Opening a New Lodge.

Manawatu Herald, 12 November 1898, Page 2

Opening a New Lodge.

INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS,

On Thursday evening a long-felt want was supplied Foxton in the form of a Friendly Society Order of Foresters. For some little time past one or two of those interested in the formation of a Lodge have been round obtaining the names of those wishing to join, until it was thought sufficient guarantee was forthcoming, when an approach was made to the Grand Lodge with the result mentioned. The installing officers were D.C.R. Bro. Baldwin, and D.S. Bro. Whiteford, both from Wellington. There were also a number from Palmerston and Levin, representing the Lodges there, together with a few sisters trom the Female Order.

The medical examination of candidates was conducted by Bro. Dr. Bronte, of Levin, at Whyte's Hotel, when 41 were presented, all of whom were considered satisfactory. To- save time candidates were initiated in batches of 10, this occupying some two hours, after which the election of officers took place, when the following were elected :— C.R., Bro. T. Westwood ; sub-C.R., Bro. A. C. Stansell ; secretary, Bro. Mitchell ; Treasurer, Bro. G. Gray; S.W., Bro. Desmond; T.W., Bro. Bradcock; 5.8., Bro. Chuck ; T. 8., Bro. F. Robinson.

Bro. Baldwin installed the new C.R., the latter taking the rest of the ceremony. After the election of officers, Bro. Baldwin congratulated Bro. Westwood on being elected the first Chief Ranger, that officer suitably responding.

In the opinion of the District officers the opening of Court Pride of Foxton Lodge was considered a record as regards numbers, and there is no doubt whatever that there will soon be a very

strong Lodge here, as the want of a resident doctor has been very severely felt. The time and place of the next meet« ing were left in the hands of a special committee, the meeting to be advertised in due course. It wjfs resolved to hold Court nights fortnightly. The visitors were regaled with 4& freshments at midnight. The meeting dispersed at isSj^iai. We would urge intending members to join as early as possible, as the initiation fee for the first month has been fixed at the low sum of ss.