THISTLE LODGE INSTALLATION.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume V, Issue 1394, 2 December 1884, Page 2

THISTLE LODGE INSTALLATION.

Tho installation of the R.W.M. and officers of tho Thistle Lodge, No 627, !S. 0 , took place last evening at the Masonic Hall. The R.W.D.G.M,., Bro he Rev James Hill, was present, and conducted the ceremony in a very impressive manner. The following were installed to their respective offices : —R, W.M., Bro James Tait ; D. M., Bro G. H. St Hill ; Sub. M., Bro J. Sealy ;S. W., Bro T. Smith; J.W., Bro T. Williams; S.D., Bro J. Smith; J.D., Bro F. Noakes ; Secretary, P. M. Bro Sparrow ; Treasurer, P. M. Bro D, McFarlane ; Stewards, Bros J. G. Hodge and Cape-Williamson; T.G., Bro L. Rattray; Tyler, Bro R. Cullen. On the dais were a number of P. M.’s and W.M.’a of vaiious L idges, and the brethren of tho St John’s Lodge, E. 0., and Somerset Lodge, E.C., were present in large numbers At the close of the ceremony the Installing Master presented to tiro O. Reid a very handsome P.M. jewel. In making the presentation the L). G.M. said it gave him great pleasure, as it showed the esteem in which the brother was held by the members of the Thistle Lodge, and he hoped he would be long spared to wear it. P.M. Bro Reid replied and thanked tho brethren for their token of esteem. The jewel, which is a very ornate and massive gold one, was manufactured by Mr R. Murray of this town, and speaks volumes for his workmanship and arc of designing Masonic emblems. It bears the following inscription .-—“Presented to Bro. Charles Reid, P. W.M , as a memento of esteem by the breth en of the Thistle Lodge, No. 627. ’’ P.M. Bro St Hill propossd a hearty vote of thanks to the D,G.M. for his presence at the installation, and also for the excellent sermon he delivered at the Hall on Sunday last, which was carried with acclamation. The brethren then adjourned to the gallery, where a sumptuous banquet was provided by the Lodge. The chair was occupied by tho W.M. elect, and he was supported by the D.G.M. on his right and Bro C. 0. Fooks (W. M., St John’s) on his left. The usual loyal and Masonic toasts were given and responded to, the company separating about 8 o’clock. Later in the evening a ball took place in the Hall, which was very nicely decorated for the occasion, and the floor in capital order for dancing, which was kept up till an early hour. The musical arrangements, which were entrusted to Mr Sydney Wolf, gave every satisfaction, and the g> eatest credit reflects upon the stewards, Bros Uodg and Oape Williamson, for the efficient manner in which the details were carried out.