Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.
Laying The Foundation Stone Of A New Freemasons' Hall At Meltham.
Masonic honours . On the 5 th March , 1 S 35 , the foundation stone of the tower of the adjoining St . Bartholomew ' s Church was laid , in the absence of the Earl of Mcxborough , by our late Bro . Charles Lee , who then occupied the position in the Craft that you now hold ; and last , though not least , on the 29 th October , iS 6 S , at the request of tlie late lamented Charles Brook , jun ., Esq ., the then Prov . Grand Master , the Marquis oE Ripon , assisted by
the Prov . Grand Officers , laid the cornerstone of the neighbouring convalescent home . In conclusion , Right Worshipful Sir , I now beg to say that \ vc , the brethren of the Lodge of Peace—anel I have no doubt the rest of the brethren here present—arc very grateful that you have accepted our invitation and come amongst us , and honoured us with your presence on this occasion to lay the corner stone of the Masonic Temple now in the course of erection ,
and 1 venture to hope , and also to predict , that the result of the proceedings of this day will not onlv tend to strengthen and consolidate the Lodge of Peace , but will also greatly add to the future comfort , well being , and happiness of the brethren ; and I trust that we shall always ¦ have cause to look back on the proceedings of this elay with pride and satisfaction , and that the future prosperity of the lodge will far surpass that of the past .
The DEPUTY PROV . G . M . formally returned thanks for the compliment which had been ' paid to him for coming amongst them that day , and said he should long look back with pleasure on those proceedings . Bro . J . ELLIS , W . M . of the Lodge of Peace , on behalf of the Craft in Meltham , then presented to the D . P . G . M .
a trowel , on which was a suitable inscription and the date , 25 th May , 1 SS 1 . The DEPUTY PROV . G . M . said he was exceedingly touched by fie kind presentation of the trowel . His duty in return would be to simply carry out their wishes . It was with pleasure that he accepted it and he should always regard it as an interesting souvenir of that day's
proceedings . Bro . HENRY SMITH , P . G . S ., having read the inscription on the place , deposited in the cavity beneath the stone a phial containing a copv of the London Times , Freemason , the Huddersfield Weekly News , Examiner , and Chronicle , a list of names of Freemasons , and a few coins . The cement was then placed on the iower stone , and the W . Deputy Prov . G . M . spread it with the silver trowel , after which the upper stone was lowered slowly with three elistinct stops , during which the choir sang the ode commencing
" Round the spot—Monah ' s hill-Masons meet with cheerful will . " The D . P . G . M . having proved the stone , Bro . II . W . Wrigley , I . P . M . 149 , presented to him a mallet , with which he tapped the stone three times , and then declared it to be truly laid . He subsequently took from the cornucopia , and scattered on the stone , ' a quantity of corn , wh'ch he said was an emblem of plenty , and of the resurrection to
the Grand Lodge above . He then poured wine over it as an emblem of refreshment , for wine maketh glad the heart of man . He next poured oil on the stone , because , as be said , it was a Masonic symbol of joyfulness , and in sprinkling salt over it , he saiel it was a symbol of perpetuity , of incoiruption , of hospitality , and of wisdom . Meanwhile the Acolyte was using the censer . The incense which he next used over the stone was , he said , typical of the purity
of their Masonic intentions . The architect now presented the plans of the intended building , which the W . Deputy Prov . G . Masterrcturncd to him , requesting him to proceed with the building without loss of time . The DEPUTY PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER then delivcvcel an address . He said the architect had been gooel enough to present to him the plans of that building , and he had very readily approved of the intentions of the
brethren of that lodge . There was one feature in the plans on which he congratulated the architect , and that was that he , and the brethren of the Lodge of Peace had taken time by the forelock in making arrangements for the increased accommodation in the new lodge room , even if one hundred years hence the members of the lodge by increased numbers required that accommodation . He expressed the pleasure it had given him to lay the chief
corner-stone of that new building . Now permit him to make a few remark's upon the circumstances which had called them together that day . As the Deputy Grand Master of the Province of West Yorkshire , he had endeavoured to carry out the wishes of Sir Henry Edwards , their Provincial Grand Master , in acceding to the reepacst of the brethren of the Lodge of Peace—that that effort to build a new temple to Freemasonry should be done
with publicity , and also according to intelligent rites and ceremonies . It was always satisfactory lo the Craft in West Yorkshire to take part in fostering useful and benevolent institutions . Indeed , there was hardly ever erected a building of an ameliorative or benevolent character in which the Freemasons of West Yorkshire had not been asked at one time or another to participate in the initiative of its construction . ( Hear , hear . ) The Clayton Hospital
at Wakefield , the Pontefract Dispensary , Demcasfer Infirmary , and the restoration of the Parish Church at Sheffield , were recent institutions in which the brethren of the blue clothing had been invited to participate in the initiative of benefiting the masses outside the charmed circle of Freemasonry . ( Hear , hear . ) Sympathy was one of their special characteristics —( hear , hear ); and the sympathy of Freemasons was given to all craving its aid—to the
widow and the orphan ; to the sick and distressed ; and to those suffering under visitations of Providence . He might say that the alleviation of unforseen misfortune was their special vocation , while to build Church schools , hospitals , infirmaries , and Masonic halls belonged to the operative classes . The last time the Freemasons were called upon lo make a public display at Meltham was when they were invited , a < their report told lliem , to lay the
foundation stone of the Cemvalescent Home , lie was present on that occasion . That building was erected and endowed by the late Charles Brook , of Endtrby Hall , at a cost of upwards of £ 40 , 000 . lie referred with pride and pleasure In that event , and to the generous deeds of lhat noble ; benefactor— ( hear , hear)—and lie would ask them the question , was not that institution nobly
carrying out Ihe views of its founders .- Their church of St . Bartholomew was erected and consecrated in 1651 , by fii : < liop Tilson , and was not lie in liisday cminected with the : Craft of Freemasonry ? That church has since been restored , and the brethren of the lodge of Peace participated in the initiative of its reconstruction . An organ had since been given by the late Mr . Joseph Hirst , of Wilshaw ; and their
Laying The Foundation Stone Of A New Freemasons' Hall At Meltham.
church of St . James was also built in 1 S 45 , try the late Mr . James Brook , and the late Mr . Charles Brook gave £ 450 to be invested in consols , the interest to be given to the poor of Meltham . He did not know what Meltham would do without the Armitagcs , the Brooks , the Bcaumonts , and the Freemasons . The brethren of the Lodge of Peace celebrated their centenary festival in June , 1 S 77 . Their lodge was called into existence on the 1 st April , 1777 , and
during all this period the brethren had been working silently to render themselves more extensively serviceable to their fellow-creatures . The lodge had been formed of upright men , anxious to elo their eluty to their neighbours , and to comprehend the wonderful works of the Almighty Creator . The great teaching of Freemasonry was that of moral philosophy—the inculcating into the human mind of an intelligent conception , that selfish and untruthful or
irregular courses of life could not be conducive of advantage or benefit to the individual concerned , or serve his future happiness , however powerful or wealthy he might be in a worldly point of view . The old lodge having become too small and inconvenient for the increasing membership , it was becoming absolutely necessary to build a new lodge , which would be not only an architectural ornament to Meltham , but be a fit supplement to the Convalescent Home
and other good institutions , and also a philosophical hall of moral dignity and worth for the reception of those new adherents who might desire to enrol themselves members of their ancient fraternity , and to advocate the principles Freemasons professed , although they might be somewhat full of allegory and illustrated by symbols . The implements he bad used in laying that stone had each their symbolical meaning . The square represented the perfect
Mason , after he had triumphed over the three great enemies of his faith , and it likewise taught them to regulate their actions according to the principles of moral truth and virtue . The level demonstrated that death was the great leveller of all things humar , for dust they were and to dust they would return . The plumb rule taught them to regulate their actions according to their several duties in life . Those implements for setting the stone , in their speculative sense
requreel the application of one more mechanical device . No man could put his foot on the first step of the ladder without wisdom and hope ; neither could he climb to the top without faith or charity , for without this they were as sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal . The ladder symbolised faith , and no Mason could reach the Grand lodge above without the help of this symbolical ladder . Now the lodge before them was the Lodge of Peace ; and let him venture
to express this sentiment concerning it—that he hoped the lodge would be in future what it had been in the past , viz , a reconciler of differences , and a means of bringing men together within its walls ; and by so doing they would come to know each other more , and they would better appreciate each others motives anel intentions . In all sincerity , he wished the lodge the greatest harmony , the utmost success , and everlasting prosperity . ( Applause . )
Bro . CHARLES RAYNER , of Lodge 140 , P . M ., P . P . G . D . C , in returning thanks to the Deputy Provincial Grand Master and Provincial Granel Ollicers , said : W . Deputy Provincial Grand Master and Officers of the Provincial Grand Lodge of West Yorkshire , Present and Past , on behalf of the brethren of our ancient Lodge of Peace , No . 149 , I beg to thank you for coming here to lay the cornet stone of our new Freemasons' Hall . I assure you , W . Sir ,
that we look u [> on your visit here to-day as one of great honour to us . It is an act of kindness that wo much appreciate , and one which fills us with feelings of deep gratitude ; and you may also rest assured that we shall treasure it up in our memories , and hanel a recorel of it down to our successors as one of the red-letter days in the annals of our lodge . We have heard , from the excellent historical report which has been read to us by Bro . Dr . Haigh , that during
the fifty-five years the lodge has been established in Meltham we have had five visits from the Provincial Grand Lodge ; but on no other occasion has the lodge had as much reason to be proud of its visits as it has now . 'To-day you are here to lay the foundation stone of ajtcmple of your own •a temple wherein we shall be the better enabled to practise those ancient rites and ceremonies , the solemnity and high moral tone of which are the pride and the admiration
of all good Freemasons . And I may also tell you , Worshipful Sir , that I believe we shall be able to erect the building without interfering with , or at all tending to dry up , the springs of that most excellent gift mentioned in the olel version of the New Testament , that gift which is one of the chief adornments of our excellent institutions—1 mean Charity . In conclusion , let me tell you again how grateful we are for your presence here to-day , and let me thank- you
again most sincerely for the great honour you have elone us . 'The DEPUTY PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER thanked them , adding that he cordially reciprocated the sentiments expressed . The brethren then joined in singing the hymn commencing " Hail , Masonry sublime . " Bro . the Rev . P' F . J . PEARCE , P . G . C , then offered
prayer , and the ceremony concluded . 'The procession was re-formed , in reverse order , and the brethren proceeded to the Odd Fellows' Hall , where the lodge was formally closed . 'Hie brethren afterwards had luncheon together in the New Assembly Rooms of the Swan Inn , partly under the presidency of the W . M ., and partly under that of the I . P . M .
Royal Masonic Institution For Boys.
ROYAL MASONIC INSTITUTION FOR BOYS .
'The third meeting of the Board of Stewards was held at Freemasons' Hall , on Monday last . W . Bro . J . A . Duff-Filer , V . Patron of the Institution , presided , and there were present Bros . ] . 1 .. ^ Mather , J . Bellerby , W . H . Saunders , II . Balilcrson , E . Scliiemann , I- ' . Ouitmann , ) .
Kench , Fowler , J . Palmer , II . X . Mills , E . Fanvi ' g , George Kenning , ) . Perkins , A . M . Broadley , W . Wood , C . Atkins , W . A . ' Hicks , | . C . Woodrow , A . McDowell , C . Smiles , E . Storr , and H . F . Hoole . The minutes of the second meeting , held on the 16 th Mav , were read anel confirmed , anel the report e > f the
Subcommittee mi the musical arrangements was received and ailopteel . The following special Stewards were appointed : Bros . J . I .. Malli .-r , J . C . Womlrow , A . McDowell , W . II . Saunders , George Kenning , W . A . Hicks , Dr . Schiemann , F . Quitman , J . Kench , II . Balderson , and C . Atkins . The next meeting of the Board will be held on the 20 th inst .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
REPORTS OF MASONIC MEETINGS .
< £ raft ilasonrg .
WEST KENT LODGE ( No . 1297 ) . —The third regular meeting of this lodge took place at the Crystal Palace Sydenham , on Saturday , the 2 SU 1 ult ., when there were present Bros . J . C . Wooeirow , P . M ., W . M . ; Robert H . Crowden , I . P . M . ; Allen , P . M . ; Dr . Rosenthal , hon . member ; H . D . Stead , P . M ., Treas . ; A . J . Drucc , Chap . ; Fullwood , P . M ., D . of C . ; Gardner , S . W . ; Pcrrin , T . W . ;
Vizetelly , S . D . ; Bellis , acting I . G . in the absence of Bro . Crump , James Crowden , W . S . ; Philps , W . S . ; Archer , Johnson , and Jenkins . Visitors : Bios . Wenning , Roberts , Slater and A . Stead . Communications of regret for their absence were received from Bros . Cooke , Orange , and Lomas . The minutes of the lodge held April 23 rd were duly read and
confirmed , after which Bro . Robins , havingansivcred satisfactorily the usual questions , received the Degree of a Fellow Craft at the hands of Bro . Woodrow , W . M . Bro . Winkworth was prevented from taking the Degree by his unavoidable absence . Preliminary arrangementshavingbecn suggested for the ladies ' meeting-in July and a committee formed for carrying them satisfactorily out , Bro . H . D .
Stead proposed hisson , Bro . A . Stead , who formerly belonged to the lodge , as a joining member . Before the closing of the lodge Bro . R . Crowden , I . P . M . rose and regretfully informed the brethren that last Monday he had attended the funeral _ of a former P . M . of this lodge , Bro . Kindon , who had sojsatisfactorily gone through the various offices , and at length maintained the dignity of the chair in a very
praiseworthy manner , and being an old schoolfellow , an intimate friend , besides being one who had introduced him into the light of Freemasonry in the West Kent Lodge , he hoped the brethren would allow him to propose a vote of regret for the sad event , to be placed on the minutes of the lodge , and that expressions of sympathy and condolence
be conveyed to his widow , by whom , doubtless , the compliment would be highly appreciated . The W . M . seconded the proposition , and it was carried unanimously , Bro . Gardner , joining the W . M . and IJro . Stead in expressing personally their feelings at the sad intelligence , said Bro . Kindon was greatly respected by all with whom he came in
contact . The lodge was Ihen closed , after which the brethren partook of a sumptuous banquet . The W . M ., Bro . Woodrow , presided in his usual genial and characteristic manner , and was well supported . The regular toasts were duly proposed and respondent to , intermixed with songs and recitations , and having spent a very enjoyable evening , the brethren retired at an early hour .
BAYARD LODGE ( No . 1615 ) . —The annual installation meeting of this lodge took placcatthe Masonic Hall , 33 , Golelcn-square , on Monday , the 30 th ult ., Bro . Lieut .-Col . Wcmyss , R . B . G ., W . M ., in the chair . The following brethren were present : Bros . Sandeman , P . D . G . M . Bengal ; General Clerk , G . D . ; Capt . Philips , P . G . D . ; Rucker , P . B . G . P . ; Long , P . G . D . ; Lieut .-Col .
Burncy , P . G . D . ; Fenn , P . G . D . ; Case , P . G . D . ; F . Richardson , P . G . D ., Treas . ; Lieut .-Col . Lumsden , D . G . M . Aberdeenshire ; Lieut .-Col . Haldanc , P . D . D . G . M . Malta , Sec . ; J . W . Waldron , W . M . 13 S 3 ; C . Dent , Dr . Whipham , E . Lott , P . G . O . ; McClatchie , P . M . ; Thomas , Captain Compton , Dr . Kempe , H . S . Smith , Fisher , VVallack , Bagot , Capt . Walker , Bamber , Rev . G . Morse , G . G .
Adams , F . S . A . ; Hargoocl-Ash , R . D . Fycrs , P . M . ; Capt . Yandeleur , and others . The principal business of the evening was the installation of the W . M . elect , Bro . F . C . Compton , which was most ably performed by Bro . Lt .-Col . Burncy , who had been requested to undertake that office , as having been the W . M . who had hist initiated Bro . Compton . The new W . M . then appointed
and invested his officers ns follows : Bros . Lieut .-Col . Wemyss , I . P . M . ; Lethbridgc , S . W . ; Kempe , J . W . ; F . Richardson ( re-elected ) Treas . ; Lieut .-Col . Haldanc , Sec . ; Bagot , S . D . ; Capt . Walker , J . D . ; Keene , D . C ; Sauerbrey , Org . ; Fisher and Major Blunt , Stwds . ; D'Avigdor , I . G . 'The W . M . then in the name of the lodge presented to Bro . Lieut .-Col . Wemyss a handsome P . M .
jewel , which had been unanimously voted to him as a mark of appreciation of the zeal and assiduity with which he had discharged his duties in the chair . 'The brethren afterwards dined together at Limmer ' s Hotel , when the usual loyal and Masonic toasts were given , Bro . Sandeman responding for " The Grand Officers , " Bro . Fenn for " 'The Visitors , " and Bros . Kempe and Haldanc for "'The Officers of the Lodge . "
ROYAL HANOVER LODGE ( No . 1777 ) . — A meeting of this lodge was held at the Albany Hotel , Twickenham , on Saturday , the 2 Sth ult . 'The business was commenced at four o ' clock punctually by the W . M ., Bro . George Clark , supported by Bros . M . S . Larlham , P . M ., as S . W . ; C . C . Cruikshanlw , J . W . ; II . Lovegrove , Prov . G . Supt . of Wks ., I . P . M . ; If . A . Dubois , P . M ., P . Z ., P . P . J . G . W . ; II . 1 ) . Marshall , Treas . ; II . Baldwin , Sec . ;
F . 1 . Perks , S . D . ; W . S . Dunkley , l . D . ; T . Wood , I . G . j J . Holliday , W . S . ; J . Daly , 'T yler ; J . Johnson , W . I leelis , II . II . Room , K . R . ] ohnston , R . Thorn , and others . Visitors : Bros . Dawes , Heath , McDonnell , and Frucn . After the reading and confirmation of the minutes , the ballot was taken for several gentlemen for initiation . The \ V . M . then proceeded to initiate Messrs . W . J . Lee and I . Kent , the work being very efficiently performed . Bro .
j . li . Clark waspasscd to the Second Degree . There being no other business , the lodge was closed . A capital cold collation was provided by the new landlord of the Albany , and the brethren returned to town soon after half-past eight o ' clock . 'The usual toasts were briefly given , that of " The Grand Officers of Middlesex" being responeled to by Bros . Dubois anel Lovegrove ; and " 'The Charities " by Bro . II . B . Marshall , who has made himself a nameby his liberal support of the same .
SELWYN LODGE ( No . irjoi ) . —An emergency meeting of the above lodge was held on Thursday , the 19 th ult ., at the East Dulivicli Hotel . East Dulwicb Green . 'The brethren present were Bros . W . 11 . Hook , W . M . ; W . W . Linscott , S . W . ; Dr . L . C N . Nicod , J . W . ; A . J . Bellis , Sec . ; W . R . Burnett , S . D . ; A . R . \ Y \ Powles , J . D . ; C . Mussared , W . S . ; W . J . Bullimorc , W . S . ; A . F . Grainger ,
Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.
Laying The Foundation Stone Of A New Freemasons' Hall At Meltham.
Masonic honours . On the 5 th March , 1 S 35 , the foundation stone of the tower of the adjoining St . Bartholomew ' s Church was laid , in the absence of the Earl of Mcxborough , by our late Bro . Charles Lee , who then occupied the position in the Craft that you now hold ; and last , though not least , on the 29 th October , iS 6 S , at the request of tlie late lamented Charles Brook , jun ., Esq ., the then Prov . Grand Master , the Marquis oE Ripon , assisted by
the Prov . Grand Officers , laid the cornerstone of the neighbouring convalescent home . In conclusion , Right Worshipful Sir , I now beg to say that \ vc , the brethren of the Lodge of Peace—anel I have no doubt the rest of the brethren here present—arc very grateful that you have accepted our invitation and come amongst us , and honoured us with your presence on this occasion to lay the corner stone of the Masonic Temple now in the course of erection ,
and 1 venture to hope , and also to predict , that the result of the proceedings of this day will not onlv tend to strengthen and consolidate the Lodge of Peace , but will also greatly add to the future comfort , well being , and happiness of the brethren ; and I trust that we shall always ¦ have cause to look back on the proceedings of this elay with pride and satisfaction , and that the future prosperity of the lodge will far surpass that of the past .
The DEPUTY PROV . G . M . formally returned thanks for the compliment which had been ' paid to him for coming amongst them that day , and said he should long look back with pleasure on those proceedings . Bro . J . ELLIS , W . M . of the Lodge of Peace , on behalf of the Craft in Meltham , then presented to the D . P . G . M .
a trowel , on which was a suitable inscription and the date , 25 th May , 1 SS 1 . The DEPUTY PROV . G . M . said he was exceedingly touched by fie kind presentation of the trowel . His duty in return would be to simply carry out their wishes . It was with pleasure that he accepted it and he should always regard it as an interesting souvenir of that day's
proceedings . Bro . HENRY SMITH , P . G . S ., having read the inscription on the place , deposited in the cavity beneath the stone a phial containing a copv of the London Times , Freemason , the Huddersfield Weekly News , Examiner , and Chronicle , a list of names of Freemasons , and a few coins . The cement was then placed on the iower stone , and the W . Deputy Prov . G . M . spread it with the silver trowel , after which the upper stone was lowered slowly with three elistinct stops , during which the choir sang the ode commencing
" Round the spot—Monah ' s hill-Masons meet with cheerful will . " The D . P . G . M . having proved the stone , Bro . II . W . Wrigley , I . P . M . 149 , presented to him a mallet , with which he tapped the stone three times , and then declared it to be truly laid . He subsequently took from the cornucopia , and scattered on the stone , ' a quantity of corn , wh'ch he said was an emblem of plenty , and of the resurrection to
the Grand Lodge above . He then poured wine over it as an emblem of refreshment , for wine maketh glad the heart of man . He next poured oil on the stone , because , as be said , it was a Masonic symbol of joyfulness , and in sprinkling salt over it , he saiel it was a symbol of perpetuity , of incoiruption , of hospitality , and of wisdom . Meanwhile the Acolyte was using the censer . The incense which he next used over the stone was , he said , typical of the purity
of their Masonic intentions . The architect now presented the plans of the intended building , which the W . Deputy Prov . G . Masterrcturncd to him , requesting him to proceed with the building without loss of time . The DEPUTY PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER then delivcvcel an address . He said the architect had been gooel enough to present to him the plans of that building , and he had very readily approved of the intentions of the
brethren of that lodge . There was one feature in the plans on which he congratulated the architect , and that was that he , and the brethren of the Lodge of Peace had taken time by the forelock in making arrangements for the increased accommodation in the new lodge room , even if one hundred years hence the members of the lodge by increased numbers required that accommodation . He expressed the pleasure it had given him to lay the chief
corner-stone of that new building . Now permit him to make a few remark's upon the circumstances which had called them together that day . As the Deputy Grand Master of the Province of West Yorkshire , he had endeavoured to carry out the wishes of Sir Henry Edwards , their Provincial Grand Master , in acceding to the reepacst of the brethren of the Lodge of Peace—that that effort to build a new temple to Freemasonry should be done
with publicity , and also according to intelligent rites and ceremonies . It was always satisfactory lo the Craft in West Yorkshire to take part in fostering useful and benevolent institutions . Indeed , there was hardly ever erected a building of an ameliorative or benevolent character in which the Freemasons of West Yorkshire had not been asked at one time or another to participate in the initiative of its construction . ( Hear , hear . ) The Clayton Hospital
at Wakefield , the Pontefract Dispensary , Demcasfer Infirmary , and the restoration of the Parish Church at Sheffield , were recent institutions in which the brethren of the blue clothing had been invited to participate in the initiative of benefiting the masses outside the charmed circle of Freemasonry . ( Hear , hear . ) Sympathy was one of their special characteristics —( hear , hear ); and the sympathy of Freemasons was given to all craving its aid—to the
widow and the orphan ; to the sick and distressed ; and to those suffering under visitations of Providence . He might say that the alleviation of unforseen misfortune was their special vocation , while to build Church schools , hospitals , infirmaries , and Masonic halls belonged to the operative classes . The last time the Freemasons were called upon lo make a public display at Meltham was when they were invited , a < their report told lliem , to lay the
foundation stone of the Cemvalescent Home , lie was present on that occasion . That building was erected and endowed by the late Charles Brook , of Endtrby Hall , at a cost of upwards of £ 40 , 000 . lie referred with pride and pleasure In that event , and to the generous deeds of lhat noble ; benefactor— ( hear , hear)—and lie would ask them the question , was not that institution nobly
carrying out Ihe views of its founders .- Their church of St . Bartholomew was erected and consecrated in 1651 , by fii : < liop Tilson , and was not lie in liisday cminected with the : Craft of Freemasonry ? That church has since been restored , and the brethren of the lodge of Peace participated in the initiative of its reconstruction . An organ had since been given by the late Mr . Joseph Hirst , of Wilshaw ; and their
Laying The Foundation Stone Of A New Freemasons' Hall At Meltham.
church of St . James was also built in 1 S 45 , try the late Mr . James Brook , and the late Mr . Charles Brook gave £ 450 to be invested in consols , the interest to be given to the poor of Meltham . He did not know what Meltham would do without the Armitagcs , the Brooks , the Bcaumonts , and the Freemasons . The brethren of the Lodge of Peace celebrated their centenary festival in June , 1 S 77 . Their lodge was called into existence on the 1 st April , 1777 , and
during all this period the brethren had been working silently to render themselves more extensively serviceable to their fellow-creatures . The lodge had been formed of upright men , anxious to elo their eluty to their neighbours , and to comprehend the wonderful works of the Almighty Creator . The great teaching of Freemasonry was that of moral philosophy—the inculcating into the human mind of an intelligent conception , that selfish and untruthful or
irregular courses of life could not be conducive of advantage or benefit to the individual concerned , or serve his future happiness , however powerful or wealthy he might be in a worldly point of view . The old lodge having become too small and inconvenient for the increasing membership , it was becoming absolutely necessary to build a new lodge , which would be not only an architectural ornament to Meltham , but be a fit supplement to the Convalescent Home
and other good institutions , and also a philosophical hall of moral dignity and worth for the reception of those new adherents who might desire to enrol themselves members of their ancient fraternity , and to advocate the principles Freemasons professed , although they might be somewhat full of allegory and illustrated by symbols . The implements he bad used in laying that stone had each their symbolical meaning . The square represented the perfect
Mason , after he had triumphed over the three great enemies of his faith , and it likewise taught them to regulate their actions according to the principles of moral truth and virtue . The level demonstrated that death was the great leveller of all things humar , for dust they were and to dust they would return . The plumb rule taught them to regulate their actions according to their several duties in life . Those implements for setting the stone , in their speculative sense
requreel the application of one more mechanical device . No man could put his foot on the first step of the ladder without wisdom and hope ; neither could he climb to the top without faith or charity , for without this they were as sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal . The ladder symbolised faith , and no Mason could reach the Grand lodge above without the help of this symbolical ladder . Now the lodge before them was the Lodge of Peace ; and let him venture
to express this sentiment concerning it—that he hoped the lodge would be in future what it had been in the past , viz , a reconciler of differences , and a means of bringing men together within its walls ; and by so doing they would come to know each other more , and they would better appreciate each others motives anel intentions . In all sincerity , he wished the lodge the greatest harmony , the utmost success , and everlasting prosperity . ( Applause . )
Bro . CHARLES RAYNER , of Lodge 140 , P . M ., P . P . G . D . C , in returning thanks to the Deputy Provincial Grand Master and Provincial Granel Ollicers , said : W . Deputy Provincial Grand Master and Officers of the Provincial Grand Lodge of West Yorkshire , Present and Past , on behalf of the brethren of our ancient Lodge of Peace , No . 149 , I beg to thank you for coming here to lay the cornet stone of our new Freemasons' Hall . I assure you , W . Sir ,
that we look u [> on your visit here to-day as one of great honour to us . It is an act of kindness that wo much appreciate , and one which fills us with feelings of deep gratitude ; and you may also rest assured that we shall treasure it up in our memories , and hanel a recorel of it down to our successors as one of the red-letter days in the annals of our lodge . We have heard , from the excellent historical report which has been read to us by Bro . Dr . Haigh , that during
the fifty-five years the lodge has been established in Meltham we have had five visits from the Provincial Grand Lodge ; but on no other occasion has the lodge had as much reason to be proud of its visits as it has now . 'To-day you are here to lay the foundation stone of ajtcmple of your own •a temple wherein we shall be the better enabled to practise those ancient rites and ceremonies , the solemnity and high moral tone of which are the pride and the admiration
of all good Freemasons . And I may also tell you , Worshipful Sir , that I believe we shall be able to erect the building without interfering with , or at all tending to dry up , the springs of that most excellent gift mentioned in the olel version of the New Testament , that gift which is one of the chief adornments of our excellent institutions—1 mean Charity . In conclusion , let me tell you again how grateful we are for your presence here to-day , and let me thank- you
again most sincerely for the great honour you have elone us . 'The DEPUTY PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER thanked them , adding that he cordially reciprocated the sentiments expressed . The brethren then joined in singing the hymn commencing " Hail , Masonry sublime . " Bro . the Rev . P' F . J . PEARCE , P . G . C , then offered
prayer , and the ceremony concluded . 'The procession was re-formed , in reverse order , and the brethren proceeded to the Odd Fellows' Hall , where the lodge was formally closed . 'Hie brethren afterwards had luncheon together in the New Assembly Rooms of the Swan Inn , partly under the presidency of the W . M ., and partly under that of the I . P . M .
Royal Masonic Institution For Boys.
ROYAL MASONIC INSTITUTION FOR BOYS .
'The third meeting of the Board of Stewards was held at Freemasons' Hall , on Monday last . W . Bro . J . A . Duff-Filer , V . Patron of the Institution , presided , and there were present Bros . ] . 1 .. ^ Mather , J . Bellerby , W . H . Saunders , II . Balilcrson , E . Scliiemann , I- ' . Ouitmann , ) .
Kench , Fowler , J . Palmer , II . X . Mills , E . Fanvi ' g , George Kenning , ) . Perkins , A . M . Broadley , W . Wood , C . Atkins , W . A . ' Hicks , | . C . Woodrow , A . McDowell , C . Smiles , E . Storr , and H . F . Hoole . The minutes of the second meeting , held on the 16 th Mav , were read anel confirmed , anel the report e > f the
Subcommittee mi the musical arrangements was received and ailopteel . The following special Stewards were appointed : Bros . J . I .. Malli .-r , J . C . Womlrow , A . McDowell , W . II . Saunders , George Kenning , W . A . Hicks , Dr . Schiemann , F . Quitman , J . Kench , II . Balderson , and C . Atkins . The next meeting of the Board will be held on the 20 th inst .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
REPORTS OF MASONIC MEETINGS .
< £ raft ilasonrg .
WEST KENT LODGE ( No . 1297 ) . —The third regular meeting of this lodge took place at the Crystal Palace Sydenham , on Saturday , the 2 SU 1 ult ., when there were present Bros . J . C . Wooeirow , P . M ., W . M . ; Robert H . Crowden , I . P . M . ; Allen , P . M . ; Dr . Rosenthal , hon . member ; H . D . Stead , P . M ., Treas . ; A . J . Drucc , Chap . ; Fullwood , P . M ., D . of C . ; Gardner , S . W . ; Pcrrin , T . W . ;
Vizetelly , S . D . ; Bellis , acting I . G . in the absence of Bro . Crump , James Crowden , W . S . ; Philps , W . S . ; Archer , Johnson , and Jenkins . Visitors : Bios . Wenning , Roberts , Slater and A . Stead . Communications of regret for their absence were received from Bros . Cooke , Orange , and Lomas . The minutes of the lodge held April 23 rd were duly read and
confirmed , after which Bro . Robins , havingansivcred satisfactorily the usual questions , received the Degree of a Fellow Craft at the hands of Bro . Woodrow , W . M . Bro . Winkworth was prevented from taking the Degree by his unavoidable absence . Preliminary arrangementshavingbecn suggested for the ladies ' meeting-in July and a committee formed for carrying them satisfactorily out , Bro . H . D .
Stead proposed hisson , Bro . A . Stead , who formerly belonged to the lodge , as a joining member . Before the closing of the lodge Bro . R . Crowden , I . P . M . rose and regretfully informed the brethren that last Monday he had attended the funeral _ of a former P . M . of this lodge , Bro . Kindon , who had sojsatisfactorily gone through the various offices , and at length maintained the dignity of the chair in a very
praiseworthy manner , and being an old schoolfellow , an intimate friend , besides being one who had introduced him into the light of Freemasonry in the West Kent Lodge , he hoped the brethren would allow him to propose a vote of regret for the sad event , to be placed on the minutes of the lodge , and that expressions of sympathy and condolence
be conveyed to his widow , by whom , doubtless , the compliment would be highly appreciated . The W . M . seconded the proposition , and it was carried unanimously , Bro . Gardner , joining the W . M . and IJro . Stead in expressing personally their feelings at the sad intelligence , said Bro . Kindon was greatly respected by all with whom he came in
contact . The lodge was Ihen closed , after which the brethren partook of a sumptuous banquet . The W . M ., Bro . Woodrow , presided in his usual genial and characteristic manner , and was well supported . The regular toasts were duly proposed and respondent to , intermixed with songs and recitations , and having spent a very enjoyable evening , the brethren retired at an early hour .
BAYARD LODGE ( No . 1615 ) . —The annual installation meeting of this lodge took placcatthe Masonic Hall , 33 , Golelcn-square , on Monday , the 30 th ult ., Bro . Lieut .-Col . Wcmyss , R . B . G ., W . M ., in the chair . The following brethren were present : Bros . Sandeman , P . D . G . M . Bengal ; General Clerk , G . D . ; Capt . Philips , P . G . D . ; Rucker , P . B . G . P . ; Long , P . G . D . ; Lieut .-Col .
Burncy , P . G . D . ; Fenn , P . G . D . ; Case , P . G . D . ; F . Richardson , P . G . D ., Treas . ; Lieut .-Col . Lumsden , D . G . M . Aberdeenshire ; Lieut .-Col . Haldanc , P . D . D . G . M . Malta , Sec . ; J . W . Waldron , W . M . 13 S 3 ; C . Dent , Dr . Whipham , E . Lott , P . G . O . ; McClatchie , P . M . ; Thomas , Captain Compton , Dr . Kempe , H . S . Smith , Fisher , VVallack , Bagot , Capt . Walker , Bamber , Rev . G . Morse , G . G .
Adams , F . S . A . ; Hargoocl-Ash , R . D . Fycrs , P . M . ; Capt . Yandeleur , and others . The principal business of the evening was the installation of the W . M . elect , Bro . F . C . Compton , which was most ably performed by Bro . Lt .-Col . Burncy , who had been requested to undertake that office , as having been the W . M . who had hist initiated Bro . Compton . The new W . M . then appointed
and invested his officers ns follows : Bros . Lieut .-Col . Wemyss , I . P . M . ; Lethbridgc , S . W . ; Kempe , J . W . ; F . Richardson ( re-elected ) Treas . ; Lieut .-Col . Haldanc , Sec . ; Bagot , S . D . ; Capt . Walker , J . D . ; Keene , D . C ; Sauerbrey , Org . ; Fisher and Major Blunt , Stwds . ; D'Avigdor , I . G . 'The W . M . then in the name of the lodge presented to Bro . Lieut .-Col . Wemyss a handsome P . M .
jewel , which had been unanimously voted to him as a mark of appreciation of the zeal and assiduity with which he had discharged his duties in the chair . 'The brethren afterwards dined together at Limmer ' s Hotel , when the usual loyal and Masonic toasts were given , Bro . Sandeman responding for " The Grand Officers , " Bro . Fenn for " 'The Visitors , " and Bros . Kempe and Haldanc for "'The Officers of the Lodge . "
ROYAL HANOVER LODGE ( No . 1777 ) . — A meeting of this lodge was held at the Albany Hotel , Twickenham , on Saturday , the 2 Sth ult . 'The business was commenced at four o ' clock punctually by the W . M ., Bro . George Clark , supported by Bros . M . S . Larlham , P . M ., as S . W . ; C . C . Cruikshanlw , J . W . ; II . Lovegrove , Prov . G . Supt . of Wks ., I . P . M . ; If . A . Dubois , P . M ., P . Z ., P . P . J . G . W . ; II . 1 ) . Marshall , Treas . ; II . Baldwin , Sec . ;
F . 1 . Perks , S . D . ; W . S . Dunkley , l . D . ; T . Wood , I . G . j J . Holliday , W . S . ; J . Daly , 'T yler ; J . Johnson , W . I leelis , II . II . Room , K . R . ] ohnston , R . Thorn , and others . Visitors : Bros . Dawes , Heath , McDonnell , and Frucn . After the reading and confirmation of the minutes , the ballot was taken for several gentlemen for initiation . The \ V . M . then proceeded to initiate Messrs . W . J . Lee and I . Kent , the work being very efficiently performed . Bro .
j . li . Clark waspasscd to the Second Degree . There being no other business , the lodge was closed . A capital cold collation was provided by the new landlord of the Albany , and the brethren returned to town soon after half-past eight o ' clock . 'The usual toasts were briefly given , that of " The Grand Officers of Middlesex" being responeled to by Bros . Dubois anel Lovegrove ; and " 'The Charities " by Bro . II . B . Marshall , who has made himself a nameby his liberal support of the same .
SELWYN LODGE ( No . irjoi ) . —An emergency meeting of the above lodge was held on Thursday , the 19 th ult ., at the East Dulivicli Hotel . East Dulwicb Green . 'The brethren present were Bros . W . 11 . Hook , W . M . ; W . W . Linscott , S . W . ; Dr . L . C N . Nicod , J . W . ; A . J . Bellis , Sec . ; W . R . Burnett , S . D . ; A . R . \ Y \ Powles , J . D . ; C . Mussared , W . S . ; W . J . Bullimorc , W . S . ; A . F . Grainger ,