The Glen Innes Masonic Lodge 44 celebrated its sesquicentennial 150th anniversary this month.
In 1874 a group of Freemasons who were living in Glen Innes held a meeting to consider the advisability of establishing a Freemasons lodge in town. They petitioned the district Grand Lodge of England to obtain a warrant. The petition was granted by the district Grand Master A.T. Holroyd on 14th October 1874. Holroyd authorised the dispensation that allowed the masons to meet as a lodge pending the receipt of the warrant. The inauguration and first installation of a Worshipful Master, Henry Downer and his invested officers was held on January 25th, 1875
Therefore in celebration of the past 150 years they held a re-dedication of The Glen Innes Masonic Lodge and its 150th installation by re installing Worshipful Master Peter Filewood on Saturday the 8th February, with over 100 people in attendance.
The Most Worshipful Grand Master Kris Albano of the United Grand Lodge of NSW and ACT and some 42 Grand Officers travelled to Glen Innes for this most auspicious occasion. Recently Installed Most Worshipful Grand Master Kris Albano for the first time opened up the lodge to selected members of the public, including women to witness this exciting historic event.
All guests were asked to be seated, and the rededication began with the Most Worshipful Grand Master Kris Albano taking the floor to read the original dedication from 1875 and the original charter signed by his Royal Highness Albert Edward, Prince of Wales who later became King Edward the VII, with Grand Director of Ceremonies Right Worshipful Brother Jay Tayag leading the re-enactment.
The pageantry was on a royal scale as they told the story of this lodge’s history. It was exciting to watch the pomp and ceremony of the occasion. The spectators said that it was truly something to witness and were very glad they were given the opportunity.
During the celebrations a special recognition was awarded to Christine Thomas for her long hours of research and effort in writing a book about the past 150 years of The Glen Innes lodge and its members. This was followed by afternoon tea.
The Lodge then reformed for the re-installation of Worshipful Master Peter Filewood as the 150th master of the lodge by the Most Worshipful Grand Master Kris Albano himself. This very special occasion was then followed by a banquet to honour 150 years of the Glen Innes Lodge.
Special guests included Glen Innes Mayor Margot Davis who joined the head table along with the Grand Master and newly reinstalled Master and his wife for the evenings of celebrations.
The Glen Innes Lodge has been part of the fabric of our town for 150 years. The 90 year old building is a landmark standing strong and proud on Church Street (formally known as East Street). It is not only used to hold lodge meetings but also dance and fitness classes, funerals, markets and also hires facilities for classes and receptions.
