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Article REPORTS OF MASONIC MEETINGS. ← Page 2 of 2 Article REPORTS OF MASONIC MEETINGS. Page 2 of 2 Article REPORTS OF MASONIC MEETINGS. Page 2 of 2
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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
Thompson , G . Wager , H . E . Hammond , F . C . Paul , A . Steadman , T . F . Brown , J . Davidson , E . J . Penney , G . Ayton , E . Goldsborough , and J . Taylor . Among thc visitors wc noticed Bros . T . M . Rigg , P . M . of 10 S 0 and P . P . G . R . of Kent ; It . Warlow , J . W . of 37 Sand P . P . S . B . of South Wales ; J . Nixon , E . Garrett , M . W . West , P . M . ; and H . A . Johnson , of 10 S 9 ; J . Harper , 521 ; R . Pyke ,
175 ; A . Bean , 336 ; S . Reeves , 358 ; and F . Blaas , 184 .. The lodge was opened in due form and with solemn prayer . When the minutes of previous meeting were read and confirmed the ballot was taken for Mr . C . W . Bradley and Mr . Arthur W . Bird , who were elected unanimously . Thc W . M . then called upon Bro . A . Spears , P . M . and P . P . G . Org ., to address the brethren on this occasion ; when
Bro . Spears first complimented the brethren on thesr first meeting in the new lodge room , then taking thc subject of the groundwork of Masonry being holy , he illustrated it by givinn- the history of the three grand offerings , which made it holy , as we find recorded in the volume of tbe Sacred Law , and characterized them as three distinct offerings to complete one great purpose , the first being an
offering of faith , the second an offering for disobedience , thc third an offering of thanksgiving and worship , and alluded to the great number of years that elapsed between the first offering and the third , and the complete fulfilment of the promises that God had made to Abraham when he called him to go and offer up his only son on Mount Moriah . He then exhorted the brethren to practise the grand ' principles of Masonry—brotherly love , relief and
truth , and in their daily walk and conversation , to display to the world thc happy effects of our honourable Order , and to practise not only that charity which supplies the wants of the needy , but act to our neighbour as we would our neighbour to act to us , concluding with a prayer for thc prosperity of the lodge and Craft in general whereevei dispersed . After this address thc brethren sang thc following ode : — Genius of Masonry , descend ,
And with thee bring thy spotless train ; Constant our sacred rites attend , While we adore thy peaceful reign . Thc above was much appreciated by all present . The business of the lodge was then proceeded with , which was as follows : —Bro . E . Goldborough , F . C , who had previously been found qualified , was raised to the Sublime
Degree of a M . M ., and Bro . Thos . F . Brown and Bro . G . Ayton , E . A ., who had also been found qualified , were passed to the Second Degree of F . C . ; thc ceremony ol passing and raising were worked by the W . M . in a very creditable manner . The business of the lodge being ended the lodge was closed in due form and with solemn prayer . Thc brethren then adjourned to the Britannia Inn for
refreshment , and after spending a short time in song and sentiment , they separated , happy to meet again . BATH . —Lodge of Honour ( No . 379 ) . —A meeting was held at 4 p . m . on Monday , Dec . 13 th , the most important one in thc year , being that at which thc officers arejjehanged . Bro . J . S . Bartrum , W . M ., opened the lodge , assisted by Bros . G . H . Cook , S . W . ; H . Gore , J . W . ; C . S .
Barter , Treas . ; H . Culhford Hopkins , Sec . ; W . C . Dickenson , S . D . ; J . M . R . Leir , I . G . ; Gazzard , Tyler ; R . Cook , P . M . ; E . E . Phillips , I . P . M . ; C . A . Bush ; H . G . Bush . As visitors there were present Bros . Capt . Phayrc , S 3 j C . Milsom , P . M . 53 ; Simmons , I . P . M . 53 ; Wilton , P . M . 41 ; Trevor , 944 ; Gen . Doherty , P . M . 53 ; VV . Hunt , 41 ; J . F . Draper , P . M . 243 ; Dr . H . Hopkins ,
41 , P . P . G . S . W ., and P . M . 47 and 958 ; J . L . Stothert , P . M . 53 ; Colonel Ford , I ' . M . 53 ; Else , D . P . G . M . for Somerset . Bro . Phillips , P . M ., gave the charge to Bro . Bush , which was omitted at his initiation at the nrcvions meriinr * -. He then tnnl- the rhnir and fxamined and entrusted the candidate . The latter retired for preparation , and the lodge was opened in the Second
Degree . On his return he was duly passed as a F . C . by thc I . P . M . The working tools were explained by Bro . Dickenson , who during the ceremony had acted as J . D ., Dr . Hopkins taking the duties of S . D ., and also giving thc charge . Bro . Else then took the chair , he having kindly undertaken the duties of Installing Master . The preliminary proceedings being concluded , the lodge was
opened in thc T hird Degree , the brethren below the chair retired , and in their absence Bro . Cook was regularly inducted into the chair of K . S ., the ceremony thus far aud afterwards being ably conducted by the D . P . G . M . On the return of the brethren the usual processions , salutations , and addresses took place , the lodge being resumed at the proper time in the Second and afterwards in the First
Degree . The following appointments were made , and the brethren named were duly invested : J . S . Bartrum , I . P . M . ; 11 . Gore , S . W . ; H . C . Hopkins , J . W . ; C . S . Barter , Treas . ; Dickenson , Sec . ; H . N . Smythe , S . D . ; Leir , J . D . ; C . E . Little , I . G . ; C . Hush , D . C . ; Gazzard , Tyler . The W . M briefly addressed the brethren on his installation . A unanimous vote of thanks was passed to the retiring W . M ., and
also to thc late Secretary , who had most efficiently filled the oflicc for two years . A similar compliment was paid to the D . P . G . M ., who had travelled far to perform the ceremony of installation , and had performed the duty efficiently and gracefully . Several other matters of lodge business were transacted , and the proceedings were brought to a close at 6 . 30 . About twenty brethren afterwards partook
of a banquet at the Castle Hotel . ROCK FERRY . —Rock Lodge ( No . 1289 ) . — The installation of W . M . of this lodge took place on Friday evening , the 10 th ult ., at the lodge-room , Bedford House , Rock Ferry , Cheshire . The brethren assembled at 5 . 30 p . m ., when the retiring W . M ., Bro . Lilley Ellis , passed Bro .
Fergusson to the Fellow Craft Degree , thc ceremony , in the perfectness of its working , being illustrative of the able manner in which thc work ot the year had been performed by him . There was a large number of visitors present , including several P . P . Grand Officers arid W . Masters- ol neighbouring lodges . The W . M . elect was Bro . Francis
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
L . Bolton , and thc chair of Installing Master was filled by Bro . Edward Friend , P . M ., P . Prov . G . J . D ., himself thc first W . M . of the Rock Lodge , and by whom all the succeeding Masters have been installed . The Wardens' chairs were taken by Bros . J . and T . Piatt , P . Prov . G . J . W . and P . Prov . G . J . D . respectively , and the installation ceremony was performed in such an impressive and skilful manner by
the Installing Master as to elicit thc warm approbation of all the brethren present , who , later in the evening , expressed their cordial thanks for his untiring interest in the welfare of the lodge , and their appreciation of the mode in which he had performed thc whole of the ceremony . The newlyelected VV . M ., having bcen ' saluted according to custom , appointed the following brethren as officers for the ensuing
year -. —Bros . Dr . J . Wilson Paton , S . W . ; W . S . Stanton , J . W . ; F . K . Stevenson , P . M ., P . Prov . G . S . B ., Treas . ; P . f . Pearson , Sec . ; Archd . Wallace , S . D . ; Richard Townsend , J . D . ; J . Phillips , I . G . ; J . R . Ross and E . Overbeck , Stewards . A Past Master ' s jewel was presented to Bro . L . Ellis , I . P . M ., by Bro . Stevenson , P . M ., as a mark of the
appreciation of the Master ' s able and courteous manner in which he had presided over the lodge during his year of office , and was by him feelingly and suitably acknowledged . The brethren afterwards dined together , and Bro . J . Piatt reported that the result of thc three entertainments given by Bro . Chas . Du Val on behalf of the Cheshire Masonic Institution had been a substantial addition to the funds
of the chanty . ECCLE ' S . — Victoria Lodge ( No . 1345 ) . —The last meeting of this young and well-worked lodge was held at the Cross Keys Hotel , on Wednesday last . The members present were Bro . Wright , W . M . ; Bros . Rudman , S . W . ; Ballard , J . W . ; Shaw , S . D . ; Holt , J . D . ; Pearson , I . G . ; J . Brooks and T . Buxton , P . M . ' s , and others . The
lodge having been duly opened , and the minutes read andjeonfirmed , Bro . Wilson was passed to the Second Degree by Bro . Brooks , P . M . Bros . Rev . J . Harper , J . C . Mather , and W . Pendlebury were raised to the Sublime Degree by Bros . Wright , W . M . ; Gillman , P . M . ; and Buxton , P . M ., the work throughout being performed in a most solemn and impressive manner . Bro . Buxton ,
P . M . / . Treasurer , having announced his intention to attend as Steward at the next festival of the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution for Aged Freemasons , the sum of £ 20 was unanimously voted to be placed on his list . Bro . Mountain proposed a brother as a joining member . Hearty good wishes were expressed from several visiting brethren . All business being ended , the lodge was closed in ancient
form . Thc brethren afterwards partook of refreshments , the W . M . receiving the congratulations of those present on the prosperous state of the lodge , having , during his year of office , been enabled to pay off all outstanding debts , and given several donations to various charities , including one of thirty guineas to thc Boys' School , in addition to the amount voted that evening .
CHATHAM . —Brownrigg Lodge ( No . 1424 ) . —The installation of W . M . ' of this lodge took place in the Assembly Rooms , Brompton , Kent , on Friday , the 17 th ult ., when one of the most brilliant gatherings of thc brethren ever seen in this locality assembled to do honour to this excellent lodge . The W . M ., Bro . Jervis , took the chair at 2 . 45 p . m ., with Bro . Wood , W . M . 20 , as S . W .,
and Bro . Watson , P . M ., P . G . R ., as J . W . The D . P . G . M . for Kent , supported by several other distinguished brethren , having taken his seat on the dais , with Bro . Jervis , the Director of Ceremonies called upon thc brethren to salute the D . P . G . M . according to ancient custom . The following lodges were represented by brethren : —Bros . Wood ' W . M . 20 ; May , W . M . 212 ; Santi , W . M . 706 ;
Nicholls , W . M . 1050 ; White , 1174 ! Pownall , VV . M . 15 * 6 ; Kanjicy , P . M . 20 ; Watson , P . M . 1050 ; Wyles , P . M . 1050 ; Coles , P . M . 20 ; Bates , P . M . 1424 ; Warne , P . M . 20 ; and brethren from Nos . 1174 , 20 , 153 6 , 1050 , 158 , 733 , 184 , 1257 , 87 , 1393 , 1 3 , 1331 , 407 , 706 , 262 , 153 6 , 212 , 77 , - 503 , and 13 . Bro . William Simmons was presented by Bro .
Bates , P . M ., to the VV . M . to receive at his hands the benefit of installation as VV . M . of this lodge . The installation ceremony was one of the most magnificent ever heard in the province ; thc sacred music by the organ and string instruments of the choir harmonised most beautifully with the impressive delivery of this grand ceremony by Bro . Jervis , and the general effect of so solemn a rite
will not be easily forgotten by those who were so fortunate as to be present on this occasion . Thc VV . M . invested thc following brethren as his officers for thc year , thc full explanation of the Masonic meaning of their respective jewels and their duties in the lodge being given by Bro . Jervis , the Installing Officer : —Bros . H . L . Fowler , S . W . j VV . Cottrell , J . W . ; Thomson , Treas . ; Magee , Sec
Ramsden , S . D . ; Johnstone , J . D . ; Pikermg , I . G . ; Crane , D . C . * , Crisp and Stammers , Stewards ; Snape , Organist ; Drago , Tyler . Bro . Jervis , the I . P . M ., had the honour of receiving from the hands of the D . P . G . M . a handsome P . M . jewel in recognition of his services to the lodge as W . M . for the past year , the D . P . G . M . remarking that from what he had seen and heard of Brother
Jervis naver was a jewel more worthily bestowed , and he took occasion to point out to the brethren what a high degree of skill and knowledge in the Craft diligence and careful attention to every detail would give , them as exemplified by the working of Bro . Jervis . The I . P . M ., in thanking thc brethren for the mark of approbation they had | been pleased to bestow upon him , pointed out the advantage of attending good Lodges
of Instruction , as he owed his present knowledge of the Craft to the excellent teaching of the Past Masters of his mother lodge ( 1050 ) and other Lodges of Instruction to which he belonged . Bro . Watson , P . M ., P . G . R ., proposed and the W . M . seconded a vote of thanks to Bro . Jervis , for the admirable manner in which he had performed the installation ceremony . Carried unanimously . The I . P . M . having replied , Bro . Cottrell , J . W ., proposed a gentleman
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
for initiation and a joining member . The I . P . M . then proposed thc W . M . as representative of the Brownrigg Lodge at the Provincial Charity Committee . Carried unanimously . The I . P . M . having also nominated an Audit Committee for the ensuing year , the W . M . closed the lodge in due form . The brethren then adjourned to the banquetingroom , at the Mitre Hotel , Chatham . About seventy-three
sat down to the banquet . The whole arrangement was magnificent , the room being tastefully decorated with beautifully designed Masonic emblems , flags , exotics , & c . A novelty in bills of fare was placed near every brother ' s plate—it was an elegant folding card in white and gold , containing the menu , and photographs of thc W . M ., I . P . M ., S . W ., J . W ., and Treasurer of Brownrigg Lodge .
The W . M . took his seat , with the D . Prov . G . M ., S . G . W ., Prov . G . Registrar , and other Grand Officers on his right , the I . P . M ., with Bros . Major Santi , VV . M . 706 ; Captain Coles , P . M . ; May , W . M . 212 ; Pownall , W . M . 1536 ; Warne , P . M . ; and several other Past Masters on his left . The VV . M . was , however , unfortunately taken ill at thc commencement of the banquet , and reluctantly obliged to
retire , so that Bro . Jervis , I . P . M ., took the chair . I he usual Masonic toasts , vere then proceeded with . When thc I . P . M . gave the toast of " H . R . H . the Prince of Wales , Grand Master , " a pair of crimson curtains behind his chair were drawn aside by invisible hands , and a recess disclosed , in which was a large transparency of H . R . H . the Grand Master , in full Masonic costume as he appeared on
the occasion of his installation last April ; this was illuminated by a strong light from behind ; and the other parts of the recess were filled with plants , flowers , ferns , & c , presenting a pleasing effect , which was heartily greeted by thc brethren present . Bro . Fowler , S . W ., sung " God bless thc Prince of Wales . " The D . P . G . M ., in replying to thc toast of . " Thc Provincial Grand Master and Grand Officers , "
pointed out to the brethren the great progress Masonry had made latterly in the kingdom , and stated that forty-one lodges had been added to the roll of the Grand Lodge of England during the past year , and exactly 150 since thc formation of the Brownrigg three years age . He expressed his desire to visit all the lodges in Kent , in . order to make himself acquainted with thc brethren of his province , and
spoke in the highest terms of approval of the Brownrigg Lodge , and of the fine installation ceremony performed by Bro . Jervis that day , which he stated had given him an amount of pleasure he could scarcely express , and he trusted other lodges would strive to attain a similar degree of excellence . The D . P . G . M . also explained the objects and benefits of the provincial charities , and earnestly requested
the attention of the lodges of Kent to their support . Bro . Cottrell then sung a capital song , suitable to the occasion , composed and arranged by himself . The toast of "Thc Visitors" was suitably responded to by Bro . May , W . M ., and Bro . Pownall , W . M . 1536 , both these brethren speaking enthusiastically of the admirable manner in which the duties had been performed by the
officers of the Brownrigg Lodge . The D . P . G . M . proposed " The Health of the Past Masters of the Lodge , " which toast was replied to hy Bros . Jervis , Bates , and Watson . " The Health of thc Officers of the Lodge" having been drunk , Bros . Fowler , S . W ., and Cottrell , J . W ., responded . The latter , in his reply , called the attention of the brethren to the debt of gratitude they owed Bro . Burfield , P . M ., and
Bro . Gamon , J . W . 20 , for the beautiful decoration of their banqueting-room . Bro . Wood , P . G . S . W ., in proposing " The Masonic Charities , " made a most earnest appeal on their behalf , and forcibly exhorted the brethren to support that great principle of Masonry in its fullest sense , an appeal which we hope and believe will not be neglected by those who heard it . A most pleasant evening was passed ,
the excellent singing of Bros . Gifkin , Edwards , Pearcy , Cottrell , Gates , and Walker , " * and the recitations of Bros . Bates and Gamon , being thoroughly enjoyed by the brethren , the Tyler ' s toast bringing the whole to a close . We may conclude by drawing attention to an excellent system which has been carried out by the Brownrigg Lodge since
its formation , and which may be adopted with advantage by other lodges—that is , the publication of an annual balance sheet , which shows the whole receipts and expenditure of the lodge for the past year . This is forwarded to every member of the lodge , and enables him to be quite cognisant of its financial proceedings and position .
BIRMINGHAM . —Lodge of Israel ( No . 1474 ) . —An event , somewhat unusual in Masonic customs , was celebrated in Birmingham in connection with the Lodgeof Israel last Monday . Bro . Michael Davis , W . M ., was entertained by the brethren at a complimentary banquet , in recognition of his valuable services to the lodge from its foundation to the present time . This lodge , which was
established some twentv-two months ago , has prospered eminently , and its prosperity is to a great extent due to the zeal of its first VV . M ., Bro . Michael Davis , who at thc termination of his first year of office was unanimously re-elected . It was resolved to give some slight recognition of his valuable services by entertaining him and Mrs . Davis at a banquet , which was held last Monday at the Midland
Hotel . Bro . Rev . G . J . Emanuel , B . A ., Chaplain , occupied the chair , the vice-chairs being filled by Bros . Barnett Lazarus and Philip W . Newmann , J . D . The rev . Chairman , in proposing " The Health of Mr . and Mrs , Davis , " spoke of them in terms of high eulogium , and animadverted upon the merits of Bro . Davis as a W . M . Bro . Davis feelingly and appropriately replied . Bro . Muggleton proposed " Prosperity to the Lodge of Israel , " which was
responded to by Bro . S . Lyon , S . W . " The Chairman " was proposed by Bro . Lazarus , and suitably acknowledged . " The Visitors " received due honour from W . Bro . Joseph Myers . " The Ladies , " of whom a goodly number were present , being toasted by W . Bro . Geo . Baker , P . M ., and answered for by Bro . Newmann , J . D ., singing , recitations , and dancing followed , and the company , about 105 , separated at 2 a . m .
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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
Thompson , G . Wager , H . E . Hammond , F . C . Paul , A . Steadman , T . F . Brown , J . Davidson , E . J . Penney , G . Ayton , E . Goldsborough , and J . Taylor . Among thc visitors wc noticed Bros . T . M . Rigg , P . M . of 10 S 0 and P . P . G . R . of Kent ; It . Warlow , J . W . of 37 Sand P . P . S . B . of South Wales ; J . Nixon , E . Garrett , M . W . West , P . M . ; and H . A . Johnson , of 10 S 9 ; J . Harper , 521 ; R . Pyke ,
175 ; A . Bean , 336 ; S . Reeves , 358 ; and F . Blaas , 184 .. The lodge was opened in due form and with solemn prayer . When the minutes of previous meeting were read and confirmed the ballot was taken for Mr . C . W . Bradley and Mr . Arthur W . Bird , who were elected unanimously . Thc W . M . then called upon Bro . A . Spears , P . M . and P . P . G . Org ., to address the brethren on this occasion ; when
Bro . Spears first complimented the brethren on thesr first meeting in the new lodge room , then taking thc subject of the groundwork of Masonry being holy , he illustrated it by givinn- the history of the three grand offerings , which made it holy , as we find recorded in the volume of tbe Sacred Law , and characterized them as three distinct offerings to complete one great purpose , the first being an
offering of faith , the second an offering for disobedience , thc third an offering of thanksgiving and worship , and alluded to the great number of years that elapsed between the first offering and the third , and the complete fulfilment of the promises that God had made to Abraham when he called him to go and offer up his only son on Mount Moriah . He then exhorted the brethren to practise the grand ' principles of Masonry—brotherly love , relief and
truth , and in their daily walk and conversation , to display to the world thc happy effects of our honourable Order , and to practise not only that charity which supplies the wants of the needy , but act to our neighbour as we would our neighbour to act to us , concluding with a prayer for thc prosperity of the lodge and Craft in general whereevei dispersed . After this address thc brethren sang thc following ode : — Genius of Masonry , descend ,
And with thee bring thy spotless train ; Constant our sacred rites attend , While we adore thy peaceful reign . Thc above was much appreciated by all present . The business of the lodge was then proceeded with , which was as follows : —Bro . E . Goldborough , F . C , who had previously been found qualified , was raised to the Sublime
Degree of a M . M ., and Bro . Thos . F . Brown and Bro . G . Ayton , E . A ., who had also been found qualified , were passed to the Second Degree of F . C . ; thc ceremony ol passing and raising were worked by the W . M . in a very creditable manner . The business of the lodge being ended the lodge was closed in due form and with solemn prayer . Thc brethren then adjourned to the Britannia Inn for
refreshment , and after spending a short time in song and sentiment , they separated , happy to meet again . BATH . —Lodge of Honour ( No . 379 ) . —A meeting was held at 4 p . m . on Monday , Dec . 13 th , the most important one in thc year , being that at which thc officers arejjehanged . Bro . J . S . Bartrum , W . M ., opened the lodge , assisted by Bros . G . H . Cook , S . W . ; H . Gore , J . W . ; C . S .
Barter , Treas . ; H . Culhford Hopkins , Sec . ; W . C . Dickenson , S . D . ; J . M . R . Leir , I . G . ; Gazzard , Tyler ; R . Cook , P . M . ; E . E . Phillips , I . P . M . ; C . A . Bush ; H . G . Bush . As visitors there were present Bros . Capt . Phayrc , S 3 j C . Milsom , P . M . 53 ; Simmons , I . P . M . 53 ; Wilton , P . M . 41 ; Trevor , 944 ; Gen . Doherty , P . M . 53 ; VV . Hunt , 41 ; J . F . Draper , P . M . 243 ; Dr . H . Hopkins ,
41 , P . P . G . S . W ., and P . M . 47 and 958 ; J . L . Stothert , P . M . 53 ; Colonel Ford , I ' . M . 53 ; Else , D . P . G . M . for Somerset . Bro . Phillips , P . M ., gave the charge to Bro . Bush , which was omitted at his initiation at the nrcvions meriinr * -. He then tnnl- the rhnir and fxamined and entrusted the candidate . The latter retired for preparation , and the lodge was opened in the Second
Degree . On his return he was duly passed as a F . C . by thc I . P . M . The working tools were explained by Bro . Dickenson , who during the ceremony had acted as J . D ., Dr . Hopkins taking the duties of S . D ., and also giving thc charge . Bro . Else then took the chair , he having kindly undertaken the duties of Installing Master . The preliminary proceedings being concluded , the lodge was
opened in thc T hird Degree , the brethren below the chair retired , and in their absence Bro . Cook was regularly inducted into the chair of K . S ., the ceremony thus far aud afterwards being ably conducted by the D . P . G . M . On the return of the brethren the usual processions , salutations , and addresses took place , the lodge being resumed at the proper time in the Second and afterwards in the First
Degree . The following appointments were made , and the brethren named were duly invested : J . S . Bartrum , I . P . M . ; 11 . Gore , S . W . ; H . C . Hopkins , J . W . ; C . S . Barter , Treas . ; Dickenson , Sec . ; H . N . Smythe , S . D . ; Leir , J . D . ; C . E . Little , I . G . ; C . Hush , D . C . ; Gazzard , Tyler . The W . M briefly addressed the brethren on his installation . A unanimous vote of thanks was passed to the retiring W . M ., and
also to thc late Secretary , who had most efficiently filled the oflicc for two years . A similar compliment was paid to the D . P . G . M ., who had travelled far to perform the ceremony of installation , and had performed the duty efficiently and gracefully . Several other matters of lodge business were transacted , and the proceedings were brought to a close at 6 . 30 . About twenty brethren afterwards partook
of a banquet at the Castle Hotel . ROCK FERRY . —Rock Lodge ( No . 1289 ) . — The installation of W . M . of this lodge took place on Friday evening , the 10 th ult ., at the lodge-room , Bedford House , Rock Ferry , Cheshire . The brethren assembled at 5 . 30 p . m ., when the retiring W . M ., Bro . Lilley Ellis , passed Bro .
Fergusson to the Fellow Craft Degree , thc ceremony , in the perfectness of its working , being illustrative of the able manner in which thc work ot the year had been performed by him . There was a large number of visitors present , including several P . P . Grand Officers arid W . Masters- ol neighbouring lodges . The W . M . elect was Bro . Francis
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
L . Bolton , and thc chair of Installing Master was filled by Bro . Edward Friend , P . M ., P . Prov . G . J . D ., himself thc first W . M . of the Rock Lodge , and by whom all the succeeding Masters have been installed . The Wardens' chairs were taken by Bros . J . and T . Piatt , P . Prov . G . J . W . and P . Prov . G . J . D . respectively , and the installation ceremony was performed in such an impressive and skilful manner by
the Installing Master as to elicit thc warm approbation of all the brethren present , who , later in the evening , expressed their cordial thanks for his untiring interest in the welfare of the lodge , and their appreciation of the mode in which he had performed thc whole of the ceremony . The newlyelected VV . M ., having bcen ' saluted according to custom , appointed the following brethren as officers for the ensuing
year -. —Bros . Dr . J . Wilson Paton , S . W . ; W . S . Stanton , J . W . ; F . K . Stevenson , P . M ., P . Prov . G . S . B ., Treas . ; P . f . Pearson , Sec . ; Archd . Wallace , S . D . ; Richard Townsend , J . D . ; J . Phillips , I . G . ; J . R . Ross and E . Overbeck , Stewards . A Past Master ' s jewel was presented to Bro . L . Ellis , I . P . M ., by Bro . Stevenson , P . M ., as a mark of the
appreciation of the Master ' s able and courteous manner in which he had presided over the lodge during his year of office , and was by him feelingly and suitably acknowledged . The brethren afterwards dined together , and Bro . J . Piatt reported that the result of thc three entertainments given by Bro . Chas . Du Val on behalf of the Cheshire Masonic Institution had been a substantial addition to the funds
of the chanty . ECCLE ' S . — Victoria Lodge ( No . 1345 ) . —The last meeting of this young and well-worked lodge was held at the Cross Keys Hotel , on Wednesday last . The members present were Bro . Wright , W . M . ; Bros . Rudman , S . W . ; Ballard , J . W . ; Shaw , S . D . ; Holt , J . D . ; Pearson , I . G . ; J . Brooks and T . Buxton , P . M . ' s , and others . The
lodge having been duly opened , and the minutes read andjeonfirmed , Bro . Wilson was passed to the Second Degree by Bro . Brooks , P . M . Bros . Rev . J . Harper , J . C . Mather , and W . Pendlebury were raised to the Sublime Degree by Bros . Wright , W . M . ; Gillman , P . M . ; and Buxton , P . M ., the work throughout being performed in a most solemn and impressive manner . Bro . Buxton ,
P . M . / . Treasurer , having announced his intention to attend as Steward at the next festival of the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution for Aged Freemasons , the sum of £ 20 was unanimously voted to be placed on his list . Bro . Mountain proposed a brother as a joining member . Hearty good wishes were expressed from several visiting brethren . All business being ended , the lodge was closed in ancient
form . Thc brethren afterwards partook of refreshments , the W . M . receiving the congratulations of those present on the prosperous state of the lodge , having , during his year of office , been enabled to pay off all outstanding debts , and given several donations to various charities , including one of thirty guineas to thc Boys' School , in addition to the amount voted that evening .
CHATHAM . —Brownrigg Lodge ( No . 1424 ) . —The installation of W . M . ' of this lodge took place in the Assembly Rooms , Brompton , Kent , on Friday , the 17 th ult ., when one of the most brilliant gatherings of thc brethren ever seen in this locality assembled to do honour to this excellent lodge . The W . M ., Bro . Jervis , took the chair at 2 . 45 p . m ., with Bro . Wood , W . M . 20 , as S . W .,
and Bro . Watson , P . M ., P . G . R ., as J . W . The D . P . G . M . for Kent , supported by several other distinguished brethren , having taken his seat on the dais , with Bro . Jervis , the Director of Ceremonies called upon thc brethren to salute the D . P . G . M . according to ancient custom . The following lodges were represented by brethren : —Bros . Wood ' W . M . 20 ; May , W . M . 212 ; Santi , W . M . 706 ;
Nicholls , W . M . 1050 ; White , 1174 ! Pownall , VV . M . 15 * 6 ; Kanjicy , P . M . 20 ; Watson , P . M . 1050 ; Wyles , P . M . 1050 ; Coles , P . M . 20 ; Bates , P . M . 1424 ; Warne , P . M . 20 ; and brethren from Nos . 1174 , 20 , 153 6 , 1050 , 158 , 733 , 184 , 1257 , 87 , 1393 , 1 3 , 1331 , 407 , 706 , 262 , 153 6 , 212 , 77 , - 503 , and 13 . Bro . William Simmons was presented by Bro .
Bates , P . M ., to the VV . M . to receive at his hands the benefit of installation as VV . M . of this lodge . The installation ceremony was one of the most magnificent ever heard in the province ; thc sacred music by the organ and string instruments of the choir harmonised most beautifully with the impressive delivery of this grand ceremony by Bro . Jervis , and the general effect of so solemn a rite
will not be easily forgotten by those who were so fortunate as to be present on this occasion . Thc VV . M . invested thc following brethren as his officers for thc year , thc full explanation of the Masonic meaning of their respective jewels and their duties in the lodge being given by Bro . Jervis , the Installing Officer : —Bros . H . L . Fowler , S . W . j VV . Cottrell , J . W . ; Thomson , Treas . ; Magee , Sec
Ramsden , S . D . ; Johnstone , J . D . ; Pikermg , I . G . ; Crane , D . C . * , Crisp and Stammers , Stewards ; Snape , Organist ; Drago , Tyler . Bro . Jervis , the I . P . M ., had the honour of receiving from the hands of the D . P . G . M . a handsome P . M . jewel in recognition of his services to the lodge as W . M . for the past year , the D . P . G . M . remarking that from what he had seen and heard of Brother
Jervis naver was a jewel more worthily bestowed , and he took occasion to point out to the brethren what a high degree of skill and knowledge in the Craft diligence and careful attention to every detail would give , them as exemplified by the working of Bro . Jervis . The I . P . M ., in thanking thc brethren for the mark of approbation they had | been pleased to bestow upon him , pointed out the advantage of attending good Lodges
of Instruction , as he owed his present knowledge of the Craft to the excellent teaching of the Past Masters of his mother lodge ( 1050 ) and other Lodges of Instruction to which he belonged . Bro . Watson , P . M ., P . G . R ., proposed and the W . M . seconded a vote of thanks to Bro . Jervis , for the admirable manner in which he had performed the installation ceremony . Carried unanimously . The I . P . M . having replied , Bro . Cottrell , J . W ., proposed a gentleman
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
for initiation and a joining member . The I . P . M . then proposed thc W . M . as representative of the Brownrigg Lodge at the Provincial Charity Committee . Carried unanimously . The I . P . M . having also nominated an Audit Committee for the ensuing year , the W . M . closed the lodge in due form . The brethren then adjourned to the banquetingroom , at the Mitre Hotel , Chatham . About seventy-three
sat down to the banquet . The whole arrangement was magnificent , the room being tastefully decorated with beautifully designed Masonic emblems , flags , exotics , & c . A novelty in bills of fare was placed near every brother ' s plate—it was an elegant folding card in white and gold , containing the menu , and photographs of thc W . M ., I . P . M ., S . W ., J . W ., and Treasurer of Brownrigg Lodge .
The W . M . took his seat , with the D . Prov . G . M ., S . G . W ., Prov . G . Registrar , and other Grand Officers on his right , the I . P . M ., with Bros . Major Santi , VV . M . 706 ; Captain Coles , P . M . ; May , W . M . 212 ; Pownall , W . M . 1536 ; Warne , P . M . ; and several other Past Masters on his left . The VV . M . was , however , unfortunately taken ill at thc commencement of the banquet , and reluctantly obliged to
retire , so that Bro . Jervis , I . P . M ., took the chair . I he usual Masonic toasts , vere then proceeded with . When thc I . P . M . gave the toast of " H . R . H . the Prince of Wales , Grand Master , " a pair of crimson curtains behind his chair were drawn aside by invisible hands , and a recess disclosed , in which was a large transparency of H . R . H . the Grand Master , in full Masonic costume as he appeared on
the occasion of his installation last April ; this was illuminated by a strong light from behind ; and the other parts of the recess were filled with plants , flowers , ferns , & c , presenting a pleasing effect , which was heartily greeted by thc brethren present . Bro . Fowler , S . W ., sung " God bless thc Prince of Wales . " The D . P . G . M ., in replying to thc toast of . " Thc Provincial Grand Master and Grand Officers , "
pointed out to the brethren the great progress Masonry had made latterly in the kingdom , and stated that forty-one lodges had been added to the roll of the Grand Lodge of England during the past year , and exactly 150 since thc formation of the Brownrigg three years age . He expressed his desire to visit all the lodges in Kent , in . order to make himself acquainted with thc brethren of his province , and
spoke in the highest terms of approval of the Brownrigg Lodge , and of the fine installation ceremony performed by Bro . Jervis that day , which he stated had given him an amount of pleasure he could scarcely express , and he trusted other lodges would strive to attain a similar degree of excellence . The D . P . G . M . also explained the objects and benefits of the provincial charities , and earnestly requested
the attention of the lodges of Kent to their support . Bro . Cottrell then sung a capital song , suitable to the occasion , composed and arranged by himself . The toast of "Thc Visitors" was suitably responded to by Bro . May , W . M ., and Bro . Pownall , W . M . 1536 , both these brethren speaking enthusiastically of the admirable manner in which the duties had been performed by the
officers of the Brownrigg Lodge . The D . P . G . M . proposed " The Health of the Past Masters of the Lodge , " which toast was replied to hy Bros . Jervis , Bates , and Watson . " The Health of thc Officers of the Lodge" having been drunk , Bros . Fowler , S . W ., and Cottrell , J . W ., responded . The latter , in his reply , called the attention of the brethren to the debt of gratitude they owed Bro . Burfield , P . M ., and
Bro . Gamon , J . W . 20 , for the beautiful decoration of their banqueting-room . Bro . Wood , P . G . S . W ., in proposing " The Masonic Charities , " made a most earnest appeal on their behalf , and forcibly exhorted the brethren to support that great principle of Masonry in its fullest sense , an appeal which we hope and believe will not be neglected by those who heard it . A most pleasant evening was passed ,
the excellent singing of Bros . Gifkin , Edwards , Pearcy , Cottrell , Gates , and Walker , " * and the recitations of Bros . Bates and Gamon , being thoroughly enjoyed by the brethren , the Tyler ' s toast bringing the whole to a close . We may conclude by drawing attention to an excellent system which has been carried out by the Brownrigg Lodge since
its formation , and which may be adopted with advantage by other lodges—that is , the publication of an annual balance sheet , which shows the whole receipts and expenditure of the lodge for the past year . This is forwarded to every member of the lodge , and enables him to be quite cognisant of its financial proceedings and position .
BIRMINGHAM . —Lodge of Israel ( No . 1474 ) . —An event , somewhat unusual in Masonic customs , was celebrated in Birmingham in connection with the Lodgeof Israel last Monday . Bro . Michael Davis , W . M ., was entertained by the brethren at a complimentary banquet , in recognition of his valuable services to the lodge from its foundation to the present time . This lodge , which was
established some twentv-two months ago , has prospered eminently , and its prosperity is to a great extent due to the zeal of its first VV . M ., Bro . Michael Davis , who at thc termination of his first year of office was unanimously re-elected . It was resolved to give some slight recognition of his valuable services by entertaining him and Mrs . Davis at a banquet , which was held last Monday at the Midland
Hotel . Bro . Rev . G . J . Emanuel , B . A ., Chaplain , occupied the chair , the vice-chairs being filled by Bros . Barnett Lazarus and Philip W . Newmann , J . D . The rev . Chairman , in proposing " The Health of Mr . and Mrs , Davis , " spoke of them in terms of high eulogium , and animadverted upon the merits of Bro . Davis as a W . M . Bro . Davis feelingly and appropriately replied . Bro . Muggleton proposed " Prosperity to the Lodge of Israel , " which was
responded to by Bro . S . Lyon , S . W . " The Chairman " was proposed by Bro . Lazarus , and suitably acknowledged . " The Visitors " received due honour from W . Bro . Joseph Myers . " The Ladies , " of whom a goodly number were present , being toasted by W . Bro . Geo . Baker , P . M ., and answered for by Bro . Newmann , J . D ., singing , recitations , and dancing followed , and the company , about 105 , separated at 2 a . m .