

Freemason. He was the first of fourteen Masonic Presidents, and the only one to serve as Worshipful Master of a 

Lodge and President at one and the 

same time. The other Masonic Presidents were Monroe, Jackson, Polk, Buchanan, Johnson, Garfield, McKinley, 

Theodore Roosevelt, Taft, Harding, Franklin Roosevelt, Truman and Ford, of whom Truman and Jackson served 

also as Grand Masters.

87 

In the struggle for independence, many well known patriots such as Paul Revere, Benjamin Franklin, John 

Hancock, the Marquis de Lafayette and Baron Von Steuben were members of the Craft. Nodoubt Freemasonry 

was responsible for and shared much of their thinking and opinions. Much has been written about the 

participation of the Fraternity in the Revolution and founding of America and it is an episode of which Masons 

are proud. Ever since that period, Freemasonry has grown and flourished, following closely the growth and 

expansion of the United States Titles of Grand Lodges in the United States vary in the same manner as in other 

parts of the world. Some Grand Lodges are called A.F. & A.M., meaning Ancient Free and Accepted Masons as 

used in Colorado and 23 other states, or F. & A.M., Free and Accepted Masons, as used in Vermont and 

jurisdictions of the remaining 25 states. 

The Grand Lodge of Vermont originated in an interesting and rather unique manner. Representatives from the 

earliest Lodges to be chartered in Vermont convened at Manchester in October 1794 with a specific goal of 

writing a “Constitution for a Grand Lodge.” Such a document was completed and, on October 14 th of that year, 

it was approved and formally adopted by delegates from the five Lodges first organized in the state, namely 

Vermont, North Star, Dorchester, Temple and Union Lodges. 

Brother Noah Smith of Temple Lodge was elected first Grand Master of the “Most Ancient and Honorable 

Society of Free and Accepted Masons for Vermont. 

The first Lodge of the three that this Gavel was presented into in Vermont was; 

------:------ 

Horace Chase #720f New Hampshire USA. 

presenting the Travelling Gavel to 

Island Pond Lodge #44 of Vermont 

USA 


11 th Nov. 2002 

District No. 10 

*Island Pond Lodge No.44 

Island Pond, Vermont; 05846 

Date of Charter – January 14, 1858 

Street Address: 

60 South St. 

Postal Address: 

P.O. Box 62 

Meets: 2 nd Monday (except January & February) at 7:30 P.M. Annual – April 

Richard Epstein, Worshipful Master 

Dale Meehan, Secretary dmeehan@surfglobal.net 

Secretary: Dale C. Meehan, PM: 50 Dale Avenue, P. O. Box 472 Island Pond Vt. 05846 

Tel; (802) 723-6636 (FAX same number) 

Bro. Eric Ginette D.D.G.M. ~ Email: aieon@fairpoint.net (2013) 44 Island Pond, Island Pond

88 


W. Bro. Kenneth Frizzell 

November 12 th 2002 

On the 11 th November 2002, Island Pond Lodge # 44 was presented the Travelling Gavel by Worshipful Master, 

Robert Norton of Horace Chase Lodge # 72 out of Penacook, New Hampshire to Island Pond’s Worshipful 

Master, Kenneth Frizzell. The Gavel originated in New South Wales, Australia. It was made by Worshipful 

Brother Rick Howes, and presented to Lodge Wyong # 247 in New South Wales on 19 th June 1993. Since that 

time it has travelled all over the northern part of Australia, England, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, 

Massachusetts, New Hampshire & Vermont and into Canada, where it was presented into Quebec and Ontario, 

then New York, Syria-Lebanon, Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Belgium, France, Switzerland 

Island Pond Lodge # 44 is located in Island Pond, Vermont which is about l5 miles from the Canadian and New 

Hampshire borders and has at present 102 members. Island Pond is located in the northeast section of Vermont, 

and is known as the Northeast Kingdom. Island Pond is well known as a tourist community with wonderful 

snowmobile & ATV trails, fishing, hunting, canoeing, nature watching and water sports, 

The Lodge received its Charter on the 14 th January 1858, which is about the same time as the International 

Railroad came into existence and made Island Pond the mid-point stop between Montreal, Canada and Portland, 

Maine. It was a key exchange station for trains travelling along the northeast corridor of the United States. 

Today, logging is the biggest industry. , 

The Lodge raised eleven (11) new Candidates on the 9 th November 2002 at the Vermont Grand Master’s One 

Day Class, and we’re proud that our Lodge had the most Candidates, which speaks well for a community of 

approx. 1200 people. The Gavel will be held for about a month and then we will pass it on.” 

I received your very informative letter this morning and was quite impressed with the information provided. I’m 

anxious to read your correspondence to the Brethren at our regular meeting this coming Monday evening, 9 th 

December 2002. We will be making a decision where to forward the Gavel on its journey and I will let you 

know where. We go dark in January and February, but as you know, you can always find a Brother in dark as 

well as in light. God Bless! 

Dale Meehan ‘ 

Secretary 

Island Pond Lodge # 44 Vermont 

This is a white 

clapboard building 

with parking to the 

right of the building, the dining room is downstairs, with the 

meeting Room on the second floor. 

Island Pond #44 Date of Charter – January 14, 1858 

Meetings: 2 nd Monday (except January & February) at 7:30 pm. Annual – April 

North Star Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star 1 st Monday at 7:30pm 

How to Get There 

From the North: Rte. 114 into Island Pond. Long curving bridge over rail road tracks, and take the first left. 

The lodge is on the right, between the Episcopal Church and Pepin’s garage.

89 

From the South: North on I-91 take the Lyndonville exit #23. Travel North on Rte. 5 through town and pick up 

114 and travel about 25 miles to Island Pond. Watch out for the moose on this road! Proceed as above.From the 

West and East: Rte. 105 to 114. Proceed as above 

The Worshipful Master and Secretary for 2012 are 

John Dunton, Worshipful Master 

Jack P. Sloan, Secretary patsloan@myfairpoint.net 

From a letter dated 7 th March 2003: 

We scheduled to transfer the Travelling Gavel from Island Pond. Vermont. Lodge #44 to Windsor Vermont. 

Lodge #18 on 19 th April 2003. We expect to work some degrees that evening and it will be well published, 

Brother Herbie Hartford will be the Worshipful Master. Brother Bruce Pomeroy will be installed Grand 

Master of Vermont, he belongs to that Lodge and he’s the only contact l have with email who is well aware of 

thistransfer. 

Brother Louie Barber from Golden Rule Lodge #5l Stanstead. Quebec. Canada wants the Gavel after 

Windsor, and will contact them to let them know they would like it. Louis will probably travel with us to 

Windsor to relay this message. Guess there having an anniversary celebration for Masonry in Quebec this 

summer and they wanted the Gavel for that purpose. But they will let you know more, later. 

Nice talking to you on the phone the other night, Hope this finds you in good health and less pocket change 

from chasing down all these wonderful Gavels. 

Information about Island Pond: 

Population: 1,260 (2010) 

. Island Pond is a census-designated place (CDP) in the town of Brighton in Essex County, Vermont, United 

States. The population was 849 at the 2000 census It is part of the Berlin, NH–VT Micropolitan Statistical Area. 

A letter from Rt. W. Bro. Bruce Pomeroy; District Grand Master 

Rt. W. Bro. Bruce Pomeroy, DGM 


Dear Bro. Howes: 

Thank you for your informative letter concerning the travelling Gavel which will soon be coming to Windsor to 

Vermont Lodge #l8, from Island Pond Lodge in north-eastern Vermont 

It will be my pleasure to carry the Gavel to Bro. Louis Barber’s Lodge in Stanstead PQ. Canada this summer. 

Thank you as well for your good wishes for my upcoming term as Grand Master of Vermont. 

I hope that all is well in Australia this summer (for you, winter for us). The close friend lives in northern 

Vermont and reports that the ice covering Lake Seymour in his neighbourhood is 30 inches thick this year 

andthat they have had temperatures down to 40 degrees below zero Fahrenheit. That’s pretty chilly even for 

Vermont. It has been a particularly cold and stormy winter here. It was just about zero degrees F, this morning. 

We have had perhaps four days since November when the temperature has reached zero degrees Centigrade or 

higher. We are looking forward to spring as you may imagine. 

I hope things go well with you, your family and the members of your Lodge and Grand Lodge. 

Thank you again for communicating with me, 

Fraternally, 

Bruce E. Pomeroy, RWDGM-Verm

90 

------:------ 



Windsor Lodge No.18 

Windsor – Vermont; 

District No. 1 

Link: 

Windsor 

The Travelling Gavel was presented at the Annual Meeting of Vermont District No. 10 December 2003 

Windsor, Vermont 

Street Address 

100 Main Street 

Windsor, VT 

Mailing Address: 

P. O. Box 11 

Windsor, VT 05089-0011 

White building well set back from the street. 

Vermont # 18 Date of Charter – January 10, 1850 

Meets: 1 st Tuesday (except December, January & February) at 7:30 P.M. Annual – April, 


From the north, take exit 9 Windsor/Hartland off from Interstate 91. Turn right at the end of the ramp on U.S. 

Route 5 South. Travel approx. 5 miles south to Windsor Village. Turn right at the first traffic light and go up 

State Street Hill. 

Note the Church at the top of the hill on the left and turn left in front of the 

church on to Dunham Court. The parking lot for the Masonic Hall is at the end of the street. 

From the South, take exit 8, Ascutney/Windsor turn right off ramp and follow Rte 131 to traffic lights. Turn Left 

on US Rte 5 North and travel 5 miles north to Windsor village. Go straight through first traffic light to second 

set of lights, turn left up State Street Hill and turn left again just in front of the church at the top of the hill on 

Dunham Court. The parking lot for the Masonic Hall is at the end of the street. 

For 2003 

Herbert H. Harford, Worshipful Master Everet W. Hinkley, Secretary 

Ascutney Chapter #2 Order of Eastern Star: 3 rd Wednesday at 8:00 P.M. 

OES Past Matrons & Past Patrons: 1 st Wednesday, dinner at 6:30 P.M. before meeting 

Windsor Royal Arch Chapter #6: 3 rd Thursday Windsor Royal & Select Masters #8 3 rd Thursday 

Vermont Commandery, Knights Templar: 3 rd Thursday at 7:00 P.M. 

Kevin J. Anderson, Worshipful Master 

Everet W. Hinkley, Secretary evered@tds.net 

For 2012 

Ascutney Chapter #2 Order of Eastern Star 3 rd Wednesday at 8:00 P.M. 

OES Past Matrons & Past Patrons 1 st Wednesday, dinner at 6:30 P.M. before meeting 

Windsor Royal Arch Chapter #6 3 rd Thursday 

Windsor Royal & Select Masters #8 3 rd Thursday 

Vermont Commandery, Knights Templar: 3 rd Thursday at 7.00 pm 

Order of the Rainbow for Girls: 1 st and 3 rd Sundays of the month at 3 P.M. 

I didn’t receive any information from Windsor Lodge #18

91 

Windsor is a town in Windsor County, Vermont, United States. 

Population in July 2009: 3,596. 

2004-2012 Grand Lodge of Vermont F&AM 

OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS FOR THE STATE OF VERMONT 

49 East Road, Barre, Vermont 05641-5390 

Vermont 

Grand Secretary 

Grand Secretary, glsec@vtfreemasons.org 

Phone: 802-223-1883 or 1- 800-479-3975. 

Fax; (802) 223-2187 

Grand Master of Vermont 

For 2003 

M.W. Bro. Bruce Pomery 

Took the Travelling Gavel to Golden Rule Lodge No. 5 in Stanstead, Quebec on the 18 th October 2003 and 

presented it to them for their 200 th year Bi-Centenary. 

It was presented at the annual meeting of Vermont District No. 10 

December 2003 

* 

Once again this Travelling Gavel leaves another American State and is presented into Canada, into the 

Province of Quebec. 

------:------

92 

Quebec ~ CANADA 

Besides having one of my Travelling Gavels in Quebec, I have had also Travelling Gavels in the areas marked 

below with a circle. In Canada alone, I had 2 Travelling Gavels presented into almost every Province in Canada, 

namely; the Alberta Gavel and the Ontario Gavel.

93 

Quebec is a province in east-central Canada. It is the only Canadian province with a predominantly Frenchspeaking 

population and the only one whose sole official language is French at the provincial level. 

Quebec is Canada’s largest province by area and its second-largest administrative division; only the territory 

of Nunavut is larger. It is bordered to the west by the province of Ontario, James Bay and Hudson Bay, to the 

north by Hudson Strait and Ungava Bay, to the east by the Gulf of Saint Lawrence and the provinces 

of Newfoundland and Labrador and New Brunswick. It is bordered on the south by the US states of Maine, New 

Hampshire, Vermont, and New York. It also shares maritime borders with Nunavut, Prince Edward Island, 

and Nova Scotia. 

Quebec is Canada’s second most populous province, after Ontario. Most inhabitants live in urban areas near 

the Saint Lawrence River between Montreal and Quebec City, the capital. English-speaking communities and 

English-language institutions are concentrated in the west of the island of Montreal but are also significantly 

present in the Outaouais, Eastern Townships, and Gaspé regions. The Nord-du-Québec region, occupying the 

northern half of the province, is sparsely populated and inhabited primarily byAboriginal peoples. 

Quebec independence debates have played a large role in the politics of the province. Part 

Québécois governments have held referendums on sovereignty in 1980 and 1995; both were voted down by 

voters, the latter defeated by a very narrow margin. [11] In 2006, the House of Commons of Canada passed a 

symbolic motion recognizing the “Québécois as a nation within a united Canada.” 

While the province’s substantial natural resources have long been the mainstay of its economy, sectors of 

the knowledge economy such as aerospace, information and communication technologies, biotechnology 

and the pharmaceutical industry also play leading roles. These many industries have all contributed to helping 

Quebec become the second most economically influential province, second only to Ontario. 

Click onto the Link below 

Quebec – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia 

Grand Lodge of Canada 

There is no such Lodge. Each of the Canadian provinces has its own Grand Lodge, as shown 

below. 

See Canada’s Provincial Grand Lodges here 

The Grand Master of Vermont 

M.W. Bro. Bruce Pomeroy, took the Travelling Gavel to 

Golden Rule Lodge No. 5, in Stanstead, Quebec, on the 18 th Oct. 2003 

and presented it to them for their 200 th year Bi-Centenary 

Grand Lodge of Quebec, AF&AM 

2295 St. Mark Street 

Montreal, H3H 2G9 

(514) 933-9739 

www.glquebec.org 

http://www.glquebec.org/members/images/graphics/logo.gif 

Grand Lodge of Quebec; http://www.glquebec.org 

La Grande Loge du Quebec M.A.F. & A. 

Grand Lodge of Quebec 

A. F. & A.M. 

2295, rue Saint-Marc 

Montreal (Quebec) H3H 2G9 

info@glquebec.org 

W.Bro. Gilles Laframboice

94 

Public Affairs 

Grand Lodge of Quebec A. F. & A. M. 

prodata@questzones.com 

To contact the Grand Lodge Office: 

The Grand Lodge of Quebec 

2295 rue Saint-Marc 

Montreal Qc H3H 2G9 

Telephone: 514-933-6739 

Fax: 514-933-6730 

admin@glquebec.ca 

History of the Grand Lodge of Quebec 

------:------ 


18 th October. 2003 

Golden Rule Lodge No. 5 

Stanstead; 

Quebec 

Golden Rule Lodge no. 5 

Stanstead – Variable 

English – York rite – Tuesday. On or before full moon at 7.30pm 

Temple Location: 560 Duffern Street, Stanstead 

The lodge meets: on a Tuesday at 7:30pm, on or before the full moon and on December 28 th 

Closed January and February, Installation: on December. 


Langford, BC 

Secretary; 

Timothy Bagley 


14 th July 2004 

G’ Day Mate and Brother! 

Please forgive the delay in getting back to you. I have finally some news on the movement of the Travelling 

Gavel. 

It was presented to the Brethren of Lake Magog Lodge No. 55 in Magog, Quebec on the 8 th of July. Lake 

Magog Lodge is one of only three remaining Lodge’s in Quebec that practices the York Rite Ritual. The Gavel 

will move on from there to Meridian Sun Lodge No. 20 located in the town of Craitsbury in the State of 

Vermont USA. 

I will try to help you keep track of it while it at this end of the continent and will forward any information to 

you. 

By the way, Golden Rule Lodge No. 5 received the Gavel on the 18 th of October 2003 on the day of the 

Reconsecration of our Lodge in celebration of our Bicentennial! 

Golden Rule Lodge is steeped in history and tradition. One of the oldest Masonic lodges in Quebec, it traces its 

roots back to 1803, when Lively Stone Lodge was founded in Derby Line, Vermont. That lodge, composed of 

Masons from both sides of the border, met in a building situated half in Canada and half in the United States. – 

Fraternal regards, 

Timothy L. Bagley 

Secretary, 

Golden Rule Lodge No.5 A.F. & A.M. G.R.Q.

95 

See more at: http://100objects.qahn.org/content/owls-head-basket-golden-rule-lodge-no-5-1900- 

1920#sthash.3aGQ1GgG.dpuf 

There was another Travelling Gavel that was presented into Golden Rule Lodge No.5 in Stanstead, this was 

the Ontario Travelling Gavel, which was presented to them on the 24 th June 2001 which you will find on page 

147 

You will see above that this Tamworth Travelling Gavel was presented to Golden Rule Lodge No.5 on the 


Information about Stanstead – Quebec: 

------:------ 

Stanstead is a town in the Memphrémagog Regional County Municipality in the Estrie region of Quebec. 

Stanstead is located on the Canada-United States border across from Derby Line, Vermont. 

The Town of Stanstead was created in 1995 by the merger of the former towns of Stanstead Plain, Rock Island 

and Beebe. It is not to be confused with the township of Stanstead, which is nearby although not directly 

adjacent (the municipality of Ogden lies in between). 

The Haskell Free Library and Opera House was deliberately constructed straddling the border for access to both 

Canadians and Americans. 

Geography: 

The Tomifobia River runs through the town of Stanstead, dividing the U.S./Canadian border at times. Along 

portions of Canada’s Canusa Street, houses on the southern end of the street lie entirely within Vermont, while 

their driveways direct northward, and connect to the street in Quebec, as the northern portions of their properties 

are within Canada. These residents’ backyard neighbours are American, while families living right across the 

street are Canadian, though no noticeable boundary exists between the two (the street itself is entirely within 

Canada). In other places, the international border runs through individual homes, so that meals prepared in one 

country are eaten in the other. An entire tool-and-die factory, once operated by the Butterfield division of Litton 

Industries, is also divided in two by the border. [16] 

Location in Southern Quebec 

Country: Canada 

Province: Quebec 

Location of Stanstead 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 


8 th July 2004 

Lake Magog Lodge No. 55 

Magog; 

Constituée – Date Instituted: 1874 

English – Emulation 

Réunions – Meetings: – 2 nd Thursday except January, February and March at 7:30pm. 

Installation 3 rd Saturday in November. 

Members: 58 

Lieu – Location: St. Luke’s Parish Hall, 122 Pine Street, Magog – n/a

96 

Lake Magog Lodge no. 55 

Magog – 2e Jeu – 2 nd Thr 

.8 th July 2004 

The Travelling Gavel was presented to the Brethren of Lake Magog Lodge No. 55 in Magog Quebec on the 8 th 

of July. Lake Magog Lodge is one of only three remaining Lodges in Quebec that practices the York Rite Ritual. 

The Gavel will move on from there to Meridian Sun Lodge No. 20 located in the town of Craftsbury in the State 

of Vermont USA. 

l will try to help you keep track of it while it at this end of the continent and will forward any information to 

you. 

By the way, Golden Rule Lodge No. 5 received the Gavel on the 18 th of 

October 2003 on the day of the Reconsecration of our Lodge in celebration of our Bicentennial! 

Fraternal regards, S 

Timothy L. Bagley 

Secretary, 

Golden Rule Lodge No. 5, A.F. & AM. G.R.Q. 

Magog is a city in south-eastern Quebec, Canada, about 120 kilometres (75 mi) east of Montreal at the 

confluence of Lake Memphremagog–after which the city was named—with the Rivière aux Cerises and 

theMagog River. It is a major centre and industrial city in the Regional County Municipality of 

Memphremagog. 

In 2002 the City of Magog was merged with the Township of Magog and the Village of Omerville as part of 

the municipal reorganization in Quebec. 

Maygog Website: www.ville.magog.qc.ca 

Maygog Location: 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 

*STATE Of VERMONT – USA 

Grand Lodge of Vermont, F&AM 

49 East Road – Berlin 

Barre, VT 05641 

(802) 223-1883 (802) 223-1883 

www.vtfreemasons.org 

Grand Lodge of Vermont; www.vtfreemasons.org/ 

------:------

97 



District 10 

*Meridian Sun Lodge No. 20 


38 South Crafts bury Rd 

Craftsbury, Vermont 05826 

Meridian Sun # 20 Date of Charter - October 13, 1800 

The Travelling Gavel was presented to Knights of Columbus group in Ashland Mass USA. 

Where it was received by Grand Knight ~ Michael Breslin 

Also presented at the Annual meeting of Vermont District # 10 

In December 2004 

Craftsbury, Vermont 


38 South Craftsbury Rd 

Craftsbury, VT 05826 

This is a white clapboard building with parking to the left and in front 

of the building. The dining room is down stairs, with the meeting room 

on the second floor. 

Meets: Wednesday in week of full moon (except January & February) 

at 7:30 P.M. Annual – April 

The Worshipful Master and Secretary for 2012 were: 

Worshipful Master: Bruce Sweeny 

Secretary: Charles B. Smith Jr., charlesbsmith@live.com 

PO Box 194, Hardwick, VT. 05843-0194 

802-472-5985 


From the North: I-91 exit 26 and head south on Rte. 14 through Albany. Turn left onto the Craftsbury 

Common Rd. (First black top rd.) Go through Craftsbury Common into the village of Craftsbury. The lodge is 

on the right, and The Craftsbury country store is on the left. 

From the East: In St. Johnsbury take Rte. 2 west to Danville and pick up Rte. 15 into Hardwick. There pick up 

Rte. 15 north. After Lake Elligo, take a left onto Craftsbury Rd. Continue into the village. The lodge is on the 

left. 

From the West: Go into Hardwick from Morrisville on Rte. 15 and proceed as above. 

From the South: I-89 to Barre, and north to Hardwick on Rte. 14 , and proceed as above 

Letter from Meridian Lodge 

16 th January 2005

98 

Meridian Sun Lodge No. 20 

Craftsbury 

Vermont ~ U.S.A. 

W. Bro. Jim Richards 

meridiansun@surfglobal.net 

Hello Bro. Howes: 

I received an email about your concerns on the Travelling Gavel, from Brother Dale Meehan in Island Pond 

Vermont. 

We have the Gavel scheduled to be delivered to Ascot Lodge in Lennoxville Quebec January the 25 th . 

We received the Gavel from Golden Rule Lodge in Quebec, so it will be heading back across the border. We are 

dark from December to April and the weather and time constraints have been an issue for us all, I can assure you 

that the Gavel will move on and be returned to you soon. 

I would be interested in receiving the news letter you mentioned as well, mailed to this email address. 

Hope all is well there. 

With My Warmest Fraternal Greetings 

Bro. Jim Richards WM 

Meridian Sun Lodge # 20 

Craftsbury, Vermont 

Craftsbury is a town in Orleans County, Vermont, United States. The 

population was 1,136 at the 2000 census. The town includes the four 

unincorporated villages of Craftsbury Common, Mill Village, North 

Craftsbury and East Craftsbury. 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 

This much travelled Travelling Gavel once again leaves another part of the world, namely 

Vermont, Canada 

and is now in Quebec 

*QUEBEC 

Area ~ 594,857 sq. Mi ~ 1,540,673 sq km = Population ~ 

7,138,795 = Industry ~ food processing, 

paper products, transportation equipment, chemicals, primary 

metals 

Agriculture, milk, hogs, poultry, beef, cattle, grains = 

Minerals & resources, gold, iron ore, titanium 

Website: www.gouv.qc.c 

Other information about Quebec is on Page 92 above.

99 

Grand Lodge of Quebec, AF &AM CANADA 1869 

http://www.glquebec.org 

2295 St. Montreal, H3H 2G9 

Phone: (514) 933-9739 (514) 933-9739 

http://www.google.com.au/search?tbo=p&tbm=bks&q=inauthor:%22Freemasons.+Ascot+Lodg 

e+No.+30+(Lennoxville,+Qu%C3%A9bec)%22 

------:------ 


25 th January 2005 

Ascot Lodge No. 30 

AF & AM GRQ. 

Lennoxville; Quebec, Canada 

Ascot Lodge no. 30 

100 th Anniversary - Ascot Lodge, No.30 1867 - 1967 

Lieu – Location: Ascot Masonic Temple, 3002 College Street, Sherbrooke – J1M 1T9 

Site web – Website: lien – link 

Sherbrooke: – Mar – 4 th Tuesday 

except July, August, and December at 7:30pm.Installation in October. 

English Emulation 

Lodge Secretary, 

Allan H. Marshall 

42 Academy Street, 

Lennoxville Quebec. J IM lRl 

Canada 

allanmarshal@sympatico.ca 


We are pleased to report that the Travelling Gavel was delivered to Ascot Lodge #30 in the St. Francis 

District of the Grand Lodge of Quebec at a Regular meeting held on January 25, 2005. The occasion was the 

official visit of inspection of District Deputy Grand Master Richard Chagnon and the presenter was Right 

Worshipful Brother Douglas McCarty, District Deputy of Vermont (U SA) District #10 on behalf of the 

Worshipful 

Master of Meridian Sun Lodge of Craftsbury Vermont who sent his regrets due to his being snowbound in 

Philadelphia. There were 35 Masons present representing Lodges in the St. Francis District and Vermont 

District #10. 

Information about Lennoxville: 

Lennoxville, (pop.5000 permanent) is in the Eastern Townships of Quebec about 140krn east of Montreal at the 

confluence of the St Francis and Massawippi Rivers, 50km from the border with the USA. Many people work in 

or are retired from the education sector; Bishop’s University is here as well as a junior college, a regional high 

school, an international private boarding school and 2 elementary schools. Scott paper makes Cottonelle 

bathroom tissue, AFT Industries makes screen plate for the paper industry and Agriculture Canada operates a 

large experimental farrn dealing principally in research for dairy and pork farming. The presence of Bishops 

University provides us with sports and cultural opportunities not available anywhere in Canada in a town this 

size and the presence of students from across Canada and the world make this a vibrant place to live indeed!

100 

Ascot Lodge was instituted in 1876 and was the initiative of farmers and businessmen who settled in this area. 

Many were descendants of United Empire Loyalists who fled the Eastern United States in the late 1700’s when 

the US broke away from the British Empire. We own our Lodge building which was erected at the main 

crossroads of town in 1955 and houses (5) other Masonic bodies. During the daytime it is modestly rented to 

Lennoxville Community Aid who offer services to the elderly in order for them to be able to stay in their homes 

independently for as long as possible. 

While winters are cold (-30c this morning) we make the most of them through cross-country and downhill 

skiing both of which are popular in this hilly area. Lennoxville boasts its own curling rink as well as a hockey 

and skating arena so people only complain about the temperatures on the coldest of days. 

The gavel will be on its way west on February 9 th as I and a delegation from Ascot will take it to my mother 

Lodge in Deux Montagnes (Two Mountains) which is about 40km northwest of Montreal. The occasion that 

night is the visit of the Grand Master of Quebec and will include a dinner and the presence of wives etc. After 

the Lodge is open; should be about 100 there at least. 

On behalf of the Officers and Brethren of Ascot Lodge I thank you for starting this initiative, it has been an 

honour to be part of this Gavel’s travels. You have made a very positive contribution to the Craft and we are 

inspired by your example. 

W. Bro. David McKormack W.M. 

Unusual ‘Travelling Gavel’ resides with Ascot Lodge, but not for long 

By W. Bro. Dave McCormack 

At their regular meeting in January, the brethren of Ascot #30 received one of the Travelling Gavels which is 

from one of the International Travelling Gavel Collection.The Gavel, in its sturdy box, which originated from 

Lodge Tamworth 652 in New South Wales, Australia in June 1993 from where it travelled around New South 

Wales for some time before going to Queensland and then on to England. 

Interestingly its trip away from Australia began when a Mason from a Warwick Lodge in Warwickshire was 

visiting Lodge Warwick #160 in Warwick Queensland, Australia. Where in turn it was presented to Lodge 

Warwick 8011 in Warwickshire, Coventry England who in turn took it to Warwick Lodge #544 to Warwick 

Lodge in New York, then onto Warwick Lodge in Rhode Island, USA. From there it has travelled extensively 

throughout the northeast US and New England making a recent stop at Golden Rule Lodge #5 before being 

presented to Ascot by Meridian Sim Lodge of Craftsbury Vermont.. 

Right W. Bro. Douglas McCarty DDGM of Vermont District #10 made the presentation on behalf of Meridian 

Sun Master W. Bro. Jim Richards. 

On February 9 th . The gavel was presented to The Lodge of Two Mountains #122 of Montreal District 1 

#1 in the presence of the Grand Master M. W. Bro. John Leide by a delegation from Ascot. 

The gavel comes complete with instructions regarding whom to notify upon its receipt and a poem to be read 

at its presentation, as follows: 

This article was entered into The St. Francis District MONITOR. Vermont USA 

Ascot Lodge Master, W. Bro. Dave McKormack, left, with Rt. W. Bro. Douglas 

McCarty, DDGM of Vermont District #10 

Who would ever had thought, that by introducing such a small object, like a 

Masonic Gavel into the network of Masonic Lodges through-out the world, would have such an impact on 

Masons in general. I have heard on numerous occasions from Lodges around the world of squabbling amongst 

the Brethren of certain Lodges to which Lodge was to receive one of my Travelling Gavels next. Some Lodges 

seem to be honoured two or three times to receive one of these Gavels, for you see, I have twelve (12) of these

101 

Travelling Gavels being presented into Masonic Lodges. Now when it comes to America and Canada, there has 

been at times at least five (5) of these Travelling Gavels touring around over the years, so to receive one more 

than once, is not unusual. 

This Tamworth Gavel was to, as I thought, was going to be presented into Lodges through NSW or even all over 

Australia. Little did I realise, even for a moment, that someone would take it overseas. The idea of this 

Tamworth Travelling Gavel being presented all over the world, puts a “Great Feeling within” I have written 

what seems to be hundreds of emails (letters) to many Lodges and Brethren because of this Gavel, not only have 

I written to them, but on many occasions I have talked to them by telephone. 

I have had Grand Masters and Grand Secretaries and individual Masons of Provinces and of countries ring me 

up for a chat, even a 3am in the morning, when they have a mind lapse of the different time zones that the world 

has, not to worry though, it is mighty good to talk to all of them, yes, even at 3am.. 

The generosity of some Masons is over whelming to say the least. We’ll talk about one of the Travelling Gavels 

that was being presented into Masonic Lodges in England, well after some time one of them arrived in Cheshire 

into Broad Oak Lodge No. 7239, in this Lodge was a Mason called W. Bro. Colin Taylor P. Pr.G. D. Over the 

years I have kept in contact, probably more than anyone else. One day we were talking about websites, I said to 

him one day, that if you were in Australia, I’d ask if you would put together a Travelling Gavel website, no 

worries, was his reply, just send me over what you would like in it and I will do it for you for free, so that’s how 

I got the Travelling gavel website, www.travellinggavels.com 

Well, the generosity didn’t stop with Colin, he happens to 

have a mate, who also lives in Cheshire, England, 

He said that he would Host the website for free. These two 

magnificent Masons have gone out of their way to help this 

Australian Mason, man!! What a world we live in. I have 

made, as well as many hundreds of Masons scattered around 

the world, have made many hundreds of very good friends. In 

actual fact, these twelve (12) simple little Masonic Gavels 

have bought our vast network of Lodges around the world 

closer to each other, in other words, as one body. One 

wouldn’t know how that makes me feel within. 

Well, that’s enough gribble for one day; this much travelled 

Masonic Gavel is still being presented into Lodges in Quebec. On the 9 th February 2005 it arrived at the Lodge 

of Two Mountains #122 in Deux Montagues 

Presentation of the Tamworth Travelling Gavel NSW from Ascot Lodge # 30 ~ LENNOXVlLLE, Canada, 

to 

The Lodge of Two Mountains # 122, ~ QUEBEC, Canada 

W. Master of Ascot Lodge # 30 ~ W. Brother David 

McCormack of Lennoxville, CANADA 

Presenting the Gavel to Rt. W. Brother Neil MacDonald 

Worshipful Master of 

The Lodge of Two Mountains # 122 

QUEBEC, CANADA 


Ascot Lodge 

Delegation from Ascot Lodge #30 

Who delivered the Travelling Gavel to 

The Lodge of Two Mountains #122

102 


9 Tth February 2005 

Lodge of Two Mountains # 122 

Deux Montagnes; Quebec CANADA 

Constituée – Date Instituted: 1952 

Lieu – Location: 503 Cedar Avenue, Deux-Montagnes – J7R 1H1 

Réunions – Meetings: 1e Lun – 1 st Monday except June, July and August. Installation in December. 

Membres – Members: 70 

Two Mountains Lodge no. 122 

Travelling Gavel N0.2 

Grand Registry of Quebec A.F.& A.M. 

W. Bro. Bob Alderson 

clanfolk@yahoo.com 


G’day V. W. Bro. Rick, 

We have been twice blessed by having been presented with our second Australian Gavel in 4 years. I understand 

that the first one is in Goose Bay, Labrador waiting to be returned to you. We received Gavel #2 on Wednesday 

evening (February 9 th ) from Ascot Lodge of Lennoxville, Quebec. It was perfect timing as we had our Grand 

Master visiting to present our first 50 year jewel to one of our past District Deputy Grand Masters (1975) 

initiated in 1954. It was also a Ladies Night so the Gavel added so much to the evening. It was delivered by 6 

members of Ascot Lodge. Ascot Lodge‘s presiding Master, the current DDGM, and four Past DDGM’s. 

We have already arranged to deliver it on March 1 st to St John‘s 21A in Vankleek Hill, Ontario on the occasion 

of their DDGM’s official visit. We are the Lodge of Two Mountains #122 under the Grand Registry of Quebec 

A.F. & A.M.’ Our Master is Rt W. Bro Neil R. MacDonald 

I am the Lodge Secretary W. Bro Bob Alderson (I was Master when we received the first Gavel) 

My address is P.O. Box 571, Maxville, Ontario KOC 1TO 

Phone/fax 613-527-2768 email clanfolk@yahoo.com 

A description of our town was sent when we received the last Gavel (#12 if memory 

serves me right) 

lf you have any further questions, please contact me and thanks once again for this 

wonderful project. Being a woodworker myself, I fully appreciate the labour you put 

into these Gavels. 

Hello Brother Rick, 

Just a short note to inform you that the Tamworth Gavel # 2 was presented to St 

John’s Lodge # 2lA GRCO 

(Bob Alderson) 

Last evening, 5th April 2005 by the delegation from the Lodge of Two Mountains 

#122 GRQ. We were informed that the gavel will be delivered to Massena Lodge in Massena, New York on 

April 12 th . There are only 8 blank plates left on the base of the gavel. 

Thanks again for this wonderful Idea 

W. Bro. Bob Alderson 

Bob Alderson 

in relax mode 

The Lodge of Two Mountains 

BRIEF HISTORY 

Our Lodge which began its existence as “Lively Stone Lodge No. 22” was 

instituted in 1803, in Derby Line, Vermont. Later in 1814 the Lodge was moved to 

Stanstead, Quebec, Canada and was constituted as “Golden Rule Lodge No. 14” 

by the Grand Lodge of England, located in Lower Canada, Situated in the 

Province of Quebec. 

Following the formation of the Grand Lodge of Quebec in 1869, the Lodge was 

assigned the number”5” under this jurisdiction

103 

Information about Stanstead: 

Stanstead has a population (2006) of 2,957, part of the Memphrémagog Regional County Municipality in the 

Eastern Townships region of Quebec. Stanstead is located upon the Canada-United States border across from 

Derby Line, Vermont. The town of Stanstead was created in 1995 by the merger of the former towns of 

Stanstead Plain, Rock Island and Beebe Plain. 

Location of, Deux-Montagnes 

W. Bro. Bob Alderson, 

A little more dignified 

Deux-Montagnes is a municipality in 

southwestern Quebec, Canada on the north shore of the Rivière 

des Mille Îles where it flows out of Lake of Two 

Mountains (Lac des Deux Montagnes). It is the seat of 

the Regional County Municipality of Deux-Montagnes in the 

greater Montreal region. 

The name “Deux-Montagnes” (French for “Two Mountains”) 

dates to 1674 when it was given to the lake bordering on the 

municipality, and to the seigneury which stood north of the 

lake. Originally founded as the Village Municipality of Saint- 

Eustache-sur-le-Lac in 1921, it became a city in 1958, and 

changed its name to Deux-Montagnes in 1963. [4] 

The municipality has two commuter train stations, on the Deux-Montagnes Line: Deux-Montagnes and Grand- 

Moulin. 

Population in 2006: 17,402 

Website: www.ville.deux-montagnes.qc.c 

Quebec 

Canada 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 

This much travelled Travelling Gavel is leaving Quebec for the second time. The Worshipful of Two Mountains 

Lodge #122, with his delegation of mighty Brothers journeyed into Ontario and presented this Gavel into St. 

John’s Lodge #21a 

We are leaving on a slow Plane, 

Leaving Quebec 

And journeying to 

Ontario - Canada

104 

ONTARIO 

Grand Lodge A.F. & A. M. of Canada 

GRAND MASTER; Most Worshipful Donald H. Mumby 

“Oldest Grand Lodge in Canada” 

In the Province of Ontario 

Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario, AF&AM (GRC) 

363 King Street, W. 

Hamilton, Ontario, Canada L8P 1B4 

(905) 528-8644 (905) 528-8644 

www.grandlodge.on.ca 

Grand Lodge of Canada (Ontario) http://www.grandlodge.on.ca/ 

Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario 1885 

Ontario statistics 

Overview 

Welcome to Ontario, the province that one in three Canadians call home. 

Ontario is a magnet for industry, the arts and science. The population is made up of many cultural backgrounds 

drawn to this vibrant province. 

Ontario is a study in contrasts. 

The varied landscape includes the vast, rocky and mineral-rich Canadian Shield, which separates the fertile 

farmland in the south and the grassy lowlands of the north. 

There are over 250,000 lakes in Ontario – they make up about one-third of the world’s fresh water. 

In summer, temperatures can soar above 30°C (86°F), while in winter they can drop to below -40°C (-40°F). 

Ontario’s industries range from cultivating crops, to mining minerals, to manufacturing automobiles, to 

designing software and leading-edge technology. 

Cultures from around the world thrive and are celebrated in Ontario with festivals such as Caribana (West 

Indian) and Oktoberfest (German). 

Travellers can enjoy the many experiences Ontario has to offer, from a wilderness expedition in the north, to a 

“shop till you drop into your theatre seat” city excursion. 

This website is a virtual tour of Ontario, which also provides links to other websites that can give you more 

detailed information about the people, the places and the events that give Ontario its vitality. 

To take a look at Ontario you can start your virtual tour by clicking on the subject of your interest in the column 

on the left. 

This site was prepared with the assistance of many people. We would like to thank . 

------:------ 

Information about Ontario: 

Ontario 

i 

/ɒnˈtɛərioʊ/ is one of the ten provinces of Canada, located in eastcentral 

Canada. [5][6] It is Canada's most populous province [7] by a large margin, 

accounting for nearly 40% [8] of all Canadians, and is the second largest province in 

total area. Ontario is fourth largest in total area when the territories of the Northwest 

Territories and Nunavut are included. [2] It is home to the nation'scapital city, Ottawa, and the nation's most populous city, Toronto. [9] 

Ontario is bordered by the province of Manitoba to the west, Hudson Bay and James Bay to the north, and Quebec to the east, and 

to the south by the U.S. states of Minnesota, Michigan, New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania. All but a small part of Ontario's 2,700 km 

(1,678 mi) border with the United States follows inland waterways: from the west at Lake of the Woods, eastward along the major 

rivers and lakes of the Great Lakes/Saint Lawrence River drainage system. These are the Rainy River, the Pigeon River,Lake

105 

Superior, the St. Marys River, Lake Huron, the St. Clair River, Lake St. Clair, the Detroit River, Lake Erie, the Niagara River,Lake 

Ontario and along the St. Lawrence River from Kingston, Ontario, to the Quebec boundary just east of Cornwall, Ontario. 

Ontario is sometimes conceptually divided into two regions, Northern Ontario and Southern Ontario. The great majority of 

Ontario's population and its arable land is located in the south. In contrast, the larger, northern part of Ontario is sparsely 

populated. 

Economy: 

Ontario is Canada's leading manufacturing province, accounting for 52% of the total national manufacturing 

shipments in 2004. [33] Ontario's largest trading partner is the American state of Michigan. The government of 

Ontario posted a record C$21.3 billion ($20.7 billion) deficit for the 2009-10 fiscal year. [34] The province’s net 

debt will rise to C$220 billion in 2010-11, or a record 37% of gross domestic product. [34] 

Ontario's rivers make it rich in hydroelectric energy. [35] In 2009 Ontario Power Generation generated 70% of the 

electricity of the province, of which 51% is nuclear, 39% is hydroelectric and 10% is fossil 

fuel derived. [36] Much of the newer power generation coming online in the last few years is natural gas or 

combined cycle natural gas plants. OPG is not however responsible for the transmission of power, which is 

under the control of Hydro One. Despite its diverse range of power options, problems related to increasing 

consumption, lack of energy efficiency and aging nuclear reactors, Ontario has been forced in recent years to 

purchase power from its neighbours Quebec and Michigan to supplement its power needs during peak 

consumption periods. 

An abundance of natural resources, excellent transportation links to the American heartland and the inland Great 

Lakes making ocean access possible via container ships, have all contributed to making manufacturing the 

principal industry, found mainly in the Golden Horseshoe region, which is the largest industrialized area in 

Canada, the southern end of the region being part of the North AmericanRust Belt. Important products 

include motor vehicles, iron, steel, food, electrical appliances, machinery, chemicals, and paper. Ontario 

surpassed Michigan in car production, assembling 2.696 million vehicles in 2004. Ontario has Chrysler plants 

in Windsor and Bramalea, two GM plants in Oshawa and one in Ingersoll, a Honda assembly plant in 

Alliston, Ford plants in Oakville and St. Thomas and Toyotaassembly plants in Cambridge and Woodstock. 

However, as a result of steeply declining sales, in 2005, General Motors announced massive layoffs at 

production facilities across North America including two large GM plants in Oshawa and a drive train facility 

in St. Catharines resulting in 8,000 job losses in Ontario alone. In 2006, Ford Motor Company announced 

between 25,000 and 30,000 layoffs phased until 2012; Ontario was spared the worst, but job losses were 

announced for the St. Thomas facility and the Windsor Casting plant. However, these losses will be offset by 

Ford's recent announcement of a hybrid vehicle facility slated to begin production in 2007 at its Oakville plant 

and GM's re-introduction of the Camarowhich will be produced in Oshawa. On December 4, 

2008 Toyota announced the grand opening of the RAV4 plant in Woodstock, [37] andHonda also has plans to add 

an engine plant at its facility in Alliston. Despite these new plants coming online, Ontario has not yet fully 

recovered following massive layoffs caused by the global recession; its unemployment rate was 7.3% (as of 

May 2013), [38] compared to 8.7% in Jan. 2010 [39] and roughly 6% in 2007. 

Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is the centre of Canada's financial services and banking industry. Neighbouring 

cities are home to product distribution, IT centres, and various manufacturing industries. Canada's Federal 

Government is the largest single employer in the National Capital Region, which centres on the border cities of 

Ontario's Ottawa and Quebec's Gatineau. [40][41] The information technology sector is important, particularly in 

the Silicon Valley North section of Ottawa, as well as the Waterloo Region, where the world headquarters 

ofResearch in Motion (the developers of the BlackBerry smartphone) is located. Providing more than 19% ofthe 

local jobs and employing more than 13% of the entire local population. Hamilton is the largest steel 

manufacturing city in Canada, and Sarnia is the centre forpetrochemical production. Construction continues to 

employ more than 6½% of the province's work force as of June 2011. [42] 

Mining and the forest products industry, notably pulp and paper, are vital to the economy of Northern Ontario. 

More than any other region, tourism contributes heavily to the economy of Central Ontario, peaking during the 

summer months owing to the abundance of fresh waterrecreation and wilderness found there in reasonable 

proximity to the major urban centres. At other times of the year, hunting, skiing andsnowmobiling are popular. 

This region has some of the most vibrant fall colour displays anywhere on the continent, and tours directed at 

overseas visitors are organized to see them. Tourism also plays a key role in border cities with large casinos, 

among them Windsor,Cornwall, Sarnia and Niagara Falls, which attract many U.S. visitors. [43] 

Wikipedi

106 

Ontario 



St. John’s Lodge No. 21a 

A.F. & A.M. G.R.C in the Province of Ontario 

Instituted 1844 

Vankleek Hill; 

Civic Address: 94 Main Street, Vankleek Hill, Ontario, Canada 

Mailing Address: Box 758 Vankleek Hill, On. Canada K0B 1R0 

Meets: First Tuesday at 7:30pm 

Except July and August 

For Information please contact the secretary.stjohns21a@easterndi 

Although St. John’s Lodge No.1 has an office telephone, it is not “manned” on a regular basis. 

If you wish to contact the lodge it is best to call or e-mail the Secretary: If you are interested in completing 

and submitting a petition for membership in St. Johns lodge No.1, a copy of our petition and instructions 

can be found at the at the bottom of this page 

Gilbert H. Palmer, Worshipful Master 

To Download a Membership Petition just click on the words “Membership 

Petition [pdf]” below: 

Membership Petition [pdf] 

This year,( June 2011- June 2012) marks the 275 th Anniversary of St’Johns 

Lodge No.1, F.&A.M. the oldest continuously operating Masonic Lodge in 

America. Beginning this spring, a serious of special events will be held to 

commemorate this landmark anniversary. Please click onto the Link above for 

information on “all things” relating to our 275 th Celebrations. 

This photo was sent by; Secretary: W. Bro. Bob Alderson of Two mountains Lodge 

#122 Quebec, 12 th April 2005. The Tamworth Travelling Gavel being presented into 

Lodge St. John’s 21A, Ontario, Canada, to their Worshipful Master – W. Bro. 

David Peate, on the left by Rt. W. Bro. Neil macDonald of Two mountains Lodge 

on the Right. 


Gilbert H. Palmer, 

Secretary: 

Robert Sutherland Jr. 

E-mail: Robert7615@aol.com 

Tel.: (603) 436-1095 


Just a quick note to advise you that last night, April 5, we received the Travelling Gavel that commenced in 

Lodge Tamworth in 1993 in New South Wales, Australia. We received it from the 

Lodge of Two Mountains # 122 Grand Registry of Quebec, our full lodge name is St. John’s Lodge, number 

21a, of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Canada in the Province of Ontario. Our 

Grand Master is Most Worshipful Donald H. Mumby. 

Our secretary is Bro. Charles Simpkin

107 

Our Lodge is located in Vankleek Hill, Ontario which is situated approximately half way between Montreal, 

Quebec, Canada and Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. 

I will write you a longer, more detailed letter in the coming days, with the help of our secretary, Wardens and 

Historian. It is our intent to deliver the Gavel to Messina Lodge #519, Grand Lodge of New York meeting in 

Massena, 

New York. Messina is just across the Canadian border from Cornwall, Ontario, about 1.5 hours from Vankleek 

Hill, south-west. We have an annual fraternal exchange with the brethren of #519 and this will provide a 

centrepiece for that visit. 

As an aside, expect an email from our Jr. Warden, W. Bro. Shirley Howes who was most interested to see your 

surname and see if you have a common ancestry. I believe there is a Howes of his line in Australia, as there are 

also Peates in Australia that I’m told are related to me included descendents of a wife or mistress of Nelson 

when he was governor of Australia. 

W. Bro. David Peate, 

WM, St. John’s 21a, AF&AM, GRC 

I don’t really know who was the Worshipful Master about the time that this Gavel was in this Lodge, I have 

three names listed. 

In regards of W. Bro. Shirley Howes mentioned above, he thought that he may be related to me here in 

Australia, however, even though our Grand Parents came from England, both his and my father’s families had 

fourteen (14) children, however both families were not related, or at least, that we know of. 

Letter dated 18 th April 2005 

G’day mate! (I bet you get sick of hearing that. We did present the Gavel (Tamworth # 2) to Messina 519 last 

week and they were tickled pink. In fact l will attach a picture from that presentation. They intend to present the 

gavel to their Grand Lodge in July!! That would be the Grand Lodge of New York. John Alden, the receiving 

Master is copied on this email so you have his address also. 

The two pictures are: Tamworth and Messina visit in the Tamworth picture is me (the tall one on the right 

without the hat and R. W. Bro. John Aiden WM of Massena 519, Grand Lodge of NY. In the foreground is 

Brother Andrew Ciastek who is our JD and was the Gavel carrier for the night. The Massena visit file has our 

full party of visitors which included RW Bro. Norm Allingham (on the right in full regalia) the District Deputy 

Grand Master (DDGM) of Ottawa District 1; beside him is VW Bro. Ken Butters, Grand Organist, RW Bro. Bill 

Sylvestre (in regalia on the right centre) DDGM of Eastern District (St.John’s district), W. Bro. Dan Blackadder, 

our piper and a host of other notables. I’m the tail guy at the back. The short (and he would say handsome) guy 

near the front is Charlie Deacon, our SW. On the far 

right back is W. Bro. Bob Alderson who initiated 

bringing the gavel from Lodge of Two Mountains 

GRQ to us a week before our visit. Near the back 

on the left is RW Bro. Wes Libbey Past DDGM from 

last year of Eastern District. 

Greetings from all your friends across on the other 

side of the world please pass the fraternal greetings of 

St. Johns 21a to all your brethren. 

David Pcate, P.Eng, CMC 

TDVGlobal · 

d.peate@tdvglobal.com 

Left: ~ Bro. Andrew Ciastek JD of Lodge St. John’s 21A 

Middle: ~ Rt. W. John Alden WM of Massena Lodge # 519 G/Lodge of New York 

Right: ~ W Bro. David Peate W/Master of Lodge St John’s 21A

108 

MESSINA LODGE # 519 

Grand Lodge of Free and accepted Masons of 

NEW YORK 

* RW. Bro. Norm Allingham (on the right in full 

regalia) The District Deputy Grand Master 

(DDGM) of Ottawa District 1, 

* Beside him is V W. Bro. Ken Butlers, Grand Organist. 

* RW. Bro. Bill Sylvester (in regalia on the right centre) 

DDGM. of eastern District (St. 

John’s District 

* W. Bro. Dan Blackadder, our piper and a host of other 

notables. 

* W. Bro. David Peate. ~ The tall guy at the back 

* The short guy near the front is Charles Deacon. 

* Our SW, on the far right back is W. Bro. Bob 

Anderson ~ who initiated bringing the Gavel from 

Lodge of Two Mountains, GRQ to us a week before our 

visit. 

* Near the back on the left is RW. Bro. Wes Libbey Past DDGM from last year of Eastern District 

 

St. John’s Lodge No. 21 a 

Vankleek Hill; 

Ontario 


Dear W Bro. Rick Howes; 

Here are two pics with W Bro. Shirley Howes on the left 

W/Master of St. John‘s 2la, 

AF &AM, GRC, W Bro. Charles Deacon along with the beautiful 

gavel which you sent back for Shirley with W Bro. Ken Breeson. 

Thanks so very much for spending the time with Ken, and for 

thinking of Shirley. 

Best Fraternal regards, 

Chas 

W. Bro.Shirley Howes * W. Bro. Charles Deacon 

St. John’s LodgeNo.21a 

Lodge Hall 

History: 

St. John’s Lodge No. 21a, G.R.C. is the oldest Lodge in The Eastern District of the Grand Lodge of 

Canada in the Province of Ontario. It was Instituted by the Grand Lodge of Ireland as St John’s No. 159 

I.R. on March 15th, 1844, and was present at the founding convention of the Grand Lodge of Canada at 

Hamilton Ontario in 1855 , but did not formally join G.R.C. until 1888. St. John's was the last of the “Irish 

Lodges” to join the Grand Lodge of Canada. It should be noted that St. John’s had requested that it be 

given No. 7a, 8 or 8a as representative of its’ age. The number 21 was the lowest number available at the 

time, the previous holder of that number having gone into darkness. The number 21a was therefore issued . 

Significant Dates in the History of St. John's 21a 

March 16, 1844. 

Initial charter issued to St. John’s Lodge # 159 under the auspices of the Grand Lodge of Ireland. Meetings 

were held at Bro. C. Ouimet’s hotel in Hawkesbury. 

February 18, 1846. 

Following reorganization, the meetings were moved to Bro. Robinson’s house at pleasant Corners where 

they met regularly until 1853.

109 

October 14, 1853. 

It was resolved to relocate the Lodge to Vankleek Hill. 

1856. 

It was resolved to construct a building which was completed in 1860 and located on the west side of John 

Street just South the corner of what is now County Road 10. 

April 29, 1870. 

It was resolved to sell the property to Bro. R.W. Lendrum for the sum of £50.By December 2nd the Lodge 

was renting premises from James Stewart (innkeeper) across the street at the southeast corner of Main and 

John Streets. 

June 24, 1871. 

The lodge was relocated to the home of James O’Brien where, with permission from the Grand Lodge of 

Ireland, communication would be held in alternate years. During this period there was intense pressure to 

have St. John’s Lodge come under the wing of the Grand Lodge of Canada. 

March 14, 1872. 

At this time R.W. Bro. Barbour, D.D.G.M. of Ottawa District, G.L.C. ruled that Lodges under his 

jurisdiction were not to admit as visitors, members of St. John’s Lodge and the secretary was directed to 

communicate with the Grand Lodge of Ireland. The discussions, motions, and counter motions as to which 

Grand lodge to belong to were to continue for many more years. 

1873. 

The Lodge moved into the Lodge Hall at L’Orignal and in 1874 the building was leased from John Miller. 

November 26, 1887. 

After many surrenderings of the warrant and reversals, the following was passed. “Resolution passed 8-2 

that the present warrant be surrendered and come under the Grand Lodge of Canada... It was also resolved 

to move to Vankleek Hill.” 

December 27, 1887. 

Last Meeting under the Irish Charter, held at L’Orignal.Ontario. 

December 18, 1888. 

R.W. Bro. David Taylor and other Grand Lodge of Canada officers were received with grand honours and 

warrants were exchanged. 

1891-1930. 

The Lodge moved several times within Vankleek Hill, from the Orange Hall to McCallum Hall in 1898. 

Special meetings were sometimes held in Hawkesbury. The Lodge moved to Farmers block in 1910 and 

finally to the present location in 1930. 

1984. 

The Lodge purchased the present building from the Bank of Nova Scotia and transferred the property to 

the Town of Vankleek Hill in return for a 99 year lease. The building now houses the Champlain Public 

Library on the main floor with the lodge and banquet rooms on the second level. 

September 2004 

St John’s held a gala 160th anniversary dinner where the guest of honor was M.W. Bro. Donald H. 

Mumby, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario.

110 

Ontario Grand Lodge 

Welcome to the 

Masonic Lodges of Eastern District 

Eastern District is located in the extreme South-eastern sector of the Province of Ontario, Canada. Our District is 

one of 44 Districts within the Grand Registry of the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario (G.R.C). 

Eastern District is comprised of 15 Lodges totalling approximately 800 members. We hope that whether you are 

a Mason, non Mason or a prospective Mason, you will find these pages interesting and informative. 

 

Information about Vankleek Hill, Ontario: 

Vankleek Hill is a community in Champlain township in eastern Ontario, situated south 

of Hawkesbury on Highway 34. This agricultural based community became a thriving community in the 1890s 

and still retains many of the buildings and structures which were present then. This is reflected in the fact that 

Vankleek Hill is the Gingerbread (the wood carvings on the eaves of one’s roof) capital of Ontario. 

It was named after Simeon Vankleek, a United Empire Loyalist, who settled here near the end of the 18 th 

century. The town has a population of 1,996 and the local newspaper is The Review. [1] The name of the local 

hockey team is the “Vankleek Hill Cougars.” Vankleek Hill also has a soccer league, the Champlain Soccer 

League, and takes part in the Glengarry Soccer League. There is also a competitive hockey league for girls and 

women called the Hawkesbury/Champlain Girls Hockey Association. 

Vankleek Hill is currently home to a community garden, which has two acres of organically-grown produce 

being harvested by residents within a few steps from Main Street. The town has one set of traffic lights, 9-hole 

golf course, golf driving range, parks, arena and a fair ground. 

In recent years, the town has become the home of Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company, an award-winning 

microbrewery that supplies pubs, restaurants, and LCBOs throughout Eastern Ontario. 

This small town in 2011 had a population of 1,833 

Wikipedia 

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Over the last three years this Travelling Gavel has been presented into 43 Lodges including 

Massena Lodge # 519, which is in New York USA 

Canadian Cheap Economy Flights 

to 

New York

111 

NEW YORK – USA 

Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons 

of the State of New York 

www.nymasons.org/ 

M W Edward R Trosin, Grand Master of Masons in the State of New York 

Received this Travelling Gavel 

2 nd May 2005 

At the 224 th Annual Communication in the Grand Lodge 

Masonic hall located at 

71 West 23 rd Street New York NY 10023 USA 

Grand Secretary: Rt. W. Gilbert Savitzky 

2005 

New York Grand Lodge History: 

Written by Office of the Grand Secretary of New York 

The Grand Lodge of the State of New York has a long history dating back over 228 years and is the governing 

body of Freemasonry in the State of New York. Like many organizations Masons elect their leaders. The Grand 

Lodge of the State of New York is headed by the Grand Master who is aided by a team of officers both elected 

and appointed. 

The Grand Lodge of the State of New York acts as the coordinating body for many functions undertaken 

throughout the state. Its various committees organize blood drives, Child ID programs and charitable events 

around New York. 


The Grand Lodge of New York was organized on December 15, 1782 under a Provincial Grand Warrant 

dated September 5, 1781 from the “Athol” or modern Grand Lodge of England. Our Grand Lodge declared its 


New York.” 

As early as the mid 1730’s Freemasonry was present in the American colony of New York. Daniel Coxe was 

appointed by the Duke of Norfolk as Provincial Grand Master for the provinces of New York, New Jersey and 

Pennsylvania. As no authenticated records exist of his tenure as Provincial Grand Master it seems doubtful that 

he exercised any authority in Masonic 111entioned111. 



years. 










everyday people through their many philanthropic 111entioned111. 



Chancellor Robert R. Livingston Library and Museum in New York and Utica; the Masonic Youth Camp at

112 


Brotherhood Fund Drive. 

The Grand Lodge of New York is one of 29 independent organizations of Freemasons in the U.S. state of New 

York. It was at one time the largest grand lodge in the world in terms of membership. 

The Grand Lodge is over 220 years old, having been founded December 15 th 1782. GloNY acts as the 

coordinating body for many functions undertaken throughout the state. Its various committees organize blood 

drives, the New York Masonic Safety Identification Program – (NYMSIP) and charitable events around New 

York. The GloNY has jurisdiction over approximately 60,000 Freemasons, organized in more than 800 Lodges, 

most of them located within New York State. 

------:------ 


14 Th April 2005 

Massena Lodge No. 513 

Address 

90 1/2 Main Street PO Box 8 

Massena, 

New York 13662 

Massena Lodge number 513 Grand Lodge of New York, F & AM 

Located in Massena New York USA 

Lodge Tyles at 7.30pm ~ 2 nd & 4 th Tuesdays Dark in July & August 

Massena Lodge History 

(Click here) 

Dan Buckley 

buckley@usadatanet.net 

My name is Dan Buckley, I am the J W in Massena Lodge #513, Massena New York USA, our Lodge was the 

most recent recipient of your Travelling Gavel. I realize that you may have already received an email from 

our secretary but I felt compelled to drop you a note myself as next month I will be travelling to our annual 

Grand Lodge meeting in New York City and I have been given the honour and pleasure of presenting this 

Gavel to the M W Edward R Trosin, Grand Master of Masons in the State of New York and will be making 

this presentation in front of several thousand of our Brethren. It would be most helpful to me if you could 

provide a little information as to how and why the idea for this travelling gavel came about and any other 

information you deem pertinent. 

Here is the information you requested: 

2. Worshipful Master R W John Alden 

3. Secretary Bro. James Boyce PO Box 8 Massena, NY 13662 USA Phone # 315-769-7073 

4. Gavel Received from St. Johns Lodge 21A Vankleek, Hill, ON CA on April 4 th 2005 

5. Gavel will be presented by Bro. Dan Buckley, J W Massena 513, to M W Edward R. Trosin, Grand 

Master of the State of NY, on May 2 nd 2005 at the 224 th Annual Communication in the Grand Lodge 

Masonic Hall located at 71 West 23 rd Street New York, NY 10023 USA 

6. Massena lodge is located on Main Street in Massena, New York, USA http://www.massena.ny.us/ 

and currently Have 164 members. Our lodge saw its largest membership during the 1950’s when many men, 

who were already Operative Masons, moved to the area to take part in the construction of the St Lawrence 

Seaway and the Massena Locks and joined our lodge. Today Massena is home to General Motors Power train 

Division and ALCOA (the Aluminium Corporation of America).Massena is located on the beautiful St 

Lawrence River in Northern New York State approximately 395 mile north of New York City and 45 miles 

south of Ottawa Ontario, Canada.

113 

Subject: Travelling Gavel in New York 

Bro Rick, you may be interested in this piece of news. Kind regards Juan Alvarez 

TRAVELING GAVEL 

The Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, Bro. Edward R. Trosin received a “Traveling 

Gavel“, on May 2 nd , 2005. The Gavel, which originated in 1993 in Australia, has been travelling all around the 

world. 

On May 3 rd 2005, the New York Grand Master presented this travelling Gavel to the District Grand 

Lodge of Syria-Lebanon, District Grand Master,.Noureddine Kabbani to bring with him to Lebanon to 

pass on to another lodge. 

For a short period the gavel was on display in the temple of Syria-American Lodge No. 1. Later in May the 

District Grand Master Kabbani, presented this gavel, in the name of Grand Master Trosin, to Totos 

Theodossiou, the District Grand Master of the District Grand Lodge of Cyprus (under the United Grand Lodge 

of England). This presentation was made during their Annual Communication in Limassol (which was also their 

Silver Jubilee). (Source: Grand Lodge of New York News Release) 

28/07/2005 

A little bit of information about; 

Massena is a town in St. Lawrence County, New York, United States. Massena is located on the northern 

Canadian border of the county. The population was 12,883 at the 2010 census. [1] The town of Massena contains 

a village also named Massena. The town and its village are named after André Masséna, a general and Marshal 

of France during the Napoleonic Wars. 

------:------ 

The Tamworth Travelling Gavel having left the shores of Australia, which then travelled to England, then to 

U.S.A., and Canada, has once again travelled overseas, which has now arrived in Syria-Lebanon on its 43 rd 

move 

 

SYRIA – LEBANON 

Syria Flag 

Labanon Flag 

SYRIA ARAB REPUBLIC 2005 

Area ~ 185, 200 sq km / 71, 506 sq ml ~ Capital, Damascus ~ Language ~ Arabic ~ Currency ~ Syria Pound ~ 

Population ~ 17, 585, 540 ~ 

Religions ~ Sunni Muslim ~ Physical features ~ Mountains alternate with fertile plains and desert areas 

Imports ~ crude petroleum, wheat, metal products, foodstuffs, machinery, motor vehicles 

Exports: Textiles, vegetables, fruit, cotton. Phosphate 

Lebanon lies at the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea, north of Israel and west of Syria. It is four-fifths the 

size of Connecticut. The Lebanon Mountains, which run parallel to the western coast, cover most of the country, 

while on the eastern border is the Anti-Lebanon Range. Between the two lies the Bekaa Valley, the principal 

agricultural area. 

The Travelling Gavel was presented to the District Grand Lodge 

of Syria-Lebanon, 

District Grand Master, MW. Noureddine Kabbani 

District Grand Secretary ~ Leon Zeitounalian PGM. 

Email ~ nzleo@inco.com.lb

114 

Number of Lodges in Lebanon – 12 

Year of first Chartered Lodge in Lebanon – 1924 

Website: http://www.nymasons.org/ 

Lodges meet in: Beirut, Tripoli, Amioun, Baakline, Zahle 

Languages: Arabic, English (Beirut), Armenian (Beirut), French (Beirut) 

Grand Lodge of State of District of Columbia 

Lodges in Lebanon 

Phoenix Lodge N° 1001 

Freemasons Hall – Al Fanar, Beirut 

http://www.dcgrandlodge.org/ 

The Masonic Service Association of 

North America 

Emessy Notes ~ June 2005 

TRAVELLING GAVEL 

The Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of New York, Bro. Edward R. Trosin received a “Travelling Gavel” on 

May 2 nd 2005. The Gavel which originated in 1993 in Australia has been travelling around the world. 

On May 3 rd 2005 the New York Grand Master presented this Travelling Gavel to the District Grand Lodge of 

Syria-Lebanon, District Grand Master, and Noureddine Kabbanl to bring with him to Lebanon to pass onto 

another Lodge. 

For a short period the Gavel was on display in the Temple of Syria-American Lodge No. 1. Later in May the 

Grand Master, the District Grand Master Kabbanl, presented this Gavel in the name of Grand Master Trosin, to 

Totas Theodossiou, the District Grand Master of the District Grand Lodge of Cyprus (under the United Grand 

Lodge of England).This presentation was made during their annual communication in Limassol (which was also 

their Silver Jubilee), (Source: Grand Lodge of New York News release. 

FlLMlNG THE STARS 

A Touch tones Picture feature film, Hitchhiker’s guide to galaxy, opened in movie theatres at the end of April. 

Lts significance to Masons?. Some Scenes were filmed at Freemasons Hall in London. 

John Malkovich plays the role of Humma Kavula, a character from another planet. The London building is 

featured as Humma kavula’s Temple and one of the Lodge rooms is his office. The Grand Masters Throne 

appears in some scenes. 

Hitchhiker’s Guide was written by Douglas Adams as a BBC radio series in 1978. Lt 

was then transformed into a novel, a television series, and several stage adoptions. Adams died in 2001 while 

working on the screenplay for the feature film version. 

(Source Footnotes- The Northern Light May 2005) 

FLAG DAY is JUNE 14 th 

FREEMASONS lN IRAQ

115 

Some Masons from North Carolina who are on Military duty in Iraq desert. Masons from other states have also 

been participating. The effort is organized by Sam Lee, who was serving as Master of Hiram Lodge No. 40 

(North Carolina) when he was dispatched to Iraq by the military. 

The transplanted Masons do not confer degrees or conduct business, but the meetings provide an outlet for men 

with a common interest. The group presents educational programs and shares personal accounts of Freemasonry. 

(Source” Footnotes- The Northern Light- May 2005) 

The Grand Lodge of Nebraska has instituted a program for Brethren in the military deployed outside the United 

States, the program features a Lodge in “A Briefcase, and is called a Swisher Kit, named in honour of S.Sgt 

Christopher Swisher, a member of Lincoln Lodge #19, Lincoln, NE, was killed in action in Baghdad on October 

9 th 2005 issue of Emessay Notes, 

(Source: Emessay Notes — January 2005 

The Grand Lodge of New York approved forming a Lodge, U.D. in Iraq at the Grand Lodge session in May 

2005. Further details will be given to our readers in the future issue of Emessay Notes. (Source: Grand Lodge of 

New York) 

WHY MASONIC RITUAL IS REGARDED SO IMPORTANT? 

Truth may be taught without ritual, but truth taught by ritual is always taught as the original teaches desired and 

makes a lasting impression upon the mind of the learner. 

Man has always devised ceremonies of initiation for his organizations; the Men’s House of the lndiuans had 

them; savage tribes bring their young men officially to manhood by rites which are sometimes rather terrible; 

ancient religions admitted to the temple only those who could quality by successfully completing a course of 

initiation; many modern churches- especially those denominated “high”- have set forms of for religious 

worship; crafts and guilds of all kinds in all ages have had certain preparatory rites. 

A ritual which becomes sacrosanct in human belief tends to stabilize truth and keep it “uncontaminated by 

“modern” ideas. Many a man has thought he could “improve” the ritual of Freemasonry. None has succeeded in 

making better that which was already “best” since it’s consent was and is living, breathing, sentient truth, 

conveyed in words, actions and symbols which by their antiquity prove that they are “best” for the purpose. 

Dr. Joseph Fort Newton, loved teacher of the spiritual aspects of Freemasonry, said, “Ritual” is the 

dramatization of belief hope and spiritual dream. Lt assists imagination by giving form to what otherwise remain 

formless, presenting vivid mental images which lend a reality-feeling to what is often abstract and unreal lt is 

picture philosophy, truth visualized, at once expressing and confirming the faiths and visions of the mind” 

District Grand Lodge of Syria-Lebanon 

(Under the Jurisdiction of The Grand Lodge of the State of New York) 

Address: Leon Zeltounallan. The District Grand Secretary (PDGM), P. O. Box 45 – 424, 

Hazmieh, Lebanon. 

Telephone: (961 1) 261706 or 260030. Fax: (961 1) 260031. 

Email: leonz@inco.com.lb (Past Grand Master, District Grand Secretary) 

SHORT HISTQRY QF DISTRICT GRAND LQDGE SYRlA-LEBANON 

The Grand Lodge of New York chartered The District Grand Lodge of Syria-Lebanon in 1956. It was originally 

planned to be the basis for a future regular Grand Lodge for the country and by 1960 it had most Lebanese 

masons under its banner. However, schisms, and a subsequent proliferation of spurious “Grand Lodges” meant 

this aim was never realized. Nevertheless, the majority of Masons in Lebanon remained regular either under 

either New York or Scottish allegiance. There is no move for these bodies to form an 

Indigenous Grand Lodge, and risk possibility irregularity.

116 

The first New York chartered lodge was the Syrio-American Lodge # 1, formed in 1924 by returning American- 

Lebanese immigrants, lt was followed by New York Lodge # 2 in the same year. Several further lodges were 

erected prior to World War ll. After the war, Turbol Lodge # 9 was erected in 1949, Lebanon Lodge # 10 in 

1955, and Ani Lodge # 11 in 1960. A research lodge, Veritas, was chartered in 1993. With the exception of one 

Lodge originally erected in Syria, all New York chartered lodges in its Syria-Lebanon District (ten in total) have 

operated in recent times. 

During the Lebanese Civil War (1975 – 1991), most lodges became dormant, although at least Syrio-American 

lodge # 1 and Ani Lodge # 11 continued to meet intermittently. All the New York lodges revived subsequent to 

the civil war. Presently, ten of the New York lodges are operating. Ln 2004 all the Lodges in the District raised 

30 brethren, affiliated 3, unaffiliated 5. Ln addition, there are 15 new Entered Apprentices who are in the 

process of being either passed or raised during 2005. Today the average age of the Brethren in the lodges is 38 

years old. Despite difficulties, the District is working towards building a new Masonic Centre. 

The Ten Regular Lodges, In the District Grand Lodge of SyrIa-Lebanon that presently 

operating are: 

1. Syrio·Amerlcen Lodge # 1 operates in English, in American Temple Lodge, in Beirut. 

2. New York Lodge # 2 operates in Arabic, in American Temple Lodge, in Beirut. 

3. Fakhruddln Lodge # 3 operates in Arabic, in Beirut. 

4. Soulelman Lodge # 5 operates in Arabic, in Amioun, North Lebanon. 

5. Chou! Lodge # 6 operates in Arabic, in Baaklin. 

6. El Berdawni Lodge # 7 operates in Arabic, in Zahie, Bekaa Valley. 

7. El Mad Lodge # 8 operates in Arabic, in Beirut. 

8. Turbol Lodge # 9 operates in Arabic, in Tripoli, North Lebanon. 

9. Anl Lodge # 11 operates in Armenian, in Beirut. 

10. Three Pillars Lodge # 12 operates in French, in Beirut. 

Five Scottish lodges, operation under the Jurisdiction of The Grand Lodge of Scotland, had survived in 

Lebanon. Those surviving were: Peace Lodge # 908 (founded 1900, at Beirut); Kadisha Lodge # 1002 (1906, at 

Beirut); Zahle Lodge # 1047 (1908, at Zahle); El Mizab Lodge # 1130 (1914, at Tripoli); and Mount Lebanon 

Lodge # 1312 (1923, at Beirut). The three lodges in Beirut met at Peace Lodge Building, Beshara Street, Beirut. 

With the arrival of the Lebanese Civil War in 1975, the Scottish lodges found continuance impossible and all 

five became dormant. The Peace Lodge Building was badly damaged in the war it was restored ln fall of ZQ4. 

Since the cessation of the civil war in 1991, three of the five Scottish lodges have re- commenced work, and it is 

hoped the remaining two will do so in the future. 

The 3 working Scottish Lodges in Lebanon are the following: 

1. Peace Lodge # 908 Meets at Peace Lodge Building, Beshara Street, Beirut; 1 st & 3 rd Fridays, October to June, 

at 7.00pm. (P. O. Box 113-5806, Beirut) 

(2) Zahle Lodge#1047 Meets in Zahle Lodge # 1047 Temple, Tarshish Road, Zahleh; 2 nd & 4 th Saturdays, 

March to November, at 7.00pm. 

3. El-Mlzab Lodge # 1130 Meets in Freemasons’ Building, St. Elie Street, El-Mina, Tripoli; 2 nd & 4 th Tuesday, 

October to June, at 6.00pm. (P. O. Box 2598, El-Mina, Lebanon) 

lt is worthwhile to note that there is very cordial relationship in-between all the Lodges in the District Grand 

Lodge of Syria-Lebanon and the three Lodges under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, based on 

brotherly love and mutual respect. 

Ln conclusion, there are only 13 Regular Lodges in Lebanon. 10 Lodges in the District Grand Lodge of Syria- 

Lebanon, working under the Jurisdiction of The Grand Lodge Of New York, and 3 Lodges working under the 

Jurisdiction of The Grand Lodge Of Scotland, all visitors to Lebanon must take note of this and act accordingly. 

Fraternally, _ 

Leon Zeitounalian PGM 

District Grand Secretary 

District Grand Lodge Syria-Lebanon

117 

Please find attached new information about the Travelling Gavel. 

If you have any questions, please don‘t hesitate to ask. 

Fraternally, 


leonz@inco.com.ib 


District Grand Lodge Syria-Lebanon 

Under the Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of New York. 

P. O. Box 45 – 424, Hazmieh, Lebanon. 

Zeitounalian Bld., Armenia St., Bourj-Hammoud, Secateurs 2, Rue 12, lmm.50. 

Beirut, Lebanon. 

Fax: 961 -1-260031 * Tel: 961 -1-261706 * 260030, 260031* (03) 623181. 

Syria’s relations with the Arab world were strained by its support for Iran during the Iran– 

Iraq War, which began in 1980. With the end of the war in August 1988, Syria began a slow 

process of reintegration with the other Arab states. In 1989, it joined with the rest of the 

Arab world in readmitting Egypt to the 19 th Arab League Summit at Casablanca. 

This decision, prompted in part by Syria’s need for Arab League support of its own position in 

Lebanon, marked the end of the Syrian-led opposition to Egypt and the 1977–79 Sadatinitiatives toward Israel, 

as well as the Camp David Accords. It coincided with the end of the 10-year Arab subsidy to Syria and other 

front-line Arab countries pledged at Baghdad in 1978. Syria re-established full diplomatic relations with Egypt 

in 1989. In the 1990–1991 Gulf War, Syria joined other Arab states in the US-led multinational coalition against 

Iraq. In 1998, Syria began a slow rapprochement with Iraq, driven primarily by economic needs. Syria continues 

to play an active pan-Arab role, which has intensified as the peace process collapsed in September 2000 with the 

start of the second Palestinian uprising (Intifada) against Israel. Though it voted in 117entio of UNSCR 1441 in 

2002, Syria was against coalition military action in Iraq in 2003. However, the Syrian government 

accepted UNSCR 1483 (after being absent for the actual vote), which lifted sanctions on Iraq and established a 

framework to assist the Iraqi people in determining their political future and rebuilding their economy. 

Lebanon 

Syria plays an important role in Lebanon by virtue of its history, size, power, and economy. Lebanon was part 

of Ottoman Syria until 1926. The presence of Syrian troops in Lebanon dates to 1976, when President Hafez Al- 

Assad intervened in the Lebanese civil war on behalf of Maronite Christians. Following the 1982 Israeli 

invasion of Lebanon, Syrian and Israeli forces clashed in eastern Lebanon. The late U.S. Ambassador Philip 

Habib negotiated a cease-fire in Lebanon and the subsequent evacuation of PLO fighters from WestBeirut. 

However, Syrian opposition blocked implementation of the May 17, 1983 Lebanese-Israeli accord on the 

withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon. Following the February 1984 withdrawal of the UN Multinational 

Force from Beirut and the departure of most of Israel’s forces from southern Lebanon a year later, Syria 

launched an unsuccessful initiative to reconcile warring Lebanese factions and establish a permanent cease-fire. 

Syria actively participated in the March–September 1989 fighting between the Christian Lebanese Forces and 

Muslim forces allied with Syria. In 1989, Syria endorsed the Charter of National Reconciliation, or “Taif 

Accord”, a comprehensive plan for ending the Lebanese conflict negotiated under the auspices of Saudi Arabia, 

Algeria, and Morocco. 

At the request of Lebanese President Hrawi, the Syrian military took joint action with the Lebanese Armed 

Forces on October 13, 1990, to oust rebel Gen. Michel Aoun who had defied efforts at reconciliation with the 

legitimate Government of Lebanon. The process of disarming and disbanding the many Lebanese militias began 

in earnest in early 1991. In May 1991, Lebanon and Syria signed the treaty of brotherhood, cooperation, and 

coordination called for in the Taif Accord, which is intended to provide the basis for many aspects of Syrian- 

Lebanese relations. The treaty provides the most explicit recognition to date by the Syrian Government of 

Lebanon’s independence and sovereignty.

118 

According to the U.S. interpretation of the Taif Accord, Syria and Lebanon were to have decided on the 

redeployment of Syrian forces from Beirut and other coastal areas of Lebanon by September 1992. Israeli 

occupation of Lebanon until May 2000, the breakdown of peace negotiations between Syria and Israel that same 

year, and intensifying Arab/Israeli tensions since the start of the second Palestinian uprising in September 2000 

have helped delay full implementation of the Taif Accords. The UN declared that Israel’s withdrawal from 

southern Lebanon fulfilled the requirements of UN Security Council Resolution 425. However, Syria and 

Lebanon claimed that UNSCR 425 had not been fully implemented because Israel did not withdraw from an 

area of the Golan Heights called Shebaa Farms, which had been occupied by Israel in 1967, and which Syria 

now claimed was part of Lebanon. The United Nations does not recognize this claim. However, Lebanese 

resistance groups such as Hezbollah use it to justify attacks against Israeli forces in that region, creating a 

potentially dangerous flashpoint along the Lebanon-Israeli border. 

In 2005, Syrian troops withdrew from Lebanon after the assassination of Lebanese Sunni Prime Minister Rafik 

Hariri on February 14, 2005. In December 2008, The Syrian Embassy was opened in Beirut for the first time in 

history since both countries gained their Independence during the 1940s. In March 2009, Lebanon followed and 

opened its Embassy in Damascus. On 19 December 2009, Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Al-Hariri visited 

Syria, and stayed in Damascus for 3 days meeting with President Bashar Al-Assad & breaking the ice between 

the two sides. 

The article above about Syria-Lebanon, was copied from. 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 

TRAVELING GAVEL 

ln 1993, W. Bro. Richard (Rick) Howes of Wyong Lodge No. 247, in New South Wales, Australia, designed 

and crafted a Gavel and named it “Travelling Gavel”, made from Silver Ash and Australian Red Cedar and 

came with a Marabou Block Base 

This gavel was crafted with the intention that it should travel around the world for the sake of the Universality 

of Masonry, with condition that, each lodge that receives the gavel, must fill in the booklet that is located in the 

back of the support, and engrave on one of the plates already fixed on the support the name of their lodge and 

the date they received the gavel and Lodge No. And can keep the “Travelling Gavel” in their possession no 

more than three months. 

Before it arrived in Canada on the 12 th April 2005, here is where it’s been; 

The Tamworth Travelling Gavel originally presented in 1993 

After Tamworth Lodge, New South Wales, Australia, this Gavel travelled through-out the top of NSW into 13 

Lodges, went into Queensland, (Australia) where it was presented into, 11 lodges, the last lodge was Warwick 

Lodge No. 160. On the 10 th July 1999 meeting they had a visitor from a Warwick Lodge of Warwickshire in 

England. They presented him with this Travelling Gavel, where, he took it back to England, he then presented it 

into his Warwick Lodge No. 8011. (2 nd August 1999) he then took it to New York & presented it into the 3 rd 

Warwick Lodge No.16, (10 th August 1999) then it was presented into the 4 th Warwick Lodge No.28 in Rhode 

Island. (12 th August 1999) There are 4 Warwick Lodges in the world & at the last Warwick Lodge meeting 

presentation , all 4 W/masters were present, even the one from Queensland, Australia 

The Gavel then was presented into the following number of Lodges; 

Connecticut 1 Lodge, * Massachusetts, 3 Lodges, * New Hampshire, 2 Lodges, * Vermont, 3 Lodges,* Quebec, 

(Canada), 2 Lodges, * then back to Vermont, where it was presented into, 1 Lodge, * then to Quebec again 

where it was presented into 1 Lodge, * Ontario, (Canada) 1 Lodge, * New York, 1 Lodge * 

New York Grand Lodge, * Syria-Lebanon Grand Lodge, * Cyprus Grand Lodge, * Greece Grand Lodge, and 5 

Craft Lodges, * Italy, 4 Lodges, * Belgium, 1Lodge, * France, I think 5 Lodges, * Switzerland, 1 Lodge * 11 th 

March 2010 was the last time that I have heard of about it’. 

On May 2 nd , 2005, the Worshipful Master of Massena Lodge # 513 presented the “Travelling Gavel” to our 

Grand Master. M.W.Edward Trosin. 

On May 3 rd 2005 during the annual communication of the Grand Lodge of New York, M.W. Edward Trosin 

presented the “Travelling Gavel” to the District Grand Master of District Grand Lodge of Syria-Lebanon, Rt. W.

119 

Noureddine Kabbani, so that he brings it to The Middle East. Thus, after crossing two continents, the Gavel 

came to Asia (Middle East), the third continent. The District Grand Lodge of Syria- Lebanon was the 41 st 

recipient of this “Travelling Lodge? 

On May 28, the District Grand Master of District Grand Lodge of Syria-Lebanon, R. W. Noureddine Kabbani, 

accompanied by seven Brethren from the District Grand Lodge of Syria-Lebanon, visited the District Grand 

Lodge of Cyprus, and during their Annual Communication, he presented the “Travelling GaveI” to the District 

Grand Master of Cyprus, Rt.W. Totos Theodossiou. 

Fraternally, 



District Grand Lodge Syria-Lebanon 

Under the Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of New York 

Address: 

P.O. Box 424, hazmieh, Lebanon 

Zeitounalian Bld., Armenia Street, Bourj-Hammoud, Secteur 2, Rue 12, imm.50, 

Beirut, Lebanon 

Fax: 961-1-260031, Tel: 961-1-261706, 260030, 260031, (03) 623 181 

12 th June 2005 

This is to inform you that the gavel has arrived in the District of Cyprus E.C. 

Cyprus Lodges are just going into the summer recess for two and a half months. I have been requested to give a 

short talk on the Gavel at a Lodge meeting on Tuesday 14 th June 2005. 

W. Bro. Trevor Lace. 

District G. Swd.B., Cyprus 

Secretary: Agapinor Lodge No. 8905 E. C. 

ATTENTION 

When travelling through-out Europe, for safety reasons, click onto this web-link below; 

http://smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/Index 

------:------ 

LEBANON 


3 rd May 2005 

Syria-American Lodge No. 1 

Lebanon 

The Gavel was on display in this Lodge 

Lebanon has a long Masonic history. The Grand Lodge of Scotland and the Grand Lodge of New York have 

been generally governing most of the regular lodges located in the country. The first Masonic Lodge to be 

erected in Lebanon was chartered by the Grand Lodge of Scotland in 1861 and was given the name Palestine 

Lodge No. 415. This lodge was operating in Beirut but then it became dormant in 1895. 

Four other Scottish lodges were erected in Lebanon up until the time of the First World War, but only some of 

these revived thereafter. The “Irregular” Grand Orient of France was next into Lebanon, forming a lodge in 

1869, working in Arabic. Two further lodges followed. None survived the First World War. 

Other new lodges formed before the Great War were a lodge at Beirut under the Ottoman Grand Lodge (later 

the Grand Lodge of Turkey), and a lodge under the National Grand Lodge of Egypt, erected about 1914. A 

number of other Egyptian-warranted lodges were chartered thereafter, and after the First World War these were 

formed into a District Grand Lodge. By the end of World War Two, it would seem these lodges were extinct, 

merged, or hived off into various spurious ‘Masonic’ bodies. 

The first Grand Lodge of New York-chartered lodge was the Syrio-American Lodge #1, formed in 1924 by 

returning American-Lebanese immigrants. Several further lodges were erected prior to World War II, and 

subsequently. With the exception of one lodge originally erected in Syria, all New Yorkchartered lodges in its 

Syria-Lebanon District (twelve in total) have operated in recent times. During the Lebanese Civil War, most 

lodges became dormant, although at least Syrio-American lodge No. 1 continued to meet intermittently and still

120 

exists today and is considered among the most active Lodges in the country. Since the cessation of the civil war, 

five of the five Scottish lodges have re-commenced work. All the New York lodges revived subsequent to the 

civil war and currently twelve lodges are operating in Lebanon. It is worth noting, that at one time, one 

additional mainstream lodge was chartered in Lebanon under the Grand Orient of Italy called Fraternità Italo- 

Libanse, erected at Jounieh in 1989, but this lodge lost its charter in the 1990s. 

In October 2010, the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia chartered their first lodge in Lebanon, Lodge 

Phoenix 1001 in Al Fanar, Beirut, raising the number of regular Masonic Lodges in Lebanon to 19 Lodges 

divided among three Grand Lodges: The Grand Lodge of NY (12 Lodges) Grand Lodge of Scotland (6 Lodges) 

and Grand Lodge of DC (1 Lodge). 

There exists a combination of more than 50 grand lodges in Lebanon classified as irregular and unrecognized. 

------:------ 

Syria 

Australians who choose to remain in Syria should ensure that they take into account the security environment 

before contemplating any travel in Syria. 

Australians remaining in Syria should be aware that ongoing military operations and civil disorder in Syria may 

cause land borders to neighbouring countries to close without warning. 

Road travel can be dangerous because of local driving practices and excessive speed. Outside major cities, some 

motorists drive without headlights illuminated at night. For further advice, see our bulletin on Overseas Road 

Safety. 

Travel to Iraq: We strongly recommend Australians do not travel to Iraq due to the extremely dangerous 

security situation and very high threat of terrorist attack. If you plan to go to Iraq, you should first read 

our travel advisory for Iraq. 

Airline safety 

Please refer to our travel bulletin for information about Aviation Safety and Security. 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 

CYPRUS 

Greek Republic of CYPRUS 

The Republic of Cyprus Flag 

FACTS ABOUT CYPRUS 

2005 

Turkish Republic of Northern CYPRUS ~ Only recognised by Turkey 

Area ~ 9, 251 sq km / 3, 571 sq ml * Capital Nicosia * divided between Greek and Turkish Cypriots 

Language ~ Greek, Turkish, English * Currency ~ Cyprus pound, Turkish Lira * 

Population ~ 771, 657,( 2005) * Religions ~ Greek Orthodox, Sunni Muslim * 

Physical features ~ Central plain between 2 east-west mountain rangers 

Ethnic distribution ~ 80% Greek origin, remainder Turkish who live in the north of the island * 

Exports ~ Citrus fruits, grapes, raisons, Cyprus sherry, potatoes, clothing, footwear 

The third-largest island in the Mediterranean (one and one-half times the size of Delaware), 

Cyprus lies off the southern coast of Turkey and the western shore of Syria. The highest peak is Mount 

Olympus at 6,406 ft (1,953 m). 

------:------

121 

Grand Lodge of Cyprus, A. F. & A. M. 

Freemasons Hall 

59A Onasagorou Street 

Nicosia 1011 – Cyprus 

P. O. Box 23993 

Nicosia 1687 – Cyprus 

Tel : +357 22871171 +357 22871171 / +357 22376847 +357 22376847 

Grand Lodge of Cyprus received this Travelling Gavel 


The Gavel was presented to the 

District Grand Grand Lodge of Cyprus 

To the District Grand Master, 

M.W. Bro. Totas Theodossiou, Grand Master 

In Limassoi 

2005 

http://cyprus-freemasons.org.cy/ 

Under the Grand Lodge of England 

As the District Grand Master I thank you for your interest and welcome you to this Web 

Site. Freemasons, and those who are not members of the Craft, should find something of 

interest in the following pages, particularly about Freemasonry in Cyprus. If you are 

not already a Mason you will receive 121entioned121121 about who and what we are 

and our objectives, This will assist you in deciding whether to make a serious inquiry 

about becoming a member of our Fraternity. 

At one time, it was common practice for men to think that they had to wait to be 

asked to become a Freemason. In consequence, many who may have enjoyed a 

fruitful Masonic life from earlier years made no approach and were thus denied the 

privilege of belonging to our Fraternity. This stemmed from the fact that Freemasonry 

did not go out of its way to solicit members and waited for a serious inquiry from a 

prospective candidate, perhaps madeto a friend or relation who was a Mason, before 

anything actually happened. Times have changed, and today, there is nothing wrong in a 

Freemason taking the initiative and ’sponsoring’ a new member whom he thinks will be a suitable person to 

enjoy our company and can live up to our high ideals and obligations. If you know a Freemason, who is quite 

free to acknowledge the fact, do not hesitate to ask for advice and guidance about the way forward. 

Undeniably, there are some men who become Freemasons for the wrong reasons, such as for what they believe 

will result in social or business advantages, or as insurance against misfortune. We try to avoid such applicants 

by careful scrutiny, and are mostly successful. Those in such a category who slip through the screening process, 

soon find out for themselves that Freemasonry is about giving not taking, about sharing and caring, about 

upholding the law and being a responsible member of society. Above all, it requires a belief in one God, the God 

of the individual concerned, whom we refer to as the “ Great Architect of the Universe”. 

The fact that any man of any faith, colour, creed or ethnic origin can become a Freemason shows the 

universality of our appeal. We are not and do not seek to be a religion, a pressure group to confront government, 

a self-interested benefit society or a dining club for the social elite. We do seek to inculcate in our members a 

lifestyle which is just and upright, morally responsible and law-abiding. We hope that,when a man is known to

122 

be a Freemason, he will be seen as a credit to himself, to his family and to his community in which he lives and 

works 

http://www.cyprus-freemasons.org,cy/intro.html 

13/06/2005 

History of Freemasonry in Cyprus: 

On the 20 th June 1980 at Jerusalem Street, Limassol, The District Grand Lodge of Cyprus under the United 

Grand Lodge of England was Constituted by the Pro Grand Master Most Worshipful the Right Honourable the 

Earl of Cadogan and his Officers from Grand Lodge 

There-after Very Worshipful Brother George Meikle OBE who had been Grand Inspector for fifteen years was 

installed as the first District Grand Master of Cyprus 

History of Freemasonry in Cyprus: 

Freemasonry was brought to Cyprus in 1888 by a group of 27 British Servicemen, who were already 

Freemasons and stationed at Polemidia Camp on the outskirts of Limassol. They formed the first Lodge in 

Cyprus, under the name of St. 

Paul’s Lodge No. 22’T? (Under the English Constitution.) The first members were all Servicemen but soon, 

Cypriots started to join the Craft, and in a year or two the Secretary of the Lodge and the Director of 

Ceremonies were Cypriots. It should be noted that through the efforts of St. Paul’s Lodge, the first Lodge under 

the Greek Constitution was established in 1893 to accommodate Cypriots who spoke little English in those days. 

Lord Kitchener Lodge No 3402, originally in Egypt, arrived in Cyprus in December 1955 and found a new 

home at Polemidia Camp on the outskirts of Limassol and moved to Dhekelia in January l 963. 

In subsequent years, English Constitution Lodges, namely, St. George’s, Othello, Lusignan, Apollo, Agapinor, 

Cyprus 1wIasters‘, Dionysos and King Tetlcros were consecrated 

In June 1930 the Distinct Grand Lodge of 

Cyprus was established. 

More recently in May 2006, Phoenix Lodge No 9817 E.C. and Zenon l8 Lodge No 9818 EC. Moved from the 

Greek Constitution to The English Constitution é E and under the jurisdiction of District Grand Lodge of 

Cyprus. 

In October 2009 Bellapais Lodge No. 9347 » was consecrated and in October 2010 St Hilarion Lodge No 9851 

and Peace and Harmony Lodge No. 9847 was Consecrated and in October 2010 St. Hilarion Lodge No. 9851 

and Peace and Hormony Lodge No.9852 were Consecrated. 

On 23 rd June 2011 Allegoria Lodge No...9865 was consecrated and lastly on 24 th March 2012 Lakeside Lodge 

No.9869 became the 17 th Lodge in the District. 

------:------ 

The first Lodge to receive this Travelling Gavel in Cyprus was, Othello Lodge No. 5670

123 


Othello Lodge No.5670 

Famagusta – Cyprus 

Othello Lodge N0 5670 (2013) 

Othello Lodge was consecrated on 17 th February 1938 in the most appropriate and unique premises that could 

house a Freemasons’ lodge, 'the then government of Cyprus authorized the use of the Grand Hall of the Othello 

Tower within the walls of the old city of Famagusta (which can still be seen today) for the Consecration and 

early meetings but it was rather large and eventually the lease of the Twin Churches, also within the walled city, 

was granted to the Lodge and the first meeting was held there on 5 th September 1940 

By way of explanation one of the twin churches had belonged to the Order of Knights Templar and the other to 

the Knights of St. John, later to become the Knights of Malta. 

The Twin Churches were a very special place to hold Masonic meetings, the buildings having a historical link to 

Freemasonry, allegedly having been built by the Crusaders. The Lodge celebrated 50 years of its existence in 

1988. 

The Lodge was obliged to move from Famagusta during the political upheavals of 1963 and found a new home 

sharing premises with Lord Kitchener Lodge at Dhekelia Garrison, in 1989 the Lodge_moved yet again to share 

premises in Larnaca with Kimon Lodge under the Grand Lodge of Greece. Unfortunately, this was not to be the 

last move and in 1997 it became established in the Flamingo Beach Hotel in Larnaca, It is now contemplating a 

further move to another hotel in the same area with more suitable accommodation for Masonic meetings. 

Having identified the need for a permanent Masonic home to serve the Famagusta-Larnaka areas, Othello Lodge 

has established a Building Foundation to acquire the means to build new premises and, in due time, no doubt 

other Lodges and Royal Arch Chapters may well support this venture. 

Prominent among the Lodge members is W. Bro. C.C. Riris, MBE, Past Asst. District Grand Master, Secretary 

of the Lodge for 20 years and District Grand Secretary for 16 years until 1996.The late W.Bro. Nicos Lysiotis, a 

Past Deputy District Grand Master was a highly respected and knowledgeable member of the Lodge. 

Othello Lodge is well known for the cosmopolitan nature of its membership, having Brethren from all the ethnic 

groups in Cyprus, including some noteworthy members of the Turkish community, as, of course, do most of the 

Lodges in Cyprus. ‘ 

The Lodge remained in Famagusta until it was forced to abandon the Twin Churches during the inter communal 

troubles of the early 1960,3. The churches are still standing and one of them is in use as a restaurant, aptly called 

De Molay (Jacques de Molay was the last Grand Master of the Knights Templar). A dramatic move was made to 

Dhekelia, where we shared premises with Lord Kitchener Lodge until 1989, when the Lodge moved to the 

premises of Kimon Lodge, under the Grand Lodge of Greece. 

In 1997 Othello Lodge took up residence at the Flamingo Beach Hotel, later moving to the Henipa Hotel on the 

Larnaka-Dhekelia road. Both these premises eventually proving unsuitable, we were very fortunate to obtain a 

long-term lease of part of the San Remo Hotel in Mackenzy Beach, Larnaka, where members of the Lodge and 

Chapter have constructed a beautiful temple which is a credit to Cyprus Masonry and other lodges will also 

be using this facility. 

A memorable and successful celebration of fifty years of the Lodge took place in 1988 and we look forward to 

our seventy -fifth in 2013. 

Website: San Remo Hotel 

For further information contact the Secretary W. Bro ’l. John Evans PPSGD 

Email: Othello@cyprus-freemasons.org.cy 

Phone: (00357) 24425378 

.

124 

Famagusta is a city on the east coast of Cyprusand is capital of 

the Famagusta District. It is currently under the control of the Turkish 

Republic of Northern Cyprus and the capital of its Gazimağusa District, 

whilst the international community considers it to be under 

Turkish military occupation since the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 

1974 when the predominant Greek population of the city fled their 

homes. It is located east of Nicosia, and possesses the deepest harbour 

of the island. Home to the Eastern Mediterranean University, Famagusta has a walled city popular with 

tourists and a vibrant nightlife. The Turkish army restricts all access to the once-thriving quarter of Varosha, 

which today remains uninhabited and surrounded with a barbed wire. 

Famagusta is noted to be a small fishing villiage 

Famagusta has a Castle, called the “Othello Castle” 

This castle is, aside from the Venetian walls, a second defensive fort, built by the de Lusignans in the 13 th 

Century. It was reinforced and expanded in the beginning of the 16 th century by the Venetians. According to 

Legend, this is where Cristoforo Moro, a high Venetian official in Cyprus during the years 1506-08, killed his 

beautiiiil but unfaithful wife Desdemona. The case inspired Shakespeare to write his play Othello, hence the 

present name of the castle. 

Famagusta is a city on the east coast of Cyprus and is capital of the Famagusta District. It is located in a bay 

between Capes Greco and Eloea, east of Nicosia, and possesses the deepest harbour in the island. Since the 1974 

Turkish invasion the city has resided in the de facto Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. The old tourist 

quarter of Varosha is abandoned pending a settlement of the Cyprus dispute. 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Famagusta 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 

Links to Masonic Sites 

United Grand Lodge of England Links 

United Grand Lodge of England Website: 

About UGLE 

Recognised Grand Lodges 

http://www.ugle.org.uk/ 

http://www.ugle.org.uk/about-ugle/ 

Recognised Grand Lodges worldwide 

------:------

125 

The second Lodge to receive this Travelling Gavel in Cyprus was; 


27 th June 2005 

Lord Kitchener Lodge No. 3402 EC. 

7502 Dhekelia Garrison BFPO 58 

Cyprus; 

Lodge Tyles at 6pm 

The Lodge Meets: on the 4 th Wednesday of each month, excluding * July, August and December 

The Secretary for 2013 

W. Bro. Peter van de Pol 

Phone: 9963 7285 - Email: lordkitchener@cyprus-freemasons.org.cy 

Masonic Rooms Dhekella 

Lord Kitchener Lodge No. 3402 was consecrated on 17 November 1909, in Cairo, Egypt 

and moved to Moascar in the Canal Zone in 1947. In 1955 Lord Kitchener Lodge was 

transferred to Cyprus and met at Polemedhia Camp near Limassol until it moved to Dhekelia 

Camp in January 1963. Prominent local Masons in the recent History of Lord Kitchener 

Lodge include, W. Bro. G. S. Savvides, OBE, who died in 1997, and W. Bro. FG. 

The Lodge derives its name from Field Marshal Earl Kitchener of Khartoum, who as a Subaltern. Conducted the 

first mapping survey of Cyprus in 1878.His maps are still held at Episkopi Garrison. V.W. Bro Lord Kitchener 

gave his consent to the Lodge being named after him.The Lodge continues in good health and reputation and its 

links with the military community remain strong as is reflected in the decorum and precision of its ceremonies. 

Secretary: 

Tel: +357 24 815650 

W. Bro. P.J. van de Pol PdistGSuptWks Mob: +357 99 637285 

28 Zacharia Spyrou Street Fax: +357 24 723458 

Xylotymbou 

Email: t.c.c@cytanet.com.cy 

7510 Larnaca 

Cyprus 

“Travelling Gavel” 

29 th June 2005 

Dear Sir and W. Bro Howes, 

Warmest Fraternal Greetings from the W. Master, Wardens and all the Officers and Brethren of Lord Kitchener 

Lodge No 3402, here in Cyprus. 

As you will have gathered, Lord Kitchener Lodge is the latest, proud temporary recipients of your Travelling 

Gavel; which was presented and explained at our Lodge Meeting on 22 nd June 2005. 

I was advised by a good friend, who is a Brother in Cornerstone Lodge No 178 in New York] that your Gavel 

was coming to Cyprus, via R. W. Bro Norreddine Kabbani of the Grand Lodge of Lebanon, who I met when this 

was presented to our District Grand Master R.W. Bro Totos Theodossiou in Limassol / Cyprus on Sat 28 th May 

at our Annual District of Cyprus Communication. 

As Lord Kitchener Lodge is the only Lodge here in Cyprus, holding Meetings in June, as it is too darn hot for 

some? Our Lodge was honoured to receive this last week. 

I have arranged for a ‘p1aque’ to be engraved and added, with the Name of our Lodge and our current 

W. Master – W. Bro. Reg Kidd and your gavel I will be returning – by Hand to our Cyprus District Officer next 

week for our District Grand Master to send this on its way, I believe either to Greece or South Africa.

126 

As you say, till our next happy meeting and if any of your Brethren should be coming to Cyprus [as we know 

many Brethren do, who have relatives here] please let them contact me, as we would be very pleased to receive 

and greet them at Lord Kitchener Lodge in Dhekelia / Larnaca. 

Many congratulations – and if you do not mind, we may ‘borrow’ your idea of this Travelling Gavel for our 

Centenary in 2009 

Once again with kind regards and warmest personal Greetings, fraternal Greetings, to you and all the Officers 

and Brethren of Lodge Wyong No 247 on this splendid achievement. 

W. Bro. Reg Kidd our Current Worshipful Master and from us all in Cyprus at Lord Kitchner Lodge No. 3402 

and also Othello Lodge No. 5670 

Sincerely and Fraternally; 

W. Bro. Peter J. Van de Pol 

Secretary – Lord Kitchener Lodge No. 3402 

HONORARY MEMBERS 0 

Rt. W. Bro. S. F. N. Waley, PPGM (West Kent) PDGM 

M. W. Bro. R. L. Davies OBE PGM GL/BFG 

Rt. W. Bro. Earl Kitchener of Phartoum TD DL PSGW 

W. Bro. S. G. Osborne PDSGW (Malta) 

RESIDENT MEMBERS as at lst July 2005 

In order of Seniority in the Lodge 

Members 

W. Bro. W. Hayes 

W. Bro. C.L..M. Turner 

W. Bro. G.T. Pratley 

Bro.J.S.Ashbridge 

Bro. S. J Crossman 

W. Bro. H.R.]enkins 

W. Bro. T.H. Cook 

W. Bro.J.E. Horsman 

W. Bro. P.J.D. Jackson 

Bro. R. Morrison 

Bro. T,J. Bolt 

W. Bro. B.J. Easton 

Bro. R.L. McClure 

Bro.J.M. Watt 

W. Bro. N.H.Reynolds 

W. Bro.J.B. Thompson 

Bro. T.J. Holdaway 

W. Bro. B.D. Mellor MBE 

Bro. P. Viney BEM 

W. Bro. B.R. Maxfield 

Bro. A.T.G. Stubbings 

W. Bro W.R.G. McGowan 

W. Bro. P.A.V. Bifulco 

W. Bro. R.E.W. Kidd 

Bro. W. Hampson 

Bro. L.F. Wescott 

Bro. J.D Beckett 

Bro. K.B Potter 

Bro. P. Hughes 

Bro. W.E.J. Taylor 

W. Bro. P.J. van de Pol 

Members 

Bro. P.D. Hill 

Bro. H. Cooper 

W. Bro. D. Hardy 

Bro. J.G. Robson 

Bro. W.M. Bishop BEM 

Bro. J.R. Searle 

Bro. C. Lord 

Bro. T.J. van de Pol 

W. Bro. P. Moore 

W. Bro. K.W. Ellis 

Bro. G.L. Hulme 

Bro. A.W. Fisher 

W. Bro. J.E. judd 

Bro. D.M. Briscoe 

W. Bro. G.L.Church 

W. Bro. E.J.K.Davies 

Bro. D.H.W. Stoodley 

Bro. H.W. Gardner 

W. Bro. E.S. Williams 

Bro. A. Pemberton 

Bro. D.A. Naylor 

W. Bro. M.P. Hughes 

Bro. D. Mellor 

Bro. R.A.W. Jones 

Bro. G. Bartlam 

Bro. D.P.J. Morgan 

W. Bro. R. Witherick 

W. Bro. P. Carmichael 

W. Bro. A.F‘. Flinn 

Bro. A.J..Briscoe

127 

ADDRESSES FOR CORRESPONDENCE: 

SECRETARY: W. Bro. Peter ]. Van de Pol PdistGSuptWks 

28 Zacharia Spyrou Street, Xylotymbou, 7510 Larnaca 

Fax: 24 -723458 Tel: 24 – 815650 Mobile: 99 – 637285 

Emai1: t.c.c@cytanet.com.cy & 1ordkitchener1odge@hotmai1.com 

U.K. SECRETARY: W. Bro. J. Redvers Webber PAGDC PPrSGW [Somerset] 

25 Wesley Close Taunton TA1 4YA 

Tel: +44 1823 254112 

Emai1: jredvers@g1oba1net.co.u.k 

853 rd Regular Meeting 


Worshipful Master 

W. Bro. Reg E. W. Kidd 

Immediate Past Master: W. Bro. B. D. Mellor MBE 

S.W 

J .W. 

Chaplain 

Treasurer 

Secretary 

D.C. 

Almoner 

Charity Steward 

S. D. 

J. D. 

A. D.C. 

Organist 

Assist. Sec. 

I.G. 

Steward 

Steward 

Steward 

Steward 

Steward 

Tyler 

OFFICES for the Year 2004/5 

Bro. W.M. Bishop BEM 

W. Bro. W.R.G. McGowan, DistGStdB 

W. Bro. L.H. Reynolds, PDESUGD 

W. Bro. D. Hardy 

W. Bro. P.J. van de Pol, PdistGSuptWks 

W. Bro. T.H. Cook, PAGDC Pdist JGW 

W. Bro. P. Moore, Dist Gtyler 

W. Bro. W. Hayes, Pdist SGD 

Bro. J.R. Searle 

Bro. T.J. van de Pol 

Bro. B.J. Johnson 

Bro. A.W. Fisher 

Bro. D.M. Briscoe 

Bro. G.L. Hulme 

Bro. H. Cooper 

Bro. C. Lord 

Bro. P.J. Brooks 

Bro. D.H.W. Stoodley 

Bro. H.W. Gardner 

Past Masters by Rotation 

Cyprus Freemasons – Lord Kitchener Lodge

128 

Lord Kitchener Lodge No. 3402 EC History: 

Consecrated 17 th November 1909 in Cairo Egypt 

HISTORY — In EGYPT 

On 15 th July 1909 at Maison Bonello in Cairo Egypt, a group of Brethren agreed to form a Lodge, for Military 

and Naval Brethren serving in Egypt.This as many such Brethren serving on tours of duty had little chance of 

progressing in Private Lodges. 

Rt. W. Bro. Field Marshall Earl Lord Kitchener of Khartoum gave his permission for the Lodge to be named 

after him and on 17 th November 1909 Lord Kitchener Lodge No 3402 was consecrated in the Masonic Rooms at 

Maison Bonello, Kasr El Nil in Cairo, where other Lodges, including especially Bulwer Lodge No 1068 also 

met at the time. 

W. Bro. Charles Stuart Wilson, was Installed as the 1 st W. Master on that night Rt. W. Bro. Field Marshall Earl 

Lord Kitchener of Khartoum and Rt. W. Bro. Lt. General Sir. R. Wingate accepted to become Honorary 

Members of Lord Kitchener Lodge No 3402. 

The Lodge continued to meet at Maison Bonello in Cairo with many Founder Members and Joining Members of 

Bulwer Lodge No 1068, Grecia Lodge No.1105, and United Services Lodge of Cairo No 100 [Egypt 

Constitution] 

Lord Kitchener Lodge continued to prosper in Egypt, holding Meetings, which would not be contemplated these 

days. In the first year the Lodge met 14 times, rising to 20 Lodge Meetings held during 1915. 

The Lodge met continuously during the 1914-1918 War. As many as 5 initiates were put through at one Meeting 

and similar workings were also conducted in the other Degrees. 

A considerable nurnber of Australian and New Zealand Servicemen were also permitted to Join and be Initiated. 

W. Bro A Sutton the W. Master of Lord Kitchener Lodge during the years, 1919 and 1920 conducted no less 

than 25 Emergency Meetings and Initiated a total of 63 Brethren, in addition to other degree workings. · 

The Lodge continued to prosper in Cairo and in 1923 purchased the Lodge Banner, which still hangs proudly 

today in the Lodge Rooms at Dhekelia Garrison in Cyprus. 

Other treasured mementoes of Lord Kitchener Lodge include the Original Founders Jewel of Rt. W. Bro Field 

Marshall Earl Lord Kitchener of Khartoum, which was presented to the Lodge in 1961, by the 3 rd Earl Kitchener 

of Khartoum and Broom who remains to this day, an Honorary Member of Lord Kitchener Lodge and who 

visited the Lodge in Cyprus on the occasion of the 90 th “Birthday” of the Lodge in 1999. 

In 1926 W. Bro. Brig. Gen. Wilson CB CMG the First W. Master of Lord Kitchener Lodge No 3402 was 

appointed District Grand Master for Egypt & Sudan. 

Ln1934, by approval of Grand Lodge a Dispensation was issued to allow the Installation Meeting of the Lodge 

to be changed to enable visiting Grand Officers from England to attend including the Most W. Programme 

Master Lord Ampthill GSSI GCLE and on the 17 th October Lord Ampthill became an Honorary Member of 

Lord Kitchener Lodge No 3402 

In Dec 1947 Lord Kitchener Lodge moved from Maison Bonello to the “Kitchener Hut” in Moascar, Canal 

Zone 

.The “Hut” being a converted Court Martial Centre which was duly renovated] 

Lord Kitchener Lodge continued to meet at Moascar during the troubled “Suez” times and the Brethren were 

given armed escorts to and from Moascar. In 1952 travel to / from Moascar was forbidden, but the Lodge 

continued to meet, by dispensation, in a ward of the British Military Hospital at Fayid and on one occasion in 

the Primary School. Even then, 10 regular Lodge Meetings and 3 Emergency Meetings were held as well as 

regular twice-weekly Lodges of Instruction. 

In 1954 permission was given for Lord Kitchener Lodge No 3402 to move with military personnel to Cyprus so 

ending an era of 46 years in Egypt and on the 8 th October 1955 the last Meeting of Lord Kitchener Lodge was 

held in Moascar.

129 

CYPRUS and Rt. W. Bro Field Marshall Earl Lord Kitchener and Lord Kitchener Lodge No 3402 

Cyprus was a fitting place for Lord Kitchener Lodge to come in 1955. 

In 1878 the then Lt. Kitchener of the Royal Engineers – Age 28 [following previous trigonometrical survey 

work in Palestine] came to Cyprus to undertake the First Triangulation Survey and Mapping of Cyprus, which 

work Lt Kitchener started in 1878 and completed in 1883 when he left the Island as a Captain. Lt. Kitchener as 

he was then shared lodgings in Nicosia with Lord John Kennedy another Subaltern in the Royal Scots Fusiliers. 

Lt. Kitchener acquired a passion for racing and purchased an Arab mare called “Kathleen” with which he was 

very successful, winning the Nicosia Steeplechase Cup in 1882. 

He also took up Game Shooting, though it appears did not regard himself as a very good shot, which could 

explain why he called his 3 Gun Dogs Bang Miss and Damn! 

The final Survey of the Mapping of Cyprus was published in 1882 with acknowledgement to and under the 

Direction of Captain H.H. Kitchener R.E. Director of Survey. 

A fitting ‘home coming’ then in 1955 for Lord Kitchener Lodge On 10 th December 1955 the 1 st 

in Cyprus was held at Jerusalem Street in Limassol the premises of Zenon Lodge. 

Lodge Meeting 

A new Lodge Room was built at Polemidhia Camp and after a meeting first held at the Berengaria V Village 

School on 30 th March 1957 the first of many meetings was held at the Polemidhia “Hut” Which continued until 

late 1962. 

In Jan 1963 Lord Kitchener Lodge No 3402, finally moved to Dhekelia Garrison near Larnaca (some 60 miles 

away) where the Lodge still meets and is flourishing today and preserving its Military “traditions”. 

Current Membership is over 150 with more than 60 Resident Members Meetings are held every 4 th Wednesday 

of the Month during January to June and September to November (inclusive) and welcome’s all visiting 

Brethren. 

Lord Kitchener Lodge is one of 10 Lodges in the English Constitution who currently meet in Cyprus under the 

auspices of the District of Cyprus and the United Grand Lodge of England 

Unlike many Lodges in Egypt, who lost most of their records – regalia and mementoes, following sequestration 

action by the Egyptian Government after the Suez Canal crisis and the banning of Lodge Meetings – Lord 

Kitchener Lodge is fortunate to have all its records intact. Even the original door and lodge knocker from the 

Lodge in Moa scar was brought to Cyprus. Unfortunately, the lodge door is no more, but the lodge knocker is 

still there today. 

The Lodge is now looking forward to its Centenary on 17 th November 2009 W. Bro. Peter J. Van de Pol 

PdistGSuptWks 

Secretary – Lord Kitchener Lodge No 3402 E.C. 


Information about Dhekelia; 

The Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia are two British-administered areas 

comprising a British Overseas Territory on the island of Cyprus administered as Sovereign Base 

Areas of the United Kingdom. The bases were retained by the British, under the 1960 treaty of 

independence, agreed and signed by the United Kingdom, Greece, Turkey and representatives from the Greek 

and Turkish Cypriot communities, which granted independence to the Crown colony of Cyprus. 

The bases are split into Akrotiri (Greek: Ακρωτήρι, IPA: akro ˈtiri]; Turkish: Ağrotur) which, along with 

Episkopi Garrison, comprises an area known as the Western Sovereign Base Area or WSBA) 

and Dhekelia (Greek: Δεκέλεια, IPA: e ˈke ʎa]; Turkish: Dikelya) which, along with Ayios Nikolaos, 

comprises the Eastern Sovereign Base Area or ESBA.

130 

Dhekélia is 858 kilometres (533 miles) from Paphos. www.trueknowledge.com 

Travel Advice Cyprus | Smartraveller.gov.au 

Akrotiri and Dhekelia Sovereign Base Areas indicated in pink. 

Capital: Episkopi (administrative Centre) * Official Language: English and Greek 

History: 

The Sovereign Base Areas were created in 1960 by the Treaty of Establishment, when Cyprus achieved 

independence from the British Empire.The United Kingdom desired to retain sovereignty over these areas, as 

this guaranteed the use of UK military bases in Cyprus, including RAF Akrotiri, and a garrison of the British 

Army. The importance of the bases to the British is based on the strategic location of Cyprus, at the eastern edge 

of the Mediterranean, close to the Suez Canal and the Middle East; the ability to use the RAF base as staging 

post for military aircraft; and for general training purposes. 

In 1974, following a military coup by the Greek-Cypriot National Guard attempting to achieve enosis (union 

with Greece), Turkeyinvaded the north of Cyprus, leading to the establishment of the internationally 

unrecognised Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. However, this did not affect the status of the bases, and 

despite being two of the three guaranteeing powers of the Republic of Cyprus, neither Greece nor Great Britain 

were involved in the fighting and neither has honoured the Treaty of Guarantee yet.Greek Cypriots fleeing from 

the Turks were permitted to travel through the Dhekelia base, and were given humanitarian aid. The Turkish 

advance halted when it reached the edge of the Sovereign Base Area to avoid military conflict with the United 

Kingdom. 

Economy: 

There are no economic statistics gathered for Akrotiri and Dhekelia. The main economic activities are the 

provision of services to the military, as well as limited agriculture. On 1 January 2008 Akrotiri and Dhekelia 

adopted the euro along with the rest of Southern Cyprus, despite not being part of the European Union. The 

Sovereign Base Areas are the only areas under British sovereignty to use the euro. 

As this Travelling Gavel is being presented into Masonic Lodges with-in Cyprus, the next Lodge to receive this 

Gavel was; 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 


7502 Dhekelia Garrison BFPO 58 

Information about Dhekelia; 

The Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia are two British-administered areas comprising a British 

Overseas Territory on the island of Cyprus administered as Sovereign Base Areas of the United Kingdom. The 

bases were retained by the British, under the 1960 treaty of independence, agreed and signed by the United

131 

Kingdom, Greece, Turkey and representatives from the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities, which granted 

independence to the Crown colony of Cyprus. 

The bases are split into Akrotiri (Greek: Ακρωτήρι, IPA: akro ˈtiri]; Turkish: Ağrotur) which, along with 

Episkopi Garrison, comprises an area known as the Western Sovereign Base Area or WSBA) 

and Dhekelia (Greek: Δεκέλεια, IPA: e ˈke ʎa]; Turkish: Dikelya) which, along with Ayios Nikolaos, 

comprises the Eastern Sovereign Base Area or ESBA. 

Dhekélia is 858 kilometres (533 miles) from Paphos. www.trueknowledge.com 

------:------ 

Travel Advice Cyprus | Smartraveller.gov.au 

-------:------ 


Agapinor Lodge 8905 E.C. 

Cyprus 

Named in / 1979 

Date of Warrant or Constitution / 1979 

Warrant of Constitution / 12 th September 1979 / Consecrated: 1 st December 1997 

Numeration: 1884 Onwards – 8905 

Masonic Rooms: 5 Hermes Street, paphos, Cyprus – 1979 

Venus BeCH Hotel, Kato, Paphos, Cyprus 

View Location on Map 

view locations on a map 

W Bro Trevor Lace 

Dist G. Swd B. Cyprus 

Secretary Agapinor Lodge 8905 E.C 

Secretary, for 2012 

W. Bro. David Penelrick 

Email: agapinor@cyprus-freemasons.org.cy 

Phone: +357 9929 4246Subject: Travelling Gavel. 

Agapinor Lodge was consecrated on 1 st December 1970 by R.W.Bro.Sir James Stubbs, KCVO, OSM and other 

distinguished Officers from the United Grand Lodge of England. 

The build up of expatriates in the Paphos area and the problems of travelling to attend either St. Paul’s Lodge or 

Apollo Lodge in the Lirnassol area created the demand for a new Lodge in the Western part of the Island. It took 

its name ‘Agapinor’from one of the Kings of Paphos. This being the seventh Lodge to be established in Cyprus, 

the way was open for a District to be formed... 

Agapinor Lodge shared premises in Paphos with Kinyras Lodge No.64, under the Grand Lodge of Greece, until 

1996 when it decided to move to the Venus Beach Hotel. A complete set of Lodge furnishings was 

manufactured locally and is stored in the Hotel. The move to a hotel has proven to be a convenient and 

successful solution from all points of view.

132 

On the 11th May 2000 the Dionysos Lodge was Consecrated as the Daughter of the Agapinor Lodge and on the 

1st December 2004 the Lodge celebrated its Silver Jubilee with S Brethren who were original Founders taking 

the Offices for the night that they originally held at the Consecration of the Lodge. 

The Lodge looks to the future with optimism as its nurnhers increase by each meeting. The Lodge now has a 

Royal Arch Chapter appropriately called “Agapinor’. 

Please note that The Lodge has now changed its Regular meeting Dates from 2011 onwards due to the winter 

closure Period of the Venus Beach Hotel 

12 th June 2005 

Good day to you, 

I have a couple of request to make of you, 

(1) Cyprus Lodges are just going into the summer recess for two and a half months: 

Request may we retain the gavel a bit longer so as that we can get it to visit more Lodges on the Island. 

(2) I have been asked at short notice if I will give a short talk on the Gavel at a Lodge meeting on Tuesday 

14 th June. 

Do you have a short brief you could Email me on the Gavel to help me in my hour of need? 

I very much look forward to hearing from you. 

W Bro Trevor Lace 

Dist G. Swd B. Cyprus 

Secretary: Agapinor Lodge 8905 E.C. - trevor.lace@cytanet.com.cy . 

District of Cyprus 

Agapinor Lodge was consecrated on 1 December 1979 by R.W. Bro. Sir James Stubbs, 

KCVO, OSM and other distinguished Officers from the United Grand Lodge of England. 

The build up of expatriates in the Paphos area and the problems of travelling to attend 

either St.Paul’s Lodge or Apollo Lodge in the Limassol area created the demand for a new 

Lodge in the Western part of the Island. The support and encouragement of 

R.W.Bro.G.Meikle, OBE, Grand Inspector, and Cyprus at that time and other prominent 

Brethren, including W. Bro. P.V. Zachariades, who was later to become Deputy District Grand 

Master, were key factors in the successful consecration of the new Lodge. It took its name, Agapinor, from one 

of the Kings of Paphos.This being the seventh Lodge to be established in Cyprus, the way was open for a 

District to be formed. 

Agapinor Lodge shared premises in Paphos with Kinyras Lodge No.64, under the Grand Lodge of Greece, until 

1996 when it decided to move to the Venus Beach (Five Star) Hotel. Through the good offices, dedicated 

Workmanship and generosity of Lodge Brethren, especially by W, Bro.John R. James, a complete set of Lodge 

furnishings was manufactured locally and is stored in the Hotel. The move to a hotel has proven to be a 

convenient and successful solution from all points of view. The Lodge looks to the future with optimism and 

such is the increase in membership in recent years that a daughter Lodge in the Paphos area must soon be a 

serious consideration. 

Limassol or Lemesos is the 

second-largest city in Cyprus, 

with a population of 235,056. 

It is the largest city in 

geographical size, and the 

biggest municipality on the 

island. 

Limassol was built between two ancient 

cities, Amathus and Kourion, so during Byzantine rule it was

133 

known as Neapolis (new town). Limassol’s tourist strip now runs east along the coast as far as Amathus. To the 

west of the city is the Akrotiri Sovereign Base Area, part of the British Overseas Territory of Akrotiri and 

Dhekelia. 

Ancient Amathus 

Medieval 

The history of Limassol is largely known by the events associated 

with the Third Crusade. The king of England, Richard the Lionheart, 

was travelling to the Holy Land in 1191. [3] His fiancée Berengaria 

and his sister Joan (Queen of Sicily), were also travelling on a 

different ship. Because of a storm, the ship with the queens arrived in 

Limassol. [3] Isaac Comnenus, the Byzantine governor of Cyprus, was 

heartless and cruel, and loathed the Latins. He invited the queens 

ashore, with the intention of holding them to ransom, but they wisely 

refused. So he refused them fresh water and they had to put out to 

sea again or yield to capture. When Richard arrived in Limassol and 

met Isaac Comnenus, he asked him to contribute to the crusade for 

the liberation of the Holy Land. [3] While at the beginning Isaac had accepted, he later on refused to give any 

help. Richard then chased him and finally arrested him; the entire island was therefore taken over by the Anglo- 

Normans, bringing the long Byzantine dominion of Cyprus to an end. Richard celebrated his marriage with 

Berengaria who had received the crown as queen of England in Cyprus. Richard destroyed Amathus and the 

inhabitants were transferred to Limassol. [3] 

A year later, in AD 1192, Cyprus was sold for the sum of 100,000 bezants to the Templars, rich monks and 

soldiers whose aim was the protection of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. [3] The knights enforced high taxes, in 

order to get back the money that had been given for the purchase of Cyprus. This led to the revolt of the 

Cypriots, who wished to get rid of the bond of the promise. Richard accepted their request and a new purchaser 

was found: Guy de Lusignan, a Roman Catholic from Poitou. Cyprus 

was therefore handed over to the French dynasty of the house 

of Lusignan, thus establishing the medieval Kingdom of Cyprus. 

For a period of about three centuries 1192-1489, Limassol enjoyed 

remarkable prosperity. Cyprus was characterised by its great number 

of Latin bishops. This lasted until the occupation of Cyprus by 

the Ottomans in AD 1570. Latin battalions which established 

monasteries were settled down there. The settlement of merchants in 

Cyprus and particularly in Limassol in the 13 th century led to the 

financial welfare of its inhabitants. Its harbour as a centre of 

transportation and commerce, contributed greatly to the financial 

and cultural development. 

View of Kolossi Castle built in 1210 by the Frankish military. 

Wikipedia 

Masonic Lodges in Cyprus. 

Under the U.G.L.E and District of Cyprus we currently have 10 

In Larnaca (my area) – 3 – (1) Lord Kitchener Lodge No 3402 

(2) Othello Lodge No 5670 (where as with Lord Kitchener Lodge I am also currently the Secretary) and [3] 

King Tefkros Lodge No. 9786 – consecrated in 2004, (where I am an Honorary Member having been the 

Founding Petitioning Secretary) 

In Nicosia – 2 – (1) St Georges Lodge No 3135 (who have their Centenary on 17 th March this year) and 

(2) Lusignan Lodge No 7453 

In Limassol – 2 – (1) (which is the oldest English Lodge in Cyprus) and [2] Cyprus Masters Lodge No 9655 

[where I am currently Assist Sec) 

In Paphos – 2- Lodges – (1) Agapinor Lodge No 8905 and (2) Dionysos Lodge No 9716

134 

Finally 

In Episkopi – 1- Apollo Lodge No 7886. 

We have (5) R.A Chapters – St Pauls – Othello – Apollo – Agapinor and Cyprus Principals 

We have -3- Rose Croix Chapters; 

St Barnabas No 1136 – St Lazarus No 1141 (where I am Recorder) and St Lazarus Chapter No 1142 – (I 

was Founding / Petitioning Secretary for St Lazarus and St Pauls) all 3 currently meet in Limassol, but we plan 

to re-locate St Lazarus very shortly to Larnaca. 

We also now have 

Mark Lodges -2- (i) Kypros Mark Masons Lodge No 1835 Consecrated in 2003 and just recently (2) 

St Paul’s Mark Masons Lodge No 455 – closed for some 50 years till – Re-opened in October 2005 

And Royal Ark Mariner Kypros RAM No 1835 consecrated last year. 

We do not have Knights Templar here on island – as yet –I am currently working on this! 

As the District of Cyprus – we come directly under the United Grand Lodge of England at Great Queen Street 

There is a Cyprus District Web Site www.cyprus-freemasons.org.cy – which gives more info – if there is any 

further background you would like – just let me know 

 

To: Peter van de pol 

Subject: Re: Australian Travelling Gavels, 

August 16, 2005 

The Gavel was handed over to the hands of the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Greece 

Best Regards 

Totos Teeodossiou 

Tel; ·+·357 25569155 

Fax;-l·357 25567033 

Mob;-l—357 99652224 

Email: totos@,tototheo.com.cy 

Website: www.tototheo.com 

------:------ 

I didn’t get much response by the way of letters back from Cyprus it appears that, the more I tried to get them to 

let me know about their Lodges the more that they ignored my plee, maybe they were too busy. 

Believe it or not!!! 

The Lodges that didn’t write back to me, miss out on getting their Lodge information placed into this 

International Travelling Gavel Book. 

My Travelling Gavel Project is one sure way of letting Brethren around the world know about each other as they 

journey around from Lodge to Lodge, spreading peace, goodwill, and good fellowship, not forgetting for a 

moment, of “Visitation” as each Lodges journeysthroughout their, towns, cities, states, provinces, 

counties.Their country and even other countries to represent these Travelling Gavels to the next Masonic Lodge. 

As of November 2013, this Travelling Gavel alone has been presented into, (13) Lodges in New South Wales, * 

(11) Lodges in Queensland, Australia * (1) Lodge in England * (14) lodges in America * (5) lodges in Canada 

(1) Lodge in Syria-Lebanon * (4) Lodges in Cyprus * (5) Lodges in Greece * (1) Lodge in Italy * (3) Lodges in 

Belgium * (2) Lodges in France * (1) Lodge in Switzerland * (1) Lodge in the Czech Republic. 

62 Lodges O/A throughout (13) Countries 

And is still being presented into Masonic Lodges 

Where to next – who knows?

135 

GREECE 

FACTS ABOUT GREECE 

2005 

Area ~ 131, 957 sq km / 50, 935 sq ml ~ Capital ~ Athens ~ Language ~ Greek ~ Currency ~ euro, 

formerly Drachma ~ Population ~ 10, 665, 989 * (2005) ~ 

Literacy rate ~ 98% ~ Religions ~ Greek Orthodox, Roman Catholic 

Physical features ~ Mountainous with a large number of islands including Crete, Corfu and Rhodes 

Imports ~ petroleum and petroleum products, machinery and transport equipment, chemicals and chemical 

products 

Exports ~ fruit and vegetables, clothing, mineral fuels and lubricants, textiles, iron and steel, 

Aluminium and aluminium alloys 

When travelling through-out Europe, for safety reasons, click onto this web-link below; 

http://smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/Index 

------:------ 

Cyprus Grand Lodge presented the Gavel to the 

Grand Master 

of 

Grand Lodge of Greece 

Grand Lodge of Greece 

To contact 

Greece Grand Lodge 

e-mails in general: 

Grand.Secretary@nglgreece.org 

Letter from the Senior Grand Warden of Greece 

George Vassilogeorgis 

Dear Rick & Barbara Howes 

George Vassilogeorgis 

Senion Grand Warden 

masonsgr@grandIodge.gr 

3 rd July 2006 

The Gavel has been admired around Greece by the following Lodges : 

Phoenix # 1 Or. Of Corfu 

Lodge Apollon # 98 Or. Athens 

Lodge Theodoros Kolokotronis #93 Or. Tripolis 

Lodge Demeter #123 Or. Of Eleusis 

Lodge Pharos #138 Or. Patras 

It was delivered by Bro. Theodor Panagos to Bro. Ennio Manzo, of Lodge “Tommaso Brigandi” #933 Or. 

Gallipoli under the Grande Oriente di’ Italia 

Bro Ennio Mazo will contact you soon in order to confirm the receipt of the Gavel. 

Thank You for your understanding. 

Yours Sincerely and Fraternally 

George Vassilogeorgis

136 

Greek Geography: 

Greece is situated on the Mediterranean, and is bordered to the north by Albania, the Former Yugoslav Republic 

of Macedonia and Bulgaria, and to the east by Turkey. To the east is the Aegean Sea, and to the west the Ionian 

Sea. The mainland consists of the following regions: Central Greece, Peloponnese, and Thessaly (east/central), 

Epirus (west), Macedonia (north/northwest) and Thrace (northwest). Euboea, the second largest of the Greek 

islands, lying to the northeast of the central region, is also considered to be part of the mainland region 

Travellers in Greece 

In recent years, people have been killed as a result of accidents and poor safety standards on regional buses and 

ferries. Use of reputable bus and ferry operators may reduce associated risks. 

Driving in Greece can be hazardous due to aggressive driving practices and poorly maintained roads and 

vehicles. For further advice, see our bulletin on Overseas Road Safety. 

A valid Australian driver’s licence and an international driver’s licence are both required to legally operate a 

vehicle in Greece. Drivers’ licences should be valid for the type of vehicle being driven, including for ‘quad’ 

motorbikes, mopeds, scooters and other similar motorised transport. If you do not possess a licence that permits 

you to drive motor bikes in Greece, your insurer may invalidate your claim in the case of an accident. 

When travelling by motorcycle or motor scooter, both the operator and any passengers must wear a helmet. 

Failure to do so could invalidate your travel insurance if you are involved in an accident, and is also illegal. 

Airline safety 

Please refer to our travel bulletin for information about Aviation Safety and Security 

------:------ 


Lodge Phoenix #1 

Kerkira [Corfu], Greece 

1818 

Meets: 2 nd & 4 th Monday October to May, 2 nd Monday June 

As I wasn’t sent any information about Lodge Phoenix #1 and I couldn’t find anything on the Internet, it is the 

first of the five Lodges in Greece that didn’t write back to me. 

Information about Corfu: 

Corfu is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea. It is the second largest of the Ionian Islands, and, including its small 

satellite islands, forms the edge of the northwestern frontier of Greece. The island is part of the Corfu regional 

unit, and is administered as a single municipality. The municipality includes the island Corfu and the smaller 

islands Ereikoussa, Mathraki and Othonoi. The principal city of the island and seat of the municipality (pop. 

33,886) is also named Corfu. Corfu is home to the Ionian University. 

The island is bound with the history of Greece from the beginning of Greek mythology. Its 

Greek name, Kerkyra or Korkyra, is related to two powerful water symbols: Poseidon, god of the sea, 

and Asopos, an important Greek mainland river. According to myth, Poseidon fell in love with the beautiful 

nymph Korkyra, daughter of Asopus and river nymph Metope, and abducted her. Poseidon brought Korkyra to 

the hitherto unnamed island and, in marital bliss, offered her name to the place: Korkyra, which gradually 

evolved to Kerkyra (Doric).Together, they had a child they 

called Phaiax, after whom the inhabitants of the island were 

(Corfnamed: Phaiakes. This term was transliterated via Latin to 

Phaeacians. 

(Corfu 

The island’s history is laden with battles and conquests. The legacy of 

these struggles is visible in the form of castles punctuating strategic

137 

locations across the island. Two of these castles enclose its capital, which is the only city in Greece to be 

surrounded in such a way. As a result, Corfu’s capital has been officially declared a Kastropolis (“castle city”) 

by the Greek government. [5] Corfu was long controlled by Venice, which repulsed several Turkish sieges, before 

falling under British rule following the Napoleonic Wars. Corfu was eventually ceded by the British Empire 

along with the remaining islands of the United States of the Ionian Islands, and unification with modern 

Greece was concluded in 1864 under the Treaty of London. 

In 2007, the city’s old city was designated for the UNESCO World Heritage List, following a recommendation 

by ICOMOS. 

Corfu is a very popular tourist destination. Up until the early 20 th century, it was mainly visited by the European 

royals and elites, including Emperor Wilhelm II of Germany and Empress Elisabeth of Austria; today it is also 

widely visited by middle class families (primarily from the UK, Scandinavia and Germany), leading to mass 

tourism. It is still popular with the global elite however, and in the island’s northeast the homeowners include 

members of the Rothschild family and Russian oligarchs 

Corfu has a population of, 109,537 (2001) 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 


Lodge Apollo # 98 

Or. of Athens 

1993 

Athens, is the capital and largest city of Greece. Athens dominates 

the Attica region and is one of the world’s oldest cities, as its recorded 

history spans around 3,400 years. Classical Athens was a 

powerful city-state. A centre for the arts, learning and philosophy, 

home of Plato’s Academy and Aristotle’s Lyceum, it is widely referred 

to as the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace 

of democracy, largely due to the impact of its cultural and political 

achievements during the 5 th and 4 th centuries BC on the rest of the then 

known European continent. Today a cosmopolitan metropolis, modern 

Athens is central to economic, financial, industrial, political and 

cultural life in Greece. In 2008, Athens was ranked the world’s 32 nd 

richest city by purchasing power and the 25 th most expensive in a UBS study. 

The city of Athens has a population of 655,780 (796,442 back in 2004) within its administrative limits and a 

land area of 39 km 2 (15 sq mi). The urban area of Athens (Greater Athens and Greater Piraeus) extends beyond 

the administrative municipal city limits, with a population of 3,074,160 (in 2011), over an area of 

412 km 2 (159 sq mi). According to Eurostat, the Athens Larger Urban Zone (LUZ) is the 7 th most populous LUZ 

in the European Union (the 4 th most populous capital city of the EU) with a population of 4,013,368 (in 2004). 

Athens is also the southernmost capital on the European mainland. 

The heritage of the classical era is still evident in the city, represented by a number of ancient monuments and 

works of art, the most famous of all being the Parthenon, widely considered a key landmark of early Western 

civilization. The city also retains a vast variety of Roman and Byzantine monuments, as well as a smaller 

number of remaining Ottoman monuments projecting the city’s long history across the centuries. Athens is 

home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Acropolis of Athens and the medieval Daphni Monastery. 

Landmarks of the modern era, dating back to the establishment of Athens as the capital of the independent 

Greek state in 1833, include the Hellenic Parliament (19 th century) and the Athens Trilogy consisting of 

the National Library of Greece, the Athens University and the Academy of Athens. Athens was the host city of 

the first modern-day Olympic Games in 1896, and 108 years later it welcomed home the 2004 Summer 

Olympics. [13] Athens is home to the National 

Archeological Museum, featuring the world’s 

largest collection of ancient Greek antiquities, as 

well as the new Acropolis Museum. 

Acropolis of Athens 

Wikiedia

138 

The Lodge above is the second Lodge in Greece that didn’t write back with their Lodge information 

------:------ 


Lodge Theodoros Kolokotronis # 93 

Or. of Tripolis 

There is no information about this Lodge and the Town/City that is situated in 

Platonlodge.gr – Freemasonry in Greece. 


Lodge Dimitir #123 

Or. of Eleusis 

Brief history 

On 15 March 1975, a group of ad: belongs to S: F: "FAITH" No. 71 in An: Piraeus under the constant urging of 

ad: Spyridon Koumoutsakos decided to make the establishment F: the sanctuary of Eleusis. The work was very 

hard and rough. Bro: exclusively by "FAITH", so there omopsychia, started the effort with a single goal: to 

create at Eleusis a Masonic Centre, which could be passed in modern Masonry the glamor of ancient Eleusinian 

mysteries and which the Greeks Masons would be proud. 

Nine months later, on December 15, 1975, the establishment of R: F: DIMITIR No. 123 in an: Eleusis was a 

fact, which was celebrated by all Masons. At the ceremony of establishing the F: etonisthi that ambition was to 

erect as soon as possible, ".Masonic Mansion archaic rhythm at Eleusis, which n turn out radiation centers 

throughout Greece and internationally in the Masonic world." (Masonic Press "Pythagoras", 1st Issue, pp. 17). 

From that day onwards begins the "Odyssey" of the ad: of DIMITIR. Hosted by 1981 at the Old Masons: Sizes: 

Piraeus, then and until 1984, the Masons: Sizes: Athens. From 1984 until 1997 lease, house in Eleusis, from 

which leave after they have purchased and donated to the M: F: of Greece, the land on which you erect 

Masons: Sizes: .of Eleusis, after now about to fall from the ceiling in their head ... Such was the love of Eleusis 

... The 1998 team Bro: of F: undertakes the daily supervision of the erection of Masons:. Sizes: Eleusis under the 

guidance of event: the Max: F: of Greece, which is delivered in full operation the inauguration which took place 

in June 2000 in the presence and foreign delegations? By 2000, hosted at the new Masons: Sizes: Piraeus, and 

from 18 September 2000 until today DIMITIR meet at Masons: Sizes: Eleusis, every Monday except the first 

Monday of each month. 

Until now, in F: 161 members have joined. Today, DIMITIR working harmoniously with 42 active members, 

mans a peristyle TtVA ("PERSEFONI" No. 11 in an: Eleusis), a Council crypt ("Eurydice" No. 11 in an: 

Eleusis) and a Headquarters ("OSIOS PATAPIOS 'No 8 in an: Eleusis). It didymopoiimeni the Greek speaking 

I: F: "IAKIKAT (Chukka) - THE TRUTH" No. 18 in an: Constantinople and hopes as continue its work under 

the auspices and with the assistance of M: F: of Greece. e 

Use of Content: You may display, reproduce, print or download content on the Services only for your 

personal, non-commercial use 

Information about Eleusis: 

Eleusis, ancient Greek city famous as the site of the Eleusinian Mysteries. Situated in the fertile plain of Thria 

about 14 miles (23 km) west of Athens, opposite the island of Salamis, Eleusis was independent until the 7 th 

century BC, when Athens annexed the city and made the Eleusinian Mysteries a major Athenian religious 

festival. After the Peloponnesian War, when the Thirty Tyrants were expelled from Athens and briefly occupied 

Eleusis, the city was again independent (403), but Athenian hegemony was restored within two years. The 

Gothic leader Alaric destroyed Eleusis in AD 395, and the site remained deserted until the 18 th century, when it 

was revived as the modern town of Eleusis (Greek Lepsina), now an industrial suburb of Athens.

139 

The Greek Archaeological Society, excavating the site after 1882, laid bare 

the whole of the sacred precinct, which included the Great Propylaea, a 2 nd - 

century-AD copy of the central building of the Propylaea on the Acropolis of 

Athens. It also traced its extensions at various periods and revealed successive 

stages in the structure of the Telesterion, or Hall of Initiation, first built in late 

Mycenaean times, before 1000 BC 

. 

Eleusis 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 


Lodge Pharos # 138 

Or. of Patras 

Information about Patras; 

Patras is Greece’s third largest urban area and the regional capital of West 

Greece, located in northern Peloponnese, 215 km (134 mi) west of Athens. 

The city is built at the foothills of Mount Panachaikon, overlooking theGulf 

of Patras. 

Patras 

The Patras Metropolitan Area is a conurbation of 222,460 

inhabitants, while its urban area, contained within the Patras municipality, 

had a population of 202,757 (in 2001). The core settlement has a history 

spanning four millennia. In the Roman period it had become a 

cosmopolitan centre of the eastern Mediterranean whilst, according to 

Christian tradition, it was also the place of Saint Andrew’s martyrdom. 

Dubbed Greece’s Gate to the West, Patras is a commercial hub, while its busy port is a nodal point for trade and 

communication with Italy and the rest of Western Europe. The city has two public universities and 

one Technological Institute, hosting a large student population and rendering Patras a major scientific centre 

with a field of excellence in technological education. The Rio-Antirio bridge connects Patras’ easternmost 

suburb of Rio to the town of Antirrio, connecting the Peloponnese peninsula with mainland Greece. 

Every year, in February, the city hosts one of Europe’s largest and most colourful carnivals ; notable features of 

the Patras Carnival include its mammoth-sized satirical floats and extravagant balls and parades, enjoyed by 

hundreds of thousands of visitors in a pleasant Mediterranean climate. Patras is also famous for supporting an 

indigenous cultural scene active mainly in the performing arts and modern urban literature. It was European 

Capital of Culture 2006. 

Patras is located 215 km (134 mi) west of Athens by road, 94 km (58 mi) northeast of Pyrgos, 7 km (4 mi) 

south of Rio, 134 km (83 mi) west of Corinth, 77 kilometers northwest of Kalavryta, and 144 km (89 mi) 

northwest of Tripoli. 

A central feature of the urban geography of Patras is its division into upper and lower sections. This is the result 

of an interplay between natural geography and human settlement patterns; the lower section of the city (Kato 

Poli), which includes the 19 th century urban core and the port, is adjacent to the sea and stretches between the 

estuaries of the rivers of Glafkos and Haradros. It is built on what was originally a bed of river soils and driedup 

swamps. The older upper section (Ano Poli) covers the area of the pre-modern settlement, around the 

Fortress, on what is the last elevation of Mount Panachaikon (1,926 m (6,319 ft)) [2] before the Gulf of Patras. 

Climate: 

Patras has a Mediterranean climate. It features the typical mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, with spring 

and autumn being pleasant transitional seasons. Autumn in Patras, however, is wetter than spring. 

Wikipedia 

------:------ 

All of the five Lodges that this Travelling Gavel was presented into in Greecs failed to send back any 

information about their Lodges ane their part of the world

140 

A Concise History of the Grand Lodge of Greece 

by Ioannis A. Souvaliotis, MPS 

In 1993 the Grand Lodge of Greece was erroneously accused of indulging in politics. Like the accusations 

directed previously against it and being refuted, the politics one was refuted as well. Nevertheless, the researcher 

or the historian of Greek Freemasonry is bound to find out that the political and national history of modern 

Greece is intertwined with Freemasonry. From the preparation of Greece’s liberation from the Turkish yoke 

right up to the Second World War, the National struggles walked hand in hand with the achievements of the 

“Sons of Light.” We expect that the team of historians, who are conducting a research presently in a 

professional manner, will shed light on these glorious times, glorious for our Country as well as for the Craft. 

At this time, suffice it to say that the “Friendly Society,” the composer of our National Anthem, the 

Independence War Lords with Brother Theodore Colocotronis in the forefront, all bear the mark of 

Freemasonry. The words of Theodore Colocotronis, namesake and grandson of the warlord, in the preface of his 

book on the Friendly Society titled “High Priests of the Eleusinian” say it all: 

“Blessed be the Masonic Lodges which baptized you in the baptismal font of Liberty” – Indeed, the inspired 

founders of the “Society of Friends,” had been nursed with the milk of Freedom by their Mother Lodges. Their 

memory will remain sacred to all Helens. 

The heroic and tragic fall of Constantinople in 1453, marked the end of a glorious Empire, which for ten 

centuries stood like a rock, on which all the barbaric raids against Europe shattered, while the light of 

Christianity was spread to neighbouring countries. 

Thus, a long period of darkness began for Greece, but on the other hand, prominent personalities in the fields of 

science, arts and philosophy who fled the invaders went to the West and contributed greatly to the Renaissance 

which started as the 15 th century was waning. 

Throughout the dark period of foreign occupation, prominent Greeks of the Diaspora, organized schools and 

societies, attracting a considerable number of Philhellenes, with the idea of liberating Greece. During the 18 th 

century, a number of quasi-Masonic institutions existed throughout Europe, with that aim, till the creation of the 

“Friendly Society” in Odessa, in 1814, which prepared and organized the revolution of 1821. The “Friendly 

Society” was initially created by three Masons and subsequently joined by many others. Meanwhile, in 1811, a 

prominent Mason, Dionysius Romas, assisted by the Duke of Sussex, Grand Master of Masons of England, 

founded the “Serene Grand Orient of Greece” in the Orient of Corfu, one of the Ionian Islands, which had not 

been occupied by the Turks. The cataclysmic events which followed, events that culminated in the liberation of 

Greece, naturally brought many changes to the society in general and to the Masonic movement in particular. A 

number of Lodges were created in the Ionian islands as well as on the mainland and although the “Serene Grand 

Orient” disbanded in 1843, its creation has been and is being considered as the origin of the official Greek 

Freemasonry and Dionyssios Romas as the first Grand Master of Masons in Greece. For a number of years, 

various Lodges were created in Greece and specifically in Athens, Piraeus, Chalkies, Corfu, Patras, Syros, 

Lamia and Argos. Since there was no central Masonic Authority in Greece at that time, these Lodges had been 

created under the Grand Orient of Italy. In 1864 these Lodges asked that Grand Orient for a dispensation for an 

independent Masonic Authority in their own Country. The Grand Orient authorized them to institute a Masonic 

directorate which was indeed created in 1864. Prominent members of the Government and of the scholar 

community became members of this directorate. 

After considerable exchange of correspondence between the directorate and the Grand Orient of Italy, the latter, 

granted dispensation and recognized as regular, the “Grand Orient of Greece.” 

Masonry in Greece existed in parallel with the young Greek State and shared the joys of its evolution as well as 

the hardships of the turbulent years that followed. Prominent Masons, individually, as true “Sons of light,” were 

involved in the field of education, but also in the struggle for the liberation of Macedonia and Crete. A number 

of them fell in those noble causes. 

A milestone in Greek Masonry is December 2, 1927 when the Grand Orient of Greece, by Presidential Decree, 

was recognized as a Foundation, its aims being philosophical and philanthropic. This status is a justification of 

the aims of Freemasonry. A prominent one being a relentless struggle against illiteracy, by the institution and 

sponsoring of schools, especially schools for working youths. In spite of its official recognition by the State, 

Freemasonry was at times the target of attacks by some Church circles as well as by individual press ones. The

141 

effect of such attacks was mostly felt by Lodges in small communities. But the Masonic movement withstood 

these attacks and masonry kept growing. In 1930, after considerable efforts, financial sacrifices by its members 

and a contribution by the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite, Masonry had its Masonic Hall in Athens, owned 

by 80 per cent by the Grand Orient and by 20 per cent by the Supreme Council. By then, the Grand Orient of 

Greece had been renamed “Grand Lodge of Greece.” Those beautiful premises were very adequate at that time. 

At about the same time, the city of Piraeus obtained its Masonic Hall while provincial Lodges were gradually 

being settled in proper housing. 

As the 30s decade was drawing towards its end, the clouds of war were gathering over Europe and when the war 

came for Greece, many Greek Masons participated actively in the epic struggle on the Northern Epirus 

mountains, while the Lodges in the cities were helping in any way they could, mainly by sending parcels of 

woollen clothing to help the troops to face the hard wintery conditions. At the Nation’s helm at the time, were 

two Masons: The King and the Prime Minister. Greece was then fighting for its independence and its freedom. It 

gave the Free World its first victory since the rest of Europe had fallen to the Nazi divisions and England stood 

alone awaiting a possible invasion of the British Isles. The triumphant six-month struggle against the Italian 

invaders had to come to an end, when German divisions invaded Greece from Bulgaria and Yugoslavia. The few 

and gallant troops who faced the second invader, fought so bravely that when they finally capitulated, the 

invaders presented arms to them, a fact that – as far as we know – has never happened before or since. Within 

21 days since their invasion, the Germans reached Athens and one of their first actions was to go to the Masonic 

Hall, confiscate whatever records were left there and inflict serious damage to the property. This was the fate of 

the other Masonic properties throughout the Country as well. Then they proceeded to the residence of the then 

Grand Master, M.W. Brother Philpot’s Papageorgiou and placed him under arrest. He was taken to prison where 

he was kept under very harsh conditions, which caused irrevocable damage to his health and although he was 

released some seven months later, he never recovered and died in 1947. 

After the war, the Grand Lodge of Greece embarked on the difficult task of reconstruction and recovery and in 

must be noted here that considerable help came from Lodges abroad. Special mention must be made here to 

Brother R. Caldwell who, at that time was Deputy Consul at the U.S. Embassy in Athens, who influenced the 

Greek Government to free the Masonic Hall from numerous families which were occupying it and to Brother G. 

Calwell, Supreme Commander of the Southern Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite of the United States, who upon 

the request of the President of the U.S., Brother Harry Truman, headed a delegation of American Brothers, who 

assessed the damages and invited financial assistance from across the Atlantic. Soon, the Masonic Hall of 

Athens was restored to its previous splendour and the harmonious sound of the gavels echoed in all the Lodge 

rooms. Impressive charity work was undertaken again, the most prominent activities being the sponsoring of 

schools for working youths and the “Anti-Cancer Society” that provided shelter and relief to victims of that 

illness. 

As travel was becoming more accessible to all social strata, communication with other Masonic Powers was on 

the increase and inter visitations became more frequent. An English speaking Lodge “Parthenon” No. 112 was 

created, which took care of the Masonic needs of a number of foreign visitors and residents in this country. By 

the early 60s it had become evident that the Athens Masonic Hall was not adequate, among the various solutions 

proposed, the demolition of the existing premises and the erection of new and more spacious ones in its place 

was chosen. This called for considerable expenses, which were undertaken by the members and in May 1965 the 

demolition started. By April 1967, the new and splendid building was ready and housed the Athens Lodges 

again. 

Three more foreign language Lodges were consecrated in the city of Athens, “Apollo” No. 98 in German, “La 

Tradition Francaise” No. 125 in French, and “Giuseppe Garibaldi” No.130 in Italian. 

Craft Masonry in Athens, Piraeus and at the provinces kept growing, Lodges were flourishing and the number of 

Brethren increased steadily. Among the new Lodges that were created, there was one in the historical city of 

Elefsis, another one in Corinth, which for the time being meets in Athens and another in the suburb of Glyfada, 

thus marking the decentralization concept of the Athens metropolitan area. 

The Lodges in Cyprus which are under the Grand Lodge of Greece, have now become eight, with the creation of 

“Phoenix” No. 136. Meanwhile, in the mid eighties, in one of the constitutional General Assemblies, the Grand 

Lodge of Greece became A.F. and A.M., becoming this way aligned with the prevailing dogma of world 

Masonry. 

The fantastic growth of the 80s coincided with a deplorable act by a group of some fanatic members who were

142 

aiming at high posts but had not been elected to them. Nevertheless, the schism was a fact. That runaway group 

soon broke into four other groups. However, the effect on the Grand Lodge was minimal, as the latter has been 

experiencing an unprecedented growth, while the number of World Grand Lodges in amity with it has grown 

considerably. 

In 1993, York Rite, under the aegis of the Grand Lodge of Greece was created and its effects in terms of 

substance and growth were spectacular. At this time there are 21 R.A. Chapters in Greece. 

The G.L.G. is now numbering a membership of over 8000 which is increasing and exceeds the normal attrition 

and covers sufficiently all of the Country. 

Its intellectual, social and philanthropic achievements are indeed impressive and include among others: 

The edition of the Masonic Bulletin “Pythagoras” initially published in 1882 and containing only texts of 

Masonic interest. This Bulletin is edited in the Greek language twice a year and distributed free of charge among 

all Freemasons of the G.L.G. There is also since 1994, a yearly edition of “Pythagoras” in the English language, 

containing articles and important Masonic news translated from the Greek as well as the contributions of 

selected foreign Masonic articles. This edition in English is sent to all Grand Lodges, with which the G.L.G. 

Maintains mutual amicable relations, thus inviting a closer spiritual communication and a strengthening of the 

international fraternal bonds. 

The biannual Open Events, taking place at the promises of the Athens Masonic Hall. These events consist of 

round table Conferences referring to cultural, scientific and social subjects treated by experts or specialists. The 

large audience consists of Masons and non-Masons who have the opportunity to attend an interesting and wideranging 

discussion every time the opening speeches. 

• Twice a year also, since 1989, Freemasons, under the care of the Voluntary Blood Donation Service of the 

G.L.G., give blood at the Athens and Piraeus Masonic Halls, for the benefit of the Children’s’ Hospital “Agia 

Sophia”, especially for those suffering from Cooley’s anaemia. Furthermore, in order to enable this Hospital to 

meet its increasing needs for blood, the G.L.G. offered a fully equipped and state of the art blood collection 

vehicle of great value. On the other hand there is also a large contribution of Masons in post-mortem donation of 

human organs, under the supervision of the Greek Ministry of Health. 

• In addition, a second blood collection vehicle of a budget of €120,000 or GRD 40,890,000 is under 

construction to be donated to the Hospital of Ioannina, for covering the blood collection needs of Hepims and 

west Macedonia regions. 

• The G.L.G.’s assistance to the earthquake (Pyrgos, District of Western Macedonia, Pafos in Cyprus) and flood 

(Metamorphosis Karditsa, Xanthi) victims; the equipment of earthquake stricken hospitals (Pyrgos, Kozani), the 

grant of scholarships to foreign postgraduate students in International Law under the auspices of the Aristotelian 

University (Thessaloniki). 

• The grant of two other vehicles to the Cyprus Cancer Association in order to enable it to expand its home care 

service to many provinces of the island; the donation of a sophisticated and very useful medical instrument, 

requested by the Department of Paediatrics at the Aristotelian University, the important offer of a large amount 

of money to support the construction of a hospital wing in Thessaloniki for children suffering from cancer 

(“Storgi” Association) and of nursery, where parents may leave infants or small children in charge of nurses 

“Merimna tou Paediou, (Association). 

• The total amount in drachmas, donated by the Grand Lodge of Greece in various charities, between 1993 and 

2001, came up to €504,049.05 or GRD 17 1,7 54,715. 

• The Grand Lodge of Greece, through the Masonic Foundation, donated 10 new prefabricated houses, 

according to specifications prescribed by the Ministry of Housing, along with 80 beds and mattresses, to the 

municipality of Ano Liossia, for the needs of the hiveless families whose houses were destroyed in the strong 

Earthquake of September 7, 1999• In summary, the Masonic work is great, wonderful but never ends. It will 

continue and it will guarantee that Greek Masonry the Grand Lodge of Greece – has met successfully the test of 

Greatness and will continue to do so.

143 

Map of Greece 

Free Map 

Flag of Greece 

------:------ 

This Travelling Gavel having been presented into five Lodges in Greece leaves this mighty country 

and is again on the move to yet another country, this time it was taken to Italy and presented into, 

Tommaso BRIGANTI Lodge No.933; Or. Di Gallipoli 

*Information about 

ITALY 

Statistics of Italy 

Area ~ 301,300 sq km /116,332 sq ml ~ Capital ~ Rome ~ Language ~ Italian ~ Population ~ 57,998,353 ~ 

2006 ~ Currency ~ Euro, formerly Lira ~ Religion ~ Roman Catholic ~ Physical features ~ mountainous with 

narrow coastal lowlands, active volcanoes Vesuvius, Etna; rivers Po, Tiber / Islands including Sicily & Sardinia 

Imports ~ mineral fuels & lubricants, chemical products, foodstuffs, metal products ~ Exports ~ machinery and 

transport equipment, textiles and clothing, footwear, Wine, wood and rubber goods, metals & metal products ~ 

Industry ~ Tourism, machinery, iron & steel, chemicals, food processing, textiles, motor vehicles, clothing 

footwear & ceramics ~ Agriculture ~ Fruits, vegetables, grapes, potatoes, sugar beets, soybeans, grain, olives,, 

beef, dairy products & fish ~ Natural resources ~ mercury, potash, marble, sulfar, natural gas & crude oil, fish, 

coal 

------:------ 

Italy, slightly larger than Arizona, is a long peninsula shaped like a boot, surrounded on the west by the 

Tyrrhenian Sea and on the east by the Adriatic. It is bounded by France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia to 

the north. The Apennine Mountains form the peninsula’s backbone; the Alps form its northern boundary. The 

largest of its many northern lakes is Garda (143 sq mi; 370 sq km); the Po, its principal river, flows from the 

Alps on Italy’s western border and crosses the Lombard plain to the Adriatic Sea. Several islands form part of 

Italy; the largest are Sicily (9,926 sq mi; 25,708 sq km) and Sardinia (9,301 sq mi; 24,090 sq km). 

History of Italia by Wikipedia: 

The origins of the Italian history can be traced back to the 9 th century BC, when earliest accounts date the 

presence of Italic tribes in present-day central Italy. Linguistically, they were divided 

into Oscans, Umbrians and Latins. Later the Latin culture became dominant, as Romeemerged as a powerful 

city-state around 350 BC. Other pre-Roman civilizations include Magna Graecia in Southern Italy and 

the Etruscan civilization, which flourished between 900 and 150 BC in the central section of the peninsula. [1]

144 

The Roman Empire later dominated Western Europe and the Mediterranean for many centuries, giving the 

human kind immeasurable contributions. Some of these led to the development of Western philosophy, science 

and art, that remained central during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. After the fall of Rome in AD 476, 

Italy remained fragmented in numerous city-states for much of the following millennium, finally falling under 

different foreign dominations. Parts of Italy were annexed to the Spanish, the Austrian and Napoleon I’s empire, 

while theVatican maintained control over Rome, before the Italian Peninsula was eventually liberated 

and unified in the late 19 th century. 

The new new Kingdom of Italy, established in 1861, quickly modernized and built a vast colonial empire, 

colonizing parts of Africa, and countries along the Mediterranean. However, many regions of the young nation 

(notably, the South) remained rural and poor, originating theItalian diaspora. Italy suffered enormous losses 

in World War I but came out on the winning side, but the fragile liberal state soon collapsed owing to poverty, 

violence and social unrest. The Fascists, led by Benito Mussolini, took over and set up an authoritarian 

dictatorship. Italy joined the Axis powers in World War II, falling into a bloody Civil War after a monarchist 

coup ousted Mussolini in 1943, and eventually surrendering to the Allies in 1945. 

In 1946, due to a referendum, the monarchy was abolished, [2] and 2 June 1946 saw the birth of the Italian 

Republic. In the 1950s and 1960s, Italy saw a period of rapid modernization and sustained economic growth, the 

so called Italian economic miracle. The country, coming back to international politics among Western 

democratic powers, joined the European Economic Community (which later became the European Union), the 

United Nations, NATO, the G7 and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. Italy is 

currently ranked as a major regional power 

Wikipedia 

-----:----- 

Grand Orient of Italy 1885 

Regular Grand Lodge of Italy 17 th April 1993 

Link 

REGULAR GRAND LODGE OF ITALY 

Grande Oriente d’Italia 

The Gavel was delivered by Bro. Theodor Panagos (Grece) to 

Bro. Ennio Manzo to 

of

145 

53 rd Lodge to receive this gavel 

Lodge Tommaso Brigandi” # 993 

Or. Di Gallipoli 

Under the Grande Oriente di’ Italia 

March 2006 

A. D. G. A. D. U. 

MASSONERIA UNIVERSALE 

COMUNIONE ITALIANA 

GRANDE ORIENTE D’ITALIA 

PALAZZO GIUSTINIANI 

00152 ROMA – Via di San Pancrazio, 8 

Tel: (06) 58.99.344/5 - Fax: (06) 58.18.096 


The Gavel was delivered by Bro. Theodor Panagos, 

to Bro. Ennino Manzo to Lodge Tommasso 

Brigande #993 Or. of Gallipoli, under the Grande 

Oriente di’ Italy, March 2006 

I have had the honour to receive the Travelling 

Gavel from the Most Respectable Brother Aethos 

Tzifakis, on Summer Solstice Day, last year. 

In Italy, the tradition is that the Lodge interrupts 

the works in the period that goes from the summer 

solstice to the following autumnal equinox. 

Furthermore, the contingencies of my Lodge, 

consisting in the actual construction of the 

Masonic House and of the Temple in Gallipoli, 

have delayed the ceremony of presentation of the 

Travelling Gavel until next winter solstice. 

Last 13 th January the consecration of the Temple 

and the opening ceremony of Masonic House in 

Gallipoli have been celebrated. Immediately after, 

a date for a ritual presentation of the Travelling 

Gavel in the Lodge has been fixed. 

I apologize for the delay and it will be my care to 

inform you on the decisions that will be assumed in the near future. 

The official ceremony of the 13 th January has also regarded the 140 th anniversary of the foundation of our Lodge 

on initiative of local Patriots. During the fascist period the Masonic House was demolished because of precise 

governmental dispositions of the period. In October 1976 it was re-founded by some Freemasons of the Lodge 

placed in Lecce. The only survivor of such Founders is the Writer of this letter who, after covering in the course 

of the years all the Lodge Charges including that of Worshipful Master for two times, is today, between the 

Columns, the Lodge Doyen. 

Over the past years, the Lodge has had an average number of 25 Brothers. The Brothers use to meet every 

Thursday, with agendas focused on themes like Hermetism, Symbology, and Alchemy besides social and 

philanthropic topics. 

The Masters Brothers of the Lodge conform to the York Rite and in the same Temple ritual gatherings of the 

Masters of Royal Arc, of the Commenda of Templar Knights and of the Masonic Cryptic Council take place.

146 

Information about Gallipoli: 

The city of Gallipoli counts approximately 25.000 inhabitants; it is situated along the Ionian coast in the South 

Italy and it is a city of great tourist vocation. The inland region, where traces of ancient civilizations, like 

Dolmen and Menhir, can still be found, the greatest resource comes from agriculture. The most significant 

production is represented by wine, olive oil, potatoes, capers and a great variety of vegetables. 

The history of the city dates back to more than 3.000 years ago when it was inhabited by Messapi; they were 

later colonized by Greeks, who founded a colony called Magna Grecia, and soon after by the Roman Empire. In 

the course of the centuries different dominators alternated in controlling over this region, such as Arabs, 

Venetians, French and Spanish. 

Between the most outstanding monuments of the city there is the “Greek Fountain”, dating back to the age of 

Magna Grecia (3.000 years ago). It has been object of esoteric investigation by myself and among other things I 

have found that of the four caryatids placed on guard of the three myths carved there, three wear the traditional 

peplum, while the fourth one bears a “strange” apron showing the effigy of the Sun in the middle. 

Gallipoli, 20 th January 2007 

Ennio Manzo 

Dott Manzo Ennio 

January 26 th 2007 

Email: ennmanz@tin.it 


Carissimo Fratello Rick, 

chiedo scusa per il ritardc, spero di essere stato chiaro, nella lettera allegata, a spiegarne il perché. 

A breve riceverai 146enti notizie circa I’inoltrc presso altra Gran Loggia del “ nostro Maglietto”. 

Carisslmo Theo, 146entione inoltrare ad Aethos questa missiva, ringraziandolo a mio nome della considerazione 

che ha per me. 

Salute e fratellanza, 

Ennio Manzo 

Via Collina 125 -.73017 Sannicola (LE) Ital

147 

------:------ 

As of February 2008 

This Gavel is now in 

BELGIUM 

Facts about Belgium 

Capital; Brussels ~ Population, 10,392,226 (July 2007 est. ~ Religions – Roman Catholic 75%, various 

Protestant denominations ~ Physical features – fertile coastal plain, rolling hills in central region 

withmountains of the Ardennes Forest in the south east ~ Exports – livestock and livestock products, gem 

diamonds, iron and steel manufactures, chemicals ~ Currency – Euro – formerly Belgian Franc ~ Language 

– in the north Flemish / in the south Walloon 

(French dialect) Located in Western Europe, Belgium has about 40 mi of seacoast on the North Sea, at the Strait 

of Dover, and is approximately the size of Maryland. The Meuse and the Schelde, Belgium’s principal rivers, 

are important commercial arteries. 

Belgium became independent from the Netherlands in 1830; it was 

occupied by Germany during World Wars I and II. The country 

prospered in the past half century as a modern, technologically 

advanced European state and member of NATO and the EU. 

Tensions between the Dutch-speaking Flemings of the north and the 

French-speaking Walloons of the south have led in recent years to 

constitutional amendments granting these regions formal 

recognition and autonomy. 

Western Europe, bordering the North Sea, between France and the 

Netherlands 

Free Map

148 

Belgium, officially the Kingdom of Belgium, is a federalmonarchy in Western Europe. It is a founding member 

of the European Union and hosts the EU's headquarters as well as those of several other major international 

organisations such as NATO. [nb 1] Belgium covers an area of 30,528 square kilometres (11,787 sq mi), and it has 

a population of about 11 million people. 

Straddling the cultural boundary between Germanic and Latin Europe, Belgium is home to two main linguistic 

groups, the Dutch-speakers (about 59%), mostly Flemish, and the French-speakers (about 41%), 

mostly Walloons, in addition to a small group ofGerman-speakers. Belgium's two largest regions are the Dutchspeaking 

region of Flanders in the north and the French-speaking southern region of Wallonia. The Brussels- 

Capital Region, officially bilingual, is a mostly French-speaking enclave within the Flemish 

Region. [6] A German-speaking Community exists in eastern Wallonia. [7] Belgium's linguistic diversity and 

related political conflicts are reflected in the political history and a complex system of government. [8][9] 

Historically, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg were known as the Low Countries, which used to cover 

a somewhat larger area than the current Benelux group of states. The region was called Belgica in Latin because 

of the Roman province Gallia Belgicawhich covered more or less the same area. From the end of the Middle 

Ages until the 17th century, it was a prosperous centre of commerce and culture. From the 16th century until 

the Belgian Revolution in 1830, when Belgium seceded from the Netherlands, many battles between European 

powers were fought in the area of Belgium, causing it to be dubbed the "Battlefield of Europe," [10] a reputation 

strengthened by both World Wars. 

Upon its independence, Belgium participated in the Industrial Revolution [11][12] and, during the course of the 

20th century, possessed a number of colonies in Africa. [13] The second half of the 20th century was marked by 

the rise of contrasts between the Flemish and the Francophones fuelled by differences of language and 

the unequal economic development of Flanders and Wallonia. This continuing antagonism has caused farreaching 

reforms, changing the formerly unitary Belgian state into a federal state, and several governmental 

crises, the most recent, from 2007 to 2011, being the longest. 

Geography: 

Belgium shares borders with France (620 km), Germany (167 km), Luxembourg (148 km) and 

the Netherlands (450 km). Its total area, including surface water area, is 30,528 square kilometres; land area 

alone is 30,278 km 2 . [63] It lies between latitudes 49°30 and 51°30 N, and longitudes 2°33 and 6°24 E. 

Belgium has three main geographical regions: the coastal plain in the north-west and the central plateau both 

belong to the Anglo-Belgian Basin; the Ardennes uplands in the south-east are part of the Hercynian orogenic 

belt. The Paris Basin reaches a small fourth area at Belgium's southernmost tip, Belgian Lorraine. 

The coastal plain consists mainly of sand dunes and polders. Further inland lies a smooth, slowly rising 

landscape irrigated by numerous waterways, with fertile valleys and the northeastern sandy plain of 

the Campine (Kempen). The thickly forested hills and plateaux of the Ardennes are more rugged and rocky with 

caves and small gorges. Extending westward into France, this area is eastwardly connected to the Eifel in 

Germany by the High Fens plateau, on which the Signal de Botrange forms the country's highest point at 694 

metres (2,277 ft). 

The climate is maritime temperate with significant precipitation in all seasons (Köppen climate 

classification: Cfb), like most of northwest Europe. [68] The average temperature is lowest in January at 3 

°C (37.4 °F) and highest in July at 18 °C (64.4 °F). The average precipitation per month varies between 54 

millimetres (2.1 in) for February or April, to 78 mm (3.1 in) for July. [69] Averages for the years 2000 to 2006 

show daily temperature minimums of 7 °C (44.6 °F) and maximums of14 °C (57.2 °F) and monthly rainfall of 

74 mm (2.9 in); these are about 1 °C and nearly 10 millimetres above last century's normal values, respectively. 

Phytogeographically, Belgium is shared between the Atlantic European and Central European provinces of 

the Circumboreal Region within the Boreal Kingdom. [71] According to theWorld Wide Fund for Nature, the 

territory of Belgium belongs to the ecoregion of Atlantic mixed forests. [72] Because of its high population 

density, its location in the centre of Western Europe and inadequate political effort, Belgium faces 

serious environmental problems. A 2003 report suggested Belgian natural waters (rivers and groundwater) to 

have the lowest water quality of the 122 countries studied. [73] In the 2006 pilot Environmental Performance 

Index, Belgium scored 75.9% for overall environmental performance and was ranked lowest of the EU member 

countries, though it was only 39th of 133 countries. 

Wikipedia

149 

Grand Orient of Belgium 26 th November 1959 

Regular Grand Lodge of Belgium 5 th November 1979 

Regular Grand Lodge of Belgium 

Regular Freemasonry in 149 ention 


King Street two hundred sixty-five 

1 030 Brussels 

Telephone: +32 (0) 2-218-46 16 

Fax: +32 (0) 2-233 16 35 

email: rglb@skynet.be 

RGL of Belgium, in the orient of Charleroi. 

Orient de Charleroi – Regular Grand Lodge 

of 

BELGIUM (RGLB) 

Founded in 1972 

Session in French 

Link address 

http ://www.rglb.org/documents/rglb/provincie-henegouwen.xml?lang=nl 

The websites for all of Belgium Grand Lodges have a total blocked Copyright 

------ :------ 

54th Lodge to receive this Gavel 

9th February 2008 

Provincie of Henegouwen 

Lodge “L’Avenir et L’Espérance” N° 5, 


Session in French 

Namur 

The Travelling Gavel was presented to; 

W. Bro. Christian Alacoque, 

of the 

L’Avenir et L’Esperénce Lodge #5, RGL of Belgium, in the orient of Charleroi. 

From Lodge “Tommaso Brigandi” # 993 

Or. Of Gallipoli under the Grande Oriente of Italia. 

Vénérable Maître 

W. Bro. Christian Alacoque 

Rue d’Ecosse, 43 

1060 Brussels (Belgium) 

+32 2 539 07 20 

Christian.alacoque@mail.be 

Passé Vénérable Maître 

Bruno MONACO 

Rue de la Chaussée, 15 – 6141 Forchies la-Marche (Belgium) 

+32 72 52 12 25 

bmonaco@scarlet.be

150 

Secrétaire: Jean-Pierre RUCCI 

Rue du Grand Pont 44 – 6001 Marcinelle (Belgium) 

+32 71 47 81 15 

He conclus jpr@belgacom.net 

The Lodge “L’Avenir et l’Espérance” passed on the Gavel on September 19 th 2009 to the Lodge 

------:------ 


Chrestien De Troyes # 398 

PROVINCE BRIE CHAMPAGNE 

GRANDE LOGE NATIONALE FRANCAISE 

For more Informations about Belgium, Charleroi, etc. See following links on the Web : 

 

 

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belgium 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charleroi 

http://www.charleroi-airport.com/ 

Sincerely & Fraternally, Bro. Jean-Pierre RUCCI 

Secretary RL Avenir et Espérance #5 Or Charleroi – R.G.L.Belgium 

Charleroi is a city and a municipality of Wallonia, located in 

the province of Hainaut, Belgium. As of 1 January 2008, the total population of 

Charleroi was 201,593 The metropolitan area, including the outer commuter zone, 

covers an area of 1,462 square kilometres (564 sq mi) and had a total population of 

522,522 as of 1 January 2008, ranking it as the fifth most populous in Belgium 

after Brussels, Antwerp, Liège and Ghent. [2][3] The inhabitants are 

called Carolorégiens or simply Carolos. 

Link 

Charleroi – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia 

------:------ 

Province of Namur 

Sambre et Meuse No.25 


Working language: French 

Namur 

BELGIUM 

RWB Roger Ottaway PSGW 

Ottaway-Vaganee 

ottaway@skynet.be 

December 18, 2009 8:41 PM 


Dear VWB Rick 

One of the reasons for writing to W. Bro, Roger Ottaway was to ask him to check on about two missing 

Travelling Gavel which are in Belgium or France Lodges somewhere. The Gavels are; England Gavel No. 1 and 

the Tamworth Gavels, however it seems that one of these Gavels has been presented into Switerland into

151 

Lodge Fidélité et Prudence, which is in Geneva, it’s a big mistery, even today, June 2012 to which Gavel is in 

Geneva 

Roger moved to Belgium10 years ago from Adelaide, Australia. In regard to your missing gavel a “hurry up” 

message has been sent to our Grand Lodge Office who has promised to contact the four Belgian lodges you 

mentioned previously. If you get any replies in the next week or so please let me know. I’m afraid Belgian 

lodges are notorious for NOT replying to email enquiries (including those from the Grand Secretaries offices’ 

Just to make things a bit more complicated Freemasonry in this country has a number of divisions.There’s 

around 12,500 Masons here but less than 2,000 are in regular lodges. The rest are in lodges that are not 

recognised by the Grand Lodge of NSW, UGLE, etc. I hope (and expect) that your gavel has in fact stayed 

within the Regular Grand Lodge of Belgium. 

The other thing is that lodges here work in French, Flemish (Dutch) and two in English. The French don’t like 

the Flemish, and vice versa, and they both (usually) don’t respond to enquiries made in English. As you 

probably know Charleroi is a town outside of Brussels, so that doesn’t help us much with the name of the lodge. 

But for now I suggest we just leave it to the Grand Secretary’s office and their enquiries, perhaps you can email 

me around the 1 st January and if you have had no reply I will contact some lodges personally. 2006 isn’t that 

long ago so someone should remember it. 

A couple of years ago I did attend an installation in Navy Lodge in London with some other brethren from King 

Leopold in Mons, and there was some sort of presentation of a travelling something or other, frankly I didn’t 

take much notice, it may have been a gavel, may not have been. Anyhow, keep in touch and if you get nothing 

from our Grand Lodge by 1/1/2010 I’ll make further enquiries for you. 

Travelling Gavels whereabouts in general: 

Keeping in constant contact with my 12 International Travelling Gavels has been quite a daunting procedure; 

however, no matter how much I try there are some Lodge Secretaries and country Lodges that just seem to make 

this task an impossible item. I have sent thousands of letters and have made many phone calls all over the world 

looking for these Gavels. If a Mason is thinking of starting a Travelling Gavel Project, I urge him to think very 

seriously about it. I was writing to an overseas Mason for quite a while, where he stated that he, had started a 

Travelling Gavel, where he travelled to quite a number of countries and presented his Gavel personally. He 

eventually left his Gavel with a Lodge and then went back home, he had asked them to pass it on to another 

Lodge. Well, it wasn’t too far down the track he wrote to me to say that his Travelling Gavel was lost 

somewhere, I tried to tell him that this would happen, but he said that this wouldn’t happen to him, 

be warned. 

Dear Rick 

I am forwarding the email below, and also the one attached, so you can see first hand the details of what 

happened to your travelling gavel in Belgium. Our W. Bro. Bruno Monaco has completed the detail up to its 

presentation to the GLNF lodge on 19 September 2009 in the attached word.doc document. 

I am sure that there is someone around in your area who can translate the attached word-for-word into English 

for you if you want. However, basically, in February 2008 it was presented to W. Bro. Christian Alacoque of the 

L’Avenir et L’Esperénce Lodge #5, RGL of Belgium, in the orient of Charleroi. Then on 19 September 2009 it 

was presented to WB Jean-Marie Monaco of the Lodge Chrestien de Troyes #398 in the Province of Brie 

Champagne, under the GLNF. WB Bruno doesn’t say, but I suspect that WB Jean-Marie Monaco (sharing the 

same surname as WB Bruno Monaco) was a relative of his. No doubt, if you wish, you could email WB Bruno 

about the matter, his email address is below. 

In regard to pursuing the gavel into France, you should be aware that irregular Freemasonry in France is still 

very active so you need to make sure that any correspondence goes to the correct Grand Lodge (their www page 

is http://www.glnf.asso.fr/). Also 151ention membership is very discrete, so any direct approach to a lodge in 

France (if indeed you can get a name or email address) may well go unanswered ... particularly if it is not in 

French. 

I’m not sure that I can help you much more than that. I will send a copy of this email to our Grand Secretary’s 

office since they have also received your correspondence, just to let them know what has happened.

152 

Best wishes for your ongoing search, yours fraternally 

RWB Roger Ottaway PSGW 

Information about Namur Belgium: 

Namur is a city and municipality in Wallonia, in southern Belgium. It is both the capital of 

the province of Namur and (since 1986) of Wallonia. 

Namur stands at the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse rivers and straddles three different regions – Hesbaye 

to the north, Condroz to the south-east and Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse to the south-west. The language spoken 

is French. 

The City of Namur includes the old communes of Beez, Belgrade, Saint-Servais, Saint-Marc, Bouge, Champion, 

Daussoulx, Flawinne, Malonne, Suarlée, Temploux, Vedrin, Boninne, Cognelée, Gelbressée, Marche-les- 

Dames, Dave, Jambes, Naninne,Wépion, Wierde, Erpent, Lives-sur-Meuse, and Loyers. 

The town began as an important trading settlement in Celtic times, straddling east-west and north-south trade 

routes across the Ardennes. The Romans established a presence after Julius Caesar defeated the 

local Aduatuci tribe. 

Namur came to prominence during the early middle ages when the Merovingians built a castle or citadel on the 

rocky spur overlooking the town at the confluence of the two rivers. In the 10 th century it became a county in its 

own right. The town developed somewhat unevenly, as the counts of Namur could only build on the north bank 

of the Meuse – the south bank was owned by the bishops of Liège and developed more slowly into the town of 

Jambes (now effectively a suburb of Namur). In 1262, Namur fell into the hands of the Count, and was 

purchased by Duke Philip the Good of Burgundy in 1421. 

After Namur became part of the Spanish Netherlands in the 1640s, its citadel was considerably 

strengthened. Louis XIV of France invaded in 1692, capturing the town and annexing it to France. His 

renowned military engineer Vauban rebuilt the citadel. French control was short-lived, as William III of Orange- 

Nassau captured Namur only three years later in 1695 during the War of the Grand Alliance. Under the Barrier 

Treaty of 1709, the Dutch gained the right to garrison Namur, although the subsequent Treaty of Utrecht of 

1713 gave control of the formerly Spanish Netherlands to 

the Austrian House of Habsburg. Thus, although the 

Austrians ruled the town, the citadel was controlled by the 

Dutch. It was rebuilt again under their tenure. 

France invaded the region again in 1794, during the French 

Revolutionary Wars, and again annexed Namur, imposing a 

repressive regime. After the defeat of Napoleon in 1815, 

the Congress incorporated what is now Belgium into 

the United Kingdom of the Netherlands. Belgium broke 

away from the Netherlands in 1830 following the Belgian 

Revolution, and Namur continued to be a major garrison 

town under the new government. The citadel was rebuilt 

yet again in 1887. 

Namur was a major target of the German invasion of Belgium in 1914, which sought to use the Meuse valley as 

a route into France. Despite being billed as virtually impregnable, the citadel fell after only three days’ fighting 

and the town was occupied by the Germans for the rest of the war. Namur fared little better in World War II; it 

was in the front lines of both the Battle of the Ardennes in 1940 and the Battle of the Bulge in 1944. The town 

suffered heavy damage in both wars. 

Namur continued to host the Belgian Army’s paratroopers until their departure in 1977. 

Economy: 

Namur is an important commercial and industrial centre, located on the Walloon industrial backbone, 

the Sambre and Meuse valley. It produces machinery, leather goods, metals and porcelain It is also an important

153 

railway junction situated on the north-south line between Brussels and Luxembourg City, and the east-west line 

between Lille and Liège. River barge traffic passes through the middle of the city along the Meuse. 

Same letter written in French: 

Bruno Monaco 

Email: bmonaco@scarlet.be 

12 February 2010 

Subject: un maillet 153entioned (travelling gavel) ! 

Importance: High 

TCF Roger, 

en réponse à la demande du TR Rick Howes, de Sydney en Australie, au sujet de la disparition d’un maillet qu’il 

a fabriqué en 1993, puis présenté devant la Tamworth Lodge #652, ULG of NSW, New South Wales (Grande 

Loge Unie de Nouvelle-Galles-du-Sud), je te confirme que le maillet a suivi son périple dans la plus pure 

tradidtion de son créateur et dans l’esprit du rapprochement univerle des maçons. 

Le maillet nous a été transmis par la RL TOMMASO BRIGANTI Or GALLIPOLI # 933 GRAND ORIENT 

D’ITALIE qui était accompagnée de la RL PITAGORA Or TARANTO GRAND ORIENT D’ITALIE lors 

d’une tenue 153enti l’atelier se souvient encoire tant la fraternité y été présente. 

A mon tour avec notre VM Christian Alacoque, de la RL L’Avenir et L’Espérance # 5 de la Grande Loge 

Régulière de Belgique à l’OR de Charleroi nous l’avons transmis le 19 septembre 2009 à notre très chère et 

fraternelle RL CHRESTIEN DE TROYES # 398 PROVINCE BRIE CHAMPAGNE de la Grande Loge 

Nationale Française, lors d’une émouvante et chaleureuse cérémonie où était également 153ention nos FF 

italiens de la RL TOMMASO BRIGANTI Or GALLIPOLI # 933. 

Par email le F V.W. Bro Rick Howes P.D.G.D.C. en a été averti; il est le seul contact mentionné dans le 

livret d’acco^mpagnement. 

Je joins le mail ainsi que la note 153entione par mes soins qui accompagne chaque transmission. 

Fraternellement 

Bruno Monaco 

Ex VM RL L’Avenir et L’Espérance # 5 

1er Grand Surveillant Grande Loge Régulière de Belgique. 

------:------ 

W. Bro. Remy Fourmoy of France is one of those very good dedicated Masons, who, on many occasions went 

out of his way to help me greatly with two of these Travelling Gavels which were being presented into Masonic 

Lodges through-out Europe. He never has a lot to say in his letters back to me, but what he sent was great and to 

the point, what more could I ask for. However, a few years ago I let this Mason down somewhat, for you see, he 

came to Sydney, Australia for a short holiday, I would have dearly loved to have met this Great Mason from 

France, but accidents do happen, at that time I had a broken toe, and walking was out of the question, I feel that 

he thinks, that I have let him down. 

------:------

154 



Regular Freemasonry in Belgium 


Rue Royale 265 

1030 Brussels 

Phone: +32 (0)2-218 46 16 

Fax: +32 (0)2-233 16 35 

Link, e-mail: rglb@skynet.be 

Freemasonry in Belgium consists of a wide range of Masonic obedience’s: 

(A) Grand Orient of Belgium, (B) Grand Lodge of Belgium, (C) 

Regular Grand Lodge of Belgium, and (D) Women’s Grand Lodge of Belgium. 

History of the Regular Grand Lodge of Belgium: 

Disappointed by their experience in the Grand Lodge they had come from, the founders of the new Obedience 

wanted to avoid any ambiguity once and for all. The constitution, therefore, defined with great accuracy the 

universal Principles of Regularity which the Regular Grand Lodge adhered to. 

Their Constitution declared, among other things: 

1. Freemasonry affirms the existence of God, a Supreme Being whom it calls the Great Architect of the 

Universe. It demands all of its members to acknowledge this affirmation. This requirement is absolute and 

admits no compromise or restriction. Freemasonry does not define the Supreme Being and leaves its members 

free to form their own opinion of Him. 

2. Freemasonry is an initiatic association which, through its symbolic teaching, heightens men spiritually and 

morally, and so contributes to improving humanity by practicing the ideals of peace and brotherly love. 

3. All Masonic work is done “To the Glory of the Great Architect of the Universe” and in the presence of the 

Three Great Lights of Freemasonry: the Volume of the Sacred Law under the Square and Compasses, upon 

which all obligations must be taken. 

This clearly indicates that the Regular Grand Lodge of Belgium strictly adheres to traditional Masonic ideals. 

Furthermore, it stresses that it is an initiatic association, detached from disputes that divide the outside world. 

This implies the express reference to the divinity, the initiatic search on the path of spirituality, the prohibition 

of political religious discussions in the Lodge and the prohibition to participate in activities of non-Recognized 

Obediences. This may be viewed by some as severe, but it meets principles that are accepted world-wide and 

which comply with Masonic tradition. 

In view of the initiatic character of their activities, Freemasons of the Regular Grand Lodge of Belgium do not 

allow visitors who do not accept the Landmarks of Regular Freemasonry. Indeed, these visitors could not 

participate in activities which they do not subscribe to. On the other hand, members of the Regular Grand Lodge 

do not attend the meetings of non-Recognised Freemasons. This does not mean that these Masons should be 

rejected or repudiated. It simply stems from the nature itself of the Royal Art: a Masonic meeting is not just a 

gathering of friends. It is an initiatic event. Anyone who can make the distinction between the sacred space in 

which the Lodge works, and the exterior, also understands the sense of the dividing line between his (Regular) 

Lodge and the outside world. If one wants to enter into relationships with Irregular Freemasons, this should take 

place elsewhere than in a Masonic context. 

Masonic tradition allows only men to be initiated. This is a strict application of ancient initiatic rules and 

customs, older than Masonry itself. Moreover, there are other Masonic organizations open to women and some 

exclusively for women. Like other Irregular Obediences, they are worthy of our appreciation. 

The Regular Grand Lodge of Belgium has forty-four lodges (2006), divided over the 10 provinces of the 

country. It is recognized by the United Grand Lodge of England, Mother Grand Lodge of Freemasonry, and 

practically all Regular Grand Lodges worldwide.

155 

The Renaissance of Traditional Freemasonry: 

The evolution of the French and Belgian Freemasonry in the course of the XIXth and XXth centuries, as 

described above, had dramatic consequences on the Order. 

Indeed, a majority of foreign obediences broke off relations with what they considered an intolerable deviation. 

As they themselves repudiated interference in politics, demanded of their members a belief in God and remained 

faithful to the old customs of the original lodges, they could not but condemn this deviation. They have done so 

since the end of the XIXth century and to date have had no reason to change their attitude. 

This schism drove French and Belgian Freemasonry into isolation, which they accepted as the price of their 

ideological and political options. For some, however, this isolation was painful when they realized that essential 

Masonic values were lost. Since the end of the XIXth century this reaction has gradually increased in 

importance. 

Some wanted to revive the spiritual content and the initiatic message of the Masonic ritual. Very much in the 

minority, their actions were wrongly understood, received unfavourably, and hardly had any result. Some 

Masons, such as Oswald Wirth, attempted to explain the rituals and Masonic symbols through the occult, which 

was very popular in literary circles of dubious quality at the end of that XIXth century. 

Others, such as Goblet d’Alviela in Belgium, tried to give Freemasonry a place in the varied fresco of humane 

religions and to demonstrate that it contained and even excelled others. Unfortunately, the limited knowledge of 

the time and especially the esoteric interpretation of religion, led to results that were disappointing. 

However, in spite of deficiencies, this striving for recovery lead to lodges refusing political interference and to 

the reintroduction of the old Masonic precept of love of one’s fellowman, based on a belief in God. 

In France this led, In 1913, to the establishment of the Grande Loge Indépendante pour la France et les 

Colonies by two lodges Le Centre des Amis of Paris and L’Anglaise of Bordeaux. This Obedience, which was 

later to become the Grande Loge Nationale Française, now comprises over two hundred lodges, is recognised by 

the Freemasonry worldwide and enjoys increasing success. 

In Belgium the resurrection of traditional Freemasonry took place in two stages. In spite of several attempts in 

between the two World Wars, the Grand Orient of Belgium continued to deviate from traditional Masonic 

landmarks, and neither did it give up, in contradiction with the Landmarks, accepting candidates who were 

admitted atheists. 

In view of this situation, five lodges established the Grand Lodge of Belgium in 1959, to return to universal 

Freemasonry. It adopted a constitution which met the principles of Masonic Regularity. 

On this basis the new Grand Lodge was recognized by practically all Obediences in the world. Unfortunately, 

after a few years it appeared that the constitution was not sufficiently explicit and the basic principles were 

questioned, even by leaders of the Obedience. Some wanted to do away with the principles altogether. Many of 

those who wanted to retain international recognition, at the same time wanted to enter into relations with 

Irregular Masons, especially with the lodges of the Grand Orient of Belgium. 

Their point of view on fundamental questions, such as the affirmation of the existence of a Supreme Being and 

the prohibition of having Masonic relations with non-recognized Obediences, became less and less consistent. 

As a consequence, the Grand Lodge of Belgium lost the Recognition of several Obediences in the spring of 

1979 and it became obvious that most other Obediences would follow this lead. 

A number of Freemasons of the Grand Lodge of Belgium decided to react against this situation and on June 15, 

1979 the Regular Grand Lodge of Belgium was founded by nine lodges. 

------:------ 

More information about Travelling Gavels in general: 

This Travelling Gavel which was designed to only be presented into around 44 Lodges and then sent back to 

NSW Australia, is surely breaking the rules so to speak. So far it has exceeded over 56 Lodges and is still being 

presented into Lodges through-out the world. It’s a shame though, for I’m not getting any letters back informing 

me to which Lodge has this Gavel and I’m not getting any information back either, sometimes it makes me 

wonder why I ever started this Travelling Gavel Project, its sure been a big headache, surely, it’s not too much

156 

to ask for a Lodge to send back a few details about their Lodge and where they are situated in our world, after 

all, it costs nothing to send information by email. 

When I try to get certain Lodge information from the internet, it’s simply not listed or you come across a 

website that you have to have a password to get into it, what’s wrong with Freemasonry to-day, then if you 

happen to get into a website, you can’t copy anything from it because it has a copyright. I have sent what seems 

to be thousands of emails to various Lodges around the world, asking them if I can copy from their websites and 

to my surprise I’ve only had one refusable from a Masonic Lodge, which was in New Zealand when I was 

writing the Travelling Gavel Book on New Zealand. 

The information which I must have to make these Travelling Gavel Books successful is as follows; 

(1) Lodge and No., name of their Grand Lodge and where it is 

(2) W/Masters & Secretaries names & Titles a contact phone Number, and an email address 

(3) The date they received the Gavel + the date they represented it & to which Lodge, (give all Lodge contact . 

. Details 

(4) Information on your Lodge, town, towns industry, climate, tourism, culture, history, and general information 

(5) This Travelling Gavel must be sent back to NSW Australia when all the engraving plates on the Gavel Base 

are completed, to the address at the beginning of this book heading. Rick Howes etc. Etc. 

------:------ 

FRANCE 

Grand Lodge of France September 1728 

National Grand Lodge of France 

National Grand Lodge of France 

Grand Orient of France 1733 

Grand Lodge of France 1894 

French National Grand Lodge 5 th November 1913 

Grande Lodge Nationale Francais 

12 rue Christine de Pisan 

75017 Paris 

Tél: 44 15 86 20 

Contact Lodge Form 

Form 

www.glnf.asso.fr/ 

FRANCE STATISTICS: 

Capital: Paris * Population: 65,350,000 (2013)* 

Conventional Name: French Republic * 

Local Name: Republique francaise 

Western Europe, bordering the Bay of Biscay and English Channel, between Belgium and Spain, southeast of 

the UK; bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Italy and Spain

157 

FRANCE 

LANGUAGES, French 100%, rapidly 

declining regional dialects and 

languages (Provencal, Breton, Alsatian, 

Corsican, Catalan, Basque, Flemish) 

RELIGIONS, Roman Catholic 83%-88%, 

Protestant 2%, Jewish 1%, Muslim 5%- 

10%, unaffiliated 4% 

republic 

CURRENCY euro (EUR) 

note: on 1 January 1999, the European 

Monetary Union introduced the euro as 

a common currency to be used by 

financial institutions of member 

countries; on 1 January 2002, the euro 

became the sole currency for everyday 

transactions within the member 

countries 

Information about Troyes: 

(marked on map in red circle) 

Troyes is a commune and the capital of 

the Aube department in north-central France. It is located on the Seine river about 150 km (93 mi) southeast of 

Paris. Many half-timbered houses (mainly of the 16 th century) survive in the old town. Troyes has been in 

existence since the Roman era, as Augustobona Tricassium, which stood at the hub of numerous highways, 

primarily the Via Agrippa. 

History 

Troyes has been in existence since the Roman era, as Augustobona Tricassium, which stood at the hub of 

numerous highways, primarily the Via Agrippa which led north to Reims and south to Langres and eventually to 

Milan; [1] other Roman routes from Troyes led to Poitiers, Autun and Orléans. [2] It was the civitas of 

the Tricasses, [3] who had been separated byAugustus from the Senones. Of the Gallo-Roman city of the early 

Empire, some scattered remains have been found, but no public monuments, other than traces of an aqueduct. 

By the Late Empire the settlement was reduced in extent, and referred to as Tricassium or Tricassae, the origin 

of French Troyes (“three”). 

The city was the seat of a bishop from the fourth century – the legend of its bishop Lupus (Loup), who saved the 

city from Attilaby offering himself as hostage is hagiographic rather than historical [4] – though it was several 

centuries before it gained importance as a medieval centre of commerce. 

In the early cathedral on the present site, Louis the Stammerer in 878 received at Troyes the imperial crown 

from the hands ofPope John VIII. At the end of the ninth century, following depredations to the city 

by Normans, the counts of Champagne chose Troyes as their capital; it remained the capital of the Province of 

Champagne until the Revolution. The Abbey of Saint-Loupdeveloped a renowned library and scriptorium. 

During the Middle Ages, it was an important trading town, and gave its name totroy weight. The Champagne 

cloth fairs and the revival of long-distance trade and new extension of coinage and credit were the real engines 

that drove the medieval economy of Troyes. 

In 1285, when Philip the Fair united Champagne to the royal domain, the town kept a number of its traditional 

privileges. John the Fearless, Duke of Burgundy and ally of the English, aimed in 1417 at making Troyes the 

capital of France, and he came to an understanding with Isabeau of Bavaria, wife of Charles VI of France, that a 

court, council, and parlement with comptroller’s offices should be established at Troyes. It was at Troyes, then 

in the hands of the Burgundians, that on 21 May 1420, the Treaty of Troyes was signed by which Henry V of 

England was betrothed to Catherine, daughter of Charles VI, and by terms of which he was to succeed Charles, 

to the detriment of the Dauphin. The high watermark of Plantagenet hegemony in France was reversed when the 

Dauphin, afterwards Charles VII, and Joan of Arc recovered the town of Troyes in 1429. 

In medieval times Troyes was an important international trade centre, centring around the Troyes Fair. The 

name troy weight for gold derives from the standard of measurement evolving here.

158 

Check out the Tourist Attractions in and around Troyes 

http://static1.tripwolf.com/images/tripwolf/layout/header_logo_your_travel_guide_EN.png 

Link address: 

http://www.tripwolf.com/ 

------:------ 

56 th Lodge to receive this gavel 


Lodge of Charleroi. & Lodge Chrestion de Troyes No. 398 of GLNF 

In the Province of Bri Champagne 

Under GLNF 

W. Master: W. Bro. Jean-Marie Manaco 

Before going further, we must present as it should be our Chrestien Respectable 

France is about 80% the size of Texas. In the Alps near the Italian and Swiss borders is Western Europe’s 

highest point – Mont Blanc (15,781 ft; 4,810 m). The forest-covered Vosges Mountains are in the northeast, and 

the Pyrénées are along the Spanish border. Except for extreme northern France, the country may be described as 

four river basins and a plateau. Three of the streams flow west—the Seine into the English Channel, the Loire 

into the Atlantic, and the Garonne into the Bay of Biscay. The Rhône flows south into the Mediterranean. For 

about 100 mi (161 km), the Rhine is France’s eastern border. In the Mediterranean, about 115 mi (185 km) eastsoutheast 

of Nice, is the island of Corsica (3,367 sq mi; 8,721 sq km). 

Dear Very Worshipful Brother Rick Howes, 

Thank you very much for your e-mail. 

Please find here below the answers of your requested questions. 

My Lodge, Chrestion de Troyes No. 398 of GLNF, received the Gavel on September 19 th , 2009 presented by 

our Belgian Brother Lodge Master Bruno Monaco. 

Today the gavel is currently owned by my Worshipful Master: Dominique Naert and its secretary Robert 

Buissiere, both in copy of this email. 

Our Lodge is composed of 30 Brothers and we’re working on REAA. 

We’ll likely present the Gavel to “Fidelite et Prudence” Lodge at Geneve in Switzerland which belongs to 

the “Grande Loge Alpina Reguliere Suisse” and works also on REAA. 

Troyes is a 120,000 inhabitants city with middle age style architecture (for reference please have a look on 

Wikipedia’s webpage: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Troyes), located in Champagne. 

I’ll keep you posted about the date the Gavel will be presented as soon as the date is confirmed. 

Sincerely & Fraternally, 

Past Master Jean-Marie Monaco 

8, Impasse Louis Blanc 

F – 10800 Saint Julien les Villas 


De “Rick Howes”

159 

Transmission of the mallet 159entioned 

Lecture Thursday, March 11 th 2010 

to 

Fidelity and Prudence Lodge at Geneva East 

By 

THE GLORY OF THE GREAT ARCHITECT OF THE UNIVERSE 

SPONSORED 

THE French National Grand Lodge 

PROVINCE Austrasia CHAMPAGNE ARDENNE 

RL Chrestien de Troyes # 398 

THE CHARTER GRANTED 19 January 1985 

Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite 

Transmission of the mallet traveller 

Worshipful Master and all of you my brothers in your grades and qualities, 

We are very happy, my Christian brother and me to be the transmitters of the mallet symbolizing the true 

Masonic desire, that of spreading brotherhood and peace throughout the world. 

Before going further, we must present as it should be our Chrestien Respectable Lodge No. 398 of Troyes, who 

works at the East of the capital of Tricasses, Troyes in Champagne. 

Our Lodge is only 25 years of existence since its charter was issued by the French National Grand Lodge 

January 19, 1985. 

We are pleased today to find thirty faithful brethren, who are fortunate to be a member of the lodge. Some 

travel, New Caledonia, Vietnam, Guyana. Accompany us in all your symbolic space and are glad to know that 

we welcome that. 

We could no doubt do as your emissary, our Brother Remy we visited, we found a delicacy that cannot meet 

more than in the Swiss chocolate. Da ns “Yvain or the Knight of the Lion”, Chrétien introduced his story with 

the preliminary raise up the quest of the knight Yvain: “ Give me the heart and ear for the word is lost if the 

heart does not hear.” So thank you my brother Remy, not having lost speech. For our part, I recognize our 

Christian Brother carrying a beautiful human who knows every pore of his skin, to be heard. 

So Chretien de Troyes is a troubadour born in Troyes in 1135 and died in 1183. He is the creator of the Legend 

of the Grail, Lancelot, Perceval, the development of the Arthurian legend and Merlin the Magician, considered 

one of the first author of novels of chivalry, he says he wrote the “commandment my lady of Champagne, “that 

is to say, Marie de Champagne , daughter of Eleanor of Aquitaine and King of France, Louis VII , it married 

in 1164 the Count of Champagne Henri first the Liberal . 

In the prologue of his latest work, The Story of the Grail , it indicates the service of Philip of Alsace, Count of 

Flanders. This story is for the initiation future king, Philip Augustus which he is the tutor. The word Grail is to 

gasoline and Champagne refers to a fish dish, during the procession to the king-fisher, is carrying the sacrament 

of eternity, the IKTUS the first Christians. 

The tale of the Grail myth based on the most important of the Middle Ages, of this enigmatic and fascinating 

text will make a crop of masterpieces of representations and questions that continue to inspire the Western 

imagination. 

The adventures of the knights, heroes of these novels have of course a symbolic meaning: it is the quest for 

identity. The myth of the Grail (1170) uses the utensils of worship that Christianized Celtic, especially the 

“cauldron” of the Dagda, the “cup of Sovereignty,” and the sword of Dagda. The Mystery of the Celtic world

160 

that inspires Christian allows him to reach a new concept of chivalry in the service of a mythical and mystical 

world. 

Note that the Fisher King is lame and Perceval is the son of a widow, he is innocent or rather naive at the 

beginning of his quest, his horse is white and the arms of his shield are blank. His armour was crimson, bloodred 

of course, alchemy. Number of recurrent features of ancient mythologies and we can easily incorporate into 

our own world of initiation. 

Captions render the process by which man may recover its purity and fullness. This path must lead the Knights 

to tame his desires, his wishes and to think just as well, just to understand, speak and act just right. While the 

script and the characters evoke the images that illuminate the conscience and can tame her inner dragon. In fact, 

the quest for the Holy Grail demands of living that requires inner transformation of mind and heart. The grail is 

not material but spiritual treasure, like the gold of true philosophical alchemists. 

Chretien de Troyes realizes for the first time, a synthesis of values and Celtic and Christian initiation. To 

achieve the ultimate goal of his life, Perceval must undergo a final initiation that is an inner journey that 

precedes a revelation carried by a hermit, his Master. We need the young man working inside, be born in him 

awakening to higher truths of life. And nothing, no method no teacher can bring this awakening does not occur 

if the depths of his being. This privileged moment seems to arise when, in a snowy meadow, Perceval witnesses 

the attack of a goose by a hawk. Spring goose wounded three drops of blood will fall on the snow. These drops 

form a symbol in the contemplation of which the imagination of Percival will spoil. His inner being seems then 

awaken. It remains banned and thoughtful for a whole morning, time stopped. A commotion inside the seized, 

he became melancholy and silent. 

The hieroglyph of his destiny is like a secret sign, at that moment his being turned upside down. A higher truth 

of life is revealed to him. Here the notion of initiation into the path of the hero makes sense. Before the drops of 

blood Perceval discovers the reason sensible, basic experience of the imagination prior to its discovery of reason 

intelligible. Initiation to the symbol, the discovery of its value and transforming deeply human, must precede 

any intellectual learning. 

The hermit, the Trismegistus entrust him when the divine names, which are polysemic expansion since the 

church fathers the epitome of knowledge of the world, the key to the universe, which is based in the same 

crucible symbolic the spiritual being and his destiny, the religious for some esoteric for others, multi-faceted 

crystal, where the lights shine aware of the unconscious, if crossed some resistance, it leaves some little shade to 

be transformed to light. 

The real secret of the Grail is a special link with the higher power. The symbolic initiatory experience allows the 

knight to experience the mystery, Silent in the privacy of his deepest being, in tune with the immanence of the 

principle that inhabits it. Perceval as the Grail will receive at the end of his quest is an esoteric metaphysics for 

D., the soul, the world and true freedom of man. The knight must have the wisdom of the spirit, beauty of soul 

and body strength. It must develop three concepts of man’s knowledge, love and action. Self-knowledge and the 

environment, love each other, gateway to the emergence of individuality, and finally the implementation of the 

harmonious life in tune with the real being in d a humanity transcended by love, not a lady, but in 

brotherhood; a world of spirit: a peaceful world. A sacred brotherhood symbolized by the building of the 

Kingdom of Arthur and his Round Table, whose ambition is to be human models of fiscal God among men, 

builders of the ideal society. 

A true and sincere love that connects people to the Beautiful, the Good, the Truth and Justice. It is the vector of 

the mind. He is the Holy Grail. It is the hope of reaching the Holy Grail that gives meaning to the quest for 

chivalry. This also gives meaning to the pursuit of Mason. This is what binds us to Chretien de Troyes in his 

mythical world in century’s transmission beyond us all. 

But it’s time to discuss what brings us together today, the transmission of the mallet traveller, at your lodge. 

Our Brother Remy showed the idea under the symbol better than I could do it; let me, anyway, to make what I 

feel as a Mason. 

Masons lend meaning to the tool that tells the basic nature of man since the beginning of humanity. So we can 

legitimately understand this attachment to the tool as an inclination to search for his profound intimacy. 

But it’s successive acts from prehistoric times to us, the manifestation of thoughts only working when the man 

of pure science, the intellectual in a word, has no part, he does ever, everything leads us to believe that plunges 

into melancholy territory unfathomable and irrational individuals, each of the days when our ancestors were 

tradesmen; 

This is what shows the meta-language used by the Masons, which draws from these irrational origins. The 

exploration of our deep unconscious is illuminated by the evocation of symbols tool builders. In fact, the rite 

invites our imagination-true with the tool and that we visit and our land-Adama. This chthonic descent is also 

necessary to spirituality as plowing culture. 

And this ritual process that follows the path of the “dreamlike archetypes that are rooted in the human 

unconscious” (G. Bachelard – The land of dreams or the will) knows that the tool, rather than being an extension 

hand, is a transmitter.Transmitter of energy, but more importantly, the transmitter of humanity.

161 

The mallet that we give you, Venerable Master, symbolizes our humanity in all its complex and universal 

component. He symbolizes all the more he goes to meet the multitude at work. It strengthens us as toupin, this 

tool wood core, around which the tight braid, rope or the lake of undying love. 

We received the Respectable Lodge “Hope and Future” of the Regular Grand Lodge of Belgium, we hand it 

over tonight to continue its path of brotherhood. It symbolizes the ambition of builders to be the human models 

of the ideal society builders. 

We abandon it with confidence and know that you will make good use of it. 

I said Worshipful Master. 

For the Respectable Lodge Chrestien of Troyes. 

This is the same letter which is written in FRENCH 

Transmission du maillet voyageur 

Conférence donnée le jeudi 11 mars 2010 

à la 

Loge Fidélité et Prudence à l’Orient de Genève 

Par 

À LA GLOIRE DU GRAND ARCHITECTE DE L’UNIVERS 

SOUS LES AUSPICES 

DE LA GRANDE LOGE NATIONALE FRANCAISE 

PROVINCE AUSTRASIE CHAMPAGNE ARDENNE 

“Same document as above written in French” 

R.L. CHRESTIEN DE TROYES N° 398 

CHARTE ACCORDÉE LE 19 JANVIER 1985 

RITE ECOSSAIS ANCIEN ET ACCEPTÉ 

Transmission du maillet voyageur 

Venerable Maître et vous tous mes Frères en vos grades et 161entioned, 

Nous sommes très heureux, mon Frère Christian et moi, d’être les transmetteurs du maillet qui symbolise la 

véritable volonté maçonnique, celle de répandre la fraternité et la paix à travers le monde. 

Avant d’aller plus loin, nous devons 161entioned comme il se doit notre Respectable Loge Chrestien de Troyes 

N°398, qui travaille à l’Orient de la 161ention des Tricasses,Troyes en Champagne. 

Notre Loge n’a que 25 années d’existence puisque sa Charte a été delivered par la Grande Loge Nationale 

Française le 19 janvier 1985. 

Nous avons le plaisir de retrouver aujourd’hui une trentaine de frères fidèles, qui ont le 161ention d’être 

161entio de la loge. Certains voyagent, en Nouvelle Calédonie, au Viêt-Nam, en Guyane.Tous nous 

accompagnent dans votre espace symbolique et ils sont heureux de nous savoir accueillis de la sorte. 

Nous n’en pouvions pas douter puisque votre émissaire, notre Frère Rémy qui nous a visité, nous a montré une 

161entioned161161161 que l’on ne rencontre plus que dans le chocolat Suisse.Dans “Yvain ou le Chevalier au

162 

Lion”, Chrétien introduit son récit par ce préliminaire qui suscitera la quête du chevalier Yvain : « Prêtez-moi le 

cœur et l’oreille car la parole se perd si le cœur ne l’entend pas ». Merci donc mon Frère Rémy, de n’avoir 

point perdu la parole. De notre côté, je reconnais bien notre Frère Christian porteur d’une belle humanité qui 

sait, par tous les pores de sa peau, se faire entendre. 

Ainsi donc, Chrestien de Troyes est un 162entione né à Troyes en 1135 et mort en 1183. Ilest le créateur de la 

Légende du Graal, de Lancelot, de Perceval, du développement de la 162entio arthurienne et de Merlin 

l’Enchanteur ; considéré comme l’un des premiers auteur de romans de chevalerie, il affirme avoir écrit sur le 

« comandemant de ma dame de Champagne », c’est-à-dire de Marie de Champagne, fille d’Aliénor 

d’Aquitaine et du roi de France, Louis VII ; celle-ci a épousé en 1164 le comte de Champagne Henri 1er le 

Libéral. 

Dans le prologue de sa dernière œuvre, le Conte du Graal, il indique être au service de Philippe d’Alsace, comte 

de Flandres. Ce récit initiatique est 162ention au 162entio roi, Philippe Auguste 162enti il est le précepteur. Le 

terme Graal est d’essence champenoise et désigne un plat creux à poisson qui, lors de la procession chez le roipêcheur, 

est porteur du viatique d’éternité, l’IKTUS des premiers chrétiens. 

Le conte du Graal fonde le mythe le plus important du Moyen Age. De ce texte énigmatique et fascinant va 

procéder toute une moisson de chefs-d’œuvre, de 162entioned162162162162ns et de questions qui continuent 

d’inspirer l’imaginaire occidental. 

Les aventures des chevaliers, héros de ces romans ont bien entendu un sens symbolique : il s’agit de la quête 

d’une identité. Le mythe du Graal (1170), emploie les ustensiles du culte celte qu’il 162entioned162162162, en 

particulier le « chaudron » du Dagda, la « coupe de Souveraineté », et l’épée de Dagda. Le Mystère du monde 

celte qui inspire Chrétien lui permet de parvenir à une nouvelle conception de la chevalerie au service d’un 

univers mythique et mystique. 

A noter que le roi-pêcheur est boiteux et que Perceval est le fils d’une veuve ; il est 162ention ou plus 

exactement naïf au commencement de sa quête ; son destrier est blanc et les armoiries de son écu sont vierges. 

Son armure est vermeille, couleur sang évidemment alchimique. Nombre de caractéristiques récurrentes des 

mythologies antiques et que nous pouvons aisément transposer dans notre 162entio monde initiatique. 

Les 162ention restituent le processus par lequel l’homme peut recouvrer sa pureté et sa 162entioned. Cette voie 

doit amener le Chevalier à dompter ses désirs, ses envies et ainsi à penser juste, à comprendre juste, à parler 

juste et à agir juste. Tout le 162entione et les 162entioned162 évoquent les images qui éclairent la conscience et 

permet de dompter son dragon intérieur. En fait, la quête du St Graal exige des conditions de vie intérieure qui 

nécessite une transformation de l’esprit et du cœur. Le graal n’est pas un trésor 162entione mais spirituel, à 

l’instar de l’or philosophique des vrais Alchimistes. 

Chrétien de Troyes 162ention pour la première fois, la synthèse entre les valeurs et les initiations celtes et 

chrétiennes. Pour parvenir au but ultime de sa vie, Perceval doit subir une initiation ultime, c’est à dire un 

cheminement intérieur qui 162ention une 162entioned162 portée par un ermite, son Maître. Il faut que le jeune 

162ent collabore intérieurement, que naisse en lui l’éveil aux vérités supérieures de l’existence. Et rien, aucune 

162entio aucun maître ne peut lui apporter cet éveil s’il ne se produit pas au plus profond de son être. Cet instant 

privilégié semble surgir lorsque, dans une prairie enneigée, Perceval assiste à l’attaque d’une oie par un faucon. 

De l’oie blessée jaillissent 3 gouttes de sang qui vont tomber sur la neige. Ces gouttes formeront un symbole 

dans la contemplation duquel l’imaginaire de Perceval va s’abîmer. Son être intérieur semble alors s’éveiller. Il 

reste interdit et pensif pendant toute une 162ention, le temps s’est 162enti. Une commotion intérieure l’a saisi, il 

162ention mélancolique et muet. 

Ce hiéroglyphe de sa destinée est comme un signe secret. A ce moment précis son être bascule. Une 162entio 

supérieure de l’existence se révèle à lui. C’est ici que la 

notion d’initiation dans le trajet du héros prend tout son sens. Devant les gouttes de sang Perceval découvre la 

raison sensible, 162entioned162 fondamentale de l’imaginaire préalable à sa découverte de la raison intelligible. 

L’initiation au symbole, la découverte de sa valeur profondément humaine et transformant, doit 162ention tout 

apprentissage 162entioned162162162. 

L’ermite, le Trimégiste lui confiera dès lors les noms divins, foisonnement polysémique qui constituent depuis 

les pères de l’Église la quintessence de la connaissance du monde, la clef de l’Univers, où se fondent dans un 

même creuset le symbolique, le spirituel, l’être et sa destinée, le religieux pour certains, l’ésotérique pour 

d’autres, cristal aux multiples facettes, où le conscient brille des feux de l’inconscient, si, quelques résistances 

franchies, celui-ci sort quelque peu de l’ombre pour se métamorphoser à la lumière. 

Le véritable secret du Graal consiste en un lien privilégié avec la puissance supérieure. Le vécu symbolique 

initiatique permet au chevalier d’éprouver le mystère, dans l’intimité silencieuse la plus profonde de son être, en 

résonnance avec l’immanence du Principe qui l’habite. Le Graal que Perceval percevra au terme de sa quête est 

un ésotérisme métaphysique qui concerne D., l’âme, le monde et la véritable liberté de l’homme. Le chevalier 

doit posséder la Sagesse de l’esprit, la Beauté de l’âme et la Force du corps. Il doit 162entioned 162enti

163 

concepts de l’homme, la connaissance, l’amour et l’action. Connaissance de soi et de l’environnement, l’amour 

de l’autre, porte d’entrée à l’éclosion de l’individualité, enfin la mise en œuvre de la vie harmonieuse, en 

résonnance avec l’être 163ent au sein d’une humanité transcendée par l’amour, non pas d’une dame, mais en 

fraternité ; un monde de l’esprit : un monde apaisé. Une fraternité sacrée symbolisée par l’édification du 

Royaume d’Arthur et de sa table ronde 163enti l’ambition est d’être les modèles humains de l’exercice divin 

parmi les 163enti, édificateurs de la société idéale. 

Un amour 163ention et véritable qui relie les 163enti au Beau, au Bien, à la Vérité et à la Justice. Il est le 

vecteur de l’esprit. Il est le Graal. C’est l’Espérance d’atteindre le Graal qui donne un sens à la quête 

chevaleresque. C’est aussi ce qui donne un sens à la quête du Maçon. C’est ce qui nous lie à Chrétien de Troyes 

dans sa transmission multiséculaire au monde mythique qui nous dépasse tous. 

Mais il est temps d’évoquer ce qui nous rassemble aujourd’hui, la transmission du maillet voyageur, à votre 

loge. 

Notre Frère Rémy a montré l’idée sous le symbole mieux que je ne pourrais le faire ; permettez-moi, malgré 

tout, de formuler ce que je ressens en tant que Maçon. 

Les Maçons prêtent à l’outil une signification qui relate la nature fondamentale de l’homme depuis le début de 

l’humanité. Nous pouvons donc légitimement comprendre cet attachement à l’outil comme une velléité de 

163entioned de son 163entione profonde. 

Or, il s’agit d’actes successifs depuis la préhistoire jusqu’à nous, de manifestation de pensées exclusivement 

ouvrières où l’homme de science pure, l’intellectuel pour tout dire, n’a aucune part, où il n’intervient jamais ; 

tout porte donc à croire que cette mélancolie plonge dans les 163entioned163163 insondés et irrationnels des 

individus, au temps où chacun de nos ancêtres étaient 163enti de 163entio ; 

C’est ce que nous montre le méta-langage 163ention par les Maçons qui puise dans cet irrationnel des 

163ention. L’exploration de nos profondeurs inconscientes est donc éclairée par l’évocation des 163ention 

d’outils de bâtisseurs. De fait, le rite sollicite notre imaginaire-vrai 163enti à l’outil et c’est ainsi que nous 

visitons notre terre-Adama. Cette descente chtonienne est aussi nécessaire à la spiritualité que le labour à la 

culture. 

Et ce processus 163entio qui emprunte la voie de « l’onirisme des 163entioned163 qui sont enracinés dans 

l’inconscient humain » (G. Bachelard – La terre ou les 163entione de la volonté) sait que l’outil, loin d’être le 

prolongement de la main, est un transmetteur. Transmetteur d’énergie, soit, mais plus encore, transmetteur 

d’humanité. 

Le maillet que nous vous remettons, Vénérable Maître, symbolise notre humanité dans toute sa composante 

complexe et universelle. Il le symbolise d’autant plus qu’il va à la rencontre de la multitude au travail. Il nous 

renforce comme le toupin, cet outil de bois central, autour duquel se tresse serrée, la corde ou le lac d’amour 

impérissable. 

Nous l’avons reçu de la Respectable Loge Avenir et Espérance » de la Grande Loge Régulière de Belgique ; 

nous vous le remettons ce soir pour poursuivre son chemin 163entioned. Il symbolise l’ambition des maçons 

d’être les modèles humains édificateurs de la société idéale. 

Nous vous l’abandonnons avec confiance et nous savons que vous saurez en faire bonne usage. 

J’ai dit Vénérable Maître, Pour la Respectable Loge Chrestien de Troyes 

The Lodge Fidelity and from Fidelity (1764-1871) and 

through Prudence (1834-1871) of the Triple Union of 

Nations IV (1769-1834). From Fidelity (1764-1871) and 

through Prudence (1834-1871) of the Triple Union of 

Nations IV (1769-1834). 

His first was the venerable brother Frederic Gaensly, 

Radical deputy to the Grand Council. Under his energetic 

and benevolent impulse, the Lodge soon became one of 

the liveliest of Geneva. 

In 1874, following a proposal from Alpina to a new social 

pact, the Venerable Gaensly broke a lance in 163entio of 

a social liberal and most comprehensive to address

164 

housing in all matters relating to society including issues 

touching on religion and politics. 

Under his vénéralat the lodge took a strong radical 

tendency that became even more pronounced from the 

receipt of Favon George , initiated May 8, 1880 and 

friends: Dr. Alfred Vincent , Alexander Gavart, State 

Councilor; Adrien Lachenal , Federal Councillor, Charles 

Page, Alcide Jentzer, Adrian Babel, Dr. Hughes and David 

Oltramare Moriaud,. 

From 1880 to 1902 Fidelity and Prudence would be the 

Grand Lodge of Geneva radical.Georges Favon was 

venerable from 1892 to 1895 and then occupied the plateau 

of the Speaker until his death. During this time the Lodge 

was particularly interested in economic issues. They began 

to develop the law on public education, projects on Compulsory insurance, mutual Relief to Orphans and 

improving the condition of the 164entioned classes. It was at the initiative of Brothers Gavart, Favon, Louis 

Favre, Dr. Vincent and Dr. Oltramare that legislation on abandoned children was born in 1892. 

Loyalty and Prudence was also interested in the creation 

of Classes guardians and founded theschool kitchens 

Pâquisand Malagnou. 

The Temple today 

6, rue de la Scie 

Geneva 1207 

From the East 

From the West 

Click onto these Links to find out about this Lodge 

http://www.fideliteprudence.ch/index.htm * http://www.fideliteprudence.ch/actualite.htm 

http://www.fideliteprudence.ch/celebrite.htm * http://www.fideliteprudence.ch/contact.htm 

http://www.fideliteprudence.ch/themeindex.htm * http://www.fideliteprudence.ch/historique.htm 

The information below is based on trying to track down two (2) Travelling Gavels which have overstayed their 

visits in France for some time. Trying to keep track of these Travelling Gavels is an impossible task. These days 

we can’t blame the language barrier there is always someone in almost every country that speaks English 

Who works at the East of the capital of Tricasses, Troyes in Champagne. 

Contact Lodge Form 

Form

165 

A: “Jean-Marie MONACO, France” 

Subject: Travelling Gavel Books 

Hello Rick, 

I have sent some messages to these two Lodges. 

However, when doing some Internet research, I found a site explaining that one of the gavels was passed on to 

I join the link to the site, of course it is in French, but you can use Google translate, which will give you the gist 

of it. 

------:------ 

SWITZERLAND 

Grand Lodge Alpina of Switzerland 1884 

Address 

Loyalty and Prudence 

4, 6, Rue de la Scie 

Geneva 1207 

Plan 

Switzerland 

Tel +41 22 735 September 09 

Fax +41 22 735 October 64 

E-Mail: info@fideliteprudence.ch 

Switzerland Flag 

Switzerland, in central Europe, is the land of the Alps. Its tallest peak is the Dufourspitze at 15,203 ft (4,634 m) 

on the Swiss side of the Italian border, one of 10 summits of the Monte Rosa massif. The tallest peak in all of 

the Alps, Mont Blanc (15,771 ft; 4,807 m), is actually in France. Most of Switzerland is composed of a 

mountainous plateau bordered by the great bulk of the Alps on the south and by the Jura Mountains on the 

northwest. The country’s largest lakes—Geneva, Constance (Bodensee), and Maggiore—straddle the French, 

German-Austrian, and Italian borders, respectively. The Rhine, navigable from Basel to the North Sea, is the 

principal inland waterway. 

Information about 

Switzerland: 

Officially the Swiss 

Largest City: Zurich 

Population: 8.014,000 (2012) 

Offical Languages: German – 

French – Italian Romansh

166 

Confederation (Latin: Confoederatio Helvetica, hence its abbreviation CH), is a federalparliamentary 

republic consisting of 26 cantons, with Bern as the seat of the federal authorities. The country is situated 

in Westernand Central Europe, [note 4] where it is bordered by Germany to the north, France to the west, Italy to 

the south, and Austria andLiechtenstein to the east. 

Switzerland is a landlocked country geographically divided between the Alps, the Swiss Plateau and the Jura, 

spanning an area of 41,285 km 2 (15,940 sq mi). While the Alps occupy the greater part of the territory, the 

Swiss population of approximately 8 million people is concentrated mostly on the Plateau, where the largest 

cities are to be found. Among them are the two global cities and economic centres – Zürich and Geneva. 

The Swiss Confederation has a long history of armed neutrality—it has not been in a state of war internationally 

since 1815—and did not join the United Nations until 2002. It pursues, however, an active foreign policy and is 

frequently involved in peace-building processes around the world. [8] Switzerland is also the birthplace of 

the Red Cross and home to a large number of international organizations, including the second largest UN 

office. On the European level, it is a founding member of the European Free Trade Association and is part of 

the Schengen Area – although it is notably not a member of the European Union, nor the European Economic 

Area. 

Switzerland is one of the richest countries in the world by per capita gross domestic product, and has the 

highest wealth per adult (financial and non-financial assets) of any country in the world. [9][10] Zürich and Geneva 

have respectively been ranked as the cities with the second and eighth highest quality of life in the world. [11] It 

has the world's nineteenth largest economy by nominal GDP and the thirty-sixth largest by purchasing power 

parity. It is the fifteenth largest exporter and seventeenth largest importer of goods. 

Switzerland comprises four main linguistic and cultural regions: German, French, Italian and the Romanshspeaking 

valleys. TheSwiss, therefore, though predominantly German-speaking, do not form a nation in the 

sense of a common ethnic or linguistic identity. The strong sense of belonging to the country is founded on the 

common historical background, shared values (federalismand direct 

democracy) [12] and Alpine symbolism. [13] The establishment of the Swiss Confederation is traditionally dated to 

1 August 1291; Swiss National Day is celebrated on the anniversary. 

Wikipedia 

Grand Lodge Alpina of Switzerland [»»»] 

Lodge Chrestion de Troys No. 398 of GLNF 16 th September 20 

July 2012 

Grand Lodge Alpina of Switzerland Welcome 

Hearty greetings to our Freemason Brethren. 

For the others, and for all those who feel interested by Masonry, you will find here some information on our 

association’s end purpose. 

Whoever you are, please accept our warm welcome. In its present form, Masonry is an institution that dates 

back to the 18 th century. Its paramount objective is man’s self-improvement and, through him, that of the society 

in which he lives. Self-improvement means the elevation and development of one’s morals and ideals, and also 

humanism. This can be achieved through continuous self-searching. To this end, we are using symbols that we 

owe to corporations of builders dating back to the Middle Ages. Using these resources, Freemasons are striving 

to find a meaning to Man’s journey on Earth. It is what they call the search for truth. It is not a purely 

speculative endeavour, but consists in performing actions that tend to refine one’s immanent “self”, which 

amounts to improving one’s self-transcendence. One of the main criteria within this refinement context consists 

for a man to identify, in his own life, which values will enable him to improve. The aim is for him to behave in

167 

compliance with his own ethics. The Masonic concept of The Great Architect of the Universe means that a 

Freemason is not an atheist, but a man involved in a quest for spirituality, and aware of the reality of 

transcendence. Each Freemason is free to practise a religion or not, or to opt for his own belief. A Freemason 

reflects and acts both on his own and together with his brethren (the other Freemasons) while attempting to 

radiate Good tolerance, justice, equality, solidarity, humanism, just progress and education. Freemasons can 

belong to any people, culture, belief, or be of any origin, whence the universal feature of Masonry. In Masonry, 

freedom, of which mankind has either blatantly or deviously been deprived throughout History, has topmost 

precedence, this without ambiguity; as a matter of fact, Masonic thinking categorically and methodically 

opposes all forms of dogmatism, whether political, religious, or other. In order to rejoin Freemasonry, just send 

a simple request to a Lodge; they will examine your application before deciding to admit you, and retain the 

right to accept it or not, as in any other association. The Grand Lodge Alpina of Switzerland, which regroups all 

the Swiss Lodges, was formed in 1844 as an association governed by art. 60 of the Swiss Civil Code. It is 

sovereign and has its own Constitution. The Grand Lodge Alpina of Switzerland also entertains very friendly 

relationships in several countries. 

Grand Secretary: 

kanzlei@grossloge-alpina.ch 

Click onto the Links below 

- What is Freemasonry? 

- General Principles 

- Some famous personalities 

- Feminine Freemasonry 

The Grand Lodge 

- Agenda 

- secretary’s office 

Lodges 

- Lodges geographical 

- Lodges by canton (state) 

- Lodges from A – Z 

Sekretariat / Secrétariat / Segretariato / Secretary 

SGLA 

Jupiterstrasse 40 

3015 Bern 

Tel. 031 705 00 60 

Fax 031 705 00 69 

E-Mail: kanzlei@grossloge-alpina.ch 

Grand Lodge of Switzerland 

Grand Lodge Alpi 

------:------

168 

57 TH Lodge to receive this Gavel 


Lodge Fidélité et Prudence 

Geneva, 

Celebrites 

Loge maconnique Fidelite et Prudence 

The famous Brothers 

The Lodge 


A u x illustrious brothers listed at end of document, we should also add an impressive list of names of other 

Brothers who also worked with 168entio and faith in the Royal Art. 

Among them we can mention the brother Daniel Ihly, painter, Brother Charles Gillard, Professor at the 

School of Fine Arts, Brother James Vibert, Sculptor, one of the masterpieces in the garden of HJO and another 

in the Federal Palace in Bern, the BrotherAmédée Henchoz, architect who built the building of the Banque 

Populaire Suisse in Geneva, Brother Paul Rudhardt and Brother Rudolf Bemer, teachers, Brother Fernand 

Goetschel and Brother James Jacobin, lawyers, Brother Charles Page, notary, Brother Charles Valencia, 

Brother Leo Panchaud and Brother Louis Lozeron, chemists, Brother Paul Beuttner, engineer, Brother Louis 

Courthion , brother Leon Kues , brother Jude Suess , the Brother Ali el Ghaiaty , journalists and writers, the 

Brothers David Schmidt, Leon Martin, Paul Yersin, H. Arabian, Anastasius Kotzareff, Camille Tadros, doctors, 

brother Francis Pache , dentist, brother William Schopfer , Doctor of Science, which has long been speaker of 

the lodge before being called to the chair of botany at the University of Bern, Brother Dr. George Morel also 

speaker ofthe lodge, who died on a mission to the Red Cross during the Second World War in the Far East, the 

brother Horrisberg Felix, director of the house Atar, Brother André Jaquillard, dirtecteur of Oflice of Learning, 

brother William Keller, chief of the tire, Brother John Jotterand , associate judge in the Court of First Instance, 

the brother Ernest Zurche, director of Switzerland Journal, brother George Borioli, editor ofthe Journal of 

Geneva’s brother Giuseppe Ghiostergi , professor, member of the lodge during its annéers of exile, which 

became, in 1946, Minister to Italy, then Vice President of Insurance The Swiss National. 

To all those brothers, and that to those we have not 168entioned will nominally course our gratitude for 

everything they did to the lodge and Masonry Geneva. 

Not to mention al the famous Masons in the world 

Address 


4, 6, Rue de la Scie 

Geneva 1207 

Plan 

Switzerland 

Tel +41 22 735 September 09 

Fax +41 22 735 October 64 

E-Mail: info@fideliteprudence.ch 

To contact the Lodge 

Form

169 


This letter was sent by; FIDELITE & PRUDENCE N° 16 GRAN LODGE "ALPINA" OF 

SWITZERLAND 

Dear Brother, 

I wish to inform you that our Lodge "Fidélité & Prudence" N° 16 of the Gran Lodge "Alpina" of Switzerland, at 

the Orient of Geneva, had the pleasure to deliver the "Flying Gavel" which has been brought to her by the Lodge 

"Chrétien de Troyes" of France. 

We have submitted this beautiful Artwork to our Twin Sister Lodge "Narod" N°1 of the Czech Republic, 

at the Orient of Praha. The Ceremony of passing has been held on Saturday the 25th of June 2013. 

The Lodge "Narod" is, indeed, the 50th Lodge which have received the "Flying Gavel" to follow your wishes to 

see it turn around the world. 

Best regards to you and all Brethern of your estimated country. 

FIDELITE & PRUDENCE N° 16 

GRAN LODGE "ALPINA" OF SWITZERLAND 

The Worshipful Master 

Fernand FEIST 

fernand.feist@bluewin.ch 

PS : Please find three pictures in attachment 

3 attachments — Download all attachments View all images 

------:------

170 

This Travelling Gavel is now in 

CZECH REPUBLIC 

Capital: Prague 

Currency: Czech koruna 

Government: Parliamentary republic 

Prime minister: Jiří Rusnok 

President: Miloš Zeman 

Official language: Czech Language 

The Czech Republic is a landlocked country in Central Europe. The country is bordered by Germany to the 

west, Austriato the south, Slovakia to the east and Poland to the north. Its capital and largest city, with 1.3 

million inhabitants, is Prague. The Czech Republic includes the historical territories 

of Bohemia and Moravia and a small part of Silesia. 

The Czech state, formerly known as Bohemia, was formed in the late 9th century as a small duchy around 

Prague, at that time under the dominance of the powerful Great Moravian Empire. After the fall of the Empire in 

907, the centre of power was transferred from Moravia to Bohemia, under the Přemyslids. Since 1002 it was 

formally recognized as part of the Holy Roman Empire. [11][12] In 1212 the duchy was raised to a kingdom and 

during the rule of Přemyslid dukes/kings and their successors, the Luxembourgs, the country reached its greatest 

territorial extent (13th–14th century). During the Hussite wars the kingdom faced economic embargoes and 

crusades from all over Europe. Following the Battle of Mohács in 1526, the Kingdom of Bohemia was gradually 

integrated into the Habsburg monarchy as one of its three principal parts, alongside the Archduchy of 

Austria and the Kingdom of Hungary. The Bohemian Revolt (1618–20) lost in the Battle of White Mountain, 

led to Thirty Years War and further centralization of the monarchy including forced recatholization 

and Germanization. With the dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire in 1806, the Bohemian kingdom became 

part of the Austrian Empire. In the 19th century the Czech lands became the industrial powerhouse of the 

monarchy and the core of the Republic of Czechoslovakia which was formed in 1918, following the collapse of 

the Austro-Hungarian Empire after World War I. After 1933, Czechoslovakia remained the only democracy 

in central and eastern Europe. 

After the Munich Agreement, Polish annexation of Zaolzie and German occupation of Czechoslovakia and the 

consequent disillusion with the Western response and gratitude for the liberation of the major portion of 

Czechoslovakia by the Red Army, the Communist Party of Czechoslovakia won the majority in the 1946 

elections. In the 1948 coup d'état, Czechoslovakia became a communist-ruled state. In 1968, the increasing 

dissatisfaction culminated in attempts to reform the communist regime. The events, known as the Prague 

Spring of 1968, ended with an invasion by the armies of the Warsaw Pact countries (with the exception 

of Romania); the troops remained in the country until the 1989 Velvet Revolution, when the communist regime 

collapsed. On 1 January 1993, Czechoslovakia peacefully dissolved into its constituent states, the Czech 

Republic and the Slovak Republic. 

In 2006, the Czech Republic became first former member of the Comecon to achieve the status of a developed 

countryaccording to the World Bank. [13] In addition, the country has the highest human development in Central 

and Eastern Europe, [14] ranking as a "Very High Human Development" nation. It is also ranked as the ninth most 

peaceful country in Europe and mostdemocratic and healthy (by infant mortality) country in the region. It is a 

pluralist multi-party parliamentary representative democracy, a member of the European Union, NATO, 

the OECD, the OSCE, the Council of Europe and the Visegrád Group. 

Czech Republic - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia 

Regions - Prague - Czech language - Czech koruna 

Wikipedia

171 

Free Map of Czech Republic 

Population: 10,177,300 (2013) 

Land Area: 77,276 sq km 

Year of Independance: 1993 

With the collapse of Sovietbacked 

authority in 1989, 

Czechoslovakia regained its 

democracy through a peaceful 

"Velvet Revolution." On 1 

January 1993, the country 

underwent a "velvet divorce" 

into its two national 

components, the Czech 

Republic and Slovakia. The 

in 1999 and the European Union in 2004. 

Czech Republic joined NATO 

------:------ 

58 th Lodge to receive this Travelling Gavel 

25 th June 2013 

LODGE NAROD No.1 

Prague 

Czech Republic 

CZECHOSLOVAKIA 

Of the 

Czech Republic, at the Orient of Praha. 

fernand.feist@bluewin.ch 

Introduction 

About the Lodge » 

Questions and Answers 

Archive documents 

References and links 

Gallery » 

Contact 

Email ddress is : 

Tajemnik_N Narod No. 1 

secretary@lnarod.cz 


info@lnarod.cz 

Website : 

http://www.lnarod.cz/enresume.php 

S&F 

Jacques Huyghebaert 

Grand Master 

Grand Lodge of the Czech Republic 

Velika Loze Ceske Republiky 

English Summary 

Email ddress is : 


 

Tajemnik_N Narod No. 1 

For Visitors: http://www.lnarod.cz/enresume.php#sendmsg 

This information was sent to me by the 

Grand Master of the Czech Republic 

Website: 

http://www.lnarod.cz/ 

http://www.lnarod.cz/enresume.php

172 

S&F 

Jacques Huyghebaert 

Grand Master 

Grand Lodge of the Czech Republic 

Velika Loze Ceske Republiky 

grandlodge@freemasonry.cz 

This is a brief History of 

Lodge Národ, No. 1, Grand Lodge of the Czech Republic 

1. Years 1919–1951 

In the turmoil after the end of World War One and the founding of the new state of Czechoslovakia, the Lodge 

Národ was founded in March 1919. The unusual way the lodge was founded shows that light comes to us in 

many different ways. 

Acknowledging the firm character of individual brethren during the war hardship, which was vouched by bro. 

Udo Dadone, a special envoy of the Italian Scottish Rite, twenty-five founding brethren of Lodge Národ were 

accepted into Loggia Nazionale Or. Di Roma Valle del Tevere, passed as Fellow Crafts and Master Masons in 

January 1919, all by correspondence. The appropriate papers received from Rome were given to the brethren on 

21 March, when they swore their masonic oaths and agreed to meet the following week. Thus on 28 March, 

1919, the first ritual team was elected and the lodge founded. The actual charges were issued by Rome on 15 

June and the lodge was consecrated on 5 November in the same year. 

The lodge was consecrated by the Serenissima Gran Loggia Nazionale Italiana (National Grand Lodge of Italy), 

specifically by its Scottish Rite, and thus was working under the Italian Constitution. The name Národ 

("Nation") was chosen after the magazine of the same name, whose editor-in-chief used to be František Sís, the 

man who was a leading person in the founding and the first WM. A number of journalists from that magazine, 

along with politicians of the time, writers and university professors were among the lodge founders. 

Numerous brethren were then initiated in rapid speed: by the end of October 1920, a year after its founding, the 

lodge numbered 78 brethren. The newly initiated brethren were the ones who lead the lodge more towards a 

standard masonic work, away from its political-national roots. The large number of brethren lead to the creation 

of informal groups, which lead into forming new lodges: Fügner, Dobrovský, Šafařík, Týn, Dílo, 28. říjen – 

49 brethren left Národ for different lodges. After František Sís, Ladislav Syllaba, professor of the medical 

school, became the Worshipful Master for seven years, with a half-year interruption, and it was him who 

definitely gave Lodge Národ leadership, its spiritual content and character that lasted to its shut down in 1939. 

The Grand Lodge of Czechoslovakia was formed in 1923 by Lodge Komenský, Dobrovský and Lodge Národ 

with another two of its daughter lodges. Národ is arguably the second oldest Czech lodge, since Komenský – 

which was not reconsecrated after 1990 – a predominantly German speaking lodge working under the 

constitution of GL of Hungary – was founded later but consecrated six weeks before Národ. 

Ladislav Syllaba, Karel Weigner and Václav Hora from Lodge Národ were among the Grand Masters of the prewar 

Grand Lodge of Czechoslovakia. 1923 to 1938 was the period when Czechoslovakian freemasonry was 

flourishing. 

As other Czechoslovakian Lodges, Lodge Národ had shut itself down after the Munich Agreement and 

occupation of the country by Nazi Germany in early 1939. Freemasons were among the most fated people by the 

new regime and by peculiar coincidence, the Ministry of Education was responsible for completing the list of all 

and particularly most prominent freemasons. Professor Kapras, past master of Lodge Národ was a top figure on 

the list, himself being a Minister of this Ministry at the time... 

After the war, the situation was not much in favour of freemasonry – the Ministry of Interior was already under 

the Communist control and it took until 1947 to regularly reopen the Grand Lodge. From more than 100 Národ 

members, 82 joined the post-war lodge, with at least ten lodge members being victims of the war. It was also a 

new start for Lodge Národ, which did not last too long. The Communists took control of the state in February 

1948, and the Lodge shut itself down for good in 1951, with Jiří Syllaba, son of the Lodge‘s second WM, being 

its last WM. Several young brethren were initiated in this short period. 

2. Years 1991–today 

The bright new start of the Grand Lodge and Lodge Národ itself came after 17 November, 1990, when the 

Grand Lodge was reconsecrated with 28 masons from pre-war and post-war periods, who formed three lodges. 

Lodge Národ, as the most senior of the three being No. 1. Jiří Syllaba – then the only freemason of 33rd degree 

of the Scottish Rite – has become Lodge Národ WM again and – quite interestingly for English brethren – GM 

at the same time.

173 

After the awakening, the number of brethren has grown in a steady way ever since. Lodge Národ uses Czech 

national ritual, which is based primarily on Emulation, with minor differences, which are always of great 

interest to visiting English brethren. The ritual has been adopted and translated in a nice poetic language by 

Jaroslav Kvapil, a playwright, poet and the first Grand Master, in the 1920s. 

In 2010 , after 19 years, with 55 members, we were the largest lodge in the country. We served as a patronising 

lodge for the group of brethren that reconsecrated Lodge Dobrovský in Pilsen, other brethren were active in 

establishing two other lodges with their specific programs. 

Five Lodge Národ brethren served as Grand Officers in 2010, including Immediate Past Grand Master Petr 

Jirounek, Second Deputy Grand Master František Čermák and Grand Secretary Jan Tomsa. Our bro. Jaroslav 

Oehm was the Chairman of the Grand Lodge Masonic Court. Other members were active in several committees 

and informal activities of the Grand Lodge and lodge Národ itself. 

The lodge meets twice a month for ten months of the year – once for a ritual meetings, and once for instruction 

meeting with a lecture. Along with participating at Grand Lodge and other lodges activities, our brethren are 

quite happy to meet outside of the lodge schedule – in the last years, we have visited Bangor Union Lodge in 

Bangor, Province of Down, where we performed our initiation, then Summum Bonum Lodge in Middlesex, and 

Old Blackburnian Lodge. 

We are a rather young lodge, with most brethren in their forties and fifties, and we hope to keep contributing to 

the flourishing of our brotherhood for many years. 

For visitors of Lodge Národ 

The Lodge Národ No. 1 works under the Grand Lodge of the Czech Republic, which is recognised by the United 

Grand Lodge of England, Grande Loge Nationale Française, United Vereinigte Grosslogen von Deutschland, 

Grossloge von Ősterreich and more than150 other Grand Lodges. 

Lodge meetings take place in Prague regularly. The ritual is performed in Czech language, however many of 

brethren speak English and other foreign languages. 

For visitors of Lodge Národ 

The Lodge Národ No. 1 works under the Grand Lodge of the Czech Rep., which is recognised by the United 

Grand Lodge of England, Grande Loge Nationale Française, United Vereinigte Grosslogen von Deutschland, 

Grossloge von Ősterreich and more than 150 other Grand Lodges. 

Lodge meetings take place in Prague regularly. The ritual is performed in Czech language, however many of 

brethren speak English and other foreign languages. 

You are welcome to visit us! 

Send us a message: http://www.lnarod.cz/enresume.php#sendmsg 

------:------ 

This Travelling Gavel which started its Journey in November 1993 in Tamworth New South wales 

Australia; 

Has been presented into 63 Masonic Lodges and Grand Lodge, visiting the following places; 

New South Wales, Australia * Queensland, Australia * England * America whicluding the States of; 

Rhode Island * Connecticut * Massachusetts * New Hampshire * Vermont * Quebec * back to Vermont * then 

returned back to Quebec * Ontario, Canada * New York, USA * Syria-Lebanon * Cyprus * Greece * Italy * 

Belgium * France * Switzerland * Czech Republic * 

------:------

174 

ITEMS OF INTEREST 

Link below 

FREEMASON’S INTERNATIONAL WEB DIRECTORY 

Click onto the bar below 

http://www.freemason-international.com/ 

ANNIVERSARY LODGE OF RESEARCH 

NH 

SPECIAL LODGES 

Anniversary Lodge of Research No. 175: 

Charter, 5-20-1964 Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, F.& A.M. 

Annual Communication, July 8, 2010 in Portsmouth. 

SEC. Mark E. Furber Tel. (603) 436-1523 

http://www.anniversarylodge.org 

Click onto the Black bar below and listen to; 

The Masonic Ring by Howie Damron 

http://youtu.be/4oFeKJKoaKc 

The conclusion of this Tamworth Travelling Gavel Story: 

As this Travelling Gavel should have been sent back to Australia some time ago after it had been presented into 

44 Lodges, is still being presented into Lodges through-out the world, the latest being 58 Lodges. Sometimes it 

makes me wonder why some Masons, especially Lodge Secretaries, can’t seem to find a few minutes to write 

back to me with the information which I had asked for so that I could complete my Gavel book the way that I 

wanted to. After all, we are all Brothers, not as a family Brother, but a Freemasonry Brother, this is what one 

becomes when you join the Masonic Fraternity, we thrive on, Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. 

I am one of many millions of Masons scattered through-out the world, over the years since I joined Freemasonry 

in 1990, I have enjoyed being part of this Fraternity. One gets to meet many new friends, especially when I have 

run this International Travelling gavel Project since 1993. Boy, what a task I’ve taken on, little did I realise 

when I made and presented my first Travelling Gavel, which was presented into Adastral Lodge No. 397 

A.F. and A. Masons of Victoria, Australia in March 1993. Over the years that followed, I made and 

presented the Travelling Gavels into; 

(1) ~ Victoria (Australia), 1993, which was presented into lodges through-out Victoria and South 

Australia 

I have received this Travelling Gavel back home to NSW, Australia 

(2) ~ Port Macquarie N.S.W Australia, 1993. Was presented into lodges in, NSW, Scotland, Orkney 

Islands, Shetland Islands, Finland and Malta, I have received this Gavel back home to NSW 

I have received this Travelling Gavel back to NSW, Australia 

(3) ~ Tamworth N.S.W 1993, which was presented into; 

After leaving Tamworth Lodge in NSW, Australia, this is where it travelled to; 

Then travelled through-out the top of NSW into 13 Lodges, * went into Queensland, where it was presented 

into, 11 lodges, * the last lodge was Warwick Lodge No. 160. * On the 10th July 1999 meeting they had a 

visitor from a Warwick Lodge from Warwickshire in England. They presented him with this Travelling Gavel, 

where, he took it back to England; he then presented it into his Warwick Lodge No. 8011. * 

(2nd August 1999) he then took it to New York & presented it into the 3rd Warwick Lodge No.16, (10th 

August 1999) * then it was presented into the 4th Warwick Lodge No.28 in Rhode Island. (12th August

175 

1999) * There are 4 Warwick Lodges in the world & at the last Warwick Lodge meeting presentation , all 4 

W/Masters were present, even the one from Queensland. 

The Gavel then was presented into the following Lodges; 

Connecticut 1 Lodge, *Massachusetts, 3 Lodges, * New hampshire,2 Lodges, * Vermont, 3 Lodges, * 

Quebec,(Canada), 2 Lodges, * then back to Vermont, where it was presented into 1 Lodge, * then to Quebec 

again where it was presented into 1 lodge, * Ontario, (Canada) 1 lodge, * New York Grand Lodge, * 

Syria-Lebanon Gran Lodge, * Cyprus Grand Lodge, * Greece Grand Lodge, * and 5 Craft Lodges, * 

Italy, 4 lodges, * Belgium,1 lodge, * France, I think 5 lodges, * Switzland, 1 lodge * that I have heard of. 

Grand Lodge of the Czech Republic = Lodge No.01 Národ (Praha) = 25 th June 2013 

(4) ~ England Gavel No. 1 1994 this Gavel was presented into the following Countries; 

Lodges: 

England, 25 * the Netherlands, 2 * France, 4 * Belgium, 6 * Back to France, 5 * Germany, 3 * 

Back to England, 5 * Province of South Wales 1 * Province of North Wales, 2 * France, 1 * Back to England, 

where it was presented into a further14 Lodges 

Back to France, 3, * 

(Celtic Lodge No. 1328, 12 th February 2011, Province of Brittany; 

Chrestien Respectable Lodge No. 398 of Troyes, Troyes in Champagne 

Switzerland, Lodge Fidélité et Prudence, 11th March 2010 Geneva; 

The last three Lodges listed for France I’m not really sure if it is the Tamworth Travelling Gavel or the England 

Travelling Gavel No. 1, these two Gavels went missing in France at the same time, and seeing that I haven’t 

been able to get a Mason from France or Switzerland, I suppose I’ll never know. The lack of information from 

Masonic Lodges all around the world has amaized me greatly - and they call it Brotherly Love!! 

(5) ~ Alberta, Canada 1995, this Travelling Gavel was presented into 56 Lodges through-out Canada 

I have received this Travelling Gavel back to NSW, Australia 

(6) ~ Western Australia 1995, This Travelling Gavel was presented into 56 Lodges in NSW and South . . 

Australia; 

I have received this Travelling Gavel back to NSW. Australia 

(7) ~ Ireland 1995, As of July 2012 this Travelling Gavel has been presented into 41Masonic Lodges and 

has. to be presented into another 24 Lodges before being sent back to NSW, Australia. 

(8) ~ Malaysia 1995 This Travelling Gavel was presented into 14 Lodges in Malaysia. As this Travelling 

Gavel wasn’t being presented often enough, some lodges kept it in their lodge for over twelve (12) months at a 

time, sometimes for three years, I had the Grand Secretary of Malaysia send this Travelling Gavel back to me. 

I refurbished it somewhat, and I then presented it to W. Bro. Leroy Nigh, who is a member of 

Cloverdale Lodge No. 168 of Vancouver, Canada, while he was visiting a Lodge in our District here in NSW, 

Australia, where it has been presented into a further 25 Lodges through-out Vancouver, Canada, the last Lodge 

to receive this Gavel was; Concord Lodge No. 79 Parksville BC; on the 17 th March 2012, This Travelling 

Gavel has another 15 Lodges to be presented into, 

This Gavel sent back home to NSW, Australia 

(9) ~ New Zealand 1996, This Travelling Gavel was presented into 56 Lodges through-out the North and 

South Islands of New Zealand 

I have received this Travelling Gavel back home in NSW, Australia 

(10) ~ America 1998, This Travelling Gavel was to be presented into the Grand Lodges through-out the SA. 

And Canada, it was presented into 15 Grand Lodges, namely; NEW YORK * VIRGINIA * COLUMBIA * 

MASSACHUSETTS * CONNECTICUT * NEW HAMPSHIRE * RHODE ISLAND * VERMONT * ONTARIO * ALBERTA * 

NEW FOUNDLAND & LABRADOR * NEW BRUNSWICK * ,NOVA SCOTIA * QUEBEC * PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND * 

This Travelling gavel the left the Grand Lodges and was then presented into Craft Lodges, 

starting with Alberta, where it was presented into 6 Lodges

176 

It was then presented into; “ 

Inuvik” which is in the NORTH WEST TERRITORIES, Canada (1 Lodge) 

Yukon; 3 Lodges – Alaska; Grand Lodge and 14 Lodges – Nevada; 7 Lodges – California; 1 Lodge, as of 

September 2012 

(11) ~ Ontario, Canada 1999, This Travelling Gavel was presented into Lodges all over Canada 

This Travelling Gavel was sent back to me in NSW Australia after it had been presented into 

56 Lodges 

(12) ~ England Gavel No. 2 - 2002 This Travelling gavel was presented into Lodges in the following 

Provinces; 

Province Of Staffordshire * Province of Derbyshire * Province of Leicestershire and Rutland * Province of 

Warwickshire * Province of Staffordshire - Cannock Chase District * Province of Warwickshire * Metropolitan 

Staffordshire Area * Province of Yorkshire * Midlands Area * Province of Stafford * Province of 

Gloucestershire * Province of West Lancashire * Province of Somerset * Province of Staffordshire & 

Shropshire 

This Gavel has been sent back home to NSW 

------:------ 

(1) Victoria, Australia, 1993 ~ (2) Port Macquarie N.S.W,1993 ~ 

(3) Tamworth N.S.W 1993 (4) England Gavel No.1 1994 ~ (5) Alberta, Canada 1995 ~(6) Western 

Australia 1995 ~ (7) Ireland 1995 ~ (8) Malaysia 1995 ~ 

(9) New Zealand 1996 ~ (10) America 1998 ~ (11) Ontario, Canada 1999 ~ 

(12) England Gavel No. 2 (2002) 

This Travelling gavel has been returned back to me in NSW, Australia 

------:------ 

The list of Famous Freemasons is enormous, go to Google to see the lists 

Joining the Masonic Fraternity you will have done what many 1000’s of Elite and Famous Masons have done in 

these modern days and in past years; early explorers, Politicians Leaders, Prime Ministers, Presidents, motor 

vechicle inventers, doctors, film stars, religious ministers, Etc. the number is quite staggering 

------:------ 

Thank you: 

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all the Masonic Lodges, and the Grand Lodges through-out the world 

for taking a part in this unique International Travelling Gavel Project. I would also like to thank all the Tourist 

Information Centres, especially Wikipedia the Free Encyclopedia for their generousity in allowing me to copy 

from their websites, without them, it would have made this Project a little dull. 

If all the Masonic Lodges had done the right thing and sent back the information which I had asked for, I 

wouldn’t have to had to ask other people for this information, never the less, I will always be most grateful for 

the Information Centres assistance. 

A GREAT THANK YOU FOR EVERYONE THAT WAS A PARTICILANT WITH THIS PROJECT 

------:------

177 

THE FUNERAL 

A new Worshipful Master in a small Georgia town spent 

the first four days making personal visits to each of the members, 

Inviting them to come to his first Lodge Meeting 

The following Thursday the Lodge was all but empty 

Accordingly, the Worshipful Master placed a notice in the 

Local papers, stating that because the Lodge was dead, 

It was everyone’s duty to give it a decent burial, 

the Funeral would be held on the following Monday afternoon, 

The notice read, 

Morbidly curious, a large crowd turned up for the funeral 

In front of the Alter they saw a closed coffin, 

smothered with flowers. 

After the Chaplin delivered the Eulogy, 

he opened the coffin and invited the brethren to come 

forward and pay their final respects to their “Dead Lodge.” 

Filled with curiosity as to what would represent the Corpse 

of a “Dead Lodge” all the brethren eagly lined up to 

Look into the coffin as each mourner peeped into the coffin, 

then quickly turned away with s guilty sheepish look. 

In the coffin, tilted a the correct angle, 

was a large mirror, 

Remember the Obligation that we all took my brethren, 

To attend and support your Lodge. 

Author unknown

178 

Very Worshipful Brother Richard (Rick) Howes 


Australia 

This one off, “Special Gavel” is made up out of 23,830 odd pieces of Australian Red Cedar and Radiata 

Pine 

It sits in the New South Wales, Australia, Grand Lodge Museum 

NSW Australian Tourism 

The information below is about my/our Masonic District 

Which is situated on the Mid Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia 

Click onto the Web Links 

District 18 Freemasons - Central Coast 

http://www.facebook.com/groups/175175852538005/events/ 

http://www.facebook.com/groups/175175852538005/photos/ 

Central Coast Tourism

179 

Map of Wyong, Nsw 2259 | Whereis 

Wyong - Central Coast Australia 

Wyong NSW 

http://www.centralcoastaustralia.com.au/ 

http://www.thecentralcoast.com.au/index.html 

http://www.centralcoastaustralia.com.au/ 

The Central Coast is an urban region in the Australian state of New South Wales, located on the coast north 

of Sydney and south of Lake Macquarie. 

The Central Coast has an approximate population of 299,000 making it the third largest urban area in New 

South Wales and the ninth largest urban area in Australia. [1] Geographically, the Central Coast is generally 

considered to include the region bounded by the Hawkesbury River in the south, the Watagan Mountains in the 

west and the southern end of Lake Macquarie in the north. [2] 

Politically, it is administered as two local government areas; City of Gosford and Wyong Shire. In September 

2006, the New South Wales Government released a revised long term plan for the region that sees the Central 

Coast classified as a regional city, along with Wollongong and the Hunter Region, with the largest regional city 

in the area being Gosford. 

Wyong is where V.W. Bro. Rick Howes lives in NSW., Australia 

Wyong 

Wyong - Visit New South Wales 

www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/central-coast... 

Wyong is a bustling township and the centre for 

Roger Miller, King of the Road 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WrhAC0dFis0 

I’ll be seeing you 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ME8Qs8Lpgo&feature=player_embedded

180 

The International Travelling Gavel Collection 

England No. 2 ~ Ontario, Canada New Zealand ~ Alberta, Canada ~ Malaysia 

. Western Australia ~ USA Grand Lodge ~ . 

England Gavel No. 1 ~ Ireland 

These 12 “Travelling Gavels” were presented into 

the World of Masonic Lodges to 

Spread Peace ~ Goodwill & Good Fellowship to all Brethren, they were also presented 

into a vast number of Lodges to help to Promote “VISITATION” 

I have received back home the following Travelling Gavels ~ 

Alberta & Ontario Gavels, Canada ~ New Zealand ~ Victoria (Australia) ~ Western 

Australia 

NSW, Australia:Tamworth and Port Macquarie Gavels, ~ Victoria, Australia 

To all the Brethren that helped me with this 

Travelling Gavel Project 

This Book is not complete 

More to come as this Travelling Gavel gets presented into more Lodges

181 

Has been in existence for thousands of years, I was sent a book from the 

Grand Lodge of Warwickshire, in England some years ago, which in it there 

Was an item about Freemasonry around 900 AD 

While most sources placed the official birth of Freemasonry at 1717Masonic 

References clearly indicated that the organization’s History went back much 

further than this; there is simply no proof of when it started and where. 

------:------ 

What do Masons stand for? 

“CHARITY” 

Masons raise money for all sorts of underprivileged people. 

Whether it be for victims of, 

Floods ~ fire ~ drought ~ Education for Children 

Housing of Aged People ~ Poverty 

And much more. 

------:------ 

In North America the Masons have a Shriners Lodge 

I have been told that they raise 4 million dollars every day of the year 

To run every kind of Childrens Hospital 

No matter of colour or race 

“TOTALLY FREE”

TAMWORTH

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