History

A HISTORY OF FREEMASONRY IN SUDBURY-MANITOULIN  DISTRICT

Prepared by R.W. Bro. Robert South, District Historian 2010-2011

PREFACE:

The following is a compilation of the histories of the ten Masonic Lodges that have existed within the borders of the jurisdiction of Sudbury-Manitoulin District. I wish to thank the Lodge Historians for their work. It may appear that I have favoured some Lodges with more entries than others. This was not done intentionally. Some Historians have provided me with more details than others. My sources of information are as follows: Manitoulin No. 407 – “Our History 1885-1891” (Researched and prepared by R.W. Bro. John W. Hodder), (Gore Bay); Nickel No. 427 (Sudbury) -“Nickel to Gold”; Doric No. 455- “Our History … 1902-2002” (Little Current); Gore Bay No. 472- “Centennial Celebration, September 9, 2006”; Espanola No. 527 – “Glimpse at our Past, Look at Today, Plan for Tomorrow”; Algonquin No. 536 – “The First Fifty Years” (originally in Copper Cliff); National No. 588 “75 years of Masonic Traditions in the Town of Capreol; Sudbury No. 658- “25 Years History”; Friendship No. 691- “Fifty Years of Friendship” (originally in Copper Cliff); Bethel Lodge No. 699 – “The History… 1959-2009”; (along with some supplements) – and our District Newsletter- “Around and About”. Some of the information included is based on personal knowledge and experiences. Freemasonry, of course has to include the story of the men and their temples. As this is not a report on the individual Lodge histories; but how our District evolved to it’s present formation, only certain items of special interest or something exceptional that happened at or by the members may be included in this report. The following is presented in chronological order as much as possible. Occasionally, there may be a presentation of events that occurred, over a period of years. This is done for purposes of continuity. Wherever possible, credit will be given for the information provided.

R.W. Bro. Robert South – District Historian 2010-2011.

One of the earliest recorded reports on Freemasonry in the Sudbury-Manitoulin area occurred in or near the present Town of Capreol, is that of Mr. James Duffield, a tough disciplinarian. He was dispatched by the London (England) Committeeman of the Hudson Bay Post to reform social disorder. In a dispatch to home office in 1741, he wrote “Most of the troubles can be blamed on the dominance of the Masons, the secretive organization that influenced our founding father (H.B.C.) and many crowned head of Europe. I feel that I have been dropped down amongst a nest of free and accepted Masons. I feel without being initiated by ye Brethren, but as an intruder on their laws by virtue of ye company’s authority! And therefore at all events I was hoodwinked and kept from discovering their secret measures… such a scandalous society.” After receiving his report, he was then dispatched to Hudson Bay and when the same problems arose, he was recalled to London in the year 1744. It should be mentioned that a number of the board members in home office were Brother Masons.                                                                                                (588)

I should mention at this time that the jurisdiction we know as Sudbury-Manitoulin District, evolved from what was known in the early years as Nipissing District No. 18, then Nipissing-West, followed by Nipissing-Centre.   

Readers will note, that the early means of transportation in Ontario was very relevant to our Masonic History. Freemasonry spread its benign influence from East to West by either rail or waterway. In the late 1800’s the nearest Masonic Lodges to what is now Sudbury-Manitoulin District, were Mattawa Lodge No. 405, located along the Ottawa River and Shuniah Lodge No. 287 on the shores of Lake Superior in what is now the City of Thunder Bay.                                                        (South)

Freemasonry in this area, started on the Manitoulin Island. Our Masonic fore-fathers came from various locations in Canada and the United States, set up lumber mills around the Island and the North Shore. Several of these Freemasons, petitioned for the formation of a Lodge. Dispensation was granted in 1885 to Manitoulin Lodge U.D.

An example of how the modes of transportation affected Freemasonry is as follows. Bro. Oscar Hinds, was a dentist who resided in Manitowaning. He was dependent on the boat schedule coming and going to Lodge in Gore Bay. It was a minimum three-day venture.

During the winter months, when Lake Huron was frozen, Lodge was called off. Manitoulin Lodge No. 407 became more of a social club and lost its Charter in 1891. The report to Grand Lodge on September 9^th, 1891 indicated, the ten members present were poorly skilled in ritual, constitution and jurisprudence, forgetting in many cases the duties they owe to themselves and to the Craft. They applied for re-instatement the following year but were refused.              (R.W. Bro. John W. Hodder)

During its short life, Manitoulin Lodge welcomed approximately 47 members from various walks-of-life, from various locations on and around the Manitoulin, some as far away as Spanish River and Serpent River.                                           (472)

“Commencement of a transcontinental railway within two years and completion within ten years were conditions of British Columbia’s entry into Confederation in 1871″ (The Canadian Encyclopedia)  (It wouldn’t be until 1881, that work to carry out this promise would commence. The C.P.R. had been awarded the contract.)   

In December 1882, the Canadian Pacific Railway was carrying on extensive building operations in Northern Ontario. They offered a young Doctor, William Harvey Howey of Norfolk County (South Western Ontario) the position of medical officer. His work consisted of the medical and surgical care of the men employed in building their road from North Bay west. He arrived in what would become Sudbury on St. Patrick’s Day, 1883. His wife arrived on Dominion Day and they became Sudbury’s first permanent settlers. He was transferred to North Bay, and after three years, severed his connection with the railway and returned to Sudbury and set up a private practice. He had received his three degrees at King Hiram Lodge No. 78 in Tillsonburg in 1881. He, along with twenty-six fellow Freemasons and with the support of Nipissing Lodge, No. 420 in North Bay successfully petitioned and were granted a Dispensation to form a Lodge on October 13^th 1891.                 

On November 6^th 1891 a hall in what was known as the “Warren Block” on Cedar Street was completed and furnished, all necessary preliminaries discharged, and the Inaugural Meeting of Nickel Lodge U.D. was held with V.W. Bro. R.A. Klock of Mattawa Lodge No. 405 presiding.

Bro. Howey was inducted as Worshipful Master. The officers were “inducted’ into their respective chairs as it is not according to “Ancient Usage” to install the principal officers nor invest the subordinate officers of a Lodge acting “Under Dispensation”. The first Masonic Funeral was held on January 13^th, 1892 at which time 16 members assembled to march in solemn procession after the remains of a Brother. At an Emergent Meeting held on April 15^th 1892, the Most Worshipful, the Grand Master, John Ross Robertson attended to show his deep interest in the success of Freemasonry in the North country. At the Regular Meeting of November 2^nd 1892, the D.D.G.M of the 18^th Masonic District (Nipissing), examined the Lodge Records, Regalia and By-Laws and subsequently reported that they had been granted a Warrant of Constitution under the Title or Denomination of Nickel Lodge No. 427 G.R.C. He then proceeded according to ancient usage to constitute the brethren into a Regular Lodge, consecrating and dedicating the same. A Board of Installed Masters was then formed, and W. Bro. Howey was duly installed as Worshipful Master. (427)

While Secretary of Nickel Lodge, I read in the Minutes of December 4^th 1892, about communication between the Secretary’s of Keystone Lodge in Sault Ste. Marie and Nickel with regards to each Lodge’s jurisdiction. In the correspondence, Keystone Lodge set the limit as Kennebutch, while Nickel Lodge set the boundary at Cook’s Mill which was closer to Sudbury. I was familiar with the name Kennebec, as there is a motel in Serpent River with that name. I contacted the Ontario Archives to ascertain the location of Kennebutch without success. While on a Masonic Reunion in Orillia, we had a tour of the Stephen Leacock Museum. On the wall of the Museum was a map of a portion of Ontario, which included the North Shore and Kennebutch. This was near Cutler (Serpent River Reserve), just west of Spanish. As a result of a telephone conversation, I learned that many years ago a train of white folks stopped in the area. The train riders asked the Natives who met the train, where there were. The reply was “Kennebutch”. The word actually means, “Good morning” or “Good day”.                                                                              (South)

Some of the Nickel Lodge meetings would last until 2:00 AM. On one occasion a First Degree was completed in 35 minutes. Occasionally, all three degrees might be conducted at a meeting. By April of 1894, the condition of Warren Block had deteriorated and there was serious water damage to the Lodge furniture. After successful negotiations, on November 7^th 1894, Nickel Lodge relocated to the Cochrane Block. The new Lodge hall subsequently became known as Victoria Hall. In 1897, W. Bro. Howey became the first Past Master of the Lodge to be elected D.D.G.M., of the 18^th District. In 1897, the Lodge supported the request by Freemasons in Sturgeon Falls to form a Lodge in that community.  In 1902, they would support a similar request in Little Current.                      (427)

There were no less than six sawmills along the waterfront of the Town of Little Current. At no time, was the channel free of logs and sometimes there were rafts of logs waiting to get through. During the summer months, the population grew to nearly two thousand. With a very transient population, many fraternal organizations were cropping up. At one time, there were more than a dozen fraternal organizations. In 1902, at Little Current, much discussion took place about the lack of a Masonic Lodge for the Brethren. Fifteen local Freemasons petitioned Grand Lodge to form a Lodge. The formation of Doric Lodge was approved on May 27^th 1902.  A hundred years later, only the Masonic Order remained.

On July 9^th, 1902 the D.D.G.M. of Nipissing District No. 18, opened an Emergent Meeting and after the inducting of the officers in their respective chairs, he handed the Letters of Dispensation to the Master of the Doric Lodge U.D., W. Bro. George Powell. The first meeting was held in the Queens Hotel, now the site of the Manitoulin Co-op Hardware Store (at the corner of Worthington and Water Streets).

At the August 19^th meeting, the hall rental committee reported that they had secured the Music Hall,

located on the second floor of Ritchie’s Grocery Store, for the Lodge Meetings. (This is the present site of the Toronto-Dominion Bank.) In the fall of 1902, Doric Lodge met on the second floor of the Turner Building across from the Little Current United Church on Robinson Street.            

During the first year, while operating under Dispensation, 13 Regular Meetings and 16 Emergent Meetings at which 35 – 1^st degrees, 28 – 2^nd’s and 24 – 3^rd Degrees were conducted. There were two regular meetings in December 1902, one on the 9^th and the second meeting on the 27^th. The Lodge’s petition and charter indicates that their regular meetings were to be held on the Tuesday on or prior to the full moon. “Once in a blue moon”, there are two full moons in a month. The meetings were held in reference to the full moon because at this time streetlights were non-existent or very limited, so the full moon enabled the Brethren to find their way home. The Lodge was lit with oil lamps, which had been purchased along with a wood stove, and a supply of firewood.        

Members worked a 12-hour day, so the meeting started at 8:30 PM, and quite often ended in the “wee” hours of the morning. The record appears to be the meeting of February 9^th 1904, which ended at 3:15 A.M.

The jurisdiction of Doric Lodge extended from the mouth of the French River to Blind River in the west including Massey, Webbwood, and Espanola and along the North Shore as well as all of the Manitoulin Island. 

A committee was struck to procure the necessary furniture for the lodge room. Some of the furnishings acquired in that first year are still in use today. The fabric was replaced and minor repairs were completed for the Centennial in 2002. An emergent meeting was held on Friday, November 20^th, 1903. Under direction from Grand Lodge, Brethren from Nickel Lodge Constituted and Consecrated Doric Lodge No. 455. W. Bro. George Powell was installed, and the remaining officers were invested in due form.                                                                                                                  

The railroad to Little Current was not completed until 1913 and the road from Espanola to the Island wasn’t built until the 1920’s. The Brethren of Nickel Lodge would have had to travel by train to either Algoma Mills or Blind River and then take a steamboat to Little Current.                              (455)

Mrs. Florence R. Howey (the wife of the first Worshipful Master of Nickel Lodge) provides us with a good example of the difficulties of travel in her book, “Pioneering on the CPR”. She describes her first trip from Sudbury to Little Current in the 1890’s. It involved two days of travel by canoe and portage to the Hudson Bay Post on La Cloche, with the remaining 7 miles to Little Current via sailboat.     (472)

I remember having a train ride from Sudbury to Little Current in 1959. It took four hours.                   

My mother, who grew up in Lee Valley west of Espanola, spoke about her family going for Sunday afternoon drives along the road being built from Espanola towards Little Current. This was done to check on the progress of the road. Even after the road was completed to a distance in sight of Little Current, they would still have to take a short ferry boat ride to the shores of Manitoulin Island. Eventually, the C.P.R. would allow automobiles to cross the swing bridge at Little Current. They would have to back up steep hills. As cars didn’t have fuel pumps, the motors were gravity fed from the gas tanks which were mounted high in the back of motor vehicles. This road was important to my grandmother, as she was a “Haw-Eater”.             (South)

In 1903, Nipissing District No. 18 received a new distribution of Lodges: Keystone No.412 in Sault Ste. Marie, Nipissing No.420 in North Bay, Nickel No.427, Dyment No.442 in Thessalon, Sturgeon Falls No.447, Doric No. 455, and Temiskaming No.462 in New Liskeard.     R.W. Bro. R.H. Arthur of Nickel Lodge became the first D.D.G.M. within the rearranged boundaries.                           (427)

A Doric Lodge “Ladies Night” or as it was originally called, “At Home Night”, was initiated on December 27^th 1904. Electricity was to come to the Lodge on June 13^th 1905 with the price quoted of $96.75. On December 5^th, 1905, the first appearance of Masonic Charity was evident in the Lodge. Donations of $5.00 each were made to Sick Children’s Hospital in Toronto, the National Sanitarium of Consumption (Tuberculosis) and to the Home of Incurable Children. Very significant dollars in 1905.                                                                                                                (455)

The date of December 27^th was significant to Nickel, Doric and Espanola Lodges with regards to Installation.   It is known as the feast of St. John the Divine. Eventually, all three Lodges would move to a spring or summer Installation date.                                                                                (South)

Nickel Lodge moved to exercise real charity in adopting a motion in 1905 that placed a contribution box on the Altar at Installation Night with the donations going to the Hospital for Sick Children and to the Home of Incurable Children. In 1908, a Charitable Fund (to be kept separate from other funds) was established, with each member paying $1.00 per year. The money collected would be donated to a charity selected by the Worshipful Master or directed by the Lodge.                (427)

On June 9^th 1904, Doric Lodge recommended the petition from some of the Brethren to form a Lodge in Gore Bay.  (455) 

The D.D.G.M. for 18^th (Nipissing) Masonic District, R.W. Bro. M. McFadden was in attendance when Gore Bay Lodge U.D. was instituted on May 24^th 1905. Dr. J. Johnston who had been serving as Worshipful Master, when Manitoulin Lodge No. 407 lost its Charter, became its first Worshipful Master. The Lodge was consecrated on September 4^th 1906, with the D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. J.D. Way presiding. Minutes of the early years provided some interesting facts. August 2^nd 1905, a ballot for membership and Initiation was taken on the same night. February 21^st 1906, an Emergent Meeting was opened at 6:25 PM, all three degrees were conferred and the Lodge closed at 1:00 AM.              

Gore Bay Lodge No. 472 met in the Forester’s Hall until it burned in January 1907. Fortunately, the building was insured, and recovery was relatively quick. They next met on the second floor of the Gamey Block (the present site of the Home Hardware). In 1920, the Lodge moved to the third floor.

On December 6^th 1911, Gore Bay Lodge established a member’s sick benefit fund, with members donating $1.00 every six months. This was a tidy some considering the annual dues were $3.00.        

During World War 1, Gore Bay Lodge suspended the payment of dues for members serving in the military.                                                                  (472)

Massey Brethren attempted to form a Lodge (Sable Lodge) for the area in 1907 and again in 1913. With the sponsorship of Doric Lodge No. 455, a petition was presented by the D.D.G.M. of Nipissing District, R.W. Bro. W.J. Ferguson to the Grand Master. The Most Worshipful gave his consent and instructed the Grand Secretary to issue a Dispensation (dated July 8^th 1913) and institute a new Lodge, pending the securing of Lodge facilities in Massey.                                                  

In January of 1913, Doric Lodge subsequently approved the formation of a Lodge in Espanola. The Dispensation for the Massey Brethren was withdrawn, and one was granted to the Espanola Brethren.                         

On April 7^th, 1915 Espanola Lodge U.D. was regularly instituted with W. Bro. LeBaron Dibblee as Worshipful Master. The Installing Board was led by R.W. Bro. N.J. McAuley, D.D.G.M. for Nipissing District. It was recorded that “The Brethren have provided and furnished a beautiful Masonic room and are starting off, free of debt.” In 1915, Espanola Lodge met in a large three-storey brick building, the former boarding house for mill employees located “below the hill”.

Thirteen petitions were received in the two years that Bro. Dibblee was Master. (527)

Why did Espanola Lodge settle on the 1^st Wednesday of the month for their Regular Meeting Night, when Nickel Lodge was already meeting on that night, less than 80 kilometres or 50 miles away? It was a convenient night for the Brethren and in those days, and it wasn’t an easy or expected task to travel any great distance to visit another Lodge.    (South-as told to me by R.W. Bro. Ken Shore)

On November 1^st 1916, Nickel Lodge, passed a resolution recommending to Grand Lodge the Petition of 37 Master Masons of Copper Cliff for the Institution of a new Lodge to be known as Algonquin Lodge. The Regular Meeting Night for Algonquin Lodge had been established as the third Tuesday of the month. The petition to form a new Lodge was forwarded by the D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. C.W. McCrea to Grand Lodge on November 18^th. By December 1^st, he was able to advise that the Dispensation had been granted effective December 2^nd.

On November 22^nd 1916, Nickel Lodge celebrated its 25^th Anniversary with a Past Master’s Night. R.W. Bro. W.H. Howey sat in the Chair of King Solomon. All 25 Past Masters were alive and available for service. A Past Master’s Association was formed for mutual benefit and to be available for advisory purposes. Bro. Howey was its first President. A Masonic Library was also established.            (427)

The D.D.G.M. traveled by boat from Cutler Ontario to the Manitoulin Island to make his Official Visits at Doric and Gore Bay Lodge. In the report of the D.D.G.M. for 1917, he mentioned that; “Interest the Ladies.”… “A very large number of the ladies are better Freemasons than their husbands.”               (527)

I have been a Lodge Secretary in two Lodges for a total of 10 years. Quite often, the wife is the one who sends in the Dues payment.                            (South)

A delegation of Freemasons had approached the President of The Canadian Copper Company, with the idea of obtaining a suite of rooms in the proposed new building to be located at the corner of Gribble and Serpentine Streets. This was to be a two-storey brick structure. They proposed that a third floor be added. The additional floor was approved and built. Algonquin Lodge U.D. was instituted on Good Friday, April 6^th 1917 in a ceremony conducted by the Right Worshipful, the District Deputy Grand Master, Bro. C.W. McCrea of Sault Ste. Marie. Bro. J.W. Rawlins was placed in the Chair of King Solomon.

On September 1^st, 1917, the Grand Secretary sent out a special notice advising that an Especial Communication of Grand Lodge would be held at Copper Cliff on the 18^th for the purpose of constituting, consecrating and dedicating Algonquin Lodge No. 536. The D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. W.G. White hailing from Penewobikong Lodge No. 487 in Blind River presided over the ceremonies. Bro. James Walter Rawlins was duly installed, and the officers invested followed by the Ceremony of Dedication.                                                                                           (536)

W. Bro. Rawlins would eventually be presented with a Past Masters Jewel. In the fall of 2001, three members of Nickel Lodge, were cleaning up a storeroom at Belrock. Having moved a filing cabinet, I discovered the Jewel on the floor beside the cabinet. Fortunately, I didn’t move the cabinet in the other direction, or it would have been crushed. The Jewel was delivered to a member of Algonquin Lodge. The Lodge subsequently passed “The Rawlins Jewel” by-law which made for the provision that the jewel would be presented to the Immediate Past Master at Installation and for him to wear it for one year. He would subsequently pass it on to his successor. At the time of receiving it, the By-law would be read aloud, and a printed copy delivered to him. It is understood that the recipient of the Jewel or another Past Master’s Jewel holds the said jewel in trust for the Lodge. Upon his death or resignation or suspension from the Lodge, the Past Master’s Jewel shall be returned to the Lodge as soon, as is practicable. Other Lodges in the District have adopted this practice.                         (South)

On February 15^th 1917, Bro. William Kent had advanced Algonquin Lodge, $1000.00 on a note to bear interest at 5%. There were no stipulations on repayment. In February 1923, the Lodge made it’s first payment of $200.00. After this, regular payments were made with the final payment in October 1926. As Bro. Kent had moved to the United States, payments were made in U.S. funds.  During repayment, the U.S. exchange rate varied as high as 25%.                                      (536)

In 1917, Espanola Lodge hosted a Lodge of Instruction. Ten of the twelve Lodges in the District were represented. (This is the first mention of such an event being held in the District.)             (527)

On May 3^rd 1919, Nickel Lodge held it’s first meeting in the Burrough’s Block (located at 120 Elm St., E., the street entrance to the Rainbow Centre). M.W. Bro. F.W. Harcourt became the first Grand Master to officially visit Nickel Lodge, when he attended on May 14^th 1920 to dedicate the Lodge Room. Three other Grand Lodge Officers were in attendance along with the D.D.G.M. of Nipissing District No. 18, R.W. Bro. L. Dibblee (Espanola). Visitors came from across Canada and the United States.                                               (427)

Espanola Lodge was very busy in 1919. In September and October, they met every week. That year, they met every month, including a meeting on New Years Day. They also held twelve Emergent Meetings. In 1921, there was a motion to close Espanola Lodge until September. This seems to be the beginning of the Traditional “Summer Call Off”. In the following years, there was an occasional “Call off”.                                                                                             (527)

February 13^th, 1919 marks what is considered the real beginning of National Lodge. It was on this date that fifteen Freemasons, met at Rossman’s Hall to discuss ways and means towards starting a Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in Capreol.                                                                      (588)

On March 19^th, Nickel Lodge approved the request for support in the formation of a Lodge in Capreol, to be known as National Lodge.                                     (427)

On April 29^th, the forefathers of National Lodge appointed a committee to investigate the “building question”. Subsequently, it was decided to construct a two-storey building. Street level space would be rented for commercial use, with the Masonic Hall above. For this purpose, a stock company was formed and was known as “National Temple Company.”            

The origin of National Lodge has many versions. Was it because many of the Brethren received their lively hood from the Canadian National Railway or was it the fact that the founding members met at the National Hotel in Sudbury to discuss it’s creation?  It was because of the railway.

On October 27^th, 1921, dispensation was brought to Capreol by the D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. H.J. Moorhouse assisted by members of Nickel Lodge. Bro. Moorhouse then “inducted” the Worshipful Master, Bro. A.H. Cavanagh. The only other order of business was the receiving of fourteen petitions for membership. Lodge was closed in harmony at 10 o’clock, and all participated at a banquet held in the United Church. This banquet was prepared by the wives of Freemasons in Capreol and was a great success.  

The first initiation in National Lodge was conferred on December 13^th, 1921. At this emergent meeting Mr. W.G. Strachan and two other gentlemen were the candidates.  

Up until the 1920’s, the Master conferred the entire degree.  The task of promulgating ritual proficiently, was made easier when all Master Masons were entitled to their own copy of the work.  It can be read in the Minutes of National Lodge, that in a couple of instances the Worshipful Master, with some assistance of the I.P.M. conferred the entire degree.                                   

On July 18^th and 19^th 1922, Grand Lodge was held at Port Arthur. The Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Cavanagh represented National Lodge and he was successful in obtaining the charter.

On September 7^th, R.W. Bro. J.A. Smith, assisted by (Past) Grand Lodge Officers from North Bay and Sudbury performed the ceremonies of constituting, consecrating and dedicating National Lodge No. 588. The installation of officers followed with W. Bro. Cavanagh being installed as Master.

Eighty-five brethren were present. This is a huge number as the only means of travel was by foot, train or horse. The minutes indicate that the Lodge’s first year was a very busy year. There were twenty-four emergent meetings, twelve regular meetings, and twelve committee of general purposes meetings.

In 1915, the Grand Master appointed a special committee to consider the question of a musical ritual for use in constituent lodges. Early in 1918, a “Masonic Musical Ritual for the Ceremonials of Craft Degrees” was published. It offered four sets of musical selections, which could be introduced at appropriate pauses in the work.  These included hymns (in unison and four part arrangements) and chants. Most of the music was taken from Protestant hymnbooks of the time. The chants were taken from scripture, while most of the words of the hymns were adapted to Masonic purposes. Bro. L.A. Mathews, National Lodge’s Organist, formed a lodge choir to accompany the work.           (588)

W. Bro. Douglas Chant was installed as Master of Espanola Lodge in December 1922 about 2 weeks before reaching his 28^th birthday. “My claim to having been Worshipful Master of a Masonic Lodge at an earlier age than anyone else in the history of Grand Lodge has not up to now been successfully challenged. Although having visited many Lodges in the Toronto area during the more than forty years since coming here, I have not affiliated with any of them for various reasons. I plan and expect to continue as the senior living Past Master of Espanola Lodge until transferred in due time to the Grand Lodge above to rejoin the many Espanola Brethren already there. “ Bro. Douglas B. Chant died in July 1986.  (He lived as a Past Master for 62-1/2 years.)                                                     (527)

On January 6^th 1923 a true sign of brotherhood shone forth like a beacon from the past. Bro. Ladd, a Master Mason and Secretary of the National Temple Board was burned to death in a fire. The Brethren purchased his coffin and looked after all the details. Forty-nine brethren from National Lodge conveyed his casket to the C.N.R. station for the 6:00 P.M. train. The Lodge Chaplain accompanied the remains to Heron, New York and represented the Lodge. On his return to Lodge, the Brother was asked to present his expenses.  To quote, “Worshipful Sir, it was an honour to represent this Lodge in such a manner and I will not submit an invoice for same.”

In 1923, on the occasion of the D.D.G.M.’S, official visit to National Lodge, he remarked “I enjoyed the work of the evening together with the musical ritual….National Lodge is the only Lodge in our jurisdiction that favours us with same.”                                                                           (588)

An excerpt from Algonquin Lodge’s History, “The First 50 Years 1916-1966”, provides an insight into the life style of Freemasons in the early 20^th Century in the Sudbury/Copper Cliff area. In 1924, the Junior Warden was instructed to sell the wood stove that had been used to prepare refreshments and purchase a three-burner coal oil stove. This would be used until 1938 when a two-burner electric stove was installed. This was later replaced with a four burner electric stove. In 1938, mother INCO replaced the original furnace with one from a vacant house in Crean Hill.

It was the privilege of the Junior Warden to attend the Lodge before going to work in the morning to build a fire to heat the building. He re-attended at noon and at five o’clock to replenish the fuel and then before seven to see that the Lodge was properly heated. After the meeting he had to see that the furnace was properly checked. With the thermostatically controlled furnace, he had fewer heating problems. In December 1962, air-conditioning was installed.          

In the first draft of the Algonquin Lodge By-Laws, the Committee on Character consisted of the two Wardens, Secretary and two Master Masons chosen by the Worshipful Master at Installation for the ensuing year. In subsequent years, the Committee would be composed of three Master Masons with at least one Past Master included in the appointment by the Worshipful Master. There could be a separate committee for each applicant.                                         (536)

Early in the 21^st Century, Grand Lodge dictated that the naming of the Committee on Character would be no longer be announced in open lodge.           (South)       

As always, modes of transportation and the condition of the roads had a great influence on matters involving Freemasonry, in the early 20^th Century. Such a situation affected the “Dues” structure of Algonquin Lodge. In a 1918 amendment to their By-Laws, the following was provided: “That the rate for members outside the jurisdiction should be Three Dollars per annum.” This included Sudbury members, but Creighton members were included in the higher rate. In 1924, the dues structure would be amended again to make allowances for Brethren residing in the jurisdiction but more than three miles from The Town of Copper Cliff. Further amendments would follow in short order, especially involving the Creighton members. Bus service was not reliable, very few members had cars and the Creighton members had great difficulty attending. It was felt that some relief should be given them. The dollar amount for dues would change quite often; but of interest, is that about 1939, all members living within ten miles of the Town would be considered resident members. In the interval between 1924 and 1939, road conditions greatly improved. In 1925, the road to Creighton was macadamized. Snowplows kept the roads open, many of the Brethren had cars and attendance improved. When concurrent jurisdiction came into effect with Nickel and Sudbury Lodge, some members thought there should be an increase to be on par with the Sudbury Lodges. Algonquin Lodge would maintain it’s 1939 dues structure until sometime after 1966.

In February 1921, it was recorded in the Minutes “That it is the desire of the brethren that the Past Masters of Algonquin Lodge furnish a photo of suitable size for Historical purposes.”  This procedure was carried on for many years until space became a problem. A decision was made to reduce the size of the pictures.   (536)

In 2010, Nickel Lodge was facing a similar situation at the Belrock Masonic Centre. After months of discussion and a rescinded motion, a decision was made to use a digitized presentation of the Lodge’s Past Masters.           (South)

Many unsuccessful attempts were made by Algonquin Lodge to set up a separate bank account for benevolent purposes. Finally, it was determined that expenditures for benevolent purposes would be covered by the Lodge’s General Account. Many wonderful acts of benevolence are reported in “The First 50 Years 1916-1966”, including the payment of a Brother’s head stone, the escorting of a Brother’s body to his home in Indianapolis.                                                                                         

In 1922, Algonquin Lodge’s elections were moved from November to December with the Installation a month later. (In later years, the Installation would be held in June and then eventually in April.)                       (536)

At the Espanola Lodge elections in 1923, the Secretary was elected and immediately resigned. The Worshipful Master requested that the Brother retire in order to permit the Lodge an opportunity to discuss the resignation. The Lodge established, by motion, a honourarium for the Secretary of $50.00 for the year 1924. The Secretary withdrew his resignation.                                                  (527)

Though discussion about re-organizing the Masonic District would go on for years, there were problems closer to home involving jurisdiction between Nickel and Algonquin Lodge.

In 1924, an applicant who worked on the Copper Cliff Road applied for membership into Algonquin Lodge. After some discussion, Nickel Lodge relinquished all claims and he was able to join Algonquin Lodge.  In 1935, the dividing line was again in question. Another man, who lived near the dividing line, applied to Algonquin Lodge. The car mileage was taken from the applicant’s home and each Lodge and it was determined that he was closer to Nickel Lodge. The Master of Nickel Lodge relinquished jurisdiction; but his Lodge Secretary wouldn’t. An Ontario Land Surveyor was engaged to spot the dividing line on a subdivision map of Gatchell. The line cut across the back end of the applicant’s lot. The house was located within the jurisdiction of Nickel Lodge. Algonquin Lodge was not able to accept the application. During this time, Algonquin Lodge waived jurisdiction of applicants to Espanola Lodge who resided in Worthington.

Algonquin Lodge had a small set back in that INCO hit another period of retrenchment. The Lodge lost some of their older members and did not hit stride until 1925. The Lodge suffered another set back in 1927, when fire broke out in the basement of the building. Fortunately, there was only water and smoke damage.                                     (536)

In 1925, National Lodge set up special membership and instruction committees for members who resided in Foleyet, Gogama and Milnet.                     

On the night of February 3^rd 1925, the meeting was interrupted by the Tyler, with an important letter that had been delivered to the door. The Master was instructed to read the letter and act on it immediately.  In the letter was a petition signed by a number of ladies of the Town of Capreol expressing concern “That a toilet would have to be erected as soon as possible.” It appears they were disturbed by the members going outside during “call-off” and after meetings. The Lodge was situated in downtown Capreol where the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce now stands.

In December 1925, the Worshipful Master of National Lodge conferred the entire Fellowcraft Degree one-week after he was installed.                  (588)

Espanola Lodge amended their by-laws in 1926, so that the Installation of Officers would be held on the Wednesday on or before the Festival of St. John the Baptist on June 24^th. They had been previously held on December 27^th. W. Bro. Lorne Houck was re-elected as Worshipful Master and served for a year and a half. (527)

If you examine the photos of the Past Masters of the Lodge, you will notice that of W. Bro. Lorne Houck’s two photos, one is a mirror image of the other.     (South)

History was made on February 7^th 1928 when National Lodge’s first Past Masters’ Night was held.  W. Bro. Cavanagh sat in the east. A first degree was exemplified with over 60 members present!

A Brother gave an address entitled “Education of Children”.  This member of National Lodge was well known for C.N.’s School Car on wheels in Northern Ontario.                            

A very interesting meeting comes to light for on January 15^th, 1929 when an Emergent Meeting was called to confer the First Degree. The Lodge was opened in due form and the Worshipful Master introduced the candidate’s father who had travelled from Bonchere Lodge in Eganville. Midway through the meeting, the Master rapped his gavel, “Brother Junior Warden, you have my order to call the brethren from labour to refreshment for a space of two hours and forty five minutes”. The brethren retired and enjoyed a hockey game. After the game, the Brethren were called from refreshment to labour and the work of the evening was continued. No mention in the minutes to who played or who won or lost!  

A Past Master of National Lodge was elected D.D.G.M. of Nipissing District No. 18. It covered all the Lodges from Sault Ste. Marie in the west to Mattawa in the east some 350 miles apart. Travelling expenses were set at $ 17.00 for the year.     (588)

October 24, 1929 Wall Street Stock Market Crashed.  December 31, 1929… Abitibi closed the Mill in Espanola. Historical Note: Town organizations closed for the duration of the depression years, the Masonic Lodge being the exception.              (Espanola on the Spanish-Morrison)          

(As for many, during the “Dirty 30’s – Times were going to be tough.) It seems there was distress in keeping Officers in their positions. Other concerns were unpaid dues.

A resolution was passed that members moving outside the District during the Masonic year would not be entitled to any rebate of dues as non-resident members. This prompted further discussion concerning resident and non-resident members. A committee was formed and reported at the July meeting that, in their opinion, anyone whose family was in town was a resident member as far as the Lodge was concerned. The Lodge continued to be active in providing benevolence to its Brethren with the assistance of Grand Lodge. The Lodge received a request from Melville Lodge in Melville Saskatchewan for assistance in paying their mortgage. The Lodge decided to loan them $10.00. It was also realized that the Lodge might not be able to repay the loan, (so it may become a grant). For several years a member of Espanola Lodge had been in distressed circumstances and unable to work. He became a resident of Alberta. The Lodge played a very important role in securing and providing financial assistance. The matter again surfaced during the June meeting and another application to Grand Lodge was completed, recommending further relief for the Brother. There were only two initiations that year.       (527)

In 1930, Gore Bay Lodge members formed a committee to take shifts in staying with a charter member during a lengthy illness. In appreciation, the Brother willed to the Lodge, his worldly possessions, including his house. The proceeds from the sale of the house were invested and eventually used to help with a new building. Blankets from the house were sent as relief supplies to the West in 1931.          (472)

In February 1933, Espanola Lodge requested assistance from Grand Lodge to pay the funeral expenses of a departed Brother. At the April meeting the Worshipful Master informed the Lodge that the Manager of the Paper Mill had approached him regarding changing the present Lodge quarters for some more suitable quarters. The Lodge approached the Abitibi Power and Paper Co. to reduce the rent, water and lights for the sum of $10.00 a month. The Company reduced the above to $5.00 per month. In September 1934, the Lodge sent $5.00 to Sioux Lookout Lodge in response to their request for assistance. Fewer Freemasons were being made and fewer emergent meetings were being held.

In the Masonic year of 1937-1938, a motion was passed rescinding a motion of July 1^st, 1931 re: non-resident members. A non- resident member is one who lives and works outside the jurisdiction regardless of where his family lives.          (527)

I have included the above examples of how the “Great Depression of the 1930’s” affected our Nation and how Freemasons tried to assist. The examples were provided in the History of Espanola Lodge. How fortunate for some of us, to have not lived during those times.                                   (South)

National Lodge’s first decade was not to be easy.  It was wedged between the Roaring Twenties and the Second World War.                                

Canadians as a whole were a bumptious lot in the twenties. Certainly, the Great War had exerted a sobering toll, but the whole country could not help being overwhelmed by the successes of the Canadian Corp., symbolized by the remarkable victory at Vimy Ridge. Now a full-fledged member of the League of Nations, Canada was emerging from colonial status as a result of the Balfour Declaration of 1926, which promised eventual autonomy. We were a nation!  We had come of age!  The twentieth century belonged to us!          

National Lodge and the Town of Capreol were an exception. The Lodge had obtained mortgages of $5,000.00 and $2,000.00 at seven percent and eight percent interest to buy the building that the National Temple Company had built. The membership was strong and increased as the railway expanded. In July 1930, a Past Master was appointed a Grand Steward of our Grand Lodge. The members of the Lodge, to honour him on such an important calling, purchased his regalia.     

Eight different organizations rented space monthly to hold meetings. The Canadian Brotherhood of Railway Engineers, the Royal Canadian Legion, and the Order of the Eastern Star were a few of the tenants.  The purchase of a new Lodge organ had been paid off in record time. The Lodge arranged to clear the land and help pay for the new Capreol Cemetery. The Secretary’s remuneration was increased to the annual sum of $75.00 plus dues for the year, the caretaker’s to $10.00, and the janitor’s to $1.25 per meeting. The Lodge was booming and National could not have been more prosperous.                                                      (588)

The depression had little or no effect on the town in the early 1930’s. From 1930 to 1936, the Federal Government spent more of the taxpayers’ money to service the debt of the Canadian National Railway than it did to provide unemployment relief to its people.                     (Stats Canada 1936)

Suddenly the effects of the depression were being felt.  Lodge rentals ceased and existing tenants requested a reduction in rent.  The term “non-payment of dues” appeared and was referred to the general purposes committee. After much discussion it was brought up under “members in distressed circumstances.” The Secretary’s wages were cut to $45.00, the caretaker’s to $2.00, and the janitor’s were deferred.

Even during these hard times, National continued to donate to its two favourite charities “Sick Children’s Hospital” in Toronto and “The Home of Incurable Children”. (Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital (as it is now named) is Canada’s largest children’s rehabilitation hospital and located in Toronto).

Throughout the depression, the members of National Lodge never forgot their charge from the North East Angle. A Brother had been involved in a serious accident and confined to bed. On Christmas Eve, a turkey was delivered on behalf of the Lodge. A collection was taken amongst the Brethren and they were able to purchase a wheelchair and gave him $100.00 cash. These are no small feat considering the times.

The decade seemed to take a small up beat when on June 6^th, 1939, their Majesties King George VI (a Freemason) and the Queen passed through Capreol on their Canadian Tour.                        (588)

October 8^th 1934 a funeral service was held at Jackson’s Chapel in Sudbury for the late R. W. Bro. LeBaron Dibblee. He had been the first Worshipful Master of Espanola Lodge. Nickel Lodge purchased from Mrs. Dibblee, a library of Freemasonry books which had belonged to R.W. Bro. Dibblee. They presented this collection to Espanola Lodge with best wishes. A suitable bookcase was to be purchased. On June 5^th, a motion was passed to declare “No Smoking” in the Lodge Room. The sign was to hang on the entrance door to the Lodge Room.   (527)

It would be another seventy-one years before Belrock would become smoke-free.

There are many entries in various Lodge histories about the re-distribution of Lodges in the District. This appears to be the most concise report.       (South)

1934, was the last year, that the Lodges of Nipissing District would be under one D.D.G.M. This honour went to R.W. Bro. C.G. Ade of (Algonquin Lodge). The redistribution of Lodges in the four northern districts as follows: Algoma with 8 Lodges, East Nipissing District- 7 Lodges, Temiskaming District – 8 Lodges and West Nipissing District with 12 Lodges. (It extended from Sudbury in the east to Sault Ste. Marie in the west, Gore Bay in the south to Chapleau in the north.) This was split again in 1973 to become Nipissing Centre. In 1976 the name was changed to Sudbury/Manitoulin District, (or as said in some circles “Manitoulin- Sudbury District”) as it remains at the present time.                       (527)

On September 7^th, 1938 Nickel Lodge settled in at 10 Cedar Street (where the municipal parking lot is located behind the Scotia Tower). The Grand Master, M.W. Bro. W.J. Dunlop and other Grand Lodge officers including R.W. Bro. David Samuel Spence (of Espanola 527) attended on October 19^th 1938 to dedicate the new Lodge Room.                                                         (427)

Doric Lodge held a Masonic Memorial Services at an Emergent Meeting.  The Meeting was called to order in the Lodge room. The Worshipful Master stated the purpose of the meeting, then the members marched in procession to the deceased Brother’s home where the memorial service, funeral rites and Grand Honours were given. The Brethren then may have proceeded to the cemetery and provided burial rites. They would then, in procession return to the lodge and close the meeting.

Doric Lodge met every month of the year until 1938, at which time the Brethren decided that they would “call-off” for the months of July and August. That same year, the Lodge recognizing the hardships of The Great Depression, decided not to suspend Brethren for the non-payment of dues. The events from the early 1940’s evolved around the Lodge building.                                          (455)

In the late 1930’s, Algonquin Lodge, for the benefit of their members and family initiated a walking Blood Bank. It would appear that this was the first Lodge in our Grand Jurisdiction to establish a Blood Donor Service.  Steps were taken to improve the service within the Lodge’s jurisdiction by increasing the number of volunteer donors. In 1946; a technician at the Copper Cliff Hospital was identified, who volunteered to type and issue a card to each member. In 1949, steps were taken to encourage Freemasons in the Sudbury to participate and a District Blood Bank was established. In 1953, Bro. Harold Heron was placed in charge. He raised the number of donors to seven hundred. A card index was kept, and each donor was catalogued, his card identifying his address, phone number and Blood type. Minutes after receiving a call, Bro. Heron had a donor or donors enroute to the hospital. Only after Bro. Heron was invited to assist, was the Sudbury and District Red Cross able to organize their own Blood Donor Clinic, with his 700 donors providing the nucleus. The Red Cross and O.H.S.C. had a plan to provide a free blood donor service. Thanks to Bro. Heron, Sudbury was two years ahead in such a scheme. He served until the fall of 1962, when he retired due to ill health. “Bro. Heron did all this, not in the hope of any reward, but as a Freemason, whose charity knows no bounds save those of prudence.”                            (536)

There is a plaque on the south wall of the ante-room at Belrock, recognizing the work of Bro. Heron. (South)

W. Bro. John G. Gutcher who was Master of Espanola Lodge, in 1939-1940 had a passion for building and inventing things. Long before snowmobiles, John and his cousin built a propeller driven vehicle with four skis. They called it a Snowplane.

In 1940, Espanola Lodge corresponded with Grand Lodge re: the outbreak of World War II and went on record as “desiring to aid in some way”. During the year, Brethren in arrears of dues presented a serious problem for the Lodge. Many were suspended. All the dues of enlisted Brethren were to be remitted in full for the duration of the War. The Lodge building was declared to be in an unsafe condition by the “(Abitibi” Espanola Pulp and Paper Mill) Company” and the “Company” held itself free from all responsibility for damages if the said building continued to be used. The Lodge signed a letter assuming all responsibility for damages and would hold the “Company” free and blameless in any or all liability. In 1940-1941, that due to the decline in membership, that some Brethren would hold two offices that year.  (Don’t tell Grand Lodge.)       

Historical Note: The abandoned “Abitibi” Espanola Pulp and Paper Mill was occupied by members of the Canadian Armed Forces and used as a prisoner of war camp for captured German personnel during World War 2. Approximately 1500 prisoners were incarcerated at Espanola. Due to the closing and vacancy of workers at the mill, the Lodge suffered a decline with the absence of members during the war years.  K.V.P. restored the abandoned paper mill to operational standards and was reopened in 1946.           

In 1941-1942, Espanola Lodge had five Initiations and $293.00 was raised for the Grand Lodge British War Relief Fund.  

In 1943-1944, the condition of the Espanola Lodge building seemed to be an issue again. The Kalamazoo Vegetable and Paper Company was willing to give a deed of the building and lease for the land provided that they, K.V.P. do not require the property for the operation of their mill. They also requested that the janitor and family sign releases freeing them from any responsibility in connection with the building. The offer was accepted.

In June of 1944, Bro. Joseph Lesser was installed as Worshipful Master of Espanola Lodge. He had been initiated into the Espanola Lodge on May 17^th 1916 at the age of 22.

In 1946, the War was over, and Espanola Lodge received 24 petitions for membership. A motion was made to purchase a Hospital Bed for the use of outpatients. It would be under the control of the local Red Cross and that it be at the disposal of the local hospital when not in use by outpatients. Grand Lodge denied the use of the Lodge room for the Order of Eastern Star as per our constitution.  (527)     

Discussions concerning the installation of a telephone in the National Lodge building first appeared in the minutes in the early 1940’s and continued to appear on a regular basis until the spring of 1995 when a Past Master agreed to bring his cellular phone on meeting nights.                               

The thirties had already taken a heavy toll on the Lodge. There were twenty-one suspensions for non-payment of dues and eleven demits.    

The war and the effects of it were no strangers to National Lodge. Many of the early members had been involved in the First World conflict. The Legion rented space to hold their meetings and National Lodge started its tradition of purchasing a Remembrance Day wreath to honour those who gave so much. Throughout the war years, the brethren contributed to the Grand Lodge War Service Fund and were advised by Grand Lodge that they had surpassed their assessment. The balance was donated to the Chinese War Relief Fund.

On November 3^rd 1942, the Lodge Building was handed over to the Worshipful Master and Officers.  The shareholders were paid off, the National Temple Corporation was dissolved, and legal papers were drawn up.  

On August 14^th, 1945 the welcome news echoed across Canada and in National Lodge.

Peace was declared and the war was over.  (588)

Sudbury Lodge No. 658 A.F. & A.M. G.R.C. had its origin as follows: For some years there had been heard many expressions of opinion in favour of a new Masonic Lodge in Sudbury. After many personal contacts with unaffiliated Freemasons in Sudbury and District, several well-attended meetings were held. It was the unanimous opinion of those attending that a second Lodge in the Sudbury Jurisdiction would be of vital importance to the many Brethren who had been inactive for the reason that they were away from their mother Lodges, and who wished to become active again. It was also felt that a second Lodge would make a valuable contribution to Freemasonry in general in the District.  A delegation of prospective members was appointed to meet with the General Purposes Committee of Nickel Lodge for the purpose of requesting their approval and recommendation to Grand Lodge and to arrange for the use of the Nickel Lodge premises. (658)

Nickel Lodge supported the petition to establish a new lodge provided that their fees and dues were similar to their own and that they be given concurrent jurisdiction.

The newly formed Masonic Bureau commenced operation with an annual fee of $25.00.  (427)

On February 25^th 1947, a petition was forwarded to Grand Lodge praying for a Warrant of Constitution empowering them to meet as a regular Lodge, on the third Monday of every month. The petition was approved by the Most Worshipful, the Grand Master on March 21^st 1947, and on March 31^st, R.W. Bro. C.O. Maddock D.D.G.M., Nipissing West District having been appointed by the Most Worshipful the Grand Master as his deputy, delivered the Dispensation and performed the requisite ceremony of Institution of Sudbury Lodge U.D. At the next Communication of Grand Lodge, they were granted the regular Warrant of Constitution. In attendance were 44 members and 103 visitors.

In 1947, with the institution of Sudbury Lodge U.D. and the vast increase in population in the Sudbury District, steps were taken to create con-current jurisdiction amongst, Nickel, Algonquin and Sudbury Lodge. In 1950, this would be attained.  (536)

(Following are excerpts of an inspiring address given by R.W. Bro. Maddock.) “The last Lodge to be formed in this district was Hatherly No. 625 in Sault Ste. Marie on August 29, 1924…,” (since then) “there have only been 32 new lodges formed in this Grand Jurisdiction, an average of about 1.5 per year, so that occasions of this kind occur but rarely.” …  “by showing the general public that we as Freemasons exhibit a spirit of Brotherhood, a spirit of Friendship, that is not surpassed by any other organization or Fraternity.”… “Ritual teachings are only a means to an end and that end is the demonstration of a higher type of manhood, we can not have Freemasonry until each of us realizes that he lives not for himself, but that our true mission is one of service.” This Warrant was delivered on October 20^th 1947 by M.W. Bro. R.B. Dargavel, P.G.M. with accompanying elaborate ceremony.

On November 10^th 1947, R.W. Bro. William MacMillan P.D.D.G.M. (of Gothic Lodge No. 608, Lindsay) was installed as Worshipful Master of Sudbury Lodge No. 658 and the officers invested by R.W. Bro. Alexander Brechin, D.D.G.M.  (658)

1948-1949 was the year that “Food Parcels for Britain Campaign” began and a committee was appointed to organize this effort. Espanola’s quota for the Campaign was $170.00. Proceeds from the Annual Dance were to be donated to the “Campaign” which amounted to $24.85.  There seemed to be needed improvements to the Lodge building and it was clear that a new roof and a heating unit was necessary.                                                                                 

R. W. Bro. Joseph Lesser (of Espanola) was District Deputy Grand Master in 1948-1949 and in his Report: the “District held its first Masters’ and Wardens” Meeting. Unfortunately, owing to road conditions, Sault Ste. Marie Lodges could not attend. Espanola Lodge acted as host, and a dinner was held at the Espanola Hotel, followed by a meeting.”  (527)

In 1950, the Gore Bay Lodge room wood stove was replaced with an oil stove. The stove oil had to be carried up two flights of stairs by hand, with five gallons being consumed every two meetings. (427)

At an Emergent Meeting of Sudbury Lodge, on Saturday June 10^th 1950, eight members were raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason and two of the Brethren proved their Proficiency in the 3^rd Degree. The members of Sudbury Lodge were assisted by members of Nickel, Algonquin and Nipissing Lodge No.420, North Bay.  (658)

In February 1953 a fire caused considerable damage to the National Lodge Building. As a result of an inspection of the building, it was determined that the foundation was suffering from dry rot and the whole building was in a state of disrepair. It was decided to undertake the acquisition of a new building.  The Anglican Church Hall was looked into but the price tag of $20,000 was found to be too high considering the extra expenditures needed to bring it up to standards. A new home was found at 39 Vaughan Street. The old lodge building sold for $4,040.00. The wiring of the new Lodge Building was a gift from Algonquin Lodge.             

On November 25^th 1953, the 325^th Regular Meeting of National Lodge was called to order and the members and visitors were welcomed to the new Lodge. During the general business that evening the question of a fire door first arose.  This question would be raised numerous times over the years and it was finally laid to rest during the summer of 1996 when a proper fire door was installed complete with crash bar and fire exit sign. Exterior steps were built. All part of their 75^th Anniversary Celebrations.

On Saturday May 22^nd 1954, an Emergent Meeting was held for the purpose of dedicating and consecrating the new Lodge Building. R.W. Bro. Wright, the D.D.G.M. presided. It is uncertain as to the number of visitors in attendance, but there were four Boards of Trial held.  

The first degree work in the new building was on June 1^st 1954 when two of the Brethren proved their proficiency and were presented with their Master Freemasons aprons.   (588)

Grand Lodge would eventually decree that upon being raised in the third degree, the new Master Mason was to be allowed to keep his apron. He had paid for it and it should not be necessary for him to prove himself before taking it home. (South)

In 1955, Gore Bay Lodge purchased cigarettes for members who were sick. (472)

In June of 1955, Bro. Kenneth Shore was installed as Worshipful Master of Espanola Lodge. His agenda began with the question whether to continue to repair the building or seek some alternative measures. A committee was established to investigate the possibilities of constructing a new building, seek other quarters or renovate the existing building. Later it was reported that a new building would cost approximately $90,000.

The first Curling Bonspiel was held and was very successful. (527)

The Sudbury and District Past Master’s Association and concurrent jurisdiction for Nickel, Algonquin and Sudbury Lodge came into being on November 12^th 1957. At a meeting of the Association in 1960, a presentation was given pertaining to the advantages of having a Masonic Bureau. A Bureau would eventually be established. The Bureau would check with bureaus in Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton, Windsor, and London to demits, suspensions, expulsions, rejections. etc. All information so received is catalogued and card index for future reference. To function effectively, the complete cooperation of the Masters and Secretaries is needed.  (536)

The Bureau would eventually become computerized in the late 1990’s. Early in the 21^st Century, computerization at the Grand Lodge Office in Hamilton led to the Bureau being irrelevant. Copies of all applications would be sent to the Office and it would become a Bureau for the Grand Jurisdiction.  (South)

Interest in forming a new Lodge in Copper Cliff started with an informal meeting held in March of 1956. The name of the Lodge would be Friendship Lodge and W. Bro. Alf Roberts, who had been the Master of Temple Lodge No. 597 in London, was to be elected the Worshipful Master. There was a tie in the vote for Senior Warden, so one Brother withdrew and was subsequently elected Junior Warden. After due consideration, the second Wednesday of the month was chosen for the meeting night. Although Grand Lodge had recommended 40 members to pay $25.00 each to start the Lodge, they were authorized to go with twenty-one. On March 7^th 1957, a formal petition was submitted to Grand Lodge. Nickel, Algonquin and Sudbury Lodge were each petitioned for their support in the matter of jurisdiction. With the guidance of the Grand Secretary, the incomplete petition was corrected and filed. Acting on behalf of the D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. A. Runciman examined the three principle officer and they were approved. A $20.00 fee was required before a Dispensation could be presented. It was effected just in time for the D.D.G.M. to deliver the Dispensation on June 19^th, empowering Friendship Lodge U.D. to be instituted at 6:00 P.M. The meeting was actually held at 6:30 P.M. The Dispensation was presented to W. Bro. Roberts, three gavels from Nipissing Lodge No. 420 in North Bay were presented and the meeting ended at 6:59 P.M. Dinner was served at a cost of $100.00 for the sixteen petitioners and fifty-six visitors present. The first regular meeting was held on July 14^th with fourteen members present.

On January 8^th 1958, the D.D.G.M. made his Official Visit to the appreciation of eighteen members and twenty-two visitors. At the May 14^th 1958 meeting, By-Laws were adopted pending the approval of Grand Lodge. The first emergent Meeting was held on May 28^th at which time two Master Mason Degrees were conducted. Many more Emergent Meetings would follow, sometimes with multiple candidates. At the June 11^th Meeting, Friendship Lodge paid their half-yearly rent to Algonquin Lodge in the amount of $105.00.                                                                                              

On September 20^th, after a sumptuous meal at Cassio’s, the fourth Emergent Meeting of the Lodge was opened at 9:00 P.M. with nineteen members and sixty visitors present. M.W. Bro. W.L. Wright entered the Lodge and proceeded to constitute and consecrate Friendship Lodge No. 691, G.R.C. The Grand Lodge party departed at 10:15 P.M. The D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. F.D. Pearce, entered the Lodge at 10:40 P.M. and W. Bro. Roberts was installed, and his officers invested. The meeting closed at 12:25 P.M.   (691)

On the advice of Grand Lodge, Espanola Lodge in 1957-1958 formed a Limited Liability Company for the purpose of constructing a new building. As suggested by the Grand Secretary, a Shared Ledger was maintained with the names of members and the amount each contributed and that in the case of dire emergency any member’s contribution could be refunded if funds are available. Bonds were to be transferred to the Building Fund.  The annual “At Home” reported a profit. The annual Bonspiel also reported a profit of $5.00.     (527)

Note: In 1941 a “wet canteen” was built across from the Community Hall on Barber St. The canteen was built in the form of “H” with two wings joined by a centre section. After the POW era, it was used by the Crawley-McCracken firm to feed mill re-construction crews. Then one of the wings was moved over to the Public School to accommodate the High School Students. When the need disappeared with the construction of the high school it was moved again (about 1958) becoming part of the present Masonic Lodge Building (69 Mead Boulevard). This replaced the Lodge’s facilities at the bottom of the hill in the big brick building.

Fact is taken from Espanola on the Spanish (Morrison)

It sure helps when a member of the Lodge, is on the school board and can tell a “Mill” employee to go to the school property, with some mill equipment and take the building over to the new Lodge site. (South as told to me by R.W. Ken Shore)

Espanola Lodge was not able to hold a meeting in January of 1959 due to a freeze up in the Lodge “below the hill”. The Regular meeting in February had to be postponed until the 18^th because the Grand Secretary had not granted permission to use the new Lodge room. A motion was made that the Secretary seek permission to use this building until such time as it is properly dedicated. On November 6^th, 1959 under the direction of M. W. Bro. Bishop W. L. Wright, PGM. (of Sault Ste. Marie), Espanola Lodge’s new building was dedicated.  (527)

During the spring of 1958 a number of Freemasons who found themselves without allegiance to any particular Lodge, began to formulate a plan that a new (Bethel) Lodge in the City was something to strive for and fashion into reality. After a couple of informal meetings, there appeared to be sufficient interest to pursue that matter. On September 20^th, more formal meetings commenced with the attendance recorded and minutes taken. The D.D.G.M. of Nipissing West District, his District Secretary and P.D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. L.L.W. Ashcroft were present with R.W. Bro. Reverend Frank Leigh presiding.        

It was decided that: future meetings would be held at 10 Cedar Street on the first and third Fridays of each month; Charter member fees would be $35.00, and annual dues would be $13.00 including $1.00 for the Benevolent Fund.

A letter was received from Nickel Lodge indicating that it would be honoured to act as sponsor and offering all assistance possible. There were fifteen names suggested for consideration for the new Lodge.

At the October 3^rd meeting, R.W. Bro. Leigh was chosen as Worshipful Master, the Senior Warden would be Bro. A.E. MacLean and R.W. Bro. L.S.J. Atkinson as Junior Warden. The Grand Secretary noticed that R.W. Bro. Atkinson had been made Secretary and informed the Brethren that no one could hold two offices. Bro. C.E. Gibbs was appointed Junior Warden with the proviso that when a vacancy occurred, the office would be filled by Bro. Atkinson. The Grand Secretary also advised that the Minutes were to be forwarded to him as soon as possible after each meeting. The petition to the Grand Master to form a Lodge must be signed by seven registered Freemasons specifying the Lodge, from which they hail, and its formation be recommended by half the Lodges in the area.

After a secret ballot at the meeting on October 24^th, three prospective names for the Lodge remained; namely Bethel, W.L. Wright and Caledonia. Heated discussions followed, over the name. This included threats of resignation if a favoured name was not selected. Some brethren did resign. Vote by secret ballot, indicated a strong and clear majority favoured W.L. Wright. Archbishop Wright declined the honour feeling it would leave him open for criticism by some members of the church who did not appreciate the Joy and Beauty of Freemasonry. Bethel being the second choice was accepted, subject to the Grand Master’s approval. Several unsuccessful attempts were made to change the meeting dates. The Grand Secretary had many concerns about start up of a new Lodge. These included there being at least thirty members not affiliated with local Lodges, Certificates of Good Standing obtained for each of these thirty, even though some were from Lodges in Quebec, Scotland, England, Ireland, Manitoba and Nova Scotia. He was also concerned about the qualifications of the chosen Worshipful Master, as the Grand Secretary had no record of R.W. Bro. Leigh in his files. It was then shown that he was from Quebec. The next problem was that the chosen Worshipful Master’s residence was down in Burwash, twenty miles from Sudbury. This was overcome when it was proven that he lived in the Sudbury District, part of Nipissing West District. Bethel Lodge U.D. was finally granted a Dispensation on January 15^th 1959. Friday, the 13^th day of February 1959 was set as the date for the Institution of Bethel Lodge. Though the Grand Secretary had requested at least 30 members with Certificates of Good Standing, Bethel Lodge started up with 40 members with Certificates, plus two more paid members. The Lodge was opened by the D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. F. Pearce and his Grand Lodge Officers, with eight petitions for membership received. Included in the officer list for the first Regular meeting, held on Friday, the 13^th day of March was R.W. Bro. J. Lesser, Director of Ceremonies. On March 20^th, the first Emergent Meeting was held in order to Initiate two candidates. At the meeting of June 26^th 1959, Bro. Alpheus Shute presented an Order Bell to the Lodge for use at the Refreshment Hour. (The bell is still in use in the Belrock Banquet Room. 

On August 14^th, 1959 confirmation was received that a Charter had been issued to Bethel Lodge No. 699 in the Nipissing West District as of July 24^th 1959.             

On October 2^nd 1959; after a Consecration Dinner, M.W. Bro. Reverend W.L. Wright P.G.M. acting on behalf of the Grand Master, attended with 118 Brethren, to the Lodge at 10 Cedar Street, to Constitute and Consecrate and Dedicate the Lodge room for Bethel Lodge No. 699 G.R.C. This was followed by the Installation of Officers under the direction of R.W. Bros. L.L.W. Ashcroft and M.F. Lees. (699)

Bro. Robert Pascoe joined Algonquin Lodge in August 1925. He was an ardent member of the Craft, giving instruction to his younger brethren and he became a charter member of Friendship Lodge No. 691; where he continued to assist the members there. At the May 25^th 1960 meeting of Friendship Lodge, he was presented with the William Mercer Wilson Medal. He was the 74^th recipient since the medal’s inception in 1945. It is believed that Bro. Pascoe had given instruction to almost 100 candidates in Algonquin and Friendship Lodges since his being admitted into Freemasonry.

It was said Bro. Pascoe’s students were well and properly coached (in the “basement lodge” in his home) and need never fear a Board of Trial in this or any other jurisdiction. (536) (691)

October 26^th 1960, the Worshipful Master of Friendship Lodge, W. Bro. Frank Shedler, and the Worshipful Master of Nickel Lodge, W. Bro. W.J. C. (Bill) Noble initiated the yearly exchange of visits between the Lodges.  (691)

After stepping aside from the office of Junior Warden in October 1958 (see above), R.W. Bro. L.L.W. Ashcroft was Installed as the Worshipful Master of Bethel Lodge on January 13^th 1961. (Yes, it was a Friday.)   (699)

At the Sudbury Lodge meeting on September 17^th 1962, The William Mercer Wilson Medal was presented to their Chaplain, Bro. James Broadley in recognition of his meritorious service to the Lodge and to the craft in general. Bro. Broadley was blind; but carried out his duties as Chaplain of the Lodge, as well as delivering many of the charges in the various degrees and delivered many topics for Masonic Education. The Presentation was made by R.W. Bro. J. Russel Horne.  (658)

The first Past Master’s Night of Friendship Lodge was held on September 11^th 1963. W. Bro. A. Roberts sat in the East and assisted by Past Masters of Friendship and Algonquin Lodge conferred a first degree. On October 16^th, a degree team of Past District Deputy Grand Masters under the guidance of R.W. Bro. Wes McNiece initiated Mr. Harold Waller.  (691)

(On February 1^st 1989, over 50 visitors and members were present to witness R. W. Bro. F. H. Waller and team of Past Grand Lodge Officers perform the work of the evening at Espanola Lodge.)

In 1964, Espanola Lodge commenced the practice of presenting a Past Masters apron to the newly Installed Worshipful Master. (527)  

March 31^st 1965 was considered “Medical Emergency Night” at Friendship Lodge when the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. G. Eckert was called from Lodge to deliver a baby. V.W. Bro. Wes McNiece Sr. stepped in and conferred three second degrees to the delight and appreciation of members present. (691)   

In October 1965, a Masonic Service Guild was set up with the Bureau Officers in charge. The aim of the Service Guild was to seek and visit out of town brethren, who find themselves confined to Hospitals in Sudbury area. This formation was communicated across the Grand Jurisdiction and also to The Masonic Relief Association of the United States and Canada.  (536)

The March meeting of Gore Bay Lodge was closed and the members reported to the health centre to have their blood typed for the “walking blood bank”. A severe shortage of blood necessitated having donors typed and ready to donate directly in emergencies. (472)

1966 was a very challenging year for Algonquin Lodge. In early February; the Worshipful Master, who had been installed the month before, suffered a severe heart attack and was unable to assume his duties until September. The Past Masters stepped into the breach. A large crack was observed in the ceiling of the Lodge Room. An old mine shaft guide that had been installed as a beam had split and was sagging seriously. Brethren made the necessary repairs. The cost of heating was always a problem. The oil tank had been allowed to run dry on several occasions and special fill-ups proved costly. On December 20^th, the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. J.N. Allan visited the Lodge Room and was pleased with the premises, prior to a reception and banquet to celebrate the Lodge’s 50^th Anniversary. (536)

In the Algonquin Lodge History “The First 50 Years” 1916-1966, there are listed numerous “Fathers and Sons” combinations. Among this listing, there are:

• 3 instances of a father with 2 sons following in his footsteps
• 25 instances of a father with 1 son following in his footsteps
• 2 instances of a father following in his son’s footsteps
• 2 instances of a father and a son being initiated on the same evening

In 1966, the Brethren of Doric Lodge were also busy trying to find a more permanent home. On April 12^th, they took an option to purchase the “Orange Hall” on Campbell Street West. On May 10^th, Grand Lodge approved the premises. The new Lodge was occupied in October. The mortgage was paid annually in $1000.00 increments. Prior to the regular meeting in February 1972, the Worshipful Master burnt the mortgage. Ladies were present; as Mrs. Alden Stringer donated the last $500.00 in memory of her late husband, a Past Master of the Lodge. In 1988, the Lodge took on a major renovation project, by removing the second floor and installing a new roof. During it’s first 100 years they had considered buying the Turner Building, circa 1910. They also considered purchasing the old arena lot, the present site of Tim’s & Company (Rona Building Centre). (455)  

At the April 1966 meeting of National Lodge, a serious discussion pointed out the lack of interest among the brethren attending lodge, especially with the Past Masters. The Worshipful Master stated that this was prevalent all over Ontario. The following recommendations were offered: 1) a phone committee be organized; 2) the lodge organize special nights such as a Past Master’s Nights and Step-Up nights; 3) a lodge project be instituted.  

(Degree teams from Lodges with members employed by the C.N.R., quite often attended National Lodge and conferred the Degrees.)  (588)

At the Bethel Lodge meeting held February 10^th 1967, a choir was formed by Bro. J.E. Turton, Choirmaster. He had been the Lodge Organist for several years. (699)

On February 20^th 1967, Mr. William Robert Dixon Jr. was Initiated into Freemasonry. Bro William Dixon Sr. acted as the Junior Deacon, Bro. J. Ross Dixon performed the duties of Junior Warden and Bro. Murray Dixon presented the Working Tools. The candidate was the third son of Bro. William Dixon, to become a member of Sudbury Lodge. (658)

The Minutes of the Installation at Espanola Lodge on June 24^th 1967 is the first mention of the Strawberry festival. A tradition carried on to this day. (527)

On October 13^th 1967 the D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. W.J.C. Noble made his Official Visit to Bethel Lodge. He complimented the choir in adding so much to the degree. He reported that the new Books of the Work were available and that the old ones were to be returned. He also mentioned the importance of appointing a Lodge Historian.

At the December Meeting, a motion was passed to send Christmas cakes to the widows of Lodge members.  (699)

In May of 1968, Bethel Lodge held a Masonic Trial at which time a member was found guilty of “un- Masonic Conduct” and suspended indefinitely. (This would not be the last Trial held in the District.)  (699) 

1968 was a low point for Algonquin Lodge. A Brother was Initiated in 1967 and shortly after was charged with several counts of theft and fraud. After a Masonic trial, he was found guilty and the punishment of indefinite suspension and a recommendation for expulsion was ordered by the Lodge. At the annual Communication of Grand Lodge in 1969, the punishment was confirmed and the Brother was expelled.  (536)

In January 1969, a National Lodge Brother admonished the members with regards to lodge visitations. It was pointed out that it was the duty of every Freemason to attend at least one other Lodge each month. A Lodge of Instruction was held to bring all the new members up to date with regards to the ritual. It proved to be very successful and it was noted that every consideration should be given to holding these every year.  (588)

1969 appears to be the first time that the Grand Master attended an informal lunch at Espanola Lodge on the Saturday morning following the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Reception and Banquet held in his honour. He and his entourage would then travel on to Sault Ste. Marie. (527)

On April 1969; Bethel Lodge Temple Committee passed a motion to donate $1000.00 to the Temple Corporation, with a pledge to donate more. (699)

In 1969, special permission was granted to Espanola Lodge so that Bro. Warren Mulack could hold the office as Junior Warden, due to the fact that Bro. Warren lived more than 25 miles from Espanola. This permission was granted each year until the Constitution was changed. (527)

This was no longer a problem in 1986 when I became Junior Warden and resided in Sudbury. (South)

Bro. A. Robert McKitrick was installed as the Worshipful Master of Espanola Lodge in June of 1969. He would be installed again in 1970. He was also privileged to be the Master of District # 13 OPP Masonic Degree Team for many years, during which time dozens of Police Officers were initiated into Masonic Lodges in all parts of the province.

In the late 1960’s, Nickel Lodge was in search of a new Lodge building again. The 10 Cedar Street location was going to need expensive renovations. Many of the Brethren were having difficulty with the two long steep sets of stairs to the third floor Lodge Room. Parking was very difficult. Lodge rooms were small, especially for the overflowing crowds for the free meal nights when 120 to 200 members attended. Rent revenues were decreasing due to tenants moving out as more modern premises became available. A portion of The Bell Estate (now the location of the Laurentian University Museum and Arts Centre) (my child-hood playground) was purchased.      (427)

As a result of this interest, “The Belrock Temple Corporation” (hereafter called in this report “The Corporation”) was incorporated, without share capital, as the instrument by which to hold title to the land. The plan did not come to fruition because of the difficulty in obtaining municipal approval for the re-zoning and opposition from residents in the area. Some of the Brethren felt that there was some anti-Masonic sentiment involved.  (536)                  

At the January 1970 meeting of Espanola Lodge, upon examination it was found that the furnace was out of oil and that the water lines were frozen in the men’s washroom. The members wore their over coats during the Lodge meeting, though the room temperature was nearly normal by the time Lodge was closed. (527)

During the March 4^th 1970 meeting, Gore Bay suffered a power interruption. Fortunately; Mr. Brian Hester who was being initiated that evening, was able to go down to his shop for candles. The meeting continued.  (472)

An Emergent Meeting was held at Bethel Lodge on July 10^th 1970 to receive a report from the Temple Committee. This was followed by a motion being passed “that Bethel Lodge agrees in principle to revenue producing joint partnership and ownership in a Masonic (Temple) building to be constructed on a proposed site at Memorial Hospital grounds …”

In October, Bro. Jervis Weir was elected Bethel’s Temple Committee representative, a position he would hold for the next eighteen years. In April 1971, the Lodge became a full partner in “The Corporation”.   (699) 

On September 1^st 1970, Mr. William G. Strachan was initiated by W. Bro. Vilho Koivu and the Brethren of Algonquin Lodge No. 536. (588)

(I guess it wasn’t done right in 1921, or is this another W.G. Strachan.) (Yes, it was.)   (South)

Friendship Lodge, a tenant in the Algonquin Lodge Building was granted permission to install an electric chime – “a low 12 bell” (which is still being used in Belrock today).  (536) 

At the Sudbury Lodge Meeting of October 19^th 1970, a Moment of Silence was held with respect to the passing of R. W. Bro. William Mac Millan, the first Master of the Lodge. A motion was passed that Sudbury Lodge become an equal partner in the Temple Committee; that would be involved in the project of building new lodge quarters and that Sudbury Lodge money would become available to the Temple Committee, as and when required. (658)

The Chairs in the Algonquin Lodge at 17 Serpintine Street in Copper Cliff had become badly worn over the fifty plus years of use. At the October meeting, approval was given to purchase replacement chairs for the side-benchers and refurbish the officer’s chairs. The cost of rent and light payable to INCO had increased over the years, as well as the continuing problem of excessive oil consumption. Past Masters pictures were filling the Lodge Room and Anteroom. One of the members made frames for the photos and helped to reduce the space needed. In 1977, after moving to Belrock, a further reduction in photo size was required. (536)

In February 1971 a discussion arose at National Lodge regarding the V.S.O.L. It was felt that the historic value of it was such that, having it replaced, was taking the most important piece of the original furniture away from the lodge. Every Worshipful Master of National Lodge and every candidate for fifty years had been obligated on it. (588)

At the May 17^th 1971 meeting of Sudbury Lodge, a motion was passed, that committed the Lodge to a partnership in “The Corporation”, thus accepting responsibility and liability in all transactions and establishing two voting members and an alternative to the board and adherence to it’s Constitution.    (658)   

In September 1971, R.W. Bro. John W. McGill, the first member of Bethel Lodge to become D.D.G.M., (of Nipissing District) attended for his Official Visit. (699)

His visitations and those of R.W. Bro. R.T. Runciman would include Woodland Lodge in Wawa. (South)

The idea of having a Lodge at the Bell Estate; not being accepted, Nickel Lodge decided to search for new premises again. The Masonic order had assisted the Memorial Hospital in it’s founding days. To the hospital and its board the Freemasons turned. Acting on the Board’s suggestion, a revenue producing section of the building was added to the plans. Unfortunately, the early 1970’s saw inflation of 20% or better and the new building suffered.                                                   

Nickel, Sudbury and Bethel Lodges along with Tuscan Chapter and Mavar Preceptory joined forces with money and zeal to build The Belrock Masonic Temple. The Members of Algoma Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star helped with gifts and loans. Before the building was completed, Algonquin and Friendship Lodges of Copper Cliff, needing a new home in the future, joined the organization. (427)

Sudbury was having a great building boon with the Vietnam War on and nickel was in great demand. Many meetings were held in order to find ways to cut corners. This included the much needed and still wished for elevator. (South)

The initial budget had been $510,000.00; but this was cut to $456,461.00 when a contract was awarded to Belanger Construction on July 13^th 1972.  (536)

Construction was commenced on the property in August 1972. (427)

The sod turning for the new Masonic Temple, took place on September 10^th 1972.  (699) 

Cost overruns were a problem in the 1970’s. The Temple Board had to borrow in order to complete the building. By the time Nickel Lodge celebrated their Centennial in 1991, the building was debt free.  (427)

Algonquin Lodge had already passed a motion in a gesture of Brotherhood to purchase the Mosaic Pavement for the new Lodge in Sudbury. It was marble and was permanently fixed in the floor of the Lodge Room.   (536)

During construction, world-renowned “practicing mason” Peter Ellero attended the Lodge Room. He laid the “Mosaic Pavement” which is made of thirteen different types of marble and made the pedestals. Upon viewing the “beautiful church”, he offered to lay a marble floor in the Lodge Room as well as make the various Masonic Insignia in coloured marble for each corner of the room. He would do this for the same price as installing carpet. Senior members over ruled.  (South – as told to me by W. Bro. Jervis Weir – Bethel Lodge)  

On January 19^th of 1972, the three Wilson brothers Spencer, Samuel (Joe) Joseph and Robert were initiated into Espanola Lodge. (527)

At the November 1972 meeting of Friendship Lodge, a motion was passed to purchase the Junior Warden’s pedestal for the new Belrock Masonic Temple. (691)

With the creation of The Regional Municipality of Sudbury on January 1^st 1973 and the annexing of Copper Cliff, the Town of Copper Cliff was subdivided. INCO decided to divest itself of its residential properties and some commercial properties. The town’s character changed immensely. (536)

During the fall of 1973, it was reported that INCO was selling the Lodge building in Copper Cliff. When it was determined that the “fair market price” of $50,000.00 was too high, several meetings were held with Algonquin Lodge regarding the building and its maintenance costs, it was decided that the best option was to join “The Corporation” as a full partner. This was effective in September 1974. (691)

Algonquin Lodge would have to seek a partnership in Belrock. “An astronomical increase in rent ” would be involved as well as other costs. The terms were; that the Lodge would have the use of building, on two Tuesdays per month and the Lodge could retain funds which represented one year’s operating expenses plus the benevolent account. All the other assets would be turned over to “The Corporation” except regalia and any funds realized from the liquidation of its assets. This would form part of the capital deposit (equity) of Algonquin Lodge in “The Corporation”. In addition, there was to be allotted for regalia storage and a vault area to contain documents and records and there would also be an office containing desks, which would be shared by the various Lodge Secretaries. This would give Algonquin Lodge full partnership. (536)  

The Dedication of Belrock Masonic Temple on November 3^rd 1973, was under the direction of the Officers of the various Lodges, involved in “The Corporation” namely Nickel Lodge No.427, Sudbury Lodge No. 658 and Bethel Lodge No.699.

W. Bro. John P. Edward of Nickel Lodge No. 427 opened the Lodge. The Grand Master, M.W. Bro.W.K. Bailey and Grand Lodge Officers proceeded to dedicate the Lodge Rooms for the purposes of Freemasonry according to the Ancient Usages and Customs of the Craft. (427)

Sudbury and Bethel Lodges held their Installations in January. In the hope of improving attendance in 1973, Algonquin Lodge moved their Installation to the third Tuesday in April. In 1976, a By-Law amendment changed this to the third Saturday in April at 2:00 P.M.   (536)

On September 5^th 1973, Nickel Lodge held the first meeting in the new Temple. At this meeting, all members entered through the preparation room door, just as all new members of the craft do. The well worn doorknob from the Lodge Room at 10 Cedar Street was brought to the new Lodge Room and sits on Nickel Lodge’s “Box of Working Tools” to this day.  (427)

Bethel Lodge held their first meeting in the new Temple on September 14^th 1973 at which time R.W. Bro. Joseph Lesser was voted to be an Honourary Member of the Lodge.  (699)

At the Sudbury Lodge Meeting of March 25^th 1974, a Moment of Silence was held with respect to the passing to the Grand Lodge Above of Bro. James Broadley, a Charter Member of the Lodge and a recipient of the William Mercer Wilson Medal. At the Meeting of April 15^th 1974, a motion was passed to contribute $30.00 retroactive to the 1^st Issue of the “Centre” and contribute $30.00 toward each issue.  NOTE: The “Centre” was a newsletter reporting events of the District Lodges produced by Bro. Walter Schaefer, Jr. Warden of the Lodge.  (658)

At the April 19^th Meeting of Bethel Lodge, a motion passed in accepting Algonquin and Friendship Lodges as full partners “The Corporation”.  (699)     

The cornerstone for the building was inscribed 1972, but was not put in place until June 8^th 1974. The delay was due to construction timetables and poor weather. The ceremony was under the supervision of the D.D.G.M. of Nipissing West, R.W. Bro. Robert T. Runciman.  

The stone was laid by R.W. Bros. J.R. Horne and L.L.W. Ashcroft along with V.W. Bro. W.E. W. Cressey and assisted by Bro. N. Hoffman, an operative as well as speculative Freemason. A photograph of the event hangs in the building’s foyer. 

On June 18^th 1974, a great chapter in the history of Algonquin Lodge came to an end. R.W. Bro. Robert T. Runciman, a member of Algonquin Lodge and the D.D.G.M. of Nipissing West closed the Lodge at 10:30 P.M. in the Copper Cliff Lodge Room. R.W. Bro. Joseph Lesser, who was present when the Lodge was consecrated in 1917, closed the V.O.S.L. In order to maintain the tie with Copper Cliff, the Past Master’s Jewel still indicates “Copper Cliff, Ontario” on the lower gold bar.

When it became known that Algonquin Lodge was vacating its premises, W. Bro. Warren O. Mulack inquired as to his being able to acquire the officers’ chairs, altar, pillars, ashlars and wall charts for Espanola Lodge. Upon learning that the Lodge could have them, he arrived the next day and took them to Espanola. In appreciation of the donation, Espanola Lodge marked each piece of furniture with a brass plate. Close ties had been built between the two Lodges and it was particularly fitting that these Algonquin Lodge items should find a home so close. The piano was sold to a lady almost site unseen.

Some recently purchased chairs and tables went to Belrock, as part of the partnership agreement. The relatively new carpet went to National Lodge in Capreol. The Monel metal door-knockers were saved and one was used as a gift to M.W. Bro. W.K. Bailey when he dedicated the new Lodge premises on November 8^th 1973. The other door-knocker is mounted on a piece of pine headboard and placed in the District Museum.  (536)   

During the annual communication of Grand Lodge in 1974 the district was divided into two parts.  The new Nipissing West District included Sault Ste. Marie, Elliot Lake, Blind River, Thessalon, Chapleau and Wawa. Nipissing Centre District included Capreol, Sudbury, Espanola, Copper Cliff, Little Current and Gore Bay. (588)

On October 11^th 1974, R.W. Bro. George Masters D.D.G.M. of Nipissing West District and R.W. Bro. William C. MacDougall (of Doric Lodge No. 455) who in July became the first D.D.G.M. of the newly created Nipissing Centre District, made their Official Visits. (699)

The division into two Districts had occurred halfway through the Bethel Lodge year, and the Official Visit had not been held. (South)                   

In March 1975, the D.D.G.M. of Nipissing Centre District made his official visit to National Lodge. The work of the evening was to initiate Mr. Graham Duffield. Unfortunately, he was unable to be present.   (588)

(What was his relationship to Mr. James Duffield of 1741? He never did join.) (South)

In June 1975, Bro. Rudolph Mulack was installed as the Worshipful Master of Espanola Lodge by his father W. Bro. Warren Mulack. In his youth, while involved with the scouting movement. He was part of the honour guard for Princess Elizabeth in 1951 and met and kissed her, then in the following year he attended the British Commonwealth Jamboree in Jamaica and was fortunate to be in the honour guard for the queen and kissed her again.

R. W. Bro. Harold Waller (Friendship Lodge No. 691), District Deputy Grand Master (1975-1976) of Nipissing Centre District, resigned halfway through the year due to his transfer to Indonesia by INCO. R.W. Bro. R. T. Runciman completed his duties.  (527)

Throughout the summer call off and into the fall of 1975, the National Lodge brethren laboured in the Lodge and banquet room beautifying and adorning the walls with paneling and the ceiling with t-bars and ceiling tiles. The funds to cover the costs were donated by the brethren involved in the work. (588)

During his second term as Worshipful Master of Espanola Lodge in 1976-1977, W. Bro. Rudy Mulack had to conduct a Masonic Trial of a member of the Lodge for “Conduct un-becoming a Freemason”. Grand Lodge, not having any experience with the particulars of the very serious matter involved, was unable to provide guidance in the matter, so he was on his own. The Brother’s membership was terminated.        (South – as told to me by R.W. Bro. R.N.P. Mulack)

In the early part of the first decade of the 21^st Century, a Brother in Sudbury Lodge was convicted of criminal offences and lost his membership. The examples included in this history show how Freemasons in Sudbury-Manitoulin District do not tolerate un-Masonic conduct. In some other organizations, the leaders tend to hide these acts and their offenders.  (South)   

“The Corporation” faced difficult financial times during it’s first years of operation; but the Brethren persevered and were able overcome these difficulties. Rents had to be increased; but after a few years they were reduced.  (South)

In 1977, after moving to Belrock, Algonquin Lodge was requested it have their Past Master’s photos placed in one frame with a picture size of 1 1/2 by 2 inches. It became apparent that they were missing a photo of Bro. James Hazelden, the Worshipful Master in 1928. Some years later, a wedding picture of James and Mrs. Hazelden was located and through the magic of photography, Bro. David Bell was able to create a print and it was placed in the frame.                           

(as communicated to me by R.W. Bro. Robert T. Runciman, 536)

On February 12^th 1977, Bro. Clair Bracken was installed as the Worshipful Master of Friendship Lodge. The Working Tools were presented by his father, Bro. Lyman Bracken in the Third Degree, his brother, Bro. Douglas Bracken in the Second and his brother, Bro. Dennis Bracken in the First Degree. W. Bro. Bracken instituted the idea of the moving of the Lodge Installation to the second Saturday in February at 2:00 P.M. This would be followed by a Ladies Night with a Valentine’s Theme, in order to have the Ladies more involved in its social activities.  (691)  

On May 27^th 1977, the Bethel Lodge Emergent Meeting was three minutes in length (Opened 7:47P.M., Closed 7:50P.M.). The candidate was not in attendance for his 2^nd Degree.  (699)

In July 1977, Report on the Committee on Constitution and Laws: Proper Masonic procedure was followed in all Lodges of Nipissing Centre District concerning changing the name to “Sudbury-Manitoulin District”. All Lodges were unanimous in supporting the change of name. 1. The committee on Constitution and Laws recommends that the former name “Nipissing – Centre District” be now changed to “Sudbury-Manitoulin District”. 2. That this change be made effective July 1977.

As a matter of interest: Nipissing West District (named as result of the division of the District in 1974) was also making application to change their name, to Algoma East. R.W. Bro. Eric T. Moore was the first D.D.G.M. for the newly named Sudbury-Manitoulin District in 1977. (527)

At the Sudbury Lodge meeting held on November 28^th 1977, members of the Sudbury Shrine Club, under the direction of W. Bro. George W. Chambers raised a Brother to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason. The Work was interrupted by a power failure; but with the aid of flashlights, the degree was completed.  (658)

In September 1978; Algonquin Lodge in lieu of flowers, commenced to make donations to the Masonic Foundation of Ontario at the time of the passing of a Brother to the Grand Lodge Above. In 1984, they started the practice of making donations to the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Library.

R.W. Bro. Warren O. Mulack who had been installed as the Worshipful Master of Espanola Lodge in 1971 and in 1978-1979 served as District Deputy Grand Master of Sudbury/ Manitoulin District was responsible for the creation of the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Museum and Library, which now bears his name. (The Library started with twenty-two books, and with donations received, has become a valuable resource for members in the District.) He collected numerous items of Masonic interest and had them displayed in glass fronted cabinets.

The five Lodges in Belrock each donated $25.00 to the Library to create a Memorial Book in which are inscribed the names of Brethren in the District who have passed on. R.W. Bro. Alex Gray of Algonquin Lodge did the calligraphy for many years. (527)

In 1978 Espanola Lodge; the Mother Lodge of R.W. Bro. Joe Lesser, established the Joe Lesser Efficiency Award to acknowledge his dedication to Freemasonry in the District. The award is presented to the Lodge in Sudbury-Manitoulin District that has shown the greatest percentage increase in attendance during the year. (536)

A request from Spanish River Chapter No. 237, Order the Eastern Star, to use the Lodge room for their meetings was approved in accordance with Section 150 of the revised Constitution of Grand Lodge. Use of the Lodge room by the Order, commenced in January of 1980.  (527)

Mrs. Peggy South was the first candidate to be initiated in the (new) Chapter Room on February 21^st. She would become Worthy Grand Matron of Ontario on September 1^st 2009.  (South)

Grand Lodge requested that each Lodge choose a project to help celebrate the 125^th Anniversary of Grand Lodge. National Lodge’s project was to create a Masonic library within the confines of our building. On April 1^st 1980, the first honorary memberships in National Lodge were bestowed upon R.W. Bros. Joe Lesser and J.R. Horne.  (588)

These were two very respected Brethren of the time. (South)

R.W. Bro. Joe Lesser was acknowledged for 65 years a Freemason in 1980. (536)

At the regular Meeting of Bethel Lodge on June 11^th 1982, it was reported that “The Corporation” was now able to stipulate that “The Corporation” owns the land on which the temple complex sits. W. Bros. Jervis Weir, Norm Buckman and Bill Walker had worked for three and a half years with the Board of Governors of the Sudbury Memorial Hospital to achieve this. Prior to this, “The Corporation” only had a twenty-year renewable option on the property with first refusal to the hospital. (699) 

At the September 20^th 1982 meeting of Sudbury Lodge; it was announced to the Lodge, that at the October 7^th 1982 meeting of the Temple Board; the Sudbury Shrine Club would turn over to the Temple Board, the Deed to the property on which the Masonic Temple Building is located.      

At the June 29^th 1983 meeting; Sudbury Lodge passed a motion to change the By-Laws to allow that the regular meetings be held on the 3^rd Monday of each month at 7:30 P.M.; except for December, when it would be held on the 2^nd Monday at 7:30 P.M. The Installation Meeting to be held on the 2^nd Saturday of January at 2 P.M. (658)

In early October of 1983, “The Corporation” met another crisis when a strong wind severely damaged the roof. The adjoining apartments received the most damage and fortunately the Lodge section was not damaged. The insurance company attributed some of the damage to areas of the roof to lack of preventive maintenance and “The Corporation” had to pay for approximately $15,000.00 of the repair costs. Algonquin Lodge appropriated $3000.00 to assist in defraying the cost; but in the end, it wasn’t necessary.  

At the Past Master’s Night on November 15^th 1983, R.W. Bro. Joe Lesser was presented with his Honorary Life Membership in Algonquin Lodge. (536)

In March 1985, R.W. Bro. Joe Lesser, the senior surviving member of Espanola Lodge, lacking one month of sixty-nine year’s membership, passed to the Grand Lodge Above. A Past Master and Life member of Espanola Lodge #527; he was also a Charter member and Life member of Sudbury Lodge #658 and Bethel Lodge #699 and an honourary member of many other Lodges in the District. He was District Deputy Grand Master of Nipissing West District in 1947-48.

He was a Life member and a 50-year member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 76, District H sort officer for 17 years, receiving both the Meritorious Award and Certificate of Merit from the Provincial Command and the Queen’s Coronation Medal. He was also the first president and life member of the Sudbury B’Nai Brith Lodge 1592. The District Attendance Award is named in his honour.  (527)

R.W. Bro. W.J.C. Noble of Nickel Lodge had been involved as the District Chairman of Blood Donors in excess of twenty-five years. In order to recognize his dedication and devotion, in 1985, Nickel Lodge established the W.J.C. Noble Blood Donors Award. The award is presented to the Lodge in the District that has the largest number of blood donations. Donors include Brothers and members of their family.  (536)

In the early 1980’s the officers of the National Lodge formed Club 588. Its main purpose was the organising and running of social evenings for the brethren and their wives. Club 588 saved the Brethren from writing to the Grand Master for dispensation every month. The club was chaired by the Junior Warden and/or chairman of the entertainment committee. Many events were held — e.g. pool parties, Oktoberfests, movie nights, sweetheart nights, curling events, etc. Proceeds from these events were applied to the Lodge’s building fund and it paid for many of the other Lodge expenses.       

R.W. Bros. Eric T. Moore and J.K. Herold (of Sudbury Lodge) were regular visitors to National Lodge. They proved to be of invaluable assistance and support. On October 5^th 1982, they affiliated with National. Their guidance and support was second to none.  Many a National Lodge Master has been shaped and moulded through their mentorship. Both showed by example and would not ask anyone to do anything that they would not do themselves. R.W. Bro. Moore lives and breathes the phrase “within the length of my cable tow”.  He managed to attend all regular, emergent and general purposes meetings and seldom missed a Masonic event in the district. Quite a feat when he lived on Lake Penage, past Whitefish. (Almost 100 kilometres from Capreol) (588)

(My how transportation has improved, and Freemasonry benefited by it.) (South)

In December 1985, Gore Bay Lodge struck a committee to investigate the possibility of building a new Lodge Room.

On February 13^th 1986, Mrs. Alma McDougall, a member of Manitoulin Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star in memory of her husband, R.W. Bro. Laughlan MacDougall, donated to the Brethren of Gore Bay Lodge a piece of property on Agnes Street in Gore Bay. This is the site of the present building. Members were requested to make donations for the construction of a new Lodge hall. (472)

Visitors to Gore Bay Lodge have noticed above the register a large photo of Bro. David Beatty, a member of Manitoulin Lodge, who was Initiated on September 22^nd 1886. He was a carpenter by trade, and the picture is of him in his Boer War Uniform. The sword hanging above the photo is the one pictured. He was a bachelor, and when he died, on July 27^th 1930, he left all his worldly belongings, including his house, to Gore Bay Lodge. From the investments made by the Brethren at that time, he assisted in the construction of the new building.       (July 2010 – Around and About)

The March 1986 Regular Meeting of Friendship Lodge was moved from March 12^th to March 26^th in order to accommodate the large number of teachers who would be absent due to the school March-Break.  (691)

In June 1986, the D.D.G.M. for Sudbury-Manitoulin District, R.W. Bro. Alex Gray attended for the sod turning of the new building. The Grand Master, M.W. Bro. William R. Pellow, attended an Emergent Meeting on April 8^th 1989, in order to dedicate the new Lodge Building.  The mortgage on the building was paid off on December 15^th 1993. (472)

Algonquin; like other Lodges, was delivering Christmas cakes to the widows of Lodge members and to those Brethren living out of the District or were unable to attend Lodge. The practice was discontinued in 1986, when it became apparent that some widows of Brethren went away for the winter, only to come home to cakes that had dried out and were not edible or were damaged in shipping. A Christmas card signed by the Worshipful Master was substituted. (536)   

In 1988, construction began on the state-of-the-art Northern Eastern Ontario Regional Cancer Treatment Centre. Bro. Gerry Lougheed Jr. of Nickel Lodge led the major fund-raising campaign known as “Candle of Hope”. W. Bro. Robert J. Fontaine and Bro. Geoffrey Lougheed, both of Nickel Lodge had their own personal fund-raising campaign by seeking sponsors for their diet campaign.  (South)

R.W. Bro. F. Harold Waller of Friendship Lodge, the District Chairman of Charities undertook to coordinate the campaign for the Freemasons of Sudbury-Manitoulin. $50,000.00 was donated. At the Reception for the D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. J.E. McGillis, held in September 1990 a formal cheque presentation was made. The Freemasons were duly thanked by representatives of the Laurentian Hospital Cancer Care Clinic (subsequently renamed The North Eastern Ontario Regional Cancer Treatment Centre) and were presented with a numbered print of a picture, entitled “Waiting Out the Storm” and it hangs in the Banquet Room at Belrock. (536)

Copies have also been provided to the other Lodge Buildings in the District. (South)

R.W. Bro. Angus Fudge, the second D.D.G.M. from Bethel Lodge; at the September 1988 Meeting of Bethel Lodge, spoke about the desire of Grand Lodge to change the name of Masonic Temple to Masonic Hall. A motion to comply with another request from Grand Lodge to change elections to May and then Installation in June was defeated.  (699)

M.W. Bro. William R. Pellow, the Grand Master at that time, requested that all Lodges consider having their Installations in June. This arose because the Grand Lodge Office had begun to computerize its records. Commencing in June 1989, Algonquin Lodge held its Installation on the second Tuesday in June at 7:30 P.M. (536)

It would eventually be moved to the third Tuesday in April. (South)

At the Sudbury Lodge meeting held on December 12^th, 1988, V. W. Bro. Donald Earl Belfry was declared Master-Elect for the year 1989.  V. W. Bro. Belfry was Junior Warden of the Lodge in 1962 but his term of office was cut short when he was transferred to Iraq by his employer, Ontario Hydro. On his return to Ontario, he took up residence in Ottawa until his retirement when he and his family returned to Sudbury. V. W. Bro. Belfry, who was already a Past Master, (having served the office in Bytown Lodge No.721, Ottawa), was installed in the Chair of King Solomon for the first half of 1989 thus enabling Bro. Roger Guindon to complete a full term of office. (658)

On April 8^th 1989, the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. William R. Pellow dedicated the new Gore Bay Lodge building. Bro. Brian K. Hester was the Worshipful Master. (472)

The Past Master’s Association of Algonquin Lodge was the nucleus of the Sudbury Manitoulin District Masters and Wardens Association and when the latter Association came into being the Algonquin version faded away. In 1989, it was decided to re-establish the Algonquin Association. Dinner Meetings were held twice a year with a different Past Master acting as Chairman. There was no set agenda, but it provides an opportunity to socialize and discuss matters relating to Algonquin Lodge. The meetings were held at Cassio’s Restaurant, where the original Association held it’s meetings. (536)  

In 1986-1987, Espanola Lodge extended its charitable efforts with a donation of a bursary of $300.00 to a graduating student of Espanola High School.

There was some discussion about changing the boundaries of the Sudbury/ Manitoulin District and it was moved and carried “that we inform the D.D.G.M. that Espanola Lodge was not in favour of any change…”                      

In 1988, the newly installed W. Bro. Robert South directed that the Lodge summons be sent to all District Worshipful Masters. It was his hope that with better communication between the Worshipful Masters, visitation would be increased. Shortly after his Installation, Bro. South received a letter from R.W. Bro. Robert T. Runciman, P.D.D.G.M. When opening the letter, the first thing he read was “Discipline Committee”. He immediately wondered what he had done wrong, that he was receiving a letter from this Committee. Bro. Runciman, a member of the Board of General Purposes for Grand Lodge, wished to arrange for the Grand Masters Workshop to be held in Espanola Lodge in December.  There were approximately 80 people for lunch. On February 1^st over 50 visitors and members were present to witness R.W. Bro. F. H. Waller and his team of Past Grand Officers perform the work of the evening. Attendance was greatly improved as 65 people attended the No. 13 District OPP Masonic Degree Team led by Bro. South, when they initiated a fellow officer at an emergent meeting during the same month. It was during this term as Master of the Police Degree Team that W. Bro. South had his first opportunity to witness the justly deserved and highly praised work of W. Bro. Robert McKitrick. Bro. South had worked with Bro. McKitrick as a Police Officer, but never in Lodge. Bro. McKitrick had retired and was now able to attend Lodge.

(See notations for Espanola Lodge of 1969.)   (527)

There is a plaque which is prominently displayed on the wall of the Canadian Blood Services (formerly The Red Cross) Building on Cedar Street in Sudbury. The inscription is as follows:

BROTHER HAROLD HERON
This plaque is presented by
Algonquin Lodge #536
Ancient Free and Accepted Masons,
on behalf of the Freemasons of
Sudbury-Manitoulin District,
to commemorate the devotion and
untiring efforts of Brother Harold Heron,
in the implementation and operation
of the Free Blood Donor Service
from 1953 to 1963, and his service as
the Director of the Sudbury Red Cross
Blood Transfusion Clinic.
November 16^th, 1989

“HIS CHARITY KNEW NO BOUNDS SAVE THOSE OF PRUDENCE” (536)

In May of 1990, a Sudbury-Manitoulin District Golf Tournament was organized by members of Friendship Lodge and assisted by members of other Lodges. In 1996, with the permission of Mrs. Kathleen Waller, the tournament was renamed The Harold Waller Memorial Tournament. (691)

In 1990, Espanola Lodge celebrated it’s 75^th anniversary celebration on October 27^th. Ninety-three people attended the very successful anniversary ball held at the Pinewood Inn, Espanola. (527)

In 1991, Grand Lodge recognized Bro. Nellis Bowerman of Doric Lodge for his contributions to his community and Freemasonry and presented him with the William Mercer Wilson Medal. (455)

In preparation of the Nickel Lodge Centennial Celebration in 1991, preparations had been made in 1988 to establish the Nickel Lodge Bursary programme which would lead to the gifting of $427.00 to deserving students at Cambrian College and Laurentian University. In November 1988, the Lodge adopted the Centennial Tartan designed and created by W. Bro. F. Gordon MacLeod. The tartan ties, cummerbunds, scarfs or kilt, woren by some Nickel Lodge members to this day. In May 1989, the Nickel Lodge Centennial Tartan was registered. In December 1989, the Lodge entered the computer age by installing a system in the Lodge offices. (427)

Nickel Lodge moved to a May Installation after their Centennial Year of 1991. The Worshipful Master of Nickel Lodge, W. Bro. Robert J. Fontaine completed an eighteen-month term having been installed on December 27^th 1990. (South)

EXCERPT FROM-

M.W. Bro. Norman E. Byrne, Grand Master’s address at Grand Lodge 1992

“I was pleased to assist in the rededication of Nickel Lodge No. 427, at Sudbury, and the dedication of new golden trimmed regalia in October 1991. The celebration was exceptionally well planned and will serve as a benchmark for other lodges as they approach this Masonic landmark. I am pleased to see this distinguished lodge wearing regalia and insignia trimmed or plated in gold finish as recognition for having attained 100 years of active service. Congratulations. ”                     

Being an older building, Espanola Lodge seemed to have some major repair each year. This might include a new porch roof, painting of the Lodge Room, new carpet in the Anteroom, painting the banquet room. It seemed each Master had a project to supervise.  

They hired a re-construction company to repair the west wall, which had sustained damage from the sun and rain. They decided they could repair the north and east walls. In the fall of 1991, a quote of $7000.00 was obtained for new windows. A brand-new window installation company, known as the “W. Bros. Joe Wilson and Robert South” assisted by the newly formed transport company known as “W. Bro. K. Marvin Streich and Son” took on the window replacement project for less than $2000.00. Mrs. South made curtains.  (527)  

At the Sudbury Lodge meeting held on February 17^th 1992, V. W. Bro. Don Belfry reported on the formation of the District Paper the “News Letter”.  (658)

At the February 1993, Espanola Lodge Curling Funspiel, the winner was presented with “The Bob Wright Memorial Trophy”. Espanola Lodge donated Altar and Pedestals to Elliot Lake Lodge.  (527)

In 1994, Nickel Lodge made a $5000.00 donation was made towards the Sudbury Memorial Hospital campaign to raise funds for Cardio Thoracic and High Risk General Surgical equipment.  (427)

In 1994, Grand Lodge recognized Nickel Lodge with a plaque from the Grand Lodge Committee on Communications, in recognition of their 3^rd place finish for the Lodge summons the previous year. (South)

On January 8^th 1997, a team from Nickel Lodge led by the Worshipful Master, took advantage of the 1^st Wednesday falling on New Years Day, and attended Espanola Lodge and performed the 3^rd degree. The two Lodges both meet on the 1^st Wednesday, and as Friendship Lodge occupies Belrock on the 2^nd Wednesday, whenever the 1^st or 2^nd of January falls on the 1^st Wednesday, Nickel Lodge’s Regular is held on the 3^rd Wednesday. (427)

In June of 1997, communication was received to accept a condominium agreement with the Sudbury Shrine Club and that The Belrock Temple Corporation attempt to acquire an additional easement(s) from The Sudbury Memorial Hospital for access purposes for the present facility. In 2008 and 2009, these matters were still being discussed.

In February 1998, the Retired Officers Police Degree Team attended and made the Worshipful Master, Bro. J. Doumergue Horace an “Honorary Retired Police Officer, so that he would be more relaxed” while they initiated Mr. George Nichols into Freemasonry. When they were completed their work, they relieved the Master of his honorary status. 

(Who says “COPS” don’t have a sense of humour)?  (427)

In 1998, the work of W. Bro. Ronald Eveson Jr. of Friendship Lodge was recognized by Grand Lodge as the “Newsletter of the Year Award” for his production of “The Cable Tow” which he produced from 1994 to 2000.

Following Grand Lodge direction in February 1995, Friendship Lodge started singing “O’Canada” after each meeting.    

On April 12^th 1995; Bro. George Morrison, of St. George Lodge No. 190 in Aberdeen, of the Grand Lodge of Scotland and the father of Bro. D. Morrison of Friendship Lodge presented to the Lodge, a framed print of the Masonic Temple in Aberdeen. This painting was commissioned by St. George Lodge and painted by Bro. R.A. Morrison. The picture now hangs in the banquet room.              

Starting in the fall of 1995, Friendship Lodge commenced to have a Past Master’s Night where Lodge business was discussed with a view to improvements, and where a member is elected to receive the Harold Waller Award for Commitment to the Craft.  (691)

At the November 7^th 1995 meeting of National Lodge, it was decided that the Lodge should purchase widows’ pins and present them to each of it’s Masonic widows at the next memorial night.  (588)

At the Bethel Lodge Installation of Bro. Lloyd R. Meadows as the Worshipful Master in January 1996, three Brother Meadows participated. (699)

At the Sudbury Lodge meeting held on February 17^th 1997 a presentation was made by R.W. Bro. George W. Chambers on this 500^th Regular Meeting of the Lodge and also the 50^th Year of active Freemasonry for the Lodge. Bro. Chambers remarked on historical items, “the early days”.  (658)

After being absent for many years, in 1997 the District Deputy Grand Master’s Reports are again being printed in The Proceedings from Grand Lodge. Espanola Lodge lost many fine brethren to the Grand Lodge Above, including R.W. Bro. Kenneth Shore.  (527)

In 1997, Friendship Lodge members with carpentry skills built a Gazebo for the residents at Falconbridge Extendicare. On December 10^th, a motion was passed to support an Adopt-a-Road campaign. The Lodge cleans up a section of Long Lake Road between Ester Road to the Highway 17 By-Pass, three times a year. The Lodge has received recognition from the City and local news media.  (691)  

The Sudbury Shrine Choir was in attendance at the District Divine services held in Copper Cliff at St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church in November and then at the Espanola United Church, in April.

(A notation in the Sudbury-Manitoulin D.D.G.M. Report for 1998)   (527)

The Choir has performed at many of the Citizenship Ceremonies in Sudbury. (South)

Friendship Lodge held a PotLuck dinner in October 1998, without getting a dispensation and got caught {oops}. The Secretary was instructed to send a letter of an apology to the Grand Secretary. (691)

On election night in December 1998, it was reported that Bethel Lodge’s Senior Warden was still willing to let his name stand for election as the Worshipful Master, even though he was in the hospital in Thunder Bay after a motor vehicle collision with a moose. At the Installation in January; Bro. Charles Kennedy, wearing a neck brace, was Installed as Worshipful Master. His collar was hung from the neck brace. W. Bro. Kennedy stated he was rejected when he stood at the porch way to the Grand Lodge Above on December 6^th 1998 and was here tonight thanks to the concern and care of all his Masonic Brethren.  (699, South) 

In the spring of 2000, a Brother in our District attained the highest office in Ontario in a Masonic related body. Bro. John W. McGill (of Bethel Lodge) was installed as M(ost). Ex(cellent). Comp(anion). John W. McGill, the Grand First Principal of Royal Arch Masons of Canada in the Province of Ontario for the years 2000 and 2001.

At the March 2000 Meeting of Nickel Lodge, it was reported that a motion was presented by the Temple Board to consider making the building: “Non-smoking”. At a subsequent date, the anti-room to the Lodge Banquet Room was designated as the smoking area.  (427)

“A couple of exciting initiatives were acted upon which should help to promote the Craft in the District. Firstly, one of the Lodges (National), enthusiastically supported by the other Lodges in the District, built a float which enabled the members to participate in Santa Claus parades in the District and is available for the appropriate use of all Lodges. The second initiative has a long-term goal. It enjoins the Brethren to become operative in order to adorn and beautify the Lodge. All of the Lodges that use the Lodge room in Sudbury have agreed to participate and the process will start this summer. The idea is for the Brethren to feel a sense of ownership of the building through this process.  (A notation in the Sudbury-Manitoulin D.D.G.M. Report for 2000) (527)

At the January 2001 Installation of Bethel Lodge, present were four father and son combinations – Bros. Carscallen, Gervais, Robbins and Rudd. On October 14^th 2005, another father-son combination was added to Bethel Lodge when Mr. Robert Scott Pronovost joined his father, Bro. Robert Pronovost as a member. (699)

In September a moment of silence was observed in memory of those who perished in the terrorist attacks of September 11^th 2001 at the World Trade Centre in New York and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.

Email and computer resources are being tested in three districts to see if the summons could be delivered by email in order to cut down on some of the Lodge expenses. The District participated in the “Relay for Life” marathon. The Java Guild held at Belrock Temple is proving to be successful. (527)

The emailing of summonses was a great advancement in it’s delivery. Canada Post failed to deliver my Espanola Lodge summons for the December 6^th 2000 meeting until January 2001. (South)

In 2001; the morning following the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Reception and Banquet in honour of M.W. Bro. Robert McKibbon, the Brethren gathered at National Lodge in Capreol for breakfast. This would be the first time that a Grand Master attended the Lodge. The breakfast tradition continued. (South)

In February 2002, a wonderful new element was added to Freemasonry in Sudbury-Manitoulin District, the creation of Java Guild. V.W. Bro. Keith I. Jordan; the District Librarian was asked to open up the Library on Tuesday mornings and perhaps put on a pot of coffee for whoever might attend. He expanded the offer of coffee to include sandwiches, for the price of $3.00.

“COME FOR COFFEE.. STAY FOR LUNCH” became it’s motto. Java Guild is famous through out our Grand Jurisdiction. (Progress Reports will follow.) (South)

At the April 2002 Meeting of Bethel Lodge, it was announced that a Masonic team would participate in the Canadian Cancer Society “Relay for Life”. This has continued in subsequent years. (699) 

V.W. Bro. John J. Gilpin of Nickel Lodge was made an Honourary Life Member of Friendship Lodge on June 12^th 2002, in recognition of his helpful advice and for just being a good friend to the members of the Lodge.  (691)

Most Lodges have developed initial Long Range Plans and are now ready to move on to refining the plan and making it a living, working document. They will be looking to Grand Lodge for assistance in this exercise. Freemasonry in this District is truly in motion and not just spinning its wheels. The brethren can be proud of their efforts.

(A notation in the Sudbury-Manitoulin D.D.G.M. Report for 2002)  (527)

In the fall of 2002, Lodges made donations to Project 204. This was a smoke-free, two bedroom apartment at Belrock. It was available at no cost, to any out of town member of the Masonic Fraternity, who needed a place to stay when they or a loved one were in a local hospital or at the North Eastern Regional Ontario Cancer Treatment Centre.  (South)

EXCERPT FROM-

M.W. Bro. Donald H. Mumby; Grand Master’s Greetings and Message to the Members of Doric Lodge as they celebrate the 100^th Anniversary of the Lodge.

” Doric Lodge has served the Masons of Manitoulin Island for a long and glorious period. Many distinguished Masons have passed through the portals of this lodge and many have called it home. While this lodge has withstood the tests of time, has met the many challenges it has faced with steadfast perseverance, and has provided stability and morality to this community, it now stands upon the threshold of a new day. Thus, while we celebrate your glorious history, let us also keep a vigilant eye upon the future.”  (455)

In 2002-2003, the District supported the ALS Walk in Sudbury. W. Bro. K. Marvin Streich (of Espanola Lodge) led this campaign as his wife had succumbed to the disease some years prior. (527)

In 1998-1999, W. Bro. J.http://amerikabulteni.com/2011/07/13/the-nation-cia-has-a-secret-base-and-secret-prisons-in-somalia/ buy cheap viagra Common Sense, Aging, and Ill Health Vida International is pleased to have raised the bar and invite everyone into the world of innovation. David Bell of Algonquin Lodge No. 536, served as the District Secretary for R.W. Bro. Brian V. Koivu. In 1999, he was subsequently appointed a Grand Steward of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. OF Canada in the Province of Ontario and became V.W. Bro. J. David Bell. He was subsequently elected the Grand Registrar of our Grand Lodge for the year 2002-2003 and became R.W. Bro. J. David Bell.

In July of 2004, he was elected to the Board of General Purposes of our Grand Lodge for a two year term. In accordance with our Constitution, he became a Past Grand Senior Warden.

In the year 2004-2005, he served as Vice Chairman of the Masonic Education Committee.

He was subsequently re-elected to the Board in July 2006. He was re-elected to the Board in July 2008 and again in July 2010.

In 2006-2007, 2007-2008 and 2008-2009, he served as Chairman of the Grand Lodge Benevolence Committee.

In 2007, he was appointed the Grand Representative of Santa Catarina (Brazil) to our Grand Lodge. (This is usually a life-time appointment.) In 2010, Bro. Bell’s commission was changed to Grand Representative of New Brunswick to our Grand Lodge. (Bro. Bell is a native of the Province of New Brunswick.)

In 2009-2010 he served as Chairman of the Grand Lodge – Lodge Building Committee and continued to serve as Chair of this Committee for the year 2010-2011.

R.W. Bro. J. David Bell’s contributions our Grand Lodge will most certainly continue to grow in future years. (South)

Since 2003, Friendship Lodge has presented a $100.00 Bursary to a graduating student of Lively District Secondary School who has shown extraordinary Friendship to other students.                   

In March 2003, R.W. Bro. James Thomson attended on the occasion of his Official Visit to Nickel Lodge and informed the Brethren that though it was known that Friendship Lodge had erected the sign outside the front door, it was accomplished with the assistance of W. Bro. Doumergue Horace and Bro. George Nelson of Nickel Lodge.   (427)

On March 15^th 2003, many of Friendship Lodge members turned out to help rebuild the Polish Combatants Hall after a fire. (691)

On February 4^th 2004, M.W. Bro. Donald H. Mumby attended and assisted by R.W. Bro. John W. Hodder, D.D.G.M., Sudbury-Manitoulin and W. Bro. Albert Stonier, invested Bro. Marven Firth with his William Mercer Wilson Medal, a special certificate of recognition and a copy of The First Grand Master. The Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies led the Brethren in giving Grand Honours to Bro. Firth – three times. Bro. Firth read a poem of thanks and then returned to his seat in the East.  Only five are presented each year, and Bro. Firth was the first to receive one this year. A committee of three Past Grand Masters acting independently determines who may qualify for such recognition. Their decision has to be unanimous.  (427)

At this Meeting on February 4^th 2004, Mr. Stephen Robert Fleming joined (by Initiation) his father W. Bro. Robert (Rob) James and his grandfather W. Bro. Milton (Milt) James Fleming in forming a third generation of Freemasons in Nickel Lodge No. 427. In July 2008, Rob was elected District Deputy Grand Master for Sudbury-Manitoulin District. In July 2009, Milt was appointed a Grand Steward of our Grand Lodge and on May 1^st 2010, Stephen was invested as the Junior Warden in Nickel Lodge. Stephen’s Great – Great Grandfather Frederick William Fleming and Great Grandfather Edward Cecil Fleming were also members of Nickel Lodge. That’s five generations. (South)

In April 2004, Nickel Lodge agreed to pay for the re-carpeting of the Lodge-room. This project would be done in recognition of the sesquicentennial of Grand Lodge.  (427)

During the Masonic year, 2003-2004 Grand Lodge approved the electronic summons, the requirement being that a member of any Lodge wishing to do so, must take a workshop on the same, to be conducted by the District Computer Resources Committee.  (527)

At the Annual Communication of Grand Lodge in 2004; the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. D.H. Mumby presented R. W. Bro. Robert T. Runciman of Algonquin Lodge with “The Meritorious Service Award”. It was in recognition of twenty-eight years of service on the Board of General Purposes when, at various times he was a member and chairman of the Discipline Committee, the Committee on Constitution and Jurisprudence, and served as “The Parliamentarian” for several years. He also served on the Benevolence Committee for a few years and at the end of his term on the Board, he was a member of the Management Committee.

Algonquin Lodge held an “Appreciation Night” on October 19^th and M.W. Bro. Mumby was present on that occasion.

Though known as “The Meritorious Service Award”, engraved on the back of the medal are the words “The Grand Master’s Award For Distinguished Service”.

At that time there were three recipients, one of them was R.W. Bro. W. Lorne Pacey of Temagami, (Bro. Runciman’s second cousin), who passed to the Grand Lodge Above a couple of years ago. Since that time R.W. Bro. G. Wayne Nelson of Englehart has received the award. They are the only known recipients of the award from Northeastern Ontario at the present time. (South)

In October 2004, Nickel Lodge approved the amendment to the By-laws with regards to the Nickel Lodge Bursaries. $1500.00 each would be donated to a student at Laurentian University and at Cambrian College, subject to possible supplementing of the amounts, if Lodge finances permitted. In November it became apparent that there was a surplus of $557.40 for the Nickel Masonic Lodge Bursary Endowments to Laurentian University and Cambrian College. This was the result of conservative estimates for the budgeting of monies available. This was donated to the District Charity Project- the Bursary Fund for the Medical School located at Laurentian University.     

At the Nickel Lodge Committee of General Purposes Meeting in February 2005, it was reported that a City By-law Enforcement Officer had attended Belrock with a ticket book in hand. Belrock was considered a Non-Smoking Facility. There had been a complaint.      

At the Official Visit in March 2005, Nickel Lodge was recognized for its donation of $17,500.00 to the O.S.T.O.F. Phase 11- Nickel Lodge Bursary Fund by the Cambrian Foundation. (427)

In 2005, Spanish River Chapter No. 237 Order of the Eastern Star donated $500.00 to the Lodge. With additional funds, a badly needed refrigerator was purchased for the Lodge kitchen. Doric Lodge also received the same amount as it was the intention of Worthy Matron, Helen Noonan to raise funds for both Lodges in appreciation for the use of their buildings.

(An example of fraternities working together to help each other.)  (527)

As the Nickel Lodge, Saturday afternoon Installation followed by the Ladies Night had been deemed a success, an amendment to the By-Laws was made to provide for this regular meeting change starting in May 2006. Music was re-introduced to the Lodge by means of a laptop computer and CD. (427) 

 (This same source of music would be provided to other Lodges.)

In October 2005; our D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. Allan Burns (Algonquin and Espanola Lodges) introduced the first issue of our Sudbury-Manitoulin District Newsletter “Around and About”. It was a one-page electronic circular.  It would eventually grow to sometimes twenty-two pages and be sent around the world by email and enjoyed by all. (South) 

In November 2005, Nickel Lodge was recognized as winning two District Awards. The Joe Lessor Attendance Award and the W.J.C. Noble Blood Donors. The Lodge learned that Grand Lodge had approved the wearing of Regalia at Remembrance Day services and members were encouraged to do so.  (427)

At the Doric Lodge Meeting in November 2005, a special tribute to our Veterans and Armed Forces Personnel was held. The Ladies (and probably some men) of Spanish River Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star served a delicious dinner before the meeting and many of the brethren were able to rekindle old acquaintances. The honoured guests were then Piped into the filled Lodge room by the District Piper which was followed by a special ceremony to honour the war dead, veterans and peacekeepers. Congratulations to Doric Lodge for giving our Veterans such a memorable evening. (Around and About)

R.W. Bro. Eric T. Moore was installed as the Worshipful Master of Sudbury Lodge on May 8^th 2006. He had served in 1971, 1984 and 2004-2005.  Having affiliated with National Lodge he served as Worshipful Master in 1998-1999.   (May he soon get it right!   South)                             

In May 2006, air conditioning was installed in the Lodge room and it made for more comfortable meetings in the months of June and September (and even in December 2010).   (527)

In June 2006, Nickel Lodge members took a brave step in joining other Lodges when a collective ballot was taken on three applicants for initiation. The result of the ballot was favourable. (427)

The following is a copy of an edited letter from our D.D.G.M. and Editor of the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Newsletter “Around and About”. It provides a great summary of District Events for year 2005-2006.  (South)

“We have seen 24 new Freemasons initiated into our gentle craft. This represents a 1% increase in membership, which is a move in the right direction. The District Prostate Cancer Awareness sessions brought Freemasonry into the public spotlight in a positive manner demonstrating how Freemasons are caring members of the community. A proposal offered by Bro. Abourbih may even be the beginning of a partnership with the Canadian Cancer Society and our Grand Lodge. This would bring Prostate Cancer Awareness to all of the other Districts. Lodge Golf tournaments, Curling bonspiels, Ladies nights and special evenings paying tribute to Freemasons and Friends of Freemasons brought fellowship and social mirth to our District thus achieving our chief point noted in the General Charge. The District Masonic Choir has performed at various Masonic and public functions. Their hard work at the weekly practices under the direction of Mrs. Marjorie Steinke has paid them dividends of many compliments. The blending and harmony of their voices is something special to hear and you should make every effort to attend their functions. The Choir is hoping to one day perform to the members of Grand Lodge during the Grand Master’s Banquet. “

W. Bro. Douglas Bracken had good reason to smile during his installation as Worshipful Master of Espanola Lodge on June 28^th 2006. Bro. Craig Bracken his son, and his two brothers V.W. Bro. Clare Bracken and Bro. Dennis Bracken attended and participated in the Installation ceremony. V.W. Bro. Clare Bracken was the Installing Master and ensured his brother Doug was placed in the Master’s chair according to ancient custom. (Around and About) (see February 12^th 1977, report for 691 – South)

In July 2006, R.W. Bro. Stan Gordon was a very proud father, and on hand to see his son, R.W. Bro. Peter Gordon installed as the District Deputy Grand Master of the Sudbury-Manitoulin District. They are the third father and son team in our District to have been elected District Deputy Grand Master. Past D.D.G.M. father and sons include R.W. Bros. Runciman and Mulack.

Freemasons and their Ladies from across the Grand Jurisdiction traveled to Gore Bay on September 9^th 2006 to join the centennial celebrations. The Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Gary L. Atkinson officiated at the ceremony and invested the Worshipful Master, V.W. Bro. Brian Hester with his new regalia denoting a lodge that has reached 100 years. After the Lodge meeting the reception for the Grand Master was held at the community-curling rink. The Island hospitality was exceptional and all who attended, enjoyed a delicious meal. (Around and About)

EXCERPT FROM-

M.W. Bro. Gary L. Atkinson; Grand Master’s Greetings and Message to the Members of Gore Bay Lodge as they celebrate the 100^th Anniversary of the Lodge.

” Gore Bay Lodge No. 472 has served the Masons of Manitoulin Island for a long and glorious period. Many distinguished Masons have passed through the doors of this lodge in the past one hundred years. Each one of them worked hard to further the principles and teachings of Freemasonry. Each one of them has worked hard to ensure that this lodge would be here so future generations of Masons, could learn the principles and teaching that our fraternity is based upon. To those Brethren, we owe a debt of gratitude. While we owe much to the past, we have a far greater obligation to the future. Freemasonry has wrought a wondrous work in this world of ours, and our duty is to see that it shall continue. The future of Freemasonry is in our hands. Let us make certain that Freemasonry of tomorrow adds lustre to the Freemasonry of yesterday and today ”  (472)

At the November 2006 Meeting of Sudbury Lodge, the Brethren donated $400.00 to the Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay for Life in recognition of Bro. Robert Bryson’s participation in the relay. A cancer survivor, he has raised money and walked in the all-night relay every year since it came to Sudbury in 1999.  (Around and About)

At the January 2007 Installation of Bethel Lodge, W. Bro. David Carscallen became the first Master of the Lodge to succeed himself, when the Lodge’s Senior Warden became ill and was not able to advance. In May, a committee was struck to prepare for the Lodge’s 50^th Anniversary Celebration to be held in October 2009. (699)  

During the February 10^th 2007 meeting of Friendship Lodge, W. Bro. Saliem J. Khoury was installed as the 50^th Master of the Lodge. Fifty Past Masters were present. He was presented with a gavel made from the Cedar of Lebanon, which was sent to Sudbury from his relatives in Lebanon. (691)

In February 2007, Java Guild celebrated FIVE excellent years of Fun, Fine Food and Fellowship. Where else can a Freemason go, have lunch with his peers for $3.00 and in five years see over $24,000.00 donated to local charities from money raised. Some of the charities that have benefited include: Families of Brethren in need, Lodges in the District, Belrock’s Room 204 Project, The ALS Society, The Sudbury Food Bank, The Scottish Rite and York Rite Charitable Foundations, District Project for the Medical School Bursary, MacLeod Public School’s Comprehensive Christmas Dinner, Donations of prizes for Lodge events, Tools for the Belrock Workshop, refreshments for the Prostate Cancer Awareness sessions, Skin Cancer clinic refreshments, Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Fund, Canadian Blood Services and many more…     (Around and About)

On March 14^th 2007, the members of Friendship Lodge volunteered to provide five days of security for a Native Art Exhibit at the Fielding Memorial Park. The Lodge has taken an active roll in the care of the Belrock Masonic Centre with painting and Lodge beautification. In the last few years they have made the Lodge and the entrance to the Doctor’s Office wheelchair accessible. Cement stone curbing was installed to level off the sides of the entrance, and new stainless-steel sign was erected with the Masonic Emblem as well as installing the new stainless-steel lettering for “Belrock Masonic Centre”. Five new raised flower boxes were built to accommodate the gardening efforts of one of its members. They are also responsible for building the storage shed for the gardening equipment.   (691)

The Brethren of Doric Lodge brought their annual fish fry of Rainbow Trout to the Java Guild on March 27^th to show their appreciation for past financial assistance to their lodge. (When it becomes known that Doric Lodge is bringing their fish fry to Java Guild, new attendance records are usually set.)  (Around and About)

In April 2007, W. Bro. Kennedy of Nickel Lodge, presented W. Bro. Milt Fleming with a Lewis Jewel, who then presented his son- W. Bro. Robert Fleming with a Lewis Jewel, who then presented his son- Bro. Stephen Fleming with a Lewis Jewel. (427)

(Freemasons in other Lodges began to wear the Jewel.)

At the Annual 151st Communication of Grand Lodge in July 2006, amendments had been made to the Constitution, which permitted the wearing of the Lewis Jewel. In our jurisdiction the Lewis is the son of a Freemason.  (Copied and paraphrased from the Grand Lodge Website – South) 

On May 26^th 2007, a Brother in our District attained the highest office in Ontario in a Masonic related body. Bro. Bryan Cunningham (of National Lodge) was installed as the M(ost). Ill(ustrious). Grand Master Bryan S. Cunningham, of the Royal and Select Masters of Ontario for the years 2007 and 2009. (South)

During the regular weekly Java Guild assembly at Belrock Masonic Centre the Brethren decided the opportune time to recognize V.W. Bro. K.I. Jordan for his work over the past five years in directing the formation of a small coffee club into a weekly ritual for hundreds of Freemasons in our District.

The plan was afoot… On May 8^th 2007 the Sudbury Shrine Club Pennyfarthing Unit volunteered to prepare a delicious meal for the patrons to enjoy. These upstanding Peace Officers of an earlier era were then summoned into action when a complaint of a nefarious nature involving V.W. Bro. Jordan’s activities were brought forward. Charges by W. Bro. Havey Wickenden against the Plaintiff included many circumstantial facts on how it was that Bro. Nick Menican always seemed to win the weekly draw. Very quickly it was decided a trial before his peers must be held. V.W. Bro. Jordan was then escorted to the front by the Constabulary and presented to R.W. Bro. Robert Runciman the acting Chief Magistrate of the Java Guild Court. The following charges were then presented before the court: V.W. Bro. Keith Ian Jordan has been accused of the following counts of kindness and brotherly love over the past five years. He buys the prizes, makes certain someone will cook, buys the cheese, cookies, coffee, pop, water, etc., sends emails to remind everyone to come to Java Guild on the Tuesday, makes appropriate donations for charitable relief, makes certain entertainment is provided. He has arranged for District Shirts and Jacket orders, does the banking, makes certain special occasions are remembered, keeps us abreast of Masonic events, last but not least – he always has a smile and a twinkle in his eye regardless of how he may feel. After hearing from all parties concerned the Chief Magistrate ordered a mistrial and found the Plaintiff should be rewarded for his true Masonic efforts. V.W. Bro. Jordan then received a resounding applause from everyone in attendance and presented with a few gifts from the brethren. (Around and About)

The following is a copy of an edited letter from our D.D.G.M. R.W. Bro. Peter L. Gordon. It provides a great summary of District Events for year 2006-2007. (South)

Brethren,

As the year winds down, one starts to reflect on the events that have helped make the memories and experiences such a wonderful treasure. We have welcomed many new Freemasons into the Craft, but we have said goodbye to others. As a group, we have made the dreams of three students more attainable, by the bursaries they have received from the Masonic Foundation. We have given the gift of life through blood donations with Canadian Blood Services. We have provided money to be available in the future to a student of the Northern Ontario Medical School. Our Booth at the Manitoulin Trade Fair was a resounding success. We had seven men who signed up for further information. They have all been sent letters and I have asked someone in their respective areas to contact them for follow-up. Who knows, we may receive one or two applications. There were 9800 people through the gates at the Little Current Recreation Centre over the course of the weekend of May 4, 5 and 6th. My sincere thanks to all of those Brethren who helped by looking after the booth and especially to R. W. Bro. Rudy Mulack for the loan of his equipment that made the booth the impressive display it was.

(The Masonic Booth has also been displayed at four public events in the town of Espanola and also once in Sudbury.)  (Around and About)

Two members of Friendship Lodge organized a Masonic team that raised $2,000.00 in two short weeks. Approximately four thousand people were at Laurentian University and witnessed Freemasonry in their community on June 1^st 2007 at the Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay For Life.

R.W. Bro. Peter L. Gordon D.D.G.M. took a few moments during the June 14^th 2007 meeting of Gore Bay Lodge No. 472 to present R.W. Bro. Allan T. Burns with the Grand Lodge award for best

District Newsletter.                                                                                       

Guests filled the Belrock banquet room for Friendship Lodge’s 50th Anniversary Gala held on Saturday, September 22^nd 2007. Special guest speaker for the evening was R.W. Bro. Raymond Daniels, Deputy Grand Master.  (Around and About)

Sudbury-Manitoulin District Freemasons participated in the MCTV-Lions Christmas Telethon on Saturday December 1^st 2007, between 8:00PM and 9:00PM. R.W. Bro. Ed Rennie D.D.G.M. presented a $1,000.00 donation on behalf of the Sudbury Manitoulin District Freemasons.  (Around and About)

 (This has become an annual event and provides great exposure of Freemasons at work in the community.)   (South)

W. Bro. Larry Smith of Doric Lodge made a special trip to Sudbury for Java Guild on February 12^th 2008. He told the brethren about a very close friend of his who had come to Sudbury from Manitoulin Island for cancer treatment. He was being treated as an out-patient, however the severity of the sessions made it difficult for travel and if he had to travel every day from Manitoulin his treatments may not succeed. R.W. Bro. Ed Rennie was contacted and the keys to the apartment were offered to his friend. The treatments lasted several weeks, and his recovery is partially credited because he did not have to travel so much during the session. To show his appreciation, Bro. Smith donated one of his paintings, to the Belrock apartment. V.W. Bro. Robert Storie indicated that the painting would be hung in the apartment living room for all guests to enjoy. W.Bro. Smith reported that his friend is still doing well.

It was reported in May 2008, by Bro. Rob Lipic, District Webmaster of our website has received 7,000 hits since he started tracking it a few months ago. Every month the Sudbury-Manitoulin District website averages 400 page loads, 223 unique visitors, 125 first time visitors, and 98 returning visitors. We have visitors from all over the world, including China, Russia, Turkey, the U.K., Ireland and the Caribbean. The largest portion of our traffic comes from Ontario and the North Eastern U.S.A. and our most popular pages are the tracing board and newsletters. One of our best referral sites is the Grand Lodge of British Columbia site, followed by our own Grand Lodge site. Google and Yahoo are the top two search engines that locate our website the fastest.      

In June of 2008, it was reported that over the past 6 years since it first started, Java Guild has donated over $33,000 to various causes. (Around and About)

The following is an edited letter from our D.D.G.M. – 2007-2008- R.W. Bro. Ed Rennie. (South)

Brethren:

The brethren in our District have taken Masonic charity to new heights lately. During a visit to Elliot Lake Lodge No. 698 in May a number of brethren from our District learned that their roof was leaking in several places. What further complicates matters for this lodge is the fact a new roof is estimated to cost $13,000.00 and they do not have the money needed for the repairs. When their difficulty was made known at our District Meeting at Doric Lodge on June 2^nd, a fundraising drive was immediately launched. The nine lodges in our district each donated $100.00

The Master and Wardens Association, The Java Guild and individual Freemasons all donated cash without hesitation. On Saturday, June 21^st twenty-one Freemasons from our District traveled to Elliot Lake Lodge for their regular Saturday morning breakfast. After enjoying a delicious breakfast V.W. Bro. Keith Jordan presented the Lodge with $3,100.00 from the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Freemasons to help them with their roof repairs. It is in the spirit of Masonic charity and for the cause of good that the Sudbury-Manitoulin District now challenges Algoma East, Muskoka-Parry Sound, and Nipissing East districts to match or exceed our donation to Elliot Lake Lodge. If these three districts answer the call to help the entire cost of for a new roof will be reached.

“The Corporation” in September 2008, inaugurated a new fund-raising campaign to support the construction of a full elevator for the Sudbury Masonic Centre. The estimated cost is approximately $450,000.00 (Almost the cost of the building in 1972.)  (Around and About)

On election night at Espanola Lodge in May 2008, Bro. Grant Moody was elected to the office of Junior Warden. The next morning; the Lodge Secretary, R.W. Bro. R. Mulack called the Grand Lodge Office and learned that Bro. Moody had been approved to receive the William Mercer Wilson Medal. He no longer qualified for such recognition and during the regular meeting on September 3^rd he was presented with his 50 Year pin. It was exactly 50 years ago that evening that he was initiated into the Craft. (South)

The Sudbury-Manitoulin District honoured our Veterans and Servicemen during the regular meeting of Nickel Lodge on Wednesday, November 5^th 2008. The evening was so noteworthy that the brethren of Espanola Lodge obtained a dispensation from Grand Lodge to postpone their November meeting so they could attend. The event got its start when R.W. Bro. Robert J. Fleming D.D.G.M. spoke to the Worshipful Master of his Mother Lodge, W. Bro. Clive Stephenson and W. Bro. Roy Eaton, Doric Lodge P.M. and President of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 177 in Little Current about holding an appreciation night for our veterans. He wanted the evening to be held during Veteran’s Week November 5^th to 11^th and similar to the one held by Doric Lodge when Bro. Eaton was Master.

Bro. Robert Bryson, member of R.C.L. Branch 76 helped to recruit Masonic Veterans living in Sudbury, while W. Bro. Eaton took care of the Western part of our District. Over 100 Freemasons joined ranks with our honoured veterans and servicemen to thank them and to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we enjoy our freedom and security in Canada. Before the meeting, guests of honour and visitors enjoyed a banquet prepared by the members of Nickel Lodge.   (Around and About)

At the November 2008 Nickel Lodge Meeting, Algoma Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star was recognized for their $10,000.00 and Java Guild for their $3,000.00 donation to the Kitchen Renovation Fund.  (427)

In 2008-2009, the D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. Robert J. Fleming (from Nickel Lodge) established the Journeyman’s Award to recognize the Lodge that has journeyed forth and visited other Lodges in the greatest numbers.  (South)  

The 500^th Regular Meeting on Bethel Lodge No. 699 G.R.C. was held on the 9^th day January 2009. The 501^st Regular Meeting was held on Friday 13^th of February,

 50 years to the day, of the inaugural meeting of Bethel Lodge U.D.  (699)

At the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Reception and Banquet for the Grand Master; held on March 20^th 2009, M.W. Bro. Allan J. Petrisor presented a 60 year service pin to R.W. Bro. John W. McGill.   (699)

Friendship Lodge held an Emergent meeting on March 25^th 2009 to initiate Mr. Ryan McNabb into Freemasonry. Bro. Ryan McNabb’s grandfather Bro. Gordon Whittaker of National Lodge was present to witness the fifth generation in the family to join the craft.   (691)

In the May of 2009, another Brother in our District attained the highest office in Ontario in a Masonic related body. Bro. William R. McKnight (of Sudbury Lodge) was installed as M(ost). Ex(cellent). H(igh). Priest William R. McKnight, the Grand President of the Order of the High Priesthood of Ontario for the years 2009 and 2010.

After many years; possibly from it’s first years of service, in 2009 Doric Lodge discontinued having it’s “Annual Meeting” in early June for the purpose of elections.  (South)

Tuesday, October 6^th 2009 marked the last meeting of National Lodge in their lodge building on 39 Vaughan Street in Capreol. National Lodge held its first meeting in the town of Capreol on December 6^th 1921. Many of the brethren from the District attended the special evening for National Lodge to bid a fond farewell to the old building and extend their best wishes to the brethren for their fresh start at Belrock. The brethren had sold the building and on Tuesday, November 3^rd 2009 the lodge conducted their first meeting at the Belrock Masonic Centre.  It also marked the 36^th anniversary of the dedication of the Belrock Lodge-room.  (Around and About/South)

It was subsequently decided that National Lodge would be accepted as an operating partner without financial interest in “The Corporation”.   (427)

On Friday October 9^th 2009, the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Raymond S.J. Daniels, a great friend to Freemasons in Sudbury-Manitoulin District attended Bethel Lodge No. 699’s 50^th Anniversary. On the Saturday evening, many of the Brethren from Sudbury-Manitoulin District joined the Grand Master in celebrating Elliot Lake No. 698’s 50^th Anniversary Celebration. The two Lodges had been in the same Nipissing West District from 1959 to 1974.  (South)

What started in 1960 as a meeting between two lodges, one located in Sudbury and one in Copper Cliff has traversed the years to become the longest running reciprocal visit between lodges in the District. Prior to its inception, two good friends R.W. Bro. W.J.C. (Bill) Noble of Nickel Lodge and W. Bro. Frank Shedler of Friendship lodge would meet at St. Paul’s United Church and would discuss reasons why they did not get around to visiting each other’s lodges. They agreed that during their year as Worshipful Master they would arrange for their lodges to conduct a reciprocal visit. A few Freemasons who were members of St. Paul’s include R.W. Bro. J.D. Innes, V.W. Bro. W. McKnight, V.W. Bro. J.J. Gilpin, and Bros. R. Bryson and A. Buer. The first 50-year celebration meeting took place at Nickel Lodge on Wednesday, October 7^th 2009 and Bro. Brian Leduc was Initiated into Freemasonry. Present for the meeting was V.W. Bro. John J. Gilpin a member of Nickel Lodge and an honorary member of Friendship Lodge. This was the Forty-ninth reciprocal visit for V.W. Bro. Gilpin. He had only missed one over the years because of illness. The second 50-year visit took place the following week on Wednesday, October 14^th 2009. Bro. Anthony Biro the candidate was initiated into our Gentle Craft. During this meeting both Worshipful Masters, W. Bro. Brian Post of Friendship Lodge and W. Bro. Brian Howe of Nickel Lodge presented V.W. Bro. John J. Gilpin with a framed photo of himself as a memorial to his love of Freemasonry and his endless support of his two lodges.                                                                  

W. Bro. Robert MacDonald of Doric Lodge had been the Blood Donor Committee Chairman for ten years. Under his leadership, Doric Lodge twice won the District “W.J.C. Noble Blood Donors Award.” Unfortunately, for several years, financial restraints stopped the Island clinic. This past summer and also two weeks ago saw two clinics at which 75 units and 89 units were donated. (October – Around and About)

Canadian Blood Services had refused to go to the Island and hold a Clinic unless a certain number of donations could be guaranteed. Doric Lodge exceeded that number.  (South)                                                                        

The Sudbury-Manitoulin District held their second annual Veterans’ Appreciation night Friday, November 6^th 2009 at the Belrock Masonic Centre. Bethel Lodge acted as Host Lodge for the evening, which began with dinner in the banquet room and followed with a moving speech by Past Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Donald Mumby. The brethren and guests then entered the lodge room for the remembrance ceremony. M.W. Bro. Mumby, honoured the members of the Canadian Forces present noting that some of them were wearing the Afghanistan G.C.S. Medal marking their military service in that troubled country. He spoke about how fortunate we are today in our country to be able to enjoy the freedoms and luxuries we have. He pointed out that war and oppression arise from hatred, greed, envy, and fanaticisms of the older generations and how it is always our brave young men and women who are called upon and who step forward to serve our country and those troubled nations in need. V.W. Bro. Keith I. Jordan presented a cheque from the Java Guild to assist with the building costs of the home that is being built for Cpl. Bill Kerr, a wounded veteran of the Afghanistan war. Cpl. Kerr’s commanding officer accepted the cheque on his behalf.  (Around and About)

Friendship Lodge recently received a certificate of appreciation from the City of Greater of Sudbury, recognizing the fifteen years the lodge has been involved in the adopt a road program.  (November 2009 -Around and About)

The MASONICh.I.P. Child Identification Program held the first Information and Training session at Belrock, on Tuesday, December 15^th 2009 with a total of 34 Freemasons including the D.D.G.M.s from Algoma East and Parry Sound District attending. The MASONICh.I.P. program was adopted as a District project in November and R.W. Bro. Rob Fleming the District Youth Initiatives Chairman accepted the role of program director. Since that time, he and the D.D.G.M. have worked together to bring the program and training session to our district.

The Grand Lodge committee has provided us with the computer equipment needed, at no cost. It will remain in our district as long as it is used. The nine district lodges have agreed to provide the funding for the identification kits. A kit has a cost of $3.00 and provides a child’s parents with a complete I.D. profile that is compatible with all law enforcement agencies. When a child has a kit prepared, their parent or guardian will receive a printed colour data sheet with several ID card inserts, a CD-ROM storing all the digital information, and a sealed bag with the dental plate and cheek swab. All this information is given to the parent or guardian. No information is ever stored by the MASONICh.I.P. program.

There was a full house for the annual Java Guild Christmas dinner on Tuesday, December 15^th 2009 at the Belrock Masonic Centre. R.W. Bro. Ed Rennie and V.W. Bro. Bob Storie were turned loose in the newly renovated kitchen to create a masterpiece of culinary delights for the brethren. Dinner included the traditional turkey fair and desserts from around the world.  (January 2010 – Around and About)

Saturday, January 16^th 2010 was a very successful day for the MASONICh .I.P. held at Belrock. Our volunteers processed 131 children with the youngest child being only seven days old. Everyone was extremely pleased with the response from the public and CTV news. This is the first of many child identification clinics that will be run in our district. Other clinics are planned for Belrock on Saturday, February 6^th and at the Espanola Masonic Centre Saturday, February 27^th 11:00 A.M. -5:00 P.M. Before they are permitted to work as volunteers, everyone must provide a police background check to R.W. Bro. Robert Fleming, District Chairman of the MASONICh .I.P. Program. (February 2010 -Around and About)

For over sixty years the LIONS International and local media have hosted the Children’s Christmas Telethon on the first Saturday in December. The LIONS goal is to raise money so that families in need will have gifts for their children at Christmas time. W. Bro. Sam Khoury from Friendship Lodge No. 691 is an active member of the LIONS and several years ago approached the nine lodges in our district for sponsorship. The Java Guild liked the idea so much they rounded off the lodge donations so the district can present a $1,000.00 cheque to the organizers on telethon night. Since Freemasonry is not a service club or a fundraising group the lodge donations equate to a personal donation by every Freemason in our district. This charity however truly brings relief and happiness to want and destitution. The Worshipful Master of each lodge or his designate work the phone lines as the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Freemasons.  (Around and About)

Espanola Lodge held their 30th Annual Curling Funspiel on Saturday, February 13^th at the Espanola Curling Rink. Curlers enjoyed a day of fun, a great roast beef dinner and prizes. Profits from this event are used for the Espanola Lodge Bursary Program for students graduating from the local high school. (March 2010 – Around and About)

V.W. Bro. Keith Jordan informed the brethren during a recent gathering of the Java Guild the weekly coffee club has donated close to $46,000.00 to Lodges in need and local charities since starting eight years ago.                                                            

The Canadian Blood Services recently presented the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Freemasons with a certificate of appreciation in recognition for 109 direct donations and a total of 444 donations for the District that included sponsored clinics. W. Bro. Alan Hill, District Blood Donor chairman and R.W. Bro. Rob Fleming representing the Grand Lodge Blood Donor committee were on hand to receive the award. Derrick Perron, of the Canadian Blood Services informed the brethren that in Ontario last year the Partners for Life award recipients with blood donations of almost 40,000 units could be credited to Freemasons, or to their work promoting clinics by the Freemasons.

R.W. Bro. Fleming started a conversation with respect to Freemasons being recognized as National Sponsors. That would take coordination with the other Canadian Grand Lodge jurisdictions and work with their Blood Donor Committees. The folks from CBS didn’t think that it would take much to make that happen, as we are fairly well recognized as significant contributors now.              

On Saturday May 29^th 2010, for the fifth year the brethren of Espanola Lodge and their ladies cooked and served breakfast in the upstairs hall at the Espanola Sports Complex for the Espanola Classic Cruisers. This annual breakfast has become a great fundraising event for the Lodge. Vintage automobiles from around the north were displayed along with their proud owners who are happy to answer the many questions visitors have about their cars.  (May 2010 – Around and About)

On June 4^th 2010, for the 11^th year the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Freemasons had teams participating in the Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay for Life held in Sudbury and Espanola. Freemasons and their families raised $6,151.20 and the organizers plan to raise even more money next year.  (July 2010 – Around and About)

Monday June 7^th 2010, District members gathered at Doric Lodge for the steak fry. The Brethren enjoyed the famous Manitoulin steaks grilled to perfection along with bake potatoes, vegetables and salad. After the supper, the District Meeting and Masters and Wardens Meetings were held at which time Past Masters announced their intentions to run for the office of D.D.G.M.   (Around and About)

The following is an edited letter from our D.D.G.M. R.W. Bro. Roy Eaton. It provides a great summary of District Events for year 2009-2010.  (South)

The Especial Communication of Grand Lodge in October marked what appears to be only the second time that Grand Lodge was held in our District. We were honoured to host this unique event for Freemasons across the province; but in particular, for brethren in the five North Central Districts. We were very fortunate for our District to be able to host two Grand Lodge workshops – the first visitation across the province of the Committee on Lodge Resources and the Committee on Masonic Education that presented a Lodge of Instruction. In May, District members joined the Grand Master and Grand Lodge Officers for the first train trip on a Bud Car to visit and be hosted by Lorne Lodge #622 in Chapleau. In addition, as your DDGM, I had the honour of attending the 125^th Anniversary of Mattawa Lodge #405 in Nippissing District, the 50^th Anniversary of our own Bethel Lodge, and the 50th Anniversary of Elliot Lake Lodge #698 in Algoma East District. The banquet for President Bill McKnight of the Order of the High Priesthood of Ontario (another first in our District) and the Provincial Reception for Mrs. Peggy South, the Worthy Grand Matron of the Grand Chapter of Ontario Order of the Eastern Star. Other District events included the Friend to Friend evening hosted by National Lodge which resulted in 12 applications for membership in our area Lodges. The District Divine Services at Little Current United Church and the unique and outstanding service at Laurentian University hosted by All Nations Church.

This was the first time a Masonic Divine Service included an Audio-Visual Presentation accompanied by a podcast of the service heard on the Internet around the world. At the recent Relay for Life initiatives, our District raised over $6,000.00 This was the first time in its history such a large amount was raised and the first time the luminaries containing the memorial candles displayed the Square and Compasses. For the first time, Masonic books were donated across the District to 16 community libraries. I was very pleased to attend so many Initiations of candidates soliciting to be admitted to the mysteries and privileges of Ancient Free Freemasonry. These new members herald a continued bright future for our District. What a privilege this year to also attend a number of recognition evenings for our senior members as they received their 25 year, 50 year and 60 year membership pins and medals.

We have an outstanding Masonic District and I cannot express adequately my deep and heartfelt appreciation for each and every member who helped make this a remarkable year for our District and, on a personal note, a year I will never, ever forget.   (July 2010 – Around and About)

The Sudbury-Manitoulin District held their third annual Veterans’ Appreciation night Friday, November 5^th 2010 at Belrock. Friendship Lodge No. 691 acted as Host Lodge for the evening. It began with dinner in the banquet room and was followed with a very moving presentation from guest speaker Dr. Ray Wiss author of F.O.B. Doc. The brethren and guests then entered the lodge room for the remembrance ceremony.  (December 2010 – Around and About)

On November 15^th 2010, the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Raymond S.J. Daniels from Grand Lodge recognized Bro. Robert G. Bryson of Sudbury Lodge for his contributions to the community and Freemasonry and presented him with the William Mercer Wilson Medal. Sudbury Lodge hosted a dinner following the short meeting. Extra chairs had to be set up in the Lodge Room and the Banquet Room was full.                                                                                                                      

Though Sudbury-Manitoulin District Freemasons have risen in the ranks of leadership, none can match the leadership in commitment to their community and Freemasonry as those fine Brethren, Bros. Pascoe, Broadley, Bowerman, Firth and Bryson who have earned and received the William Mercer Wilson Medal. Bro. Grant Moody who earned it; but could not accept it as he chose to become the Worshipful Master of his Lodge. I also include Bro. James Hunter who had been initiated, passed and raised in Bethel Lodge No. 699; but moved on to King Solomon Lodge No. 378 in London West and received it there on April 29^th 2009. Our District is not large in the number of members compared to some of the other forty-three Districts in our Grand Jurisdiction, but I believe we have measured up quite well in the seven fine Brethren who have earned this reward. (South)

At the January Meeting of Nickel Lodge, W. Bro. Richard England received the R.C.M.P. traveling gavel; which had made its way across the nation, during a recent visit from W. Bro. Teddy Burns, Master of Lorne Lodge No. 622 in Chapleau. W. Bro. England now visited lodges in our district with the gavel so the brethren could view it. The gavel started it journey when it was presented to The Royal Canadian Mounted Police Masonic Degree Team from the Masons of Massachusetts on May 30, 1998. Once the gavel completed its visit to our District the brethren of Nickel Lodge passed it on to another district within our Grand Jurisdiction and its journey continued. (The gavel is over a metre in height.) (February 2011 – Around and About)

The following is an edited version of comments from R.W. Bro. Albert W. Stonier our D.D.G.M. 2010-2011- as recorded in the District Newsletter – Around and About for June 2011.  (South)

As my year draws to a close, I would like to again bring to the attention of all my brethren in the Sudbury Manitoulin District, that we all share the same belief in the craft, yet we all have different perceptions on how it works for us. As we move forward, let us try to have an understanding for our fellow Masons, whose understanding might seem different to us. At the end of the day we are all still brothers under the Masonic banner. I can only hope that we become better men who share the Masonic belief. I would hope that we all take time to greet new members and renew old friendships within the lodges. I would like to thank each and every one of you for allowing me the honour of being allowed to serve you as your D.D.G.M.

The Canadian Blood Services held their annual volunteer appreciation evening in May. Among the honourees were three Masonic Blood donors whose generosity and sincere interest in helping others have saved lives. Congratulations to Bro. Jack Legge (500), R.W. Bros. Rob Fleming (300), Allan Burns (75) and Mrs. Fern (Rob) Fleming (75) Donations.  (June 2011 – Around and About)

Prepared by R.W. Bro. John Hodder and R.W. Bro. Robert South,
District Historians 2011-2013

On Wednesday evening the 24^th of August, several of the Officers and Members of Nickel Lodge attended at the residence of Bro. Howard John Jones and presented him with a certificate to recognize his 70 years as a Mason. Bro. Jones had been Initiated on April 2^nd 1941. (South)

Under the direction of R.W.  Bro. Saliem J. Khoury, District Deputy Grand Master for the year 2011-2012, a Committee was struck to review and update the District By-Laws. This Committee was made up of R.W. Bros. J. David Innes, Roy J. Eaton, Robert T. Runciman, J. David Bell and the Chairman was R.W. Bro. Robert N. Gordon. At the November 2011, District Meeting, these updated By-Laws were presented to and passed by the members present.  (South)

The Sudbury-Manitoulin District held its annual Veteran’s Appreciation night on Friday, November 4th 2011 at the Belrock Masonic Centre. National Lodge No. 588 acted as the host lodge this year and W. Bro. George Little welcomed the Veterans, Masons and guests. V.W. Bro. Keith Jordan and his committee organized a first-class evening that began with an excellent meal prepared and served by the Algoma Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star. Guest speaker M.W. Bro. Raymond S.J. Daniels P.G.M. spoke on the service our veterans have given to our country and the supreme sacrifice paid by our many men and women who served for us.

Belrock Masonic Centre now has easy access to banquet room.

It all began with a question about how the stair problem could be eliminated at Belrock. For many years, our older brethren and those with physical disabilities had difficulty getting to and from the banquet room located on the floor below the lodge room. There were long discussions and efforts to have an elevator installed that would connect the three floors of the Belrock Centre. The cost proved prohibitive and the Temple Corporation needed a new plan. After much debate the brethren decided the most cost-effective solution would be to build a roadway and Handicapped parking area. This would provide a new entrance to the building. Work began in 2010, with preparing the exterior wall, then building a retaining wall so landfill could be added and then given a year to settle. Finally, after nearly 40 years, Brethren will be able to join in the fellowship and fun with ease of access.V. W. Bro. John J. Gilpin at 95 years of age was given the honour of cutting the ribbon to the new Handicapped entrance.  (December 2011 – Around and About)

At the November 7^th 2011 Sudbury Manitoulin District Meeting, the D.D.G.M. directed each Lodge to: “….. vote on whether or not to continue to maintain the Masonic Bureau.”

On the occasion of the Official Visit at National Lodge No. 588 on January 3^rd 2012, it was reported that the vote was unanimous to discontinue ” Sudbury-Manitoulin District Masonic Bureau”.

Lodge Secretary’s will now be required to notify each Lodge in the District advising of the receipt of any petition for membership and the result of any ballot. They will also have to report on suspensions or demits.  (South) 

Our District Deputy Grand Master, R.W. Bro. S. Khoury, announced that the District Project for this year will be to support the work of the Canadian Diabetes Association. The Project Number is 2470 through the Masonic Foundation of Ontario. Donations should be forwarded to W. Bro. Alan Hill, the Masonic Foundation District Representative.  (427)

In February, R.W. Bro. Khoury, received confirmation that M.W. Bro. D. Garry Dowling, Grand Master, had granted his permission to dissolve the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Masonic Bureau. 

D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. Khoury held a Communications Meeting at the Belrock Masonic Centre to provide him an opportunity to review with the Brethren what he had observed so far this year. A second such meeting was held in March at the Doric Lodge Hall.  (South)

At the Friendship Lodge Installation; R.W. Bro. Robert Butler brought it to the attention of R.W. Bro. Khoury, that the cuffs that he and previous D.D.G.M.’s had been wearing were not in accordance with the Constitution. After confirmation with the Grand Secretary, Bro. Khoury contacted Dominion Regalia and the Constitutional Star was inserted inside the Square and Compass. The emblem of the office on the cuffs is now the same as the jewel on the collar.  (Khoury)

A capacity crowd of Brethren were on hand for the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. D. Gary Dowling when he held a Town Hall style meeting at Friendship Lodge No. 691 on Wednesday, April 11, 2012. Having been granted “freedom of the Lodge” by the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Roger Kitching; the Grand Master, moved about the lodge room answering questions from the brethren. It was an inspiring evening with questions ranging from work on the new Grand Lodge website, branding and marketing to the selection of location for the Annual Communication. (Around and About – edited.)

The “Veil” is partially raised over Sudbury’s Best Kept Masonic Secret.

For almost forty years; the question has been asked, “Where is 845 Regent Street, the address for The Belrock Masonic Temple/Centre?” Visitors would travel up and down Regent Street looking for the building. It is not on Regent Street. It is not even on York Street; where you have to travel on, to reach the winding staircase or winding road to arrive at the parking lot at the Masonic Centre. After all these years; it was learned, that only the “Temple Court” (apartments/medical offices) was at 845 Regent Street. There were several other addresses for the “Centre”. After consultation with “the person in charge of addresses and emergency services for the City of Greater Sudbury” by W. Bro. Roger Kitching, a Director on the Temple Board, it was decided that the Temple Board should determine the address. At the May 7^th Meeting, it was determined by majority vote, that the address would be 845 Regent Street. There would be too much work and expense involved with making any change. The Temple Board would arrange with the City to have signs erected along Regent Street to identify where “The Centre” or “845 Regent Street” would be found. The Temple Board would arrange for signing leading from York Street to the “The Centre” on the hill and a sign for the lower level.  (South)

On May 14^th; prior to the dinner before the Sudbury Lodge Installation, it was learned that the Worshipful Master-elect (who was succeeding himself) had been admitted to the hospital with a broken arm. After consultation with the Custodian of the Work, M.W. Bro. Don Mumby; our D.D.G.M. advised that the Officers should be invested and the Master could be installed at the next regular meeting of the lodge. (This is possibly the first time in our District that the Officers were invested without the Worshipful Master being Installed.) (R.W. Bro. Saliem James Khoury)

On July 17^th; at the Grand Lodge Annual Communication, our District received three awards at the same time plus a Certificate for a Corner Stone Project. Nickel Lodge was the Merit Award Winner for it’s Lodge Website, National Lodge was the winner in the Lodge Summons category, and in the District News Letter category, the winner was “Around & About” prepared by R.W. Bro. Allan Burns. The Certificate for Corner Stone Project was given to Friendship Lodge. This was the first time a District had won all three awards at one Communication.

Bro. Homer Ralph a member of Espanola Lodge No. 527 celebrated his 100^th birthday in August 2012. Bro. Robert Bryson of Sudbury Lodge No. 658 presented him with a large birthday card signed by all the brethren who had attended the lodge installation in June.  (October 2012 – Around and About)

On September 12^th, for the first time in the District, the Ceremony of Investiture of a Grand Steward, V.W. Bro. Lyle V. Redden was completed in accordance with the Grand Lodge template. The investiture was conducted by D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. Keith I. Jordan and the I.P.D.D.G.M. R.W. Bro. Saliem J. Khoury.

For the past many years, the Grand Master, Past Grand Masters, the Deputy Grand Master have attended at The Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star in Ontario Annual Session and Installation.

History was made at the Algoma Chapter No. 139 O.E.S., Installation on the Saturday afternoon of September 15th 2012.  

For the first time; as far as is known, with the encouragement of M.W. Bro. Donald Mumby; Past Grand Master, the District Deputy Grand Master of the Sudbury-Manitoulin District; who was not a member of the Order, was in attendance. In full regalia; R.W. Bro. Keith I. Jordan accompanied by his wife Nicole, attended the Open Installation. At the appropriate time and in proper fashion; he was presented, introduced escorted and welcomed. He would subsequently address Algoma Chapter Members and guests. After the Installation 107 members and guests had dinner provided by the Chapter Members. (South)

In the Fall; we learned that the Belrock Masonic Apartment which has been used for non-resident Masons and their families while in Sudbury for medical treatment had to be closed and converted back into a one-bedroom apartment and placed on the market for rental by January 2013. The never-ending increase in Taxes, Insurances, Hydro Costs, Water, Waste water, Building repairs and Lodge up-keep has necessitated this action.  (October 2012 – Around and About)

Our District Deputy Grand Master with the assistance of his Project Chairman introduced a Sudbury – Manitoulin District Project Masonic Foundation of Ontario Project No. 2506, titled Sudbury-Manitoulin Freemasons Helping to Feed the Hungry. We were informed that on any given day, a number of members of the public go without the necessities of life. Many are hungry. Income Tax receipts would be issued by the Foundation and the brethren would be able to claim a deduction for income tax purposes. Each member of the District was asked to donate to the Project. The benefits to the District would be to gain some recognition from the general public. The benefits to the members would be a feeling of accomplishment in the cause of good.  (Around and About)

In December; with the assistance of our District Deputy Grand Master, each Lodge received a copy of the Policy and Procedures Manual for Lodge Building Compliance and the Fire Safety Plan Policy. Every Masonic building in which Lodges of this jurisdiction meet, regardless of whether it is owned, rented or leased, by the Lodge or a group of Lodges as a Temple Corporation, must be compliant with local fire, health, safety and municipality code requirements. Key dates were given to have “All buildings must have an inspection scheduled. All buildings must have an inspection completed and the inspection report submitted to the Committee.” “Lodges will be subject to removal of warrant if inspection reports are not received and compliance plan has not been presented.” (Abridged report assisted by R.W. Bro. Jordan)

(In May; the D.D.G.M., notified the District that all Lodge’s had met the requirements.) (South)

The Grand Secretary, M.W. Bro. Terry Shand attended at the Belrock Masonic Centre on Saturday, December 15^th, 2012 at 8:27 A.M. for a presentation of the Secretary’s Course.  R. W. Bro. Robert Kliaman, representing the Office Technology Committee accompanied him and they both addressed member’s questions.  (December – Around and About)

The passing of R.W. Bro. Eric T. Moore

I believe; that since he contributed so much to Masonry in our District and not just to the two Craft Lodges of which he was member, his passing deserves a special place in our History. He was a very dedicated and devoted member, giving freely of his time and talents to help new officers and members. He served as a member of the Belrock Masonic Centre Board since its inception in the early 1970s and then later as Manager through to 2001. He had a long and distinguished Masonic career, serving in many executive positions with his Lodge and in the York Rite bodies. He was a highly respected Masonic member of Sudbury Lodge No. 658 serving as Worshipful Master four times and National Lodge No. 588 one time. He was District Deputy Grand Master of the Sudbury-Manitoulin District in 1977-1978. He was very active in York Rite Masonry and served in a variety of presiding and administrative positions. He was a life member of Tuscan Chapter #95, Mavar Preceptory #65 and was invited to join Northern Lights Conclave #20 in Sault Ste. Marie.  (A paraphrased report from his Obituary)

I first met Mr. Moore in 1970/71 when I had my car serviced at Moore’s Esso on Lorne Street in Sudbury. He immediately impressed as a very punctual and proficient person in the operation of his business. In 1975, I became a Mason and he became my Brother. In June of 1988, I was Installed as the Worshipful Master of Espanola Lodge No. 527. I was anxious to attend Grand Lodge and knowing that one of my Mentors; R.W. Bro. Warren Mulack was a regular attender, I approached him about attending with him. He informed me that he usually attended with R.W. Bro. Moore and at the time; V.W. Bro. Donald E. Belfry. V.W. Bro. would serve as District Deputy Grand Master in 1992-1993. Bro. Mulack informed me that he looked after arranging accommodation and Bro. Moore looked after transportation. He drove them. To my good fortune; Bro. Moore decided that he wasn’t going to drive that year, so I agreed to drive. I thought Bro. Belfry would be responsible for entertainment; but the (dancing) girls never showed up. I inquired as to when they wanted to leave for Toronto and Bro. Mulack advised that we should leave from his home at 7:00 A.M. on the Sunday morning. We were on the road at 7:00 A.M. according to the clock on the dash of my car. Now; for one of the biggest shocks in my Masonic Life. I soon learned that; though the plan had been for many years to leave at 7:00 A.M., they hadn’t been successful. Bro. Moore’s home was some twenty minute drive from Bro. Mulack’s. There was at least one occasion; that at 20 after 7 in the morning of the day they would leave for Grand Lodge; they telephoned Bro. Moore’s home, and he answered the phone.  I had the hardest time believing this story.    I have entered this in the District History in no way to show any disrespect for these great Masons. They were all wonderful men.

Our District has been recognized by Grand Lodge with many Brethren appointed to serve on many Committees. 2012-2013 was a banner year for appointments.

R. W. Bro. Brian Koivu (Algonquin No. 536) to the Board of General Purposes-Member of Audit and Finance Committee, Vice President of the Masonic Foundation of Ontario and a Member of the Lodge of Instruction Team.

R. W. Bro. R. Fleming (Nickel No. 427) – Program Director-Masonic Chip Program, Vice President of the MASONICh.I.P. Foundation of Ontario and a Member of the Fraternal Correspondence Committee.

R. W. Bro. Roy Eaton (Doric No. 455) – Masonic Education Committee and College of Freemasonry.

R. W. Bro. Sam Khoury (Friendship No. 691) – Regional Director Blood Donors Committee, Member of the Protocol and Etiquette Essential Committee. This appointment is the first time, a member was appointed from outside the Toronto area. He is also a Member of the College of Freemasonry Committee.

V. W. Bro. Clive Stephenson (Nickel No. 427) – to the Committee on Condition of the Order.

W. Bro. Robert Lipic (Friendship No. 691) – to the Communications Committees for Office Technologies, Web Technology, and Team Leader for the College of Freemasonry Internet initiative.

Bro. Michael Lalonde (Nickel No. 427) – MASONICh.I.P Committee.

This past year has seen a resurgence in interest in Masonry in our District. Many of the Lodges have been quite busy with Initiations. Hopefully this interest will continue.

Prior to the May meeting of Espanola Lodge; Brethren from most of the Lodges in the District attended a dinner held in the banquet room at Espanola Lodge, to honour V.W. Bro. Frederick W. Bright for his 60 years a Mason. As the guest of honour was not feeling well; presentations were made prior to the meeting so he could return home. Bro. Bright had been initiated into Nickel Lodge No. 427 and affiliated with Espanola Lodge No. 527 on April 7^th 2004. W. Bro. Wayne White, the Worshipful Master of Espanola Lodge and W. Bro. Stephen Fleming, the Worshipful Master of Nickel Lodge each presented V.W. Bro. Bright with a plaque to recognize his achievement.

Unfortunately; most of the visiting Brethren did stay for the Lodge Meeting. R.W. Bro. John Hodder who hails from Doric Lodge No. 455 in Little Current made a brief but wonderful presentation on how his Lodge had recently conducted two “Friend to Friend Nights” that has attracted six new applications and possibly four more. The Lodge had not elected and installed a Secretary in June of 2012. In November, Bro. Hodder took on the responsible and was Installed as Secretary. After a review of the Lodge finances and Membership Roll it became apparent to him that the Lodge needed to do something to attract new members or it would no longer be a viable operation.

They prepared a formal invitation on quality paper and sent them to male relatives of present and former members as well as several good citizens in the communities in the eastern and central Manitoulin Island. They left the western portion of the Island to the members of Gore Bay Lodge. They informed the attendees about the various aspects of Masonry and it’s involvement in the Community. They explained the purpose of various items in the Lodge Room.  (South) 

Prepared by R.W. Bro. Robert South, District Historian 2013-2016

At Grand Lodge in July, R.W. Rob Fleming of Nickel Lodge, was appointed President of the MASONICh.I.P. Corporation and Bro. Mike Lalonde, also of Nickel Lodge, became the Administrator for the MASONICh.I.P. Ontario. (Nickel Lodge Summons for September – South)

Showing the high esteem in which the Grand Master holds the Masons of this District, he appointed seven members to eleven Grand Lodge Committees as follows:

R.W. Bro. Koivu – Audit and Finance, Masonic Education, Masonic Foundation;

R.W. Bro. Khoury – Blood Donors, Protocol and Etiquette; R.W. Bro. Fleming – MASONICh.I.P. (President); R.W. Bro. Chung – Lodge Resources -Friend to Friend; R.W. Bro. Gillespie – Building Infrastructure; W. Bro. Lipic – Office Technology, Web Site; Bro. Lalonde – MASONICh.I.P.

Sudbury-Manitoulin District recognized – Friendship Lodge for winning the Journeyman’s Award, Doric Lodge for winning the W.J.C. Noble Blood Donors Award, and Bethel Lodge for winning the Joe Lesser Attendance Award. (Around & About September 2013)

The Sudbury Multicultural & Folk Arts Association successfully sponsored R.W. Bro. Saliem Khoury   in his winning a Diamond Jubilee 60th Anniversary of the Queen Reign in July.

(He received congratulations from M.W. Bro. D. Garry Dowling P.G.M.) (email from R.W. Bro. Khoury)

On Thursday morning, October 31, 2013, the members of Doric Lodge No. 455 in Little Current will hold (held) their first “Java Manitoulin” commencing at ten o’clock.  (Doric Lodge Summons)

In November, we learned that R.W. Bro. Keith I. Jordan’s District Project for 2012-2013 had raised $8,000.00 to “Help to Feed the Hungry”and it was distributed as follows.

Sudbury Food Bank- $6,000.00, Espanola Food Bank   $1,000.00 and the Manitoulin Food Bank received $1,000.00.  (email from R.W. Bro. Jordan- Thanking those who supported the Project)

Finnish Ambassador Charles Murto, along with (R.W. Bro.) Brian Koivu (Algonquin Lodge No. 536), president of the Sudbury Finnish Rest Home Society, presented the Order of the Lion of Finland to (Bro.) Gerry Lougheed Jr. (Nickel Lodge No. 427) at Finlandia Village, 233 Fourth Ave, in the new Voima Hall. The Order of the Lion of Finland is one of three official orders in Finland. It was founded on Sept. 11, 1942 and is awarded for civilian and military merit. (The Sudbury Star.com- November 14^th -with amendments) 

On January 7^th, 2014, National Lodge held their last evening meeting and last meeting in February and March. Grand Lodge had approved their By-Law changes. They would have a “Winter-Call-Off” for those two months and would be open during July and August. Their next Regular meeting would be on Tuesday, April 1, 2014, at 9:30 A.M. (Email from R.W. Bro. Keith I. Jordan – Lodge Secretary)

MASONS HELPING MASONS Belrock Update

                                                                 by W. Bro. Roger Kitching P.M. Friendship Lodge No. 691

The chairs in the Belrock Masonic Centre Lodge room have required many welding repairs and lots of T.L.C. over the last few years. The Sudbury-Manitoulin District membership is fortunate to have Bro. John Brown and Bro. Alan Fey in our membership. Rameses Shriners of Toronto had sold their building on Keele Street and the chairs in the Craft Lodge room located in the Temple building contained theatre styled chairs that were donated to Zeta Shamrock Lodge #533 by W. Bro. Henry Herbert Memorial Trust Fund.

Bro. Brown’s son and Bro. Fey’s brother-in-law James Brown was recently installed as the Worshipful Master of Zeta Shamrock Lodge. A generous offer by Zeta Shamrock Lodge to donate their lodge room chairs to Belrock was gratefully accepted by the Belrock Temple Board. Brethren from the Sudbury-Manitoulin District travelled to Weston Lodge and received a Plaque from W. Bro. James Brown indicating the donation of the chairs to Zeta Shamrock Lodge and now to the Belrock Masonic Centre. The chairs were removed from the lodge room by members from the Zeta Shamrock Lodge along with members from Sudbury-Manitoulin District. The transportation of the chairs to Belrock was made possible by the very generous donation of a transport truck from the Northern Academy of Transportation Training by Bro. Kevin Pattison of Friendship Lodge No. 691. The chairs will be installed during the July/August Call-Off.  (Around and About – January [with editing] )

The Brethren of Espanola Lodge No. 527; over the past year, have been hard at work in preparing for their 100 year Celebration. The members have built new steps at the back of the building to meet the fire inspection code. In the basement they remove the old stage and all of its contents. In the Lodge room; all the drywall cracks have been fixed and painted, all the lights have been replaced and installed a new suspended ceiling. (With some editing, a report by W. Bro. Brad Bracken, W.M. – Espanola Lodge in – Around and About March 2014.)

W. Bro. James Brown the Worshipful Master of Zeta-Shamrock Lodge No. 410 attended the Friendship Lodge Installation on February 8th 2014. As previously reported, his Lodge had donated their lodge room chairs to the Belrock Masonic Centre. In appreciation for their generous donation a commemorative plaque was presented to W. Bro. Brown.

[The inscription on the plaque is as follows: “IN APPRECIATION TO ZETA-SHAMROCK LODGE NO. 410 AND W. BRO. HENRY HERBERT TRUST FUND THE BELROCK MASONIC CENTRE AND THE BELROCK MASONIC TEMPLE CORPORATION EXTEND THEIR APPRECIATION FOR THE GENEROUS DONATION OF LODGE ROOM CHAIRS. YOUR GENEROUS DONATION WILL BENEFIT SIX CRAFT LODGES AND ALL THE CONCORDANT BODIES THAT MEET AT THE BELROCK MASONIC CENTRE.] (With some editing – Around and About March 2014.)

With the amendment to their By-Laws to become a Daylight Lodge with Meetings being held in the months of July and August, National Lodge brought a new Dress Code to Sudbury-Manitoulin District. Brethren attending these meetings are now able to take advantage of a change to our Constitution. “During the months of July and August dress pants and shirt would be appropriate.  Shorts and jeans are not appropriate dress.”

(Email from R.W. Bro. Keith I. Jordan – National Lodge Secretary)

(They no longer meet in January, February or March. – South)

The spring of 2014; witnessed the passing of our District Newsletter for many years “Around and About” which had become an integral part of the history of Sudbury-Manitoulin District. We can only imagine the many hours of work provided by R.W. Bro. Allan Burns in its creation and circulation. It had been a valuable source of information. Thank you, R.W. Burns  (South).

This Masonic year commenced on Thursday morning of July 17^th with the investiture of our District Deputy Grand Master – R.W. Bro. David A. Hodgins, CD, FCF. With the release of the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Trestle Board for 2014-2015, he has had many inquires as to what the CD and FCF mean. On the occasion of his Official Visit to his home Lodge- Espanola No. 527 on December 3^rd, his address provided the answers.

“CD is a post-nominal which refers to the Canadian Armed Forces Decoration for Long Service and Good Conduct. It is awarded to officers and Non-Commissioned Members of the Canadian Armed Forces who have completed twelve years of service. A post-nominal means the recipient may use the initials CD after his name.”

The “FCF is an appellation which indicates a Fellow of the College of Freemasonry. This is a designation that a Brother achieves upon the completion of the Masonic Arts & Science Course as offered through the College of Freemasonry. The Past Masters Course which contains six Distant Learning Course modules. This course is a Constitutional requirement for anyone aspiring to become a District Deputy Grand Master. Those six modules, plus a remaining eleven make up the Masonic Arts & Science Course. The appellation FCF may be used on all Masonic correspondence.”

Some may ask, why did he use the CD initials after his name in Masonic circles?  R.W. Bro. Hodgins went onto explain; “the CD post-nominal to remind” us “of the influence that the military has had on the spread of Masonry, especially in Canada.” Included in his address, was the following item of history as to the start of Masonry in Canada.  “Erasmus James Philips” “was an Ensign, or Junior Officer, in the British military and was initiated into Masonry in Boston in 1737. He holds the honour of introducing Freemasonry into what is now Canada, when founding a lodge under a Boston warrant at Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia in June 1738. In the years that followed, before and during the War of 1812, the spread of the Craft here was largely due to the enthusiasm and pertinacity of the members of the Military Lodges. They held warrants called “travelling” or “ambulatory” warrants which permitted them to hold meetings under proper conditions wherever the Regiment or Unit happened to be stationed, whether that posting was temporary or not. In many cases stationary Lodges became established in these distant garrison towns and cantonments, and when the military units moved on, these Lodges remained and some flourish to this day.”

(Some of the above historical writings are not actually incidents occurring in Sudbury-Manitoulin District; but they do provide some insight into Canadian History and Masonry.  The above item was provided to me; due to my inquiry to R.W. Bro. Hodgins, about the initials. His address was edited for historical purposes. South)

At 6:00 P.M. on Saturday September 20^th 2014, the members of Friendship Lodge No. 691 had a dinner in order to recognize the 60 years of Masonic Service of R.W. Bro. Harold Robert Butler, a Past Master of the Lodge and a Past District Deputy Grand Master of Nipissing West District, which eventually evolved to become Sudbury-Manitoulin District.

Following the dinner, the Lodge held an Emergent Meeting.

The lodge was first opened in the 1^st Degree and the called from labour to refreshment to allow Bro. Butler’s wife Dorothy, daughter Brynn and her husband to enter the Lodge Room. Also present were W. Bro. Scott Ryckman, Worshipful Master of The Rising Sun Lodge in Aurora, and his Lodge’s Secretary, W. Bro. Michael Redman. R.W. Bro. David Hodgins and W. Bro. John Miszczak, the Worshipful Master of the Lodge presented R.W. Bro. Butler with a Grand Lodge lapel pin in accordance with the appropriate Grand Lodge ceremony. W. Bro. Miszczak then presented him with an updated Veteran Jubilee Medal with an attached ribbon bearing “60” years.  W. Bro. Miszczak and R.W. Bro. Saliem J. Khoury gave R.W. Bro. Butler a granite plaque on behalf of the Lodge. The plaque had the square and compass, his name and 60 years inscribed on it.

The guests were then escorted from the Lodge Room and the Lodge resumed labour.

R.W. Bro. Butler was escorted to the altar and accorded Grand Honours – seven times. (V. W. Bro. Brian Stoddart – Friendship Lodge Secretary – with some editing.)

At the Regular Meeting of Espanola Lodge No. 527 held on April 1^st 2015, there was a celebration for its members having acquired a “Lewis Jewel”, recognizing the membership of fathers and sons as “Brothers” in the Lodge. The Lodge at that time had 28 recipients and have two more members to be recognized. 

April 25^th marked the celebration of 100 years of Masonry in Espanola. Our Grand Master, the Most Worshipful Brother Donald A. Campbell presided over the rededication with assistance of his Grand Director of Ceremonies and Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies. Member of the Board of General Purposes, and our Districts – R.W. Bro. Brian Koivu presided as Grand Chaplain during the ceremony. The Lodge was filled with Brethren from across the District. V.W. Bro. Fred Bright, a dual member of Nickel and Espanola Lodges was recognized for his valuable assistance to each Lodge and that he was only two years younger than Espanola Lodge.

As in the past; sister Lodges and individuals donated items of gilded regalia. The choice of items to donate was very limited due to the frugal-ness of the Espanola Lodge members. Nickel Lodge No. 427 donated the Deacons wand tops. Gore Bay Lodge No. 472 provided the tops for the Stewards wands. Friendship Lodge No. 699 gave the “square and compasses” for the V.O.S.L. to the Lodge. R.W. Bro. Robert South and Mrs. Peggy South donated the Director of Ceremonies Wand. Algonquin Lodge No. 536 and National Lodge No. 588 each made generous monetary donations to the Lodge. This last bit of information was announced at the reception and banquet held at the Pinewood Inn held in the evening. A very large turn-out of Masons and Ladies attended this event to celebrate the anniversary. A Certificate expressing “congratulations” on achieving it’s 100^th Anniversary” was received from the Premier of Ontario – Kathleen Wynne. Carol Hughes, M.P. for Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing attended and presented a Certificate “In recognition of” “100 years of service to the local and worldwide communities” along with a personal letter. Michael Mantha, MPP for Algoma-Manitoulin attended and presented a Certificate recognizing “the contribution” the “Lodge makes” that is “greatly valued by the Espanola and Manitoulin Island communities.” Along with a personal letter of congratulations. (South, along with excerpts from the Lodge’s “THE FIRST HUNDRED YEARS” history book )

In the latter half of May, the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Newsletter – “Around and About” was resurrected by W. Bro. Ryan Lipic, the Worshipful Master of Friendship Lodge.                               

Chaired by V.W. Bro. Clive D. Stephenson, Past Grand Steward of our Grand Lodge and assisted by his Committee on Arrangements – Members of various Lodges within the District; Members and Guests on the Friday evening of May 29^th, celebrated a “Reception and Banquet in Honour of our Grand Master – M.W. Bro. Donald A. Campbell at the Holiday Inn on Regent Street in Sudbury. (South)

On the Friday evening of June 26^th, Nickel Lodge No. 427 recognized two members by celebrating the 60 year memberships in Masonry of W. Bro. Grant Boyce and Bro. Jack Kallio. Family and friends were invited to a dinner in the Belrock Masonic Centre Banquet Room. After the dinner, everyone was invited into the Lodge Room to witness and participate in the presentation of 60 pins and certificates. Bro. Kallio was pinned by his son Bro. Jack with his 60 year button on Jack and Mrs. Joanne Boyce pinned W. Bro. Boyce with his 60 year button. There were 44 Masons and 35 Visitors in attendance. Bro. Gary Bate of Sudbury Lodge No. 658 accompanied the visitors; who were not Freemasons, outside the Lodge room. The Lodge held an Emergent Meeting; at which this time W. Bro. Boyce and Bro. Kallio were accorded Grand Honors three times. (R.W. Bro. Robert J. Fleming – Secretary of Nickel Lodge)

The 2015-16 Masonic year commenced on Thursday morning of July16​th with the investiture of our District Deputy Grand Master – R.W. Bro. Clive D. Stephenson. (South)

In October, the D.D.G.M.​authorized the creation ​of the Sudbury–Manitoulin District “blog” found at http://sudburymanitoulinmasons.blogspot.ca/  and http://sudburymanitoulinmasons.blogspot.ca/2015/09/district-deputy-grand-master-clive-d.html

It has been difficult in recent years to have a District Newsletter produced, so hopefully this will provide a means to circulate information pertaining to Masonic events that have occurred in our District. It also circulates copies of the D.D.G.M.’s Presentation at his Official Visit’s. His theme for the year dealt with membership, attendance and participation. Our D.D.G.M. hopes this communication will encourage members to attend Lodge.  (South)

He thanked W. Bro. Roger Kitching (Friendship Lodge No. 691 and Bro. Ray Thoms (Sudbury Lodge No. 658) for their efforts with regard to their work on the “blog”.   (W. Bro. Reijo Luoma – District Secretary)

The 2015 District Veterans Appreciation Night was sponsored by Nickel Lodge on Friday, November 6​th​. 

On May 10​^th​, Doric Lodge No. 455, recognized their 70 year member, Bro. Samuel Andrew Watson.  The Lodge having been opened in the First Degree and then “Called from Labour to Refreshment”, the Watson Family and friends along with a reporter from the local newspaper were invited in. The Worshipful Master, Bro. Mike Maciuk, welcomed everyone. R.W. Bro. Keith Legge, P.D.D.G.M. introduced W. Bro. Watson and his family and gave a summary of Bro. Watson’s “Journey in Masonry” as well as details of Masonry. 

Lodge Secretary, R.W. Bro. John Hodder, P.D.D.G.M. presented him with a plaque with the following inscription:  “Doric Lodge No 455 presents to Samuel Andrew Watson in Recognition of seventy years of service to this lodge.”

R.W. Bro. Clive Stephenson presented W. Bro. Watson with his seventy year pin. Two other members of Doric Lodge were to receive their 50 year membership pins and one Brother was to receive his 60 year pin. Due to poor health and another commitment, they were not able to attend. 

(R.W. Bro. John Hodder, the Sudbury – Manitoulin District “blog” and information from The Manitoulin Expositor. )

For many years, Espanola Lodge has held their Regular Meeting on the first Wednesday of the month. This conflicted with Nickel Lodge’s Regular Meeting. recently, Nickel Lodge has re-scheduled it’s December Regular Meeting and Espanola Lodge has done the same with its March  Regular Meeting in order to attend the other Lodge’s Official Visits.  In May, a Notice of Motion was presented “to change the regular meeting from the 1st Wednesday of the month to the 3^rd Wednesday of the month.” (Espanola Lodge – June Summons) 

At the District Meeting held in Little Current on Monday June 6​^th​, a presentation of a sixty year Grand Lodge medal, pin and certificate was made to Sudbury Lodge member Bro. Douglas Alexander (Sandy) Buchan by the Worshipful Master, Bro. Stan Waltenbury, V.W. Bro. Douglas Ashick and R.W. Bro. Clive D. Stephenson. A short thank you was given by his daughter,Vanessa Jo Woods.

A motion which had been made by R.W. Bro. J. David Innes and seconded by W. Bro. Paavo Liukko, that “whereas the members of the District do not support in any meaningful way, the District Divine Service held twice a year in the District;” “that the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Masons henceforth discontinue the practice of holding any Divine Services.” “Following a discussion there was a vote and the motion was carried.”  (from the Minutes of the District Meeting – June 6​th​ 2016)

While R.W. Bro. Clive David Stevenson was attending to his duties at Grand Lodge as our District Deputy Grand Master; information was received that he, in his capacity of Ill. Bro.​ ​Clive Stephenson​, ​33° of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite,​ ​had been selected to be a recipient of York Rite’s highest award; the prestigious Order of the Purple Cross. Apparently, this award will be presented to twelve members from Canada including six from Ontario.  (with some editing-  Ill. Bro.  J.E. (Jim) Anderson 33°, Grand Secretary, Valley of Barrie, A.A.S.R)

Prepared by V.W. Bro. Wayne Quinn, District Historian 2016-2017

On Wednesday July 20^th, W. Bro. Jason B. Ashley of Algonquin Lodge No. 536 was elected District Deputy Grand Master for Sudbury-Manitoulin District. He announced the appointment of W. Bro. Mervyn Lees as the District Secretary.

During the summer, major repairs were completed on the roof of the Belrock Masonic Centre.

On September 14^th, R.W. Bro. Jason Ashley attended Friendship Lodge No. 691 on the occasion of a Fraternal Visit at which time he presented the Lodge with the W.J. Noble Blood Donors Award recognizing the support that the Lodge had given to the Canadian Blood Services program during the 2015-2016 Masonic year. He then read and presented the 2016-2018 Cornerstone Lodge Designation Certificate to W. Bro. Pattison and congratulated the Lodge on maintaining that designation for another term.

On September 19^th, R.W. Bro. Jason Ashley attended Sudbury Lodge No. 658 on the occasion of a Fraternal Visit at which time V.W. Bro. Gary R. Cayen was invested as the Grand Junior Deacon for our Grand Lodge.

On October 5^th, R.W. Bro. Jason Ashley attended Nickel Lodge No. 427 on the occasion of a Fraternal Visit at which time V.W. Bro. Reijo Luoma was invested as a Grand Steward for our Grand Lodge

On October 14^th, R.W. Bro. Jason Ashley attended Bethel Lodge No. 699 on the occasion of his Official Visit at which time he presented the Lodge with the Joseph Lessor Attendance Award for the 2015-2016 Masonic year.

On November 4^th, Friendship Lodge No. 691 hosted the Veteran’s Appreciation Night at the Belrock Masonic Centre. (as recorded on the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Blog)

On January 4^th 2017 -W. Bro. Rodd Junkala, the Worshipful Master of Espanola Lodge No. 527 presented W. Bro. Douglas Bracken a certificate to recognize his 50 years a Mason, along with a pin and the Jubilee Medal which may be worn in Lodge. (as recorded on the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Blog with additional information provided by R.W. Bro. Rudolph P.N. Mulack – Lodge Historian)

On Saturday May 13^th 2017; our Grand Master, M.W. Bro. John C. Green presided over the Ceremony of Dedication of Algonquin Lodge No. 536 Centennial Celebration. With the Passing to the Grand Lodge Above of R.W. Bro. Jason Ashley our D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. Clive D. Stephenson was appointed to complete his duties and assist in the ceremonies. A banquet was held to celebrate the event, that evening.

Each year in June, Branch 177 Little Current and Branch 514, Western Manitoulin alternate hosting a special day to pay homage to the men and women who served in our country’s forces and those of our allies. Through their courage and sacrifice, these men and women have helped to ensure that we live in freedom and peace, while also fostering the same around the world. Masons join together to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice. (as recorded on the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Blog)

(The following is based on information provided in the Minutes of the District Meeting held on Monday, November 7^th 2016.)

Prepared by R.W. Bro. Robert South, District Historian 2017-2018

On Wednesday July 19^th 2017, W. Bro. Rejean Daigle of Sudbury Lodge No. 658 was elected District Deputy Grand Master for Sudbury-Manitoulin District. He announced the appointment of W. Bro. Allan Hill as the District Secretary.

The Belrock Masonic Centre was the beneficiary from the Estate of the late R.W. Bro. Jason C. Ashley with the purchase and installation of a new floor in the Lodge Room during the summer call-off.

On or about August 13^th, R. W. Bro. Keith I. Jordan was asked to write a short paragraph about National Lodge No. 588 to forward with the $20,000.00 cheque for their Legacy donation to the Maison McCulloch Hospice in Sudbury.

95 YEARS OF MASONIC TRADITIONS IN THE TOWN OF CAPREOL

MASONIC LODGES ARE FRATERNAL ORGANIZATIONS WITH THE PURPOSE OF MAKING GOOD MEN BETTER.

FEBRUARY 13TH, 1919 A NUMBER OF BUSINESS AND RAILROAD MEN MET AT ROSSMAN’S HALL TO DISCUSS WAYS AND MEANS TOWARDS STARTING A LODGE OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS IN CAPREOL. SUBSEQUENT MEETINGS FOLLOWED, WHEN IT WAS DECIDED TO GO AHEAD WITH A BUILDING WITH STORES BELOW FOR RENTAL AND THE MASONIC HALL ABOVE.

FOR THIS PURPOSE A STOCK COMPANY WAS FORMED AND WAS KNOWN AS “NATIONAL TEMPLE COMPANY.” A PETITION WAS SIGNED BY A NUMBER OF MASONS AND SUBMITTED TO THE GRAND LODGE OF CANADA IN THE PROVINCE OF ONTARIO, PRAYING FOR A DISPENSATION. ON SEPTEMBER 7TH, 1922 R. W. BRO. J. A. SMITH, ASSISTED BY GRAND LODGE OFFICERS FROM NORTH BAY AND SUDBURY PERFORMED THE CEREMONIES OF:

CONSTITUTING, CONSECRATING, & DEDICATING NATIONAL LODGE # 588

FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS THE LODGE GREW AND HAD A MEMBERSHIP TOTAL OF 191 UNTIL THE MINE CLOSURE AND RAILWAY CUTS IN THE LATE 1990’S. UNABLE TO SURVIVE ON ITS OWN, THE LODGE MOVED INTO THE BELROCK MASONIC CENTRE, SUDBURY. DECLINING NUMBERS CONTINUED TO PLAGUE THE LODGE AND RECENTLY A NOTICE OF MOTION WAS PRESENTED TO “GO DARK”. THE OUTCOME WILL BE KNOWN IN THE NEXT MONTH OR TWO. (from the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Blog)

(R.W. Bro. Jordan was well known for his use of upper case typing – R.W. Bro. Robert South)

At the September 5^th Meeting of National Lodge No. 588, R.W. Bro. Daigle presented the Lodge with the Joseph Lessor Attendance Award for the year 2016-2017.

W. Bro. Clair Rouse presented the D.D.G.M. with National Lodge’s $500.00 contribution to the District charity: Mainson McCulloch Hospice.

A Mason’s charity should no bounds – and R. W. Bro. Keith I. Jordan presented a cheque in the amount of $500.00 on behalf of the brethren of National Lodge to the Canadian Red Cross for the Houston Flood Victims.

Prior to the September 6^th Meeting of Nickel Lodge No. 427, Mayor Brian Bigger of The City of Greater Sudbury attended to present the District with his Proclamation that the day was “Freemason’s Day” and “in recognition of our shared history, and urge my fellow citizens to recognize the crucial role played by these members of our community.” This was part of the celebration to recognize the 300^th Anniversary of the United Grand Lodge of England.

At the September 19^th Meeting of Algonquin Lodge No. 536, V.W. Bro. Mervyn C. Lees was invested with his Grand Steward’s regalia.

At National Lodge’s October 3^rd, meeting, the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Clair Rouse presented Bro. Alan Fey, a Sudbury-Manitoulin District MASONICh.I.P. Committee Chairman, with a cheque for $2,000 to cover ongoing costs.

He presented the D.D.G.M., R. W. Bro. Daigle with their Annual Contribution to the CTV/Lions Children’s Christmas Telethon.

After Lodge, the brethren retreated to the Java Guild where W. Bro. Rouse presented the Chairman of the Temple Board, W. Bro. Benson Mullen, with a cheque in the amount of $2650.00. It was to cover both the cost of a Defibrillator to be located on the Banquet Room Level and the cost of a training course to help train the brethren of our district. He, being a former Ontario Fire Marshal is very passionate about this issue.

This year’s Veterans Appreciation Night was held on Friday, November 3^rd. It was hosted by Sudbury Lodge No. 658 at Belrock Masonic Temple. Preceded by an Eastern Star dinner, there was a presentation by Major Wiss followed by a ceremony in the lodge room. A second guest, a retired sergeant of the Sudbury Police force, participated in the ceremony with the placing of the roses.

National Lodge No. 588 had their last regular meeting on Tuesday, November 7th. It was a fun and upbeat meeting. The masonic education was the reading the Friendship Lodge No. 691 Master’s Message as published in the November summons.

On Tuesday November 14^th Ms. M. Ashley; the widow of R.W. Bro. Jason B. Ashley, attended the Belrock Temple Board Meeting to view a plaque commemorating the donation of the new floor.

It is inscribed as follows:

“The floor in this lodge room was made possible by
a generous donation from
R.W. Bro. Jason B. Ashley
District Deputy Grand Master of the Sudbury-Manitoulin
District 2016-2017
Masonry and its teachings were the moral pillars of his life,
Which sustained him to the end.”

National Lodge No. 588 held their last Emergent Meeting on Thursday November 30^th. It was a very melancholy moment as many witnessed the Extinguishing of Lights Ceremony. Several heart- warming stories were told. As W. Bro. David Spencer, the Worshipful Master of Sudbury Lodge No. 658 wrote, “[a]s Lodges and individual Masons we are now called to shine that bit brighter.”

Before Lodge began on January 15^th, 2018, W. Bro. Cartman, the District Committee Chairman for Blood Donors, initiated a presentation by Canadian Blood Services. Information on the great need for more donors was given and many questions were answered. The intent is to try to present to all the lodges in the Sudbury-Manitoulin District, and then to try to coordinate two clinics that we would be hosting. The next presentation would be at the clinic in Espanola and then the remaining lodges.

Friendship Lodge No. 691 was proud to host a dinner to celebrate the 50th Jubilee of R. W. Bro. Claire Bracken as a Mason. This dinner was held at Belrock Masonic Centre on April 25, 2018 followed by a presentation in the lodge.

Monday, May 14th marked the day of the final closing of Sudbury Lodge No. 658 ahead of their amalgamation with Algonquin Lodge No. 536. The two Lodges after the amalgamation would become one and would be known as City of Lakes Lodge No. 536. On Tuesday June 12^th the Lodge Initiated it’s first candidate, Mr. Chance Counsel. 

M.W. Bro. Paul E. Todd officiated at the Amalgamation Ceremony of Algonquin Lodge No. 536 and Sudbury Lodge No. 658 on Saturday May 26^th, 2018. Each amalgamation Ceremony is made up by the G.M. presiding, who refers to previous ones by others. The one that was used this night has been used only a handful of times. The way the ceremony was changed was described, and the result seems to have been a good experience for all. M.W. Bro. Paul E. Todd was accompanied by several Grand Lodge Officers.

Thursday, June 14th, 2018, marked the last Gore Bay Lodge No 472’s Installation and Investiture of Officers ceremony in the 15 Agnes Street building. Their building had been sold and would be moving into rental accommodation in the fall.

At the District Meeting at Grand Lodge on July 18^th, R.W. Bro. Rejean Daigle announced that R.W. Bro. Brian V. Koivu had been appointed President of the Masonic Foundation and that R.W. J. David Bell both Past Masters of Algonquin Lodge No. 536 had been awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. He reported that Bethel Lodge No. 699 had won the Joseph Lessor Attendance Award, Algonquin Lodge No. 536 had won the W.J.C. Noble Blood Donors award, and that Friendship Lodge No. 691 had won the Journeyman Award.

(The following is based on information provided by the District Secretary – W. Bro. Allan Hill)

District Chaplain’s Report – 2017-2018

V.W. Bro. William Peter Spek Nickel Lodge No. 427
Initiated: February 27th, 1963
Passed: May 22nd, 1963
Raised: September 18th, 1963
Passed to the Grand Lodge above: August 16th, 2017

V.W. Bro. Frederick William Bright Nickel Lodge No. 427
Initiated: May 13th, 1953
Passed: October 14th, 1953
Raised: January 20th, 1954
Passed to the Grand Lodge above: February 5, 2018

V.W. Bro. Brian Keith Hester Gore Bay Lodge No. 472
Initiated: March 4th , 1970
Passed: May 6th 1970
Raised: April 5th, 1972
Passed to the Grand Lodge above: November 2nd, 2017

W. Bro. Glen McDougall Gore Bay Lodge No. 472
Passed to the Grand Lodge above: November 19th, 2017

Bro. James Ferguson Gore Bay Lodge No. 472
Passed to the Grand Lodge above: May 8th, 2018

W. Bro. Kenneth Marvin Streich Espanola Lodge No. 527
Initiated: March 6th, 1973
Passed: May 1st 1973
Raised: October 18th , 1973
Passed to the Grand Lodge above: September 22nd, 2017

Bro. T. Masson Espanola Lodge No. 527
Initiated: October 4th, 2006
Passed: March 7th, 2007
Raised: February 2nd, 2011
Passed to the Grand Lodge above: December 15th, 2017

W. Bro. John Clark Espanola Lodge No. 527
Initiated: January 5th, 1977
Passed: February 1st, 1978
Raised: April 5th, 1978
Passed to the Grand Lodge above: January 4th, 2018

W. Bro. D. Allen Espanola Lodge No. 527
Initiated: May 8th, 1984
Passed: June 12nd, 1984
Raised: October 9th, 1984
Passed to the Grand Lodge above: February26th, 2018

Bro. B. Wilson Espanola Lodge No. 527
Initiated: October 3rd, 1973
Passed: February 6th, 1974
Raised: March 6th, 1974
Passed to the Grand Lodge above: March 20th, 2018

Bro. Gordon Vernon Campbell Sudbury Lodge No. 658
Initiated: November 18th, 1968
Passed: March 24nd, 1969
Raised: June 23rd, 1969
Passed to the Grand Lodge above: February 11th, 2018

Prepared by R.W. Bro. Robert South, District Historian 2018-2019

On Wednesday July 18^th, 2018, W. Bro. Paavo Eric Liukko of Nickel Lodge No. 427 was elected District Deputy Grand Master for Sudbury-Manitoulin District. Prior to rushing off to have his photograph taken as required by Grand Lodge, he announced the appointment of W. Bro. Thomas E. King as the District Secretary.

Brethren, who attended Grand Lodge learned that Bro. John Leonard of Nickel Lodge No. 427 was a Piper at the entrance of Grand Lodge Officers.

In September, we learned that R.W. Bro. Rob Fleming of Nickel Lodge had been appointed President of the MASONICh .I.P. Foundation, for his fourth term.  (South)

On Saturday September 8^th, Espanola Lodge No. 527 held an Awards Dinner to recognize the many years of service to the Craft. After the Dinner the Brethren attended the Lodge Room. The Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Robert J. Akkanen and R. W. Bro. Pavvo E. Liukko presented W. Bro W. Bro. Grant Moody his 60 years of service pin and a certificate. W. Bros. Eric Morphet and Claude Gervais each received 25 years of service pins and certificates. W. Bro. Robert Mckitrick and Bro. Theodore Giannini were to be presented with 50 years of service pins and certificates but unfortunately could not make it to the ceremony. These items will be presented to them at a later date. (South – assisted by W. Bro. Claude Gervais)

At the City of Lakes Lodge No. 536 held on Tuesday September 11^th, V.W. Bro. Alan R. Hill was invested with his Grand Steward’s regalia. Immediate P.D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. Rejean Daigle presented the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. David M. Squarzolo with the Cornerstone Lodge Certificate.  (Sudbury-Manitoulin District Masons Blog)

At the September 11^th Meeting of Doric Lodge No. 455; Bro. Blair Sullivan was honoured with the presentation of a 70-year pin by R.W. Bro. Paavo Liukko and with a plaque noting his singular accomplishment as a Masonic member whose service spans seven decades. He is a Veteran of World War 2. (Sudbury-Manitoulin District Blog and the Manitoulin Expositor)

“From Time Immemorial”, the Official Visit of the District Deputy Grand Master of Sudbury-Manitoulin District to Espanola Lodge No. 527, had been held at the Regular Meeting of the Lodge in December. Occasionally, the Official Visit had been pre-empted by snowstorms. This year, the Official Visit was held at the October Meeting.

The Gore Bay Lodge No. 472 Official Visit happened on November 8, 2018 R.W. Bro. Liukko witnessed an Initiation. It was also the first meeting held in the new lodge room in the renovated Old Fire Hall.

Though the Official Visit of the District Deputy Grand Master of Sudbury-Manitoulin District to Bethel Lodge No. 699, had been scheduled for the October Meeting, a power outage postponed it until the November Regular Meeting Night. R.W. Bro. Paavo Eric Liukko presented several awards and witnessed the exemplification of a Passing. (Sudbury-Manitoulin District Blog – with some editing)

Many years ago; sometime prior to February 21^st, 1980, a Grand Master of our Grand Lodge, decreed that it was permissible for the Order of the Eastern Star to meet in the Lodge room, should the Brethren wish to allow it. I have attended hundreds of Eastern Star meetings all over Ontario and most met in a Masonic Lodge Room.

In the 1980’s; a Member of Manitoulin Chapter O.E.S. had donated the property to the Brethren of Gore Bay Lodge No. 472 to erect a new building. The Lodge would allow the O.E.S. Chapter to hold their meetings in the Lodge Room, with one exception. The Chapter was not allowed to hold “Open Installations” in the Lodge Room. Rumour has it, that the Brethren of the Lodge did not wish to have a candidate for the Lodge view the interior of the Lodge Room, before his Initiation. It was with great interest that I read a Notice of Motion (by a Past Master) in the Lodge Summons for February 2019, “That the Gore Bay Lodge #472 hold an open house to our Lodge and invite our spouses and family members, and members of the public sometime in the spring of 2019.” (R. W. Bro. Robert South – District Historian)

On Friday May 24^th, 2019, the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Masters Masters & Wardens Association hosted a Reception and Banquet in honour of Most Worshipful Brother Paul E. Todd, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Canada in the Province of Ontario. (Sudbury-Manitoulin District Blog – with some editing)

District Chaplain’s Report – 2018-2019

W. Bro. Grant Edwin Boyce Nickel Lodge No. 427
Roll# 978
Initiated: August 4th 1954
Passed: November 3rd 1954
Raised: March 23rd 1955
Worshipful Master: 2002
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: October 17th 2018

W. Bro. Russell A. Dever Nickel Lodge No. 427
Roll # 1344
Initiated: November 18th 1981
Passed: February 3rd 1982
Raised: April 7th 1982
Worshipful Master: 1989
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: February 22nd 2019

Bro. Jacob Verner (Jack) Kallio Nickel Lodge No. 427
Roll # 970
Initiated: April 7th 1954
Passed: June 9th 1954
Raised: September 15th 1954
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: March 14th 2019

Bro. Wilfred Leppanen Nickel Lodge No. 427
Roll # 913
Initiated: January 9th 1952
Passed: March 19th 1952
Raised: June 18th 1952
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: August 7th 2012

Bro. George M. Nelson Nickel Lodge No. 427
Roll # 1420
Initiated: May 19th 1994
Passed: January 6th 1999
Raised: May 19th 1999
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: May 12th 2019

Bro. Edmund J. Thompson Nickel Lodge No. 427
Roll # 1344
Initiated: June 11th 1958
Passed: October 8th 1958
Raised: April 22nd 1959
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: December 9th 2018

Bro. David Taylor Doric Lodge No. 455
Initiated: March 8th 1988
Passed: April 12th 1988
Raised: November 8th 1988
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: March 6th 2019

Bro. Andrew S Watson Doric Lodge No. 455
Initiated: March 12th 1946
Passed: April 23rd 1946
Raised: October 8th 1946
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: January 15th 2019

Bro. Lloyd Wilbert Galbraith Gore Bay Lodge No. 472
Roll # 431
Initiated: October 12th 2000
Passed: May 10th 2001
Raised: September 13th 2001
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: August 25th 2018.

Bro. James Allen Beange Gore Bay Lodge No. 472
Roll # 348
Initiated: March 1st 1975
Passed: May 7th 1975
Raised: June 4th 1975
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: February 5th 2019.

Bro. Edwin Russel Bond Gore Bay Lodge No. 472
Roll # 325
Initiated: January 7th 1970
Passed: April 1st 1970
Raised: November 4th 1970
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: May 7th 2019

Bro. Eldon Bell Espanola Lodge No. 527
Roll # 304
Initiated: April 3rd 1957
Passed: February 5th 1958
Raised: October 21st 1959
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: February 28th 2019

W. Bro. Robert McKitrick Espanola Lodge No. 527
Roll # 346
Initiated: May 5th 1965
Passed: November 3rd 1965
Raised: February 2nd 1966
Worshipful Master: 1969
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: December 9th 2018

Bro. Spencer Wilson Espanola Lodge No. 527
Roll # 372
Initiated: January 19th 1972
Passed: April 5th 1972
Raised: September 20th 1972
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: February 24th 2019

W. Bro. Thomas Clark City of Lakes Lodge No. 536
Initiated: December 18th 1953
Passed: March 16th 1954
Raised: May 11, 1954 (National Lodge No. 588)
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: November 26th 2018

R.W. Bro. Waldo Gundrum City of Lakes Lodge No. 536
Royal City Daylight Lodge No. 742
Initiated: April 19th 1982
Passed: October 31st 1982
Raised: December 27th 1982
Grand Chaplain: 2002
Worshipful Master: 2003
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: December 6th 2018

Bro. George MacKay City of Lakes Lodge No. 536
Initiated: October 7th 1963
Passed: March 23rd 1964
Raised: December 7th 1964 (Sudbury Lodge No. 658)
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: February 25th 2019

V.W. Bro. William R. McKnight City of Lakes Lodge No. 536
Initiated: June 15th 1964
Passed: November 23rd 1964
Raised: May 31st 1965 (Sudbury Lodge No. 658)
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: April 5th 2019

Bro. Fern E Roberts City of Lakes Lodge No. 536
Initiated: February 21st 1950
Passed: March 21st 1950
Raised May 16th 1950 (Prince Lodge No. 109 Grand Lodge of Quebec)
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: January 24th 2019

W. Bro. Charles Hugh Kennedy Bethel Lodge No. 699
Initiated: October 11th 1991
Passed: April 10th 1992
Raised: May 14th 1993
Installed: January 8th 1999
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: July 18th 2018

Bro. Zolman Enchin Bethel Lodge No. 699
Initiated: October 12th 1962
Passed: February 8th 1963
Raised: May 24th 1963
Passed to the Grand Lodge Above: September 16th 2018

            The District Divine Service was held Sunday April 7^th at the Espanola United Church.  A total of 24 Brethren attended, representing 4 different Lodges. Many bringing their wives.  This marked the second year in a row at their very welcoming congregation.   R.W. Bro Daigle spoke about the craft and W. Bro. David Spencer read the Old Testament lessons.  We were invited downstairs for a warm time of fellowship after the service.

Prepared by R.W. Bro. Robert South, District Historian 2019-2021

On Wednesday July 17^th 2019, W. Bro. Robert Lipic of Friendship Lodge No. 691 was elected District Deputy Grand Master for Sudbury-Manitoulin District. He announced the appointment of W. Bro. Ryan Lipic  as the District Secretary.

We would soon learn that W. Bro. Thomas E. King had been appointed a Grand Steward of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Canada in the Province of Ontario.

In September, R.W. Bro. Robert J. Lipic, D.D.G.M. 2019-2020 re-instated the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Freemasons newsletter – titled The Gauge with R.W. Bro. Robert J. Fleming as it’s Editor. 

(R.W. Bro. Robert South)

It was announced that R.W. Bro. Robert J. Lipic’s District Charity Project No. 2679 is the Neo Kids Foundation located at Health Sciences North . The funds will be used purchase vital pieces of equipment, conduct life-changing research and increase awareness for children’s health needs.

Sudbury-Manitoulin District Blog (November Issue)

W. Bro. Lionel Rudd, the Nickel Lodge Winter Clothing Appeal Coordinator requested that the Brethren gather surplus or gently used or new cold weather/winter coats, jackets, parkas, sweaters/warm tops, boots, socks, hats and gloves over the Christmas period. This included men and women’s clothes. He requested that they brought to Java Guild on January 28^th and after lunch they will be taken to the Elgin Street Mission. During the Christmas period, a drop-off box would be located in the lower cloakroom at the Sudbury Masonic Centre. He requested that they be placed in plastic bags and be in a clean, ready to use condition.

Sudbury-Manitoulin District Blog (December Issue)

On Sunday, February 2^nd, 18 people dropped into the Banquet Room at the Belrock Masonic Centre to enjoy watching the 2020 Super Bowl Football Game. 22 pounds of non-perishable food was donated and $75.00 was raised for the Belrock Multimedia Fund.

On Friday, February 14^th; the Grand Senior Warden – R.W. Bro. Graeme A. Boyce and the Grand Junior Warden – R.W. Bro. Mark W. Kapitan, made a special trip to Sudbury to visit Bethel Lodge.

Sudbury-Manitoulin District Blog (February Issue)

During the winter of 2019-2020, our planet faced a deadly disease known as “nova coronavirus” or “COVID-19” and it is believed to have had its’ origin in “Wuhan, China”. It spread so fast across the globe that it was eventually declared a “PANDEMIC”. This virus caused severe acute respiratory problems. Hundreds of thousands of people suffered from it under-went a quarantine period of 14 days. Thousands died. As the disease spread, so did people’s concern about catching it. The streets of Sudbury were described as empty. By March 10^th, at least one man in Sudbury had contracted it while attending Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada convention in Toronto.

In the afternoon of Wednesday March 11^th, W. Bro. Trevor Bracken, the Worshipful Master of Friendship Lodge No. 691 decided it was best to cancel his Lodge Meeting for that evening, Many of the Brethren had advised him that they would not be attending Lodge, as they had expressed   

their concerns about the confirmed case of the COVID-19 virus in Sudbury. Two of the Brethren were planning on making a Masonic Education presentation and it was no longer possible. The COVID-19 virus is more susceptible to those with lower or week immune system‘s and due to the ageing membership of our Brethren he felt it wasn’t not worth the risk. 

(The email from W. Bro. Trevor Bracken that was circulated, and numerous internet sites.)

Subsequent to the above; our Grand Master, M.W. Bro. David J. Cameron communicated to the Brethren in our Grand Lodge Jurisdiction that all Masonic Meetings were cancelled due to COVID-19, until further notice. The Belrock Masonic Centre Board subsequently closed the Centre except for regular inspections in order to maintain the building.

Our Grand Master circulated a letter on May 13^th to advise that “All Grand Lodge Officers, both elected and appointed, will remain in their positions for another year.” This included District Deputy Grand Masters and Grand Stewards.

In another letter dated May 13^th 2020; from our Grand Secretary and Past Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Bro. D. Garry Dowling, he communicated that should any Brother wish to resign his position whether it be an elected or appointed positions in July 2020 will step down as of July 15 2020, a replacement will be named by the Grand Master.

As the date is unknown as to when the resumption of labours and the timing of individual lodge elections and installations, it is not possible to make a blanket statement about Lodge officers remaining in their positions. Each lodge must make it’s own decision. The Grand Secretary provided a list of three options. He also provided other conditions, should a Lodge adopt one of the options he provided. A dispensation would be required should the Lodge change the date of their elections or installation.

Writer’s Note:

As a result of the continuing problems caused by COVID -19 and pursuant to the communication from Grand Lodge in May; R.W. Bro. Robert Lipic, and in most cases, District Officers, Committees and Lodge Officers continued their respective labours. In some cases, Committee of General Purposes Meetings were held virtually. “ZOOM” meetings became the new forum for such events. Occasionally, these types of meetings were held for strictly social purposes.

The sad news of Gore Bay Lodge going dark as of January 1st, 2021, a decision made by the membership this past fall. Despite securing financial stability and a new home, the membership needed more of what matters most to any lodge. Participation and fresh membership. Unfortunately, in today’s world this was not forthcoming despite many attempts to spark interest in the area. We must not forget the long and storied history of this lodge, its members and the community from which they hale. Many great things have come from Gore Bays history and membership and although we are sad to see it go out this way, we must remember the many positive things the lodge has accomplished over the years. We hope to see the members who have affiliated with other lodges soon.

The above addition to the District History is copied; with one minor alteration, from the Sudbury-Manitoulin Masons – Newsletter – January 2021 Edition.

(R.W. Bro. Robert South)

From the Manitoulin Expositor

GORE BAY – With declining membership and with meetings and gatherings curtailed because of the current pandemic, the Gore Bay Masonic Lodge No. 472 (1906-2020) has shut down permanently. Willis Campbell, a member of the Masons, told the Recorder, “membership has been declining for a while now and with COVID-19 we can’t hold meetings, so that put this whole issue on the table. We said, ‘let’s go ahead with what was going to be inevitable.’ So we applied to the Grand Lodge to go dark as of December 31^st, 2020.” Mr. Campbell pointed out, “we have surplus funds on hand with closing down, and these funds have or will be going to four organizations, all good causes: the Gore Bay Medical Clinic, Mindemoya Hospital Auxiliary, Shriners Kids Hospital in Montreal and NEO Kids in Sudbury.

Some members will continue on and affiliate with other lodges in the district,” said Mr. Campbell, noting one member has indicated they will be transferring to the Sudbury Mason and others will be transferring to the Masons in Little Current. He pointed out among the membership, Bro. Beverly McGill is now 101 and he still belongs to the Lodge (despite living in southern Ontario). W. Bro. Aus Hunt of Kagawong is a life member at the age of 95 as of December 28^th. R.W. Bro. Bill Clark of Gordon/Barrie Island has been a Lodge member for 43 years and during that time he has not missed a regular monthly meeting. The Gore Bay Lodge was instituted on May 24^th, 1905, with Dr. J. Johnston serving as Worshipful Master. M. McFadden was the District Deputy Grand Master for the 18^th Masonic District (Algoma). Dr. Johnston had been the final Master of Lodge No. 407, and several other members of that Lodge became charter members of Lodge No. 472. Gore Bay Lodge had had over 450 members in its existence. The Lodge did not receive its charter until July 1906. The Lodge was consecrated on September 4^th, 1906, with the District Deputy Grand Master, R.W. Bro. J.D. Way, in attendance, along with Bro. Quibell, District Chaplain. According to Albert Gallatin MacKay’s ‘The History of Freemasonry: Its Legendary Origins,’ many scholars believe that masonry existed in some form as far back as the construction of King Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem—approximately 559 years before the birth of Christ. Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons established a Lodge No. 407 at Gore Bay in September 1884, and the warrant for this Lodge is dated July 8^th, 1885. Lodge No. 407 operated until the charter was withdrawn on July 15^th, 1893. There are indications that the difficulties of settler living, transportation challenges and the extreme isolations of the lodge with respect to other Ontario lodges (the closest lodges were No. 287 in Thunder Bay and No. 455 in Mattawa) contributed to this first Gore Bay Lodge becoming inactive. However, during its existence, Lodge No. 407 welcomed approximately 47 new members from various walks of life, and from various locations in and around Manitoulin. Mr. Campbell explained, “the Lodge was in the Forester’s Hall until it burned in January, 1907. This incident was a serious blow to the new lodge, although the fact that the lodge had insurance was a major blessing, allowing for a relatively quick recovery.” “The lodge room moved to the second floor of the Gamey Block (above Island Promotions today),” said Mr. Campbell. “In 1920, the Lodge room moved to the third floor of the Gamey Block. The third floor had been a dance hall, but the space became vacant when the new community hall was constructed next door. The stairs became hard to climb and it was decided to build a new lodge building on Agnes Street, which was completed in 1988.” With declining membership and an opportunity to sell and relocate, the Lodge moved to the newly renovated old Gore Bay Fire Hall building on September 1^st, 2018. The late Brian Hester, in his greetings and message outlined in the Lodge Centennial Celebration program (September 9^th, 2006) as V.W. Bro. Hester – the Worshipful Master, read fittingly enough, “our history is of taking good men and making them better—a tradition that can be seen throughout the world for those who are free and accepted Masons. The influence Masonry has on our communities can be seen in our many good deeds. This positive influence would be sadly missed if we did not have Gore Bay Lodge.” True to Mason tradition, members of the Gore Bay Lodge have not trumpeted their charitable works. However, cumulative support for worthy community causes, locally, regionally, and nationally has been substantial.

From the Manitoulin Expositor

GORE BAY – The former Gore Bay Masonic Lodge has made a major donation, one of four to be made in total, the first to the Shriners Kids Hospital in Montreal. “Members of Gore Bay Lodge No. 472 presented the first cheque to Shriners Kids Hospital in Montreal in the amount of $20,000,” stated Willis Campbell, a member of the Haweater Group of the Sudbury Shrine Club and a member of former Gore Bay Lodge No. 472. “There will be another three donations being handed out at a later date, to other worthy organizations.” Scott McDougall, who had been Assistant Secretary of the Masons, presented a cheque in the amount of $20,000 to Shriners Willis Campbell and Bill Clark recently. John Miszczak, President of the Sudbury Shrine Club in a letter to Brian Lawson, of the Rameses Shriners wrote, “Dear Noble Bryan: Enclosed you will find a cheque from Gore Bay Lodge No. 472 for $20,000. We regret to advise you that the Lodge went dark as of January 1^st, 2021. But pleased that the members of Gore Bay Lodge saw fit to make this donation to Shriners Hospitals, in recognition of the good work Shriners do for children and how active the Sudbury Shrine Club and its Manitoulin members are on the Island.”

“For years, the Sudbury Manitoulin Shriners have participated in parades and fairs throughout the Island, in Mindemoya, Little Current, Providence Bay and Manitowaning and have been continually active in selling cakes and Vidalia Onions,” wrote Mr. Miszczak. “Gore Bay Lodge Shriners have been instrumental in acquiring free transportation services from Manitoulin Transport for cakes and onions delivered to Sudbury and the Island from Toronto,” wrote Mr. Miszczak. “The Sudbury Shrine Club on behalf of Rameses Temple and Shriners Hospitals would like to take this opportunity to thank Gore Bay Lodge No. 472 and its members for its generous donation of $20,000.” The Sudbury Shrine Club will be adding Gore Bay Lodge No. 472 to their “$100 Million Dollar Club” wall plaque.

As copied from the

Sudbury-Manitoulin District Freemasons Newsletter – February 1^st Edition, with some editing.

(R.W. Bro. Robert South)

The Gore Bay Masonic Lodge has donated $20,000 to the Manitoulin Health Centre.

The funds are earmarked to expand the emergency department facilities at the Health Centre’s Mindemoya location.  (caTwitter: @SudburyStar)    (R.W. Bro. Robert South)

Having been installed as the Worshipful Master of Espanola Lodge No. 527 in June of 1988, I attended my first “Annual Communication” of our Grand Lodge with R.W. Bro. Warren O. Mulack and V. W. Bro. Donald E. Belfry (D.D.G.M. 1992-1993)

Registration for voting involved attending in a large room where each delegate was to introduce himself and to produce a valid Lodge dues card. There were over 45 Districts at the time. There were two Brethren at each sign in location looking after two Districts. Having been certified as a delegate, we were issued our applicable ballots. Worshipful Masters, Senior Wardens, Junior Wardens and Past Masters were intitled to one vote each. Some may have as many as four votes, if they were “carrying the proxy” for their Lodge. You were then required to cast your vote(s) for electing seven members to the Board of General Purposes. You could only vote for seven. No more. No less. You were also to vote for certain Grand Lodge Officers. The following year, different Grand Lodge officers would be elected. This election process alternated each year. You were required to vote for these officers and Board Members before you left the room. This process was held on Tuesday and up until 3:00 PM on Wednesday.

The retiring D.D.G.M. held a District Meeting at Grand Lodge, on Wednesday afternoon, from 4:00 PM to 4:50 PM in a designated room. Ten minutes later, another District would hold their meeting in that same room, from 5:00 PM to 5:50 PM. During the meeting, the new D.D.G.M. was to be elected and other business was to be completed by the retiring D.D.G.M. The following year, the District which had held their meeting at 4:00 PM would be holding their meeting at 5:00 PM.

Many of the Brethren would travel to Toronto to attend Grand Lodge on the Wednesday for the purpose of voting at the District Meeting. As they had to “Register” to vote by 3:00 PM, they now had an opportunity to socialize. Brethren, travelling from Sudbury usually were leaving at 7:00 AM on Wednesday, while those members travelling from Gore Bay, Little Current, Espanola or Capreol would have to leave home, much earlier. After the District Meeting, arrival back home was very late in the evening or possibly early the next morning. Some of the Brethren who might be eligible to vote at Grand Lodge, either for the elected Grand Lodge Officers or Board Members and the D.D.G.M., were unable to attend in Toronto and participate due to work or family commitments. In Masonry, “Public and Private Avocations come first”.

On July 21^st 1993, I had the good fortune of being elected D.D.G.M. of Sudbury-Manitoulin District.

My Masonic relationships expanded and I would learn that the District Deputy Grand Master, in other Districts had been decided upon, well before the 4:00 PM or the 5:00 PM District Meeting held on the 3^rd Wednesday in July. Some Districts have a rotation system and some have a progressive system of various Committee Chairmanships before becoming D.D.G.M. In some districts, this progression may involve four or five years. As soon as you step out that District Meeting, the newly elected D.D.G.M. is expected to know everything.

Several years ago, computerization was expanded to include the registration system. Instead of the twenty-plus brethren, and relief brethren, there were only about four or five persons with lap-tops to determine and distribute the ballots. Apparently, Grand Lodge paid for the meals for those twenty plus brethren who performed the ballot distribution duties. Costs were reduced for this purpose.

At the Board of General Purposes Meeting in July of 1994, discussion rose with regard to the election of the D.D.G.M. within the individual districts. I mentioned, that this was contrary to The Constitution. The President of the Board; Deputy Grand Master, R.W. Bro. Durward I. Greenwood responded by stating that an amendment could be made to The Constitution.

With this instruction in mind, I prepared an amendment to Section 51. At the District Meeting in November, I presented my proposed amendment. I would only present it to Grand Lodge, if it was supported by the members in our District. The members didn’t support it.

During the Masonic Year of 1998-1999, another Brother expressed his thoughts about travelling to Toronto to elect the D.D.G.M. At a special District Meeting held in the Espanola Lodge Room. I presented my proposed amendment to Section 51 again. It was not supported.

Due to the on-going problems caused by COVID 19, on Wednesday, June 2^nd 2021; communication was circulated from the “Email Distribution Committee” of our Grand Lodge with regard to the “2021 Grand Lodge Voting”. This included the announcement made by the Grand Master and briefly outlined in the February Communique, that we will be conducting electronic elections and voting in 2021. Further details were provided in this original correspondence and other emails provided additional instructions.

On June 4^th, an email was distributed from the Grand Lodge Office, providing a “link” for Electronic Voting Registration for the Office of District Deputy Grand Master. In order to vote, every eligible voter MUST register between June 12, 2021 9:00AM EST and June 17, 2021 4:00PM EST. Upon clicking on the “link” and completing and submitting the form with your “Grand Lodge Certificate Number, Last name, Lodge Number and providing your email address”, an email reply was received indicating that you were registered and it provided you with a “verification code”.

At 9:01 AM on Friday June 18^th, an email was sent to each registered delegate that Voting for the D.D.G.M. was open. This emailed form provided the list of eligible candidates and that the voting deadline was June 19^th at 4:00 PM EST.

After the delegate had voted, an email was received indicating that your vote had been submitted.

Shortly after the close of balloting, the D.D.G.M. / District Secretary circulated an email announcing the name of the D.D.G.M. – elect.

Imagine that. We elected our District Deputy Grand Master within the District, not in Toronto.

(R.W. Bro. Robert South – District Historian)

COVID-19 has brought many changes to our lives and these changes including the manner in which Masons in Ontario elected Grand Lodge Officers, the members of the Board of General Purposes as well as Amendments to our Constitution. The method of voting was completed electronically by the use of computers and similar devices.

Instead of the Tuesday and prior to the 3:00 PM deadline on the 3^rd Wednesday in the month of July, the voting was moved a day earlier to Monday July 19, 2021 at 9:00AM EST and Tuesday July 20, 2021 at 3:00PM EDT. A second (or run-off) ballot was required, voting will take place from 4:00PM-9:00PM EDT on Tuesday July 20, 2021. Results were distributed to all voters as soon as they are available.

(NOTE: A request has been submitted to the Grand Secretary regarding the number of registered delegates for the vote for the D.D.G.M. for Sudbury-Manitoulin District.)                                   

(R.W. Bro. Robert South – District Historian)

Prepared by R.W. Bro. Robert South, District Historian 2021-2022

COVID – 19 continues to wreak havoc for the third Masonic year. The start of a new Masonic year commences with the Installation and Investiture of certain grand Lodge Officers and the District Deputy Grand Masters.  To understand what occurred in 2021, I will relate how these events occurred for me in July 1993 and then provide details of the event as explained to me by R.W. Bro. David Spencer.

After my election as D.D.G.M., I was required to be photographed and then attend the Grand Master’s Banquet held at the Royal York Hotel. After the banquet, at the invitation of R.W. Bro. Donald E. Belfry D.D.G.M. 1992-1993 at which time the “Sudbury-Manitoulin” jewel was transferred from his collar to the collar to which I be invested. Early Thursday morning, the forty-six newly elected D.D.G.M.’s attended an information session with the newly elected Grand Master. My fellow D.D.G.M.’s were then assembled and marched into Grand Lodge. After the installation and investiture of the newly elected Grand Lodge Officers, the forty-six of us assembled on the floor and were installed. R.W. Bro. Belfry then invested me with my apron and collar. After the closing of Grand Lodge, we then returned to our respective Districts. A year later, I invested R.W. Bro. Ronald S. Zinkie. I suspect, subsequent D.D.G.M.’s were invested in a similar manner

As mentioned previously, the following explanation was provided to me by R.W. Bro. David Spencer.

“The regalia was given to me without ceremony of any kind.  During the Wednesday of the virtual Grand Lodge meeting, the Grand Master said at the end of the meeting all D.D.G.M.’s elect would begin their duties. I have no information on virtual installation.”

(In my request for information pertaining to his installation and investiture, I had expressed a thought that there would be some sort of virtual ceremony.)

R.W. Bro. Robert South

COVID-19 has finally provided something good. In previous articles, I have commented regarding the Brethren travelling to Toronto to attend Grand Lodge on the third Wednesday in July to vote for District Deputy Grand Master and other Grand Lodge Officers.

In recent years, the number of Brethren attending the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Meeting has been in the range of 35 to 45. The numbers have been in the low 30’s when only one candidate was in the running for D.D.G.M. There have been a few more during contentious years.

Brethren in our Grand Jurisdiction in 2021, were required to vote on June 18^th and 19^th electronically, that is by computer, smart-phone and probably some other devices.   

In 2021; I am pleased to record that there were 65 Brethren of Sudbury-Manitoulin District who registered to vote. Of those 65, 58 voted, 6 for some reason did not vote and 1 ballot was “Opened Not Completed”.

(The above information was provided by R.W. Bro. Robert Lypic, D.D.G.M. 2019-2021 along with correspondence from Mr. Lou Domjan, Chief Operating Officer – Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Canada in the Province of Ontario.)

R.W. Bro. Robert South

In accordance with the (Ontario) provincial guidelines, our Grand Master communicated that Lodges would be only in January 1^st 2022, provided tat they were in accordance with the guidelines from the local municipality and with the approval of the individual temple boards. As there had been a rapid decrease in the number of cases, new communication was received that under the same conditions indicated above, Lodges would be allowed to open on November 1^st 2021.   

 R.W. Bro. Robert South

Brethren, now that Grand Lodge has given the go ahead; they will try to have regular meetings starting with a General Purpose Meeting on Wednesday November 3rd. The Lodge Regular Meetings will commence on Tuesday November 9^th as long as we have enough members present. We are short a number of officers and will have to temporarily fill some chairs until elections in May. Most importantly, we need to fill the Secretary’s chair effective January 1^st 2022. Please be aware that proof of vaccinations are needed and masks will be required except when eating and drinking.

Worshipful Master’s Message – Doric No. 455 – November 2021 Summons (with some editing)

During the period of Lodges being closed due to Covid-19, The Belrock Temple Board took the opportunity make some enhancements to the facility, as of October 27^th 2021.

Exterior:

• Security system on the upper and lower main doors (not enabled yet).

• Fob entry on the main entrances (the old key, which too many of us had) will now only work on inside doors and a limited number on non-duplicatable keys have been issued).

Lodge Level:

• New storage in the cloakroom.

• Installation of apron storage rack and coat rack on the wall on the left, just inside the front entrance second doors.
• Handrails in the East.

• Relocation of the controls to the Lodge lights to the Secretary’s area.

• Addition of a second desk at the Secretary location.

• Leveling of the area around the Secretary’s desk.

• Additional benches (old – from another Lodge, but match ours in shape).

Banquet Level:

• Banquet hall walls insulated, drywalled & painted.

• New radiators on the outside wall.

• New LED lights and ceiling panels.

• New sound system.

• New ceiling tiles and lights in the kitchen and bar areas.

• Automatic doors (handicap) for the Men’s washroom.

• Disabled access to the men’s toilet (made the stall larger).

R.W. Bro. Robert (Rob) J. Fleming (some editing)

Communication was circulated from the Belrock Temple Board Secretary, that meetings in Belrock would not commence until January 1^st 2022. Included in the explanation for the delay in opening of the building was partially due to the need to sanitize the facility.                       

R.W. Bro. Robert South

Subsequent to the Worshipful Master’s Message in the Doric Lodge Summons for November, communication was distributed that the Meeting was cancelled with the following explanation provided.

“I regret to inform you that our November meeting has to be cancelled as there is an issue with the Lodge building that will need to be addressed before we can resume. 

Once we know the actions to be taken, I will inform you all of the status of the building.  Sorry for any inconvenience and disappointment this may have caused!”

W. Bro. Dan Clark – Doric Lodge Secretary

In the April 2022, Sudbury-Manitoulin District Newsletter; R.W. David Spencer, our District Deputy Grand Master reported that he had attended Nickel Lodge and that it was the first time that he had been welcomed as the D.D.G.M. (due to Covid-19 restrictions).

He also reported the following:

Our latest Grand Lodge guideline is dated March 21st. Each lodge and each and every brother will decide for himself, when he is comfortable returning. Degree work and official visits are not required this masonic year.

Many thanks to City of Lakes Lodge for hosting the recent long range planning seminar. Thank you to all who attended a very informative evening. There was at least one brother from each of our 6 lodges.

Elections for the DDGM and the other Grand Lodge officers will be virtual again this year. There will be an election in each district. The term of each DDGM remains one year. I would urge any Past masters who are considering to run for DDGM to reserve a spot on the virtual course.

A DDGM preparation course was held on Saturday April 16.

Sudbury-Manitoulin District Newsletter

Finally, after twenty-four months, Nickel Lodge members were able to gather in the Lodge Room, for a Regular Meeting. The other Lodges that met in Belrock would follow.

At 7:00 PM; on Monday June ;6^th, R.W. David Spencer called his District Meeting to order – VIRTUALLY. Twenty Brethren met together by a ZOOM meeting. It was announced that W. Bro. Lionel Rudd, would be the only candidate.

 At 9:00 AM EST; on Wednesday June 15^th, eligible Brethren were allowed to “register” to vote. Registration would be open until Sunday June 19^th at 4:00 PM EST. Voting was scheduled take place on Monday June 20^th starting at 9:00AM EST and close on Tuesday June 21^st at 4:00 PM EST.

At 7:52 PM on June 21^st ; a list of the 2022 District Deputy Grand Masters was sent from our Grand Lodge Office via an email, which reported that Lionel William Frank Rudd had been elected to represent Sudbury-Manitoulin District. W. Bro. Rudd had previously listed himself as being a Past Master of Bethel Lodge N. 699.

Included in the list was the following: Per Section 52 of the Constitution – The election of a District Deputy Grand Master shall be subject to the approval of and confirmation by the Grand Master. Confirmations will be announced at the Annual Communication on July 21, 2022.

On Tuesday June 21^st, W. Bro. Don Gravelle, the Worshipful Master of City of Lakes Lodge, R.W. Bro. David Spencer, DDGM of the Sudbury-Manitoulin District, and W. Bro. David Walsh, paid a visit to the home of V.W. Bro. Robert Donaldson.  All are members of City of Lakes Lodge no. 536. V.W. Bro. Donaldson was awarded the incredible milestone of a 70 Year Pin!  He joined the Craft on May 7^th , 1952 in Cambuslang Royal Arch Lodge No.114 in Scotland and served as the Worshipful Master of the lodge in 1969.  He affiliated with Algonquin Lodge No. 536 and became it’s Worshipful Master in 1979.  V.W. Bro. Donaldson was invested as Grand Steward of the Sudbury-Manitoulin District in 1987.

W. Bro. David Squarzolo, Secretary City of Lakes Lodge No. 536

Prepared by R.W. Bro. Robert South, District Historian 2022-2023

As W. Bro. Lionel Rudd; a Past Master of Bethel Lodge No. 699 and an Affiliated Past Master of Nickel Lodge No. 427 had been elected District Deputy Grand Master for Sudbury-Manitoulin District, he travelled to the Sheraton Parkway Toronto North Hotel, in Richmond Hill for the new site for the Annual Communication of Grand Lodge. His District Secretary would be W. Bro. Gregory Lynn Newson of Nickel Lodge.

For the first time in over twenty months, there a Degree was presented in our District. On Wednesday, September 7^th, Nickel Lodge was able to safely conduct a Third Degree, with Bro. Stanley MacNabb being Raised to the Subline Degree of a Master Mason.

At the Annual General Meeting of the Supreme Council of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry of Canada held in Saskatoon Saskatchewan on Saturday, September 17, 2022 Ill. Bro. Clive Stephenson 33° was Crowned an Active Member of Supreme Council.

 (information from an email from) Ill. Bro. Michael Millard, 33°

Grand Secretary/Registrar

Valley of North Bay

The Active Members form the voting members of the Executive of Supreme Council and the number of Active members shall not exceed thirty-three.

(Information from the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry of Canada – website)

On January 17^th, V.W. Bro. Alan Lloyd on behalf of the Brethren of Sudbury-Manitoulin District presented a cheque in the amount of $6,000.00 to Joanne Musico of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine University, Sudbury.

The Brethren of the Sudbury-Manitoulin District Freemasons can be justly proud of the result of their efforts in supporting the students of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine University.  The $6,000 was the product of the 2021/2022 District Project fund raising appeal.  The $6,000.00 will be matched by another $6,000.00 from a “benefactor” organization raising the total contribution to $12,000!

So a hearty CONGRATULATIONS is extended to everyone for their support of one of the most vital institutions in our community.  The Northern Ontario School of Medicine University has just achieved the status of being free standing University of Medicine and Medical Science and YOU have greatly contributed to that success.

R.W. Bro. Lionel Rudd.

District Deputy Grand Master,

On Saturday evening February 4^th, 2023; the Belrock Masonic Centre Board, hosted a Dinner/Dance Party with entertainment by the Sudbury Shrine Club – Hillbilly Ramblers. Many Lodges and Algoma Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star members and family and friends attended and enjoyed an enjoyable evening of social interaction.

On Saturday afternoon February 11^th; after a three year absence, Friendship Lodge hosted their Ladies Night. Many attended and had an enjoyable meal catered by Algoma Chapter members. A dance followed. R.W. Bro. Robert South

On Monday May 1^st; R.W. Bro. Jamie R. Ireland, the Deputy Grand Master of our Grand Lodge attended the City of Lakes Lodge No. 536 on the occasion of a fraternal visit. He was visiting Lodges in Northern Ontario. A dinner was provided prior to the meeting.

In July, W. Bro. William H. Noon, a Past Master of Espanola Lodge No.527 was invested as the District Deputy Grand Master of Sudbury-Manitoulin District. R.W. Bro. Noon appointed W. Bro. John Mooney as the District Secretary. Sudbury-Manitoulin District is very fortunate for having Past
Masters willing to step forward to accept the important duties of the District Deputy Grand Master. Other districts have not been so fortunate.
At the September Regular Meeting of Nickel Lodge, the Lodge Officers initiated Mr. Arthur Douglas Armstrong into Masonry. Four previously initiated members (Entered Apprentices) of the Lodge were able view the Degree. Arrangements were being made to commence with the Passing of
these Brethren to the Fellowcraft Degree. Hopefully, other Lodges in the District will be able to attract new members to the Craft. Unfortunately, R.W. Bro. Noon developed some serious health issues and this delayed some of his
visits and other duties. In the new year, he was able to continue his responsibilities.

R.W. Bro. Robert South