ANCIENT ORDER OF DRUIDS.

Globe, Volume XXI, Issue 1724, 29 August 1879, Page 3

ANCIENT ORDER OF DRUIDS.

The second annual dinnor of the Pioneer Lodge, No. 40, of the United Ancient Order of Druids, was celebrated last night in the new Wellington Hotel, Tuam street, Christchurch. The chair was occupied by Brother Oppenheim, D.P., on the right hand of whom sat his Worship the Mayor of Christchurch and Dr. Campbell. The vice-chair was filled by Brother Samuels, V.A. Several members of kindred societies were present in the regalia of their respective orders. The Druids wore the regalia of their order. Covers were laid for upwards of one hundred, and the manner in which the dinner was served left nothing to be desired. The proceedings were initiated by the " Druids welcome chorus." On the removal of the doth the usual loyal and patriotic toasts were given and honored. The toast, " The Mayor and City Councillors of Christchurch " was given, duly honored, and responded to by the Mayor of Christchuroh. The toast of the eveuing, " The Druids," was given by the vice-chairman and responded to by the secretary to the Pioneer Lodge, Brother Willsteed, who gave statistics relating to the lodge, which he said now numbered eighty members, and was rapidly increasing. He also announced that the funds were in a flourishing condition. He stated that the number of Druids in the Australasian colonies was about six thousand; also, that they were on the eve of opening two other Druidical lodges—one at Brother Toovey's hotel in Oxford terrace, and the other at Knightstown. It was also in contemplation to establish a Grand Lodge in New Zealand, either at Wellington or Christchurch. He spoke of the advantage that would accrue by each of the friendly societies sending delegates to a conference at stated times, when matters relating to the general well-being of the various kindred societies could be discussed. The toast " Kindred Societies " was duly honored, and was responded to by various delegates of the several orders present. The toast, " The Medical Profession," was acknowledged by Dr. Campbell. The following toasts were also proposed and acknowledged, "The Officers of the Lodge," " The Preßß," " The Ladies," " The Visitors," " The Dinner Committee," and "The Hostess." During the evening Beveral excellent songs were sung, the vocalists being accompanied by Mr Weber on the pianoforte, and the company separated at a late hour.