S E C R E C Y
Secrecy is a word which occurs at intervals in the Masonic Ritual, and secrecy is a concept of some
importance to the Craft and its members.
Among "other excellencies of character" to which his attention is "peculiarly and forcibly directed" the
newly initiated Freemason finds Secrecy, Fidelity and Obedience. Secrecy, he is told, consists in an
inviolable adherence to the O . . he has entered into, never improperly to disclose any of those Masonic
secrets "which have now been, or may at any future period be" entrusted to his keeping, and cautiously to
avoid all occasions which might lead him inadvertently to do so.
That just about every Masonic secret is written down and published in such works as Walton Hannah's
Darkness Visible scarcely matters. The secrets are out: the lesson remains. Insistence on secrecy means the
cultivation of the virtue of discretion. The individual Freemason is at fault if he communicates a sign or word
or secret to someone to whom he is not supposed to communicate it, for he is sworn not to do so. But the
Craft will not come apart until its members lose their sense of discretion: this, indeed, would be serious.
The Craft, after all, is a peculiar system or morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. It would
not be the Craft if it were not so, but having admitted that we may fairly say that the circumstances attending
the erection of K.S.T. are quite subordinate to the lessons those circumstances are designed to convey.
Secrecy, along with Fidelity and Obedience, were virtues designed to ensure the safety from outside attack of
the community which embraced them: they fulfill the same function today. To be able to rely on the
members of the community, their discipline and discretion, is just as important today as it was during the
period when Masonry was in its infant or primitive state.
A loyal and discreet course of conduct, unblemished by complicating personal ambition, is essential for the
safe and sure advance of any body of people united in the pursuit of any common object.
The concept of the Craft as a secret society is a very old one and a very wrong one. It has brought people in
to our ranks from improper motives and it has antagonised bodies and individuals who might have been our
friends but for the misconception that this implies. Masonry is a body which does have its proper secrets, as
any organisation or business or family may properly have its private affairs. It is not a secret society in the
sense of being a society the existence of which is kept as quiet as possible, the members perhaps being
unknown to one another. In New Zealand, where there has been and is prejudice against the Craft—and
sometimes by Craftsmen against some who are outside—we are not encouraged to say who our members are.
There could be victimisation, although one would imagine that few of us could quote instances of this. In the
United Kingdom the names of all the members are printed, and so, in most if not all of the individual North
American State and Provincial Grand Lodges are the names of American and Canadian Freemasons.
Masonry is not a secret society in the sinister sense: it is simply a society which minds its own business, and
minds it well and carefully.
Long may it continue to be so. We have every right to be proud of our conduct when we see that secrecy is
not a bad thing but a prudent one; that it is designed not for the attacking of anyone else but for the
safeguarding of ourselves.
———————————————————————————————————————————
WOBURN MASONIC VILLAGE
Saturday 12 December promises to be a red letter day to brethren of the Wellington Provincial District,
particularly to those who have Association membership, or made donations to the Wellington Masonic
Association for their splendid Woburn Homes project.
At 2.15 p.m. on that afternoon Rt. W. Bro. Sir Edwin Hicks, P.G.W. (High Commissioner for Australia), will
preside over the opening ceremony at Wai-iti Crescent, Lower Hutt. It is anticipated that if accorded the
same sunny day as applied on the occasion of the opening of the Residential Flats some three years ago, a
wide representation of brethren will be on the scene.
The flats, 28 in all, have been fully occupied throughout with a very happy atmosphere prevailing.
Applications numbering scores have been received and listed in anticipation of any occasional vacancies.
At time of this writing it is contemplated that the homes construction work would be completed around the
end of October, following which the interiors will be finally made ship-shape for the furnishings. Many of
these are already built in, while as deliveries are available of carpets, curtains and other items, these will be
fitted in readiness for the first residents. It is anticipated that many of the rooms will be in occupation prior to
the official opening.
In line with experience elsewhere complete furnishings are being provided, bedroom occupants not requiring
any of their own, although there is provision for small treasured keepsakes.
As will be acknowledged as reasonable in the light of all circumstances, pets are not permitted, nor has any
provision been made for garaging or parking facilities for resident's cars.
Large Area
Aggregate floor space of the new building is 19,580 sq. ft. of which the main ground floor comprises 17,860
sq. ft., with additional first floor accommodation for resident staff taking up 1,720 sq. ft.
A conveniently situated flat, located near the main entrance has been provided for the matron, who has
already been appointed. Her responsibility will be the smooth running of the Home, with the promotion of an
amicable relationship between residents and staff which is planned to be five full-time and five part-time.
The large lounge of approximately 1,200 sq. ft. allows good scope for a wide range of social functions,
having a 90 sq. ft. stage with immediate access from a convenient reception or changing room.
The dining room, which covers some 970 sq. ft., has been very carefully designed for both convenience and
appearance, and provides for all occupants with a narrow extra margin for special needs.
The centrally situated library will serve a double purpose, lending itself as occasion demands to serve as a
conference room for committees or restricted size conferences.
Bedroom dimensions are just over 100 sq. ft., with built-in wardrobes and dressing tables. In all 40 residents
have been provided for, in a few cases these rooms having a connecting doorway enabling them to be used
for married couples.
The main dormitory section provides all necessary toilet and other facilities, with the north-end, facing the
sun, taken up by a comfortable sunroom. There is also provision for residents to make a cup of tea or coffee
for themselves at any time, a servery with private lockers being provided so that each can safely store their
own supplies.
For those who continue with, or take up hobbies, a room has been provided, while provision has also been
made for those who at times prefer a quiet atmosphere for reading, writing, or study.
Under the chairmanship of R.W. Bro. H. G. Thom, P.Prov. G.M., a Service Council has been appointed,
subdivided into committees to take over future organising of special and normal social functions, supply,
occasional transport, maintenance as required to buildings and grounds, along with a Ladies' Auxiliary, a
group which has functioned very well with similar Homes elsewhere.
Sterling Contributions
While the work of the Trustees will be lightened once the buildings are handed over, they will still be called
on to provide honorary services in overseeing the smooth running of the Village complex. It is appropriate at
this stage to make reference to the services already rendered by the whole body of the Board of Trustees.
Each has so readily helped that it is difficult to make particular mention, but it would seem unfair to pass
lightly over the work of the Chairman, Secretary, and Building Committee Chairman, R.W. Bro. D. D.
Gilchrist, P.Prov. G.M., W. Bro. R. D. Hassed, P.G.S., and W. Bro. D. H. Clout respectively.
To a like degree mention is deserved by W. Bro. J. C. Connor who took over at the end of the last financial
year as Treasurer from V.W. Bro. J. A. Kellow, whose services had been of great value to the Association;
also by W. Bro. B. C. Odlin who had been acting in an honorary capacity in handling the financial side of the
Village residential flats.
As at present the goal is to establish a capital fund of $200,000, the interest thereform to bridge the gap
between incomings and the budgetted expenditure for supplies, staff wages, upkeep, and such like.
Some time ago the Association benefitted from a grant from the Golden Kiwi art union, one from the Izard
Trust, while another just notified in the Press will be forthcoming from the Sutherland Self Help Trust Board.
While it is anticipated that further such funds, along with occasional bequests may be received, there appears
at this stage to be a gap which it is hoped that brethren will now fill rather than be called on later on an
annual basis.
For such a scheme as Woburn Village, it is pertinent to reflect for a moment on an old adage—He that gives
all, though but little, gives much—because the T.G.A.O.T.U. looks not at the quantity of the gift, but to the
qualities of the giver.
Of recent months many local and distant brethren have been visitors to view at first hand the scale and
progress of the project. Without exception they have expressed delight that the Association is putting into
practice the true spirit of our teachings.
These visitors have included R.W. Bro. Selwyn Oldham, Prov. G.M., Auckland, also a number of lodge
groups from outside the district on the occasions of their exchanging visits with local lodges.
Most recent have been staff from the Government Health Department of Japan, accompanied by executive
officers of the New Zealand Department of Health Headquarters. Judged by their close observation of the
amenities in the new buildings, coupled with an invited visit to one of the occupied residential flats, there
seemed little doubt that the full party was very favourably impressed.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
Journals bearing the following addresses have been returned to this office marked, "Gone, No Address".
Should any Lodge Secretary or Brother know the present address of any of these Brethren, we would be
pleased to receive their advice.
E. Fleming, 207 Riverside Drive, Lower Hutt.
G. A. Lindsay, 18 Melrose Pl., Tokoroa.
T. W. J. Matthews, 245 Edmonton Rd., Te Atatu.
R. McGregor, 22 Lydia Ave., Northcote.
W. Morrow, Box 44, Ranfurly.
P. H. Tomlins, c/o Box 489, Hastings.
J. C. Bishop, 104A Hackthorne Rd., Christchurch 2.
H. D. Cook, 718 Pioneer Highway, Palmerston North.
H. K. Johnson, 6 Massey Ave. Lower Hutt.
R. McDougall, 1 Tarawera Rd., Johnsonville.
P. R. Shaw, 11 Stirling St., Wellington 2.
R. J. Wilson, Plimsoll St., Carterton.
AUCKLAND
ARARANGI LODGE, No. 297 INSTALLATION MEETING
Ararangi Lodge, No. 297, had a very successful Installation Meeting on 7 September, when Bro. Dennis
Symes was Installed as Master by R.W. Bro. Selwyn Oldham, Prov. G.M. Sixteen Past Masters of the Lodge
were present, and there was a good attendance of Grand Lodge Officers.
In proposing the toast to Grand Lodge Officers the W.M. said:
"Brethren, it is my privilege and pleasure to speak on a matter of considerable importance to us all—the toast
to Grand Lodge Officers present and past.
"It seems to me that one of the fundamentals of our brotherhood is admiration—of the most worthy kind.
Admiration for members of the Craft is one of the first essentials for admittance, and the qualities which first
aroused our admiration are there for our emulation once we are admitted.
"Initiation, passing and raising should be the first steps in an improvement of our worth as individuals.
Freemasonry then offers to us the opportunity of benefitting from a code of conduct that will enable us to
pursue a constructive and satisfying course in life, and in so doing to reap a reward in contentment of mind
and spirit—an alternative to material and permissive attitudes which erode the true values of human
existence.
"Circumstances of varying kinds limit the contribution that most of us, in return, can make to Freemasonry,
and for this reason we should be exceedingly grateful that among our ranks there are, and always have been,
those whose ability exceeds the average, and whose energy is more abundant.
"I refer of course to our Grand Lodge Officers, who have been responsible for maintaining the spirit and
vitality of our institution, and undoubtedly at some considerable personal sacrifice.
"They have earned our continuing admiration as individuals and our gratitude as Freemasons and I ask you
to acknowledge this by standing and joining in a toast to Grand Lodge Officers, present and past."
The toast of the W.M. was proposed by his father, Bro. Tom Symes of Lodge Belmont, No. 335, who, after
giving some account of his son's early life in England, and his war service, said he had joined the Craft
entirely of his own accord. In the course of his reply the Master said:
"Brethren, I wish first to express my gratitude to Bro. Tom Symes for the handsome manner in which he
proposed my toast, and the splendid way in which you, Brethren, honoured it. I have many things to be
grateful to Bro. Tom Symes for, but on this occasion one in particular, for it was he who initially and mainly
was responsible for my favourable impression preconceived of the institution of Freemasonry.
"This favourable impression has continued to be steadily enhanced since the time that I joined the Craft until
today, when the Brotherhood which is Freemasonry in the fullest sense has been so amply illustrated to me.
For this I am truly grateful to many people. To the Officers of Grand Lodge who so benignly conducted this
evening's ceremony—to the Worshipful Brethren who, without exception and despite their already heavy
programmes of commitments, agreed so willingly to participate, and performed so capably."
It seemed very evident that the Lodge was due to have a very happy year.—A.B.
g g g
HAWKE'S BAY
201 — SOUTH MEETS EAST — 374
Ladies—dolphins—wines—floral art—lemons—model railway . . . an odd assortment, indeed, to be
associated with a lodge meeting! However, this was so during a recent weekend when, at the invitation of
Lodge Waiohiki, No. 374, a team of 17 brethren from Whetu-Kairangi Lodge, No. 201, conducted a First
Degree Emulation in the Lodge Room, Kennedy Road, Napier.
Accompanied by their wives, most of the visiting brethren travelled the 200 miles from Wellington on the
Saturday, and during afternoon tea at the lodge room made acquaintance with Waiohiki brethren and their
wives, then followed sightseeing of the district, including a visit to a Bay View winery, which proved quite
popular, although at this time of year conducted tours of the winery are not possible. That evening, whilst
their men folk were in the lodge room conducting the beautifully descriptive and instructive Emulation
(copies of which Whetu-Kairangi later presented to Waiohiki) the ladies, in a nearby hall, attended a most
interesting display of flower arranging by an expert, and gleaned many tips in the art of floral decoration in
the home.
Later, following the Tyler's Toast, ladies joined the brethren in a special supper, and obviously enjoyed
themselves, for many were those who expressed the hope that greater opportunities would be given them of
attending lodge functions of this kind—this was also emphasised by the lady replying to the toast in their
honour. Highlighting the evening's entertainment was a Dutch brother who delighted his audience when he
sang a Scottish comic song and an equally amusing Irish song . . . in English! Later, he also led some truly
hearty community singing.
Next day it was a common sight to see ladies hastily adding new names in their address books when brethren
and their families met at the lodge room for morning tea, prior to visiting both an elaborate and interesting
model railway and Marineland, where performances by dolphins and other marine life were much enjoyed.
Before setting off for Wellington members of the host lodge presented each of their visitors with bags of
lemons and grapefruit freshly picked from their gardens—a gesture which the city dwellers much
appreciated.
And so ended a most enjoyable weekend, during which not only were new friendships made but also another
link forged in the Masonic chain.—C.E.C.
g g g
TARANAKI
BRO. J. H. CHILDS
"Now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace. . . ."
On Sunday 20 September Bro. Harry Childs went to his long rest after 102 years one month of life.
To those who knew and were associated with Harry it was a sad blow, but all rejoice that, right to the last, he
retained his full faculties, though the body was weak.
Three days before his passing the Lodge Almoners, on their regular visit to him, were greeted by name and
asked how the Lodge was progressing.
Lodge Hinemoa, and with it will ever be associated the name of Harry Childs, the brother to whom in
difficult times it owed its very existence, mourns the passing of a loved brother who from May 1894 until his
death was a full member.
A Lodge of Sorrow was held on Tuesday 22 September and, after Bro. J. W. Richards conducted
proceedings, tributes were paid by Bros. W. A. C. Briesman, H. G. Paynter and F. W. Askew (a brother of
over 60 years standing). The pall bearers from the Temple and into the Church were Bros. A. C. Moffett, T.
O. Robinson, G. Tubby, A. H. Trotter, J. W. Richards and J. W. Sainsbury.
After the service in the Church, attended by all four
Constitutions in Taranaki, the Masonic service at the
graveside was conducted by Bro. T. O. Robinson.
Bro. Harry Childs may have gone from our midst,
but the kindliness, the sincerity and the complete
honesty of him has enriched and eased the lot of
many brethren over the years and will remain with
those who had had and valued his friendship.
To the man and Mason: "Hail and farewell."—
T.O.R.
g g g
WELLINGTON
TEXT OF A TALK GIVEN TO MEMBERS OF LODGE WATERLOO, No. 13,
FROM NOTES PREPARED BY THE W.M., W. BRO. A. J. BECK
SUBJECT: "THE GRAND LODGE MOVEMENT IN NEW ZEALAND"
"On 30 April 1890 one of the most important Masonic ceremonies ever held in New Zealand took place in
the Oddfellows' Hall, Christchurch. On that day Bro. Henry Thomson was installed as the first Grand Master
of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand in the presence of about 250 Brethren.
"Freemasonry having been established in this country in the year 1842, it necessarily follows that all Lodges
formed during the first 48 years operated under Charter from the Grand Lodges of either England, Scotland
or Ireland.
"(My talk is concerned in the main with the motivation for setting up a Grand Lodge of New Zealand, some
of the Brethren behind the movement and how they went about it.)
"The first steps toward the formation of a Masonic Constitution in New Zealand were taken in 1876. On 7
July in that year R.W. Bro. Vincent Pyke, Past Prov. G.M., Scotch Constitution, and W. Bro. Edward
Thomas Gillon, a P.M. of Lodge Waterloo, issued invitations to the various Scotch Lodges to attend a
meeting in Wellington to consider the advisability of constituting a United Grand Lodge of New Zealand.
"This meeting of Scotch Lodges took place two months later on 4 September 1876, and while there was a
strong feeling in favour of the proposed move it was not thought advisable to proceed with the project. Be
that as it may, the seed had been sown. . . .
"Then in 1884 the Grand Lodge of South Australia was formed, followed one year later by the erection of the
Grand Lodge of New South Wales and later still by the formation of the Grand Lodge of Victoria.
"These developments in Australia, coupled with changing conditions in New Zealand led a number of New
Zealand Brethren to reconsider the position. W. Bro. Gillon of Lodge Waterloo, Scotch Constitution, once
more came to the front and with several equally enthusiastic Brethren, including W. Bro. George Robertson
of Wellington Lodge (English Constitution), called a meeting of P.M.'s of all three Constitutions to be held
in Wellington 1 February 1889.
"From this it will be seen that since 1876 at least one very important lesson had been learned. Although the
object of the meeting was virtually the same as for the one held 12 years earlier, viz., 'To consider the
advisableness of taking steps to form a United Grand Lodge of New Zealand', the 1889 meeting was attended
by W. Brethren representing the English, Scotch and Irish Constitutions. This was in marked contrast to the
1876 meeting to which only Scotch Constitution Lodges had been invited.
"W. Bro. Gillon was voted to the Chair and he subsequently delivered so eloquent an address that he was
able to convince those present that it was indeed in the interests of Masonry that a United Grand Lodge of
New Zealand should be formed. In the course of his address he suggested that Bro. Lord Onslow, as a Past
Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of England, should be asked to accept the appointment of the first Grand
Master of New Zealand.
"It was not, however, plain sailing. Before any
resolution could be placed before the meeting, the
District Grand Master of Auckland (E.C.), who
attended as a P.M. of Wellington Lodge, No. 1521,
E.C., asked to have his dissent recorded from the
proposal until some further good reason for the
establishment of a United Grand Lodge of New
Zealand were adduced. He then left the meeting.
"The resolution was then moved by W. Bro.
Williams of New Zealand Pacific Lodge (E.C.),
seconded by the Worshipful Master of Wellington Lodge (E.C.) and carried with the one dissenting vote
already referred to.
"Having achieved this initial success, the Brethren present considered the steps required to carry it into
practical effect. To this end it was decided to form a Masonic Union with branches in the various centres in
New Zealand, while the P.M.'s and War. Masters present formed themselves into an Executive Committee.
"After the meeting circulars were forwarded by the Executive Committee to all Lodges in New Zealand
under all Constitutions, soliciting their support and co-operation. A comprehensive report on the Wellington
meeting was also enclosed.
"Canterbury was the first district to move. A mere 25 days after the Wellington meeting representatives of
the three Constitutions met in Christchurch for a preliminary meeting and they agreed that it would be
desirable to form a United Grand Lodge of New Zealand. Accordingly they called a meeting of P.M.'s,
Masters and Brethren of the three Constitutions for 2 April. This later meeting voted 50 to 14 in favour of
establishing a United Grand Lodge and also resolved to form a Branch of the Masonic Union.
"The Otago Brethren held their meeting on 29 March and voted 134 to 24 in favour of forming—note the
wording—a Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of New Zealand. They also voted in favour of
setting up a Branch of the Masonic Union. Unfortunately, the enthusiasm of the Otago Brethren was affected
somewhat by the action of the District Grand Master (E.C.) who issued a circular forbidding the discussion
in the Craft Lodges of the question of establishing a United Grand Ledge of New Zealand. Although the
District Grand Master was subsequently persuaded to withdraw the prohibition, he never relaxed his hostility
to the movement.
"The Auckland Brethren voted 75 to 17 in favour of the two resolutions on 10 April 1889. In spite of some
determined and persistent opposition the Auckland Brethren went to work with a great deal of enthusiasm
and within two months they were able to report that in their District 12 Lodges were in favour of a New
Zealand Constitution, with five Lodges against.
And so by July 1889, 92 out of the 140 Lodges in New Zealand had declared themselves in favour of a New
Zealand Constitution and this the promoters considered adequate to take the next step. Accordingly the
Executive Committee of the Union issued a circular in which they proposed holding a convention of Lodge
delegates in September to draft a Constitution and to take the initial steps towards forming the Grand Lodge
of New Zealand.
"This convention of Lodge delegates was duly held in the Exchange Building, Wellington, on 11 September
1889, with 64 out of the 92 Lodges who had expressed themselves in favour represented. As a matter of
interest, the 64 Lodges comprised 36 E.C., 21 S.C. and seven I.C.
"W. Bro. Gillon presided and W. Bro. Robertson was appointed Secretary. Time does not permit to quote the
entire declaration agreed upon by those present, but the following extracts are significant. `. . . Now,
therefore, we, the delegates duly appointed in that behalf by the Lodges set out after our signatures hereto, do
by these presents declare and agree that the said Lodges shall from and after the ninth day of November
1889, Constitute and form one Grand Lodge, under the style of "The Grand Lodge of New Zealand". . . . . . .
And it is further agreed that as soon after the said ninth day of November 1889, as may be possible a
Constitution Convention of the Grand Lodge shall be held for the purpose of electing a Grand Master and
making other provisions for the good government of the Order. . .
"Having agreed on this important declaration—and the Brethren will note that the declaration refers to the
Grand Lodge of New Zealand and not to the United Grand Lodge of New Zealand as proposed earlier—the
Convention adjourned until the following day to discuss at length the basis of Union.
"This was done and the Articles of Union decided upon, although they have since been amended, where
necessary, in the light of changing conditions, can still quite readily be traced in the current Book of
Constitution.
"The Convention finally decided that a full report on the proceedings of this momentous meeting be
forwarded to all Provincial and District Grand Lodges as well as all Craft Lodges.
"One cannot help but feel that when the representatives of the 64 Lodges returned home they fully expected
to meet again in two months' time for the first meeting of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand and the
installation of the Grand Master. Indeed, their enthusiasm knew no bounds and this is not really surprising.
All the Brethren who attended the Convention were firmly in favour of a New Zealand Constitution before
they arrived and I think it would be fair to say that the inspired leadership provided by W. Bro. Gillon and
his Central Committee further strengthened their determination to succeed.
"Whether this enthusiasm was really justified is open to a considerable amount of doubt. As mentioned
before there were at the time 140 Lodges in New Zealand, although 64 had been represented at the
Convention, 92 had declared themselves in favour. It was also known, however, that 21 Lodges were against
and that 34 were undecided. Moreover, it was known that even the Lodges in favour of the movement had in
their ranks Brethren who were in doubt as to the wisdom of the proposed move.
"The Executive Committee were well aware of the position and in their report on the proceedings of the
Convention they made some pertinent observations. First they drew the attention of the Craft throughout
New Zealand to the fact that a majority of Lodges working in New Zealand under the three Constitutions had
joined the movement. They then went on to say, 'It is, of course, desirable in the interests of the Craft that
any semblance of serious dissension should be avoided in regard to this movement, and the Grand Lodge
having been called into existence by the will of a large majority of Lodges, legally exercised in accordance
with Masonic precedent, it is hoped that Lodges which have not already joined, will waive all minor
considerations, and unite with the majority in carrying the movement to not only a successful, but a
triumphant conclusion.'
"In the meantime, the opponents of the scheme had not been idle and exactly one month before the day set
down for the first meeting of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand, circulars were issued by the District Grand
Master of Wellington (E.C.) and the District Grand Master of New Zealand South (S.C.) to the W.M.'s in
their respective jurisdictions pointing out, inter alia, that so long as three members remained true to their
original Constitution, all Lodge property, Charter, etc., vested in them. Information was also sought as to
whether votes had been taken in open Lodge, the number of votes for and against, and how delegates had
been appointed.
"W. Bro. Gillon, in his capacity of Chairman of the Executive Committee, speedily replied to the circular
issued by the District Grand Master of Wellington (E.C.) and in doing so declared it ultra vires.
"This reply did not change the District Grand Master's thinking and as it turned out was only the first shot in
another round in the continuing struggle.
"The District Grand Master of Wellington then wrote to the Grand Secretary, London, asking for a ruling on
the question of a Lodge having to transfer by a vote of the majority, its allegiance to the New Zealand
Constitution.
"To this the Grand Secretary replied that the same question was raised during the formation of the various
Australian Grand Lodges and it was then decided that it was a case where a majority of the members had a
right to decide the matter on behalf of their Lodge. It was also pointed out that the rule which allowed three
members to hold the warrant did not apply.
"Further letters followed but these need not concern us here in this necessarily brief summary of what took
place. In any case, they did not materially affect the determination of the promoters of the scheme.
"What did upset them very much indeed—and to a certain extent destroyed the hopes of unanimity in the
matter—was the well-written but fairly blunt letter received from His Excellency The Right Honourable The
Earl of Onslow, Past Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of England, in which he refused to accept the Grand
Mastership. This was a severe blow.
"Until now, the battle had been fought on a high
plane, but after the receipt of the letter just referred
to—and this broke the allegiance of many Brethren
to the Grand Lodge of New Zealand—the tactics
employed by the opponents of the Grand Lodge
movement did little to bring the two factions closer
together. On the contrary, the gap widened and
attitudes hardened. In Otago, for instance, where
several Brethren had called on W. Bro. GilIon to
address them on the movement in order that they
may be in a position to judge for themselves, untrammelled by circulars from District Grand Lodges, the
Directors of the Masonic Hall Company refused the use of the Masonic Hall for this purpose. Not to be
outdone the Otago Brethren hired the City Hall where they were addressed by the Chairman of the Central
Committee.
"Also, it was insinuated pretty loudly by the opponents that it had been started with a view to the personal
aggrandisement of certain Brethren, rather than in the interests of the Craft.
"By now hope of reconciliation had all but vanished and when the Central Committee met on 3 February
1890, it was decided to press on regardless and to hold the first meeting of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand
in Wellington on the second Monday in March. The Committee also decided to ask the Canterbury Masonic
Union to wait upon Bro. Henry Thomson, District G.M., Canterbury, E.C., asking him to accept a
nomination as the first Grand Master of New Zealand.
"Always a staunch supporter of the movement Bro. Thomson expressed his unwillingness to accept the high
honour and he suggested that the Central Committee should once more try to induce Lord Onslow to accept
the Grand Mastership.
"The determination of V, Bro. Gillon and his many supporters must have impressed their opponents,
including Lord Onslow, because on 16 March His Excellency sent the following telegram: 'E. T. Gillon Esq.,
Wellington. The movement for the establishment of a Grand Lodge seems to have grown in strength since
you last addressed me; but I do not think that less than 120 out of the 144 Lodges would constitute that in my
judgment would amount to practical unanimity, for it cannot be expected that all the Lodges in New Zealand
will support the movement. If 120 Lodges support the Convention, and the Convention again does me the
honour to make me the offer of the first Grand Mastership, I shall gladly accept it. . .
"The promoters by now had the support of 100 Lodges, but they could not see how they could raise this
number to 120 without having to wait for a period of
perhaps many years which they were not prepared to
do. So the following day the Chairman of the Central
Committee replied as follows: 'His Excellency the
Earl of Onslow, Auckland. Received your
Excellency's decision with deep sorrow. It destroys
last hope of establishing Grand Lodge without
friction, violent disruption and bitter struggle. Had
your Excellency accepted voice of two-thirds of
Craft there would have been no rupture or scandal.
We feel we have now done all within our power to
secure unanimity. Your Excellency's conditions are
unfortunately impossible. . . Accepting your
Excellency's reply as final, our only course is to
immediately carry out the alternative resolution
unanimously passed by Convention, to provide for
contingency of your Excellency's refusal. This is to
constitute Grand Lodge forthwith, under Bro. Henry Thomson, District G.M., Canterbury, as first Grand
Master. We again express our deep regret that your Excellency is unable to afford us that assistance which
would, we are convinced, have removed all difficulties and led to the early attainment of complete unanimity
in the Craft.—E. T. Gillon.'
"Bro. Thomson now gave his repeatedly asked for assent to be nominated to the high and honourable office
of first Grand Master of New Zealand.
"As I mentioned at the outset, the event so ardently desired by the promoters of the movement, the crowning
point of so much self-sacrificing patient zeal on their part, the erection of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand,
was consummated at Christchurch on 29 and 30 April 1890.
Conclusion
"A paper prepared for a meeting such as this must necessarily be brief. Even though it has turned out to be
much longer than intended, alternatively, not as brief as you may have wished, a lot has remained unsaid.
"Also, a paper such as this raises a lot of questions and it is tempting to speculate on the wisdom or otherwise
of at least some of the things done by our worthy Brethren.
There are, however, three things I should like to mention:
"1. Was the Grand Lodge Movement Justified? Fully appreciating that it is easy to be wise after the
event I submit as my personal opinion that for the good government of the Craft there is room for one
Constitution only.
"(What were the reasons advanced by the promoters of the movement? There were 10 reasons and they may
be briefly put as follows: (1) The advisability of amalgamating the three Constitutions. (2) Such
amalgamation affords the only hope of fully carrying into effect the charity of the Craft. (3) The
disadvantages of being governed from a distance. (4) The evils which arise from concurrent jurisdiction. (5)
The undue rivalry of constitutions. (6) The growth of small and feeble Lodges under the present divided con-
stitutions. (7) The fact that New Zealand already had as many Lodges as Victoria when that State obtained
her constitution. (8) The considerable saving in administration costs. (9) The fact that if the Governor
accepted the Grand Mastership, there would be no jealousy. (10) That the formation of a New Zealand Grand
Lodge would tend to the fostering of a national spirit in the Colony.)
"The complete unanimity sought by the promoters has never been achieved. Fortunately, time has healed the
wounds of the past and any ill-feeling that may have existed has completely disappeared. Nevertheless, it
seems a little ironical that Wellington Lodge, No. 1521, E.C., which produced so outstanding a Secretary of
the Grand Lodge movement in the person of W. Bro. George Robertson, is to this day operating under the
English Constitution.
"2. Position in Otago. I referred earlier to the determined opposition to the Grand Lodge movement in
Otago. I am sorry to say that time did not permit me to find out how many Lodges in that District still
operate under the various constitutions. It may, however, be regarded as significant that at the November
1969 Communication at Christchurch, Lodge St. Kilda, No. 362, moved amendments to Rules 9, 10 and 11
of the Collected Rulings and Notifications of Grand Lodge.
"(Rule 9 states that: 'The second and third degrees may, however, by arrangement between their Masters be
conferred in other Lodges holding under the Grand Lodge.' Lodge St. Kilda sought the addition of the words
'and in Lodges of another Constitution'.
"Similarly, they wanted to delete Rule 10 and substitute: 'A Lodge of another Constitution paying a fraternal
visit at the invitation of the Master, may be invited to work a second or third degree according to their own
Constitution.'
"The motion was heavily defeated.)
"3. W. Bro. E. T. Gillen. May I be so bold as to suggest that regardless of whether we belong to Lodge
Waterloo or any other Lodge, we, Freemasons of the present generation, look up to and honour the memory
of this great man, who worked as hard for his own Lodge as he did for the establishment of the Grand Lodge
of New Zealand.
"W. Bro. Gillon joined Lodge Waterloo in 1867, was appointed to the position of Deputy Master at the
Installation Meeting in the same year, at which meeting he also was the Installing Master.
"He was Master of the Lodge in 1868 and 1869, acted as Installing Master eight years running from 1870 to
1877 and again in 1879, 1891 and 1892.
"W. Bro. Gillon, together with his fellow promoters of the Grand Lodge movement, steadfastly declined to
accept any active Grand Lodge Office. It is therefore very pleasing to report that the Grand Lodge of New
Zealand subsequently honoured him by conferring on him the rank of Past Grand Master (honoris causa).
"This most distinguished Freemason died on 19 April 1896, aged 54, and it is recorded in 'One Hundred By-
gone Years', that the most memorable meeting presided over by W. Bro. MacMorran was a Lodge of Sorrow
on Friday 8 May 1896, in memory of Most Worshipful Brother Edward Thomas Gillon, Past Grand Master."
Sources
"A Brief History of the Movement in Connection with the Establishment of the Grand Lodge of Antient Free and
Accepted Mesons of New Zealand." (Published by the authority of the Grand Lodge. Christchurch, March 1892.)
"One Hundred By-gone Years". A Centennial History of Lodge Waterloo, No. 13, by W. Bro. C. A. Hudson, P.M.
g g g
MEMBERSHIP PROBLEMS OF THE FRATERNITY
In most countries, where Masonry is reviving after virtual extinction during World War II, there seems to be
a very steady and satisfactory growth in the Craft. From the rest of the Masonic world, however, scarcely a
week passes without news of "Falling memberships and poor attendances", with requests for advice on how
to overcome these troubles.
It is almost impossible to find one general answer which would be applicable to all countries because their
difficulties stem from different causes. In the larger towns and cities in Britain, the troubles appear to be
mainly economic. Business worries and rising costs are inevitable hazards for the Craft. In the U.S.A., it
seems that the large scale movement of city-dwellers into the suburbs is a major cause of decline in the city
lodges.
The possible explanations of the difficulties range from the purely trivial up to really important social and
economic changes which could affect Craft membership adversely for years. One of the causes that is rarely
mentioned—though it is always a potent source of danger—is simply loss of interest, or plain boredom.
Surely there must be an answer to this!
Generally, the best defense is to make our lodges more interesting and more stimulating, by an increased
attention to Masonic education in the widest sense. If times are difficult and we cannot rely on steady
growth, we must try, at least, to strengthen our hold on existing memberships by giving the Brethren a
greater interest in the work of their lodges and a better understanding of what Masonry really means—and
could mean—to them.
The Masters of lodges should not wait until there is a shortage of Candidates but should seek every
opportunity to arrange Lectures, Debates, Demonstrations and Discussions as part of their regular
programmes, all of which will help to breathe new life into Masonry for their members.
This is the field in which the Quatuor Coronati Lodge can really be of service, especially to the lodges that
belong to the Correspondence Circle.
Incidentally the Q.C. membership is neither diminishing nor static, but growing steadily. It will be about
9,000 at our year's end, November 1969, and my warmest thanks go out to all our contributors, our staff, and
especially our Local Secretaries all over the world who have shared in this achievement.
—HARRY CARR,
Secretary and Editor, Quatuor Coronati Lodge,
No. 2076, The Premier Lodge of 27 Great Queen
Street, London WC2.