A MASONIC CEREMONY

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 6, Issue 256, 6 March 1917, Page 3

A MASONIC CEREMONY

Foundation Stone Laying

An interesting Masonic ceremony took place on Wednesday afternoon last when the foundation stone was laid of the new Masonic Lodge Room, Pukekohe, now in course of erection on the site of the old Masonic Hall. The Officiating Officer was Wor. Bro. C. Shipherd. At the flourish of a trumpet the stone was raised and a silver trowel was presented by the builder to the Officiating Officer. This being done, the stone was lowered nine inches, after which a sealed casket containing .Parchment records and coins of the realm were deposited in a cavity by the treasurer.- The stone was again lowered nine inches and cement was spread and stone lowered into its place The stone being tested and proved, \Vor. Bro Shipherd declared it to be well and truly laid. There was then another flourish of the trumpet and corn, wine and oil strewn on the stone, according to Masonic custom. The ceremony concluded with the singing of the National Anthem, after which the members returned to their temporary Lodge room at the Oddfellows' Hall.

The building, when completed, will be of handsome design in brick. The foundation stone bears the following inscription, viz., " Lodge Franklin No. 58. This stone was laid by Wor. Bro. Charles Shipherd, February 28. 1917. E. Bartley & Son, architects; McCallum & Bull, builders."