DRUIDS' GRAND LODGE.

Auckland Star, Volume LIX, Issue 223, 20 September 1928, Page 7

DRUIDS' GRAND LODGE.

EXECUTIVE AT WHANGAREI. PROSPERITY OF THE ORDER. (By Telegraph.—Own Correspondents WHANGAREI, this day. An event unique in the annals of Druidism in New Zealand occurred on Tuesday, when for the first time in the history of the Grand Lodge an executive meeting was held away from headquarters. In order fittingly to celebrate the occasion the Grand Lodge officers, consisting of Vice Grand President F. Jackson (Palmerston North), Junior Past Grand President W. Blomfield (Auckland), Grand Guardian W. Leatherby (Auckland), Grand Treasurer Geo. Laugliton, and Grand Secretary J. N. Grant (Wellington), were entertained at a banquet by the officers and members of the Whangarei Lodpe. Arch Druid A. J. Anderson presided, and the proceedings were enthusiastic. Responding to the toasts Mr. Laughton stated that the accumulated funds now amounted to £500,000. which was under the direct control of the executive. The whole amount was invested within the Dominion. The Grand Secretary said he hoped soon to have a certificate from the Government to the effect that the Order was now actuarily sound. When that certificate came to hand he was of the opinion that the old members, who had borne the heat and burden of the day, would get some easement in the matter of contributions, but new member» could .not expect any concession*.