A Glimpse Into the Past
Red Deer Lodge No. 12
1899-2005
Red Deer Lodge No. 12
1899-2005
The lodge, now known as Red Deer Lodge #12, met sixteen times between 1894 and 1896 before returning its dispensation to the Grand Lodge of Manitoba. During this period the lodge operated under the Canadian Rite. Red Deer had a population of less than 200 and had just experienced a harsh depression. In 1899, the economy had improved somewhat and Red Deer #73 GRM was established under the York Rite with twelve Charter Members.
Charter Members of Red Deer #73 GRM
WM Bro S.P. Fream
SW Bro P. Pidgeon
JW Bro W. Postill
Sec Bro J. Hinchliffe
Treas Bro G.W. Greene
SD Bro G. Fleming
JD Bro G.A. Love
SS Bro R. C. Brumpton
Tyler Bro W. Piper
WM Bro S.P. Fream
SW Bro P. Pidgeon
JW Bro W. Postill
Sec Bro J. Hinchliffe
Treas Bro G.W. Greene
SD Bro G. Fleming
JD Bro G.A. Love
SS Bro R. C. Brumpton
Tyler Bro W. Piper
Other Charter Members were Bros C.P. Gee and I.N. Burdick
Within a year membership had almost doubled to twenty-two members. When Alberta became a province in 1905 the Lodge became known as Red Deer Lodge #12 GRA. This lodge has met continuously for over 100 years. We are indebted to W Bro H.J. Snell for “The History of Red Deer Lodge #12 GRA AF & AM and of the Early Days of Freemasonry in Red Deer, Alberta, Canada from 1894-1924”. W Bro Snell also wrote “In Retrospect 1915 – 1955” in the Historical Register. “In reviewing the past events, as recorded in the Minutes of the Lodge one cannot help but be struck by the frequent appearance of the names of RW Bro W.J. Stephenson, RW Bro A.B. Mitchell, RW Bro R.J. Stewart, W Bro W.E. Lord, W Bro A.R. Little and W Bro A.G. Ayres (Secretary for 25 years).”
These early years of Masonry in Red Deer were marked by ragged attendance and insufficient members to open Lodge. With small membership regular attendance was vital to the very survival of the Lodge. Br P. Pidgeon exemplified the spirit of these pioneer masons. He was the first Red Deer mason to be initiated in 1894. He served as WM in 1901 and 1906 and as DDGM in 1909. At his death, November 15, 1927, this Charter Member had attended 399 out of possible 414 meetings. At his well attended funeral MW Bro S.Y. Taylor, Grand Secretary, said “We owe a lot to these pioneers who laid the foundation of Masonry in the District. He served his fellow man.”
In 1901, with population of 323, Red Deer was incorporated as a town. By 1905 the population had reached 1500 and Red Deer had the highest number of homestead entries in Canada. In 1908
Kenilworth #29 was formed. It conducted its business in the Canadian Rite. In 1913, with population of 3000, Red Deer became a city. The outbreak of World War 1 in 1914 saw many masons and other young folk leave and never return.
Years ago, initiates were often taunted with tall tales of what was about to befall them on entering the lodge. Among these stories was one about “riding the Goat”. For the Brethren of Red Deer Lodge #12 this had a ring of truth. Lodge Historian, H.J. Snell, having been initiated in the same building can vouch for the following history. In 1911, the lodge met above the Tallman Hardware Store. A fine, large, Angora goat, owned by a citizen and usually running at large on some vacant lot nearby to pay visits to the Lodge room and on one occasion had to be ejected from the meeting. Often, owing the intense heat in the room, the doors were left open. The goat in question used to make himself quite at home among the members of the Craft and during our ceremonies could be heard running about the ante rooms.
On June 23, 1917, W Bro H.J. Snell was present at the United Grand Lodge of Antient, Free and Accepted Masons of England Bi- Centenary Celebration at the Royal Albert Hall. 8000 Masons greeted the MW Grand Master, His royal Highness, The Duke of Connaught, K.G.
From 1919 – 1923 Red Deer witnessed a severe depression with little or no activity. However, on September 12, 1924, 144 Masons and wives attended the 25th Anniversary of Red Deer Lodge #12.
Within a year membership had almost doubled to twenty-two members. When Alberta became a province in 1905 the Lodge became known as Red Deer Lodge #12 GRA. This lodge has met continuously for over 100 years. We are indebted to W Bro H.J. Snell for “The History of Red Deer Lodge #12 GRA AF & AM and of the Early Days of Freemasonry in Red Deer, Alberta, Canada from 1894-1924”. W Bro Snell also wrote “In Retrospect 1915 – 1955” in the Historical Register. “In reviewing the past events, as recorded in the Minutes of the Lodge one cannot help but be struck by the frequent appearance of the names of RW Bro W.J. Stephenson, RW Bro A.B. Mitchell, RW Bro R.J. Stewart, W Bro W.E. Lord, W Bro A.R. Little and W Bro A.G. Ayres (Secretary for 25 years).”
These early years of Masonry in Red Deer were marked by ragged attendance and insufficient members to open Lodge. With small membership regular attendance was vital to the very survival of the Lodge. Br P. Pidgeon exemplified the spirit of these pioneer masons. He was the first Red Deer mason to be initiated in 1894. He served as WM in 1901 and 1906 and as DDGM in 1909. At his death, November 15, 1927, this Charter Member had attended 399 out of possible 414 meetings. At his well attended funeral MW Bro S.Y. Taylor, Grand Secretary, said “We owe a lot to these pioneers who laid the foundation of Masonry in the District. He served his fellow man.”
In 1901, with population of 323, Red Deer was incorporated as a town. By 1905 the population had reached 1500 and Red Deer had the highest number of homestead entries in Canada. In 1908
Kenilworth #29 was formed. It conducted its business in the Canadian Rite. In 1913, with population of 3000, Red Deer became a city. The outbreak of World War 1 in 1914 saw many masons and other young folk leave and never return.
Years ago, initiates were often taunted with tall tales of what was about to befall them on entering the lodge. Among these stories was one about “riding the Goat”. For the Brethren of Red Deer Lodge #12 this had a ring of truth. Lodge Historian, H.J. Snell, having been initiated in the same building can vouch for the following history. In 1911, the lodge met above the Tallman Hardware Store. A fine, large, Angora goat, owned by a citizen and usually running at large on some vacant lot nearby to pay visits to the Lodge room and on one occasion had to be ejected from the meeting. Often, owing the intense heat in the room, the doors were left open. The goat in question used to make himself quite at home among the members of the Craft and during our ceremonies could be heard running about the ante rooms.
On June 23, 1917, W Bro H.J. Snell was present at the United Grand Lodge of Antient, Free and Accepted Masons of England Bi- Centenary Celebration at the Royal Albert Hall. 8000 Masons greeted the MW Grand Master, His royal Highness, The Duke of Connaught, K.G.
From 1919 – 1923 Red Deer witnessed a severe depression with little or no activity. However, on September 12, 1924, 144 Masons and wives attended the 25th Anniversary of Red Deer Lodge #12.
Officers of Red Deer Lodge #12 25th Anniversary
WM Bro. R.A. Van Slyke
IPM W Bro J.R. Mac Crostie
SW Bro G.F. Ely
JW Bro A.B. Mitchell
Sec Bro A.G. Ayres
Treas RW Bro P. Pidgeon
SD Bro H.B. George
JD Bro W.E. Trueman
SS Bro D. Smith
JS Bro J.P. Mc Kinnon
Tyler Bro. W.A. Mc Kinney
Chaplain Bro D. Cronquist
D of C Bro T.H. Edis
Historian W Bro H.J. Snell
Organist Bro G.E. Fleming
WM Bro. R.A. Van Slyke
IPM W Bro J.R. Mac Crostie
SW Bro G.F. Ely
JW Bro A.B. Mitchell
Sec Bro A.G. Ayres
Treas RW Bro P. Pidgeon
SD Bro H.B. George
JD Bro W.E. Trueman
SS Bro D. Smith
JS Bro J.P. Mc Kinnon
Tyler Bro. W.A. Mc Kinney
Chaplain Bro D. Cronquist
D of C Bro T.H. Edis
Historian W Bro H.J. Snell
Organist Bro G.E. Fleming
The event was organized by SW Bro G.F. Ely and JW Bro A.B. Mitchell. The afternoon address was a “History of Freemasonry” by MW Bro S.Y. Taylor, Grand Secretary.
From 1923 – 1929 Red Deer’s population was around 2800 with the CPR being a major employer in the area. At this time, several other organizations came into being and included the B.P.O.E. (Elks) and Rotary. During the years 1929 to 1938 Red Deer and area experienced another depression and once again saw little growth or activity. However, there was a slight improvement in the economy preceding W.W. II and several new organizations sprang up. These included the Kinsmen. Kiwanis and the J.C’s. In the late 1930s and 1940s the building and staffing of the Condensery provided many, much needed, jobs. Lodge dues were $6.00 from 1904 to 1919 and only $10.00 in 1943. However, times were very hard and many brethren were suspended in the 30’s for Non Payment of Dues.
The immediate post war period saw a flurry of interest in masonry and membership grew rapidly. In 1949, September 2nd, the 50th Anniversary of Red Deer Lodge #12 was celebrated with Banquet and Ball. The event, organized by Bros F.T. Jenner and W.T. Neilson attracted over 250 Masons and their Ladies. The highlight of the afternoon Lodge meeting was the presentation of a 50 year jewel to Bro Norman Stewart by his son RW Bro J.N. Stewart, DDGM. Lodge membership in 1949 numbered 137.
From 1923 – 1929 Red Deer’s population was around 2800 with the CPR being a major employer in the area. At this time, several other organizations came into being and included the B.P.O.E. (Elks) and Rotary. During the years 1929 to 1938 Red Deer and area experienced another depression and once again saw little growth or activity. However, there was a slight improvement in the economy preceding W.W. II and several new organizations sprang up. These included the Kinsmen. Kiwanis and the J.C’s. In the late 1930s and 1940s the building and staffing of the Condensery provided many, much needed, jobs. Lodge dues were $6.00 from 1904 to 1919 and only $10.00 in 1943. However, times were very hard and many brethren were suspended in the 30’s for Non Payment of Dues.
The immediate post war period saw a flurry of interest in masonry and membership grew rapidly. In 1949, September 2nd, the 50th Anniversary of Red Deer Lodge #12 was celebrated with Banquet and Ball. The event, organized by Bros F.T. Jenner and W.T. Neilson attracted over 250 Masons and their Ladies. The highlight of the afternoon Lodge meeting was the presentation of a 50 year jewel to Bro Norman Stewart by his son RW Bro J.N. Stewart, DDGM. Lodge membership in 1949 numbered 137.
Officers of Red Deer Lodge #12 50th Anniversary
W Bro J.L McKinnon
IPM W Bro E.A. Johnstone
SW Bro A.R. Little
JW Bro F.T. Jenner
Sec Bro A.J.N. Chamberlain
Treas Bro P.C.F. Routledge
SD Bro D.H. Brown
JD Bro G.S. Cowle
SS Bro T.G. Towers
JS Bro C.M. Thompson
Tyler Bro J.B. White
D of C Bro W.J. Stephenson
Organist Bro D. Thatcher
Chaplain Bro W.J. Neilson
W Bro J.L McKinnon
IPM W Bro E.A. Johnstone
SW Bro A.R. Little
JW Bro F.T. Jenner
Sec Bro A.J.N. Chamberlain
Treas Bro P.C.F. Routledge
SD Bro D.H. Brown
JD Bro G.S. Cowle
SS Bro T.G. Towers
JS Bro C.M. Thompson
Tyler Bro J.B. White
D of C Bro W.J. Stephenson
Organist Bro D. Thatcher
Chaplain Bro W.J. Neilson
By the 1950’s Red Deer was the fastest growing city in Canada. In the 1970’s the major employer in the city was P.T.S. later known as Michener Centre. It employed 5,000 people to care for 2000 residents. This, when the population of Red Deer was less than 30,000. The present highest employer is the Red Deer Regional Hospital and employs 1,800 of a population exceeding 70,000.
In 1955, after 40 years in the Michener Building, the Lodge moved to its present location. The cornerstone was laid by MW Bro Peter Dawson at a Ceremony attended by 300 Masons and Dignitaries. The building was constructed soon after the formation of a Masonic Temple Co. by Red Deer Lodge #13, 40%, Kenilworth Lodge #29, 40%, and Keystone Chapter of Royal Arch, 20%. Shares were sold for $100.00 each and the first President was W Bro W.J.C. Kirby. W Bro W.J.C. “Cam” Kirby was WM in 1954, Red Deer MLA, 1955-59 and was appointed a Provincial Judge in 1960. In 1979, with WM Bro Julius Osz, the Lodge held a Silver Anniversary Night where the Chairs were occupied by the Officers of 1954. W Bro Kirby received his 50 year Jewel and 60 year Bar in 1996.
Mw Bro T.G. “Gordon” Towers, WM 1953, DDGM 1961, and Grand Master 1967 was made a Life Member in 1975. MW Bro Towers had an excellent memory was prominent in Lodge work. He credited his Masonic Years with his ability to speak confidently, think on his feet and hold his own in the scrum of politics. He was MP for Red Deer from 1972 – 1988 and Lieutenant Governor 1991 – 1996.
With the greatest number of distinguished Grand Lodge Officers, past and present, in attendance Red Deer Lodge #12 marked its 60th anniversary on September 2, 1959. Mw Bro D. Little, Grand Master, gave a fine address. There were various presentations including a 60 year Jewel to Bro Norman Stewart. 150 people attended the Banquet at Gaetz Memorial Hall. The event was organized by W Bro More and assisted By W Bros Smith, Towers, Cowle and Bros Ireland and Kalbfleisch.
In 1955, after 40 years in the Michener Building, the Lodge moved to its present location. The cornerstone was laid by MW Bro Peter Dawson at a Ceremony attended by 300 Masons and Dignitaries. The building was constructed soon after the formation of a Masonic Temple Co. by Red Deer Lodge #13, 40%, Kenilworth Lodge #29, 40%, and Keystone Chapter of Royal Arch, 20%. Shares were sold for $100.00 each and the first President was W Bro W.J.C. Kirby. W Bro W.J.C. “Cam” Kirby was WM in 1954, Red Deer MLA, 1955-59 and was appointed a Provincial Judge in 1960. In 1979, with WM Bro Julius Osz, the Lodge held a Silver Anniversary Night where the Chairs were occupied by the Officers of 1954. W Bro Kirby received his 50 year Jewel and 60 year Bar in 1996.
Mw Bro T.G. “Gordon” Towers, WM 1953, DDGM 1961, and Grand Master 1967 was made a Life Member in 1975. MW Bro Towers had an excellent memory was prominent in Lodge work. He credited his Masonic Years with his ability to speak confidently, think on his feet and hold his own in the scrum of politics. He was MP for Red Deer from 1972 – 1988 and Lieutenant Governor 1991 – 1996.
With the greatest number of distinguished Grand Lodge Officers, past and present, in attendance Red Deer Lodge #12 marked its 60th anniversary on September 2, 1959. Mw Bro D. Little, Grand Master, gave a fine address. There were various presentations including a 60 year Jewel to Bro Norman Stewart. 150 people attended the Banquet at Gaetz Memorial Hall. The event was organized by W Bro More and assisted By W Bros Smith, Towers, Cowle and Bros Ireland and Kalbfleisch.
Officers of Red Deer Lodge #12 60th Anniversary
WM Bro A. Smith
IPM W Bro C.G.R. More
SW Bro H.L. Kalbfleisch
JW Bro W.M. Ireland
Sec W Bro G.S. Cowle
Treas VW Bro P.C.F. Routledge
SD Bro C.E. Ross
JD Bro W.L. McKinnon
JS Bro D.H. Thorn
Tyler Bro D.A. McArthur
D of C W Bro A.G. Phillips
Historian W Bro H.J. Snell
Chaplain Bro J. Cutting
WM Bro A. Smith
IPM W Bro C.G.R. More
SW Bro H.L. Kalbfleisch
JW Bro W.M. Ireland
Sec W Bro G.S. Cowle
Treas VW Bro P.C.F. Routledge
SD Bro C.E. Ross
JD Bro W.L. McKinnon
JS Bro D.H. Thorn
Tyler Bro D.A. McArthur
D of C W Bro A.G. Phillips
Historian W Bro H.J. Snell
Chaplain Bro J. Cutting
Lodge Membership had numbered around 100 in the late 30’s and early 40’s rising to the 120’s by the mid 1940’s. It dropped some in 1946 and 1947 as the area adjusted to life after the War before climbing steadily through the 50’s and early 60’s to 201, matching the growth and prosperity of the area.
1961 was typical of these busy years. As well as initiating the Ireland Trophy for Curling, W Bro Bill Ireland, his Officers and Brethren held a Father and Son Banquet, a Ladies Night, a Pancake Supper, a Pit BBQ, and with 20 Brethren visited every Lodge in the District. In later years RW Bro Ireland was noted for his large repertoire of ritual work. Needless to say there was a great deal of Degree work involving many brethren.
RW Bro George Cowie, Lodge Secretary from 1955 – 64, was renowned for his prodigious memory and his ability to step into a role at a moment’s notice. He was WM in 1952, made a Life Member in 1968 and was DDGM in 1973. He told me a story of being in a pub in Lanark, Scotland when a man stood up and started to give the “Grand Hailing Sign of Distress” to beg a drink. No sooner had that man begun than he was frog marched out of the pub by two grim- faced men. George never saw that man again.
RW Bro Art Phillips, WM 1956, was tireless in his devotion to the Lodge. He was Secretary from 1965 – 1976 and was the final authority on correct procedure. In 1969, he became DDGM and was made a Life Member in 1978. In January 1981, the Lodge held an “Art Phillips Night” recognizing his long and distinguished service to the Lodge. His son, Bro Doug Phillips, has presented his DDGM Regalia and a CD of his Masonic addresses to the Lodge.
I have been told that RW Bro Art Phillips was to have updated our Lodge History. Unfortunately, he was unable to obtain the return of the Lodge Historical Register from the daughter of RW Stephenson, our Historian, when he died. She felt that she had been deprived of the care and attention traditionally conferred on a daughter by her father because of his pre-occupation with Masonry. They are both dead now and the Historical Record is still missing. The minutes are, however, intact and complete.
RW Bro C.D. Holmes, 33rd Degree, was WM 1970-71, DDGM 1981-82 and served on the Board of General Purposes. A stickler for “doing things right” he would tackle any role if given notice and has acted as King Solomon and Installing Master. He will be recognized at the 2005 Masonic Spring Workshop for 40 Years continuous attendance.
In 1925, the first Joint Installation of Red Deer Lodge #12 and Kenilworth Lodge #29 was held. These Joint Installations were suspended in 1969 when Red Deer Lodge #12 changed its Masonic year. Since 1983, all three Red Deer Masonic Lodges are installed in the spring.
The DDGMs of Red Deer Lodge #12 have performed yeoman service as Installing Masters. RW Bro A.T. Stephenson, WM 1908, DDGM 1910 – 1911, and Historian, with his brother RW Bro W.J. Stephenson, WM 1916, DDGM 1925 and Historian were pillars of the Lodge for many years and served as Installing Masters.
They were aided in the early years by MW Bros Botterill and Galbraith of Kenilworth Lodge #29 and, more recently, by RW Bro “Bert” Dueck of Beacon Lodge #190. In April 2000, at a ceremony arranged by RW Bro Joe Stalter, RW Bro Dueck was presented with a plaque commemorating his many years as Installing Master.
MW Bro W.E. “Curly” Foster, Grand Master in 1980, is another staunch supporter from Kenilworth Lodge and was made a Life Member of Red Deer Lodge #12 in 1981. He has been familiar presence in the East. Skilled in both Rites he often gave the lecture in the N.E. Corner. For many years MW Bro Foster took personal responsibility for the physical well being of the Temple. On April 5th, 2005 “A Tribute to Brother Curly” will be held where MW Bro Foster will preside over a Lodge with Past Grand Masters in every chair.
One cannot stress too highly the pivotal role played by Secretaries, later, Secretary/Treasurers, in the well being and continuity of the Lodge. These Brethren who served a number of years are as follows:
1961 was typical of these busy years. As well as initiating the Ireland Trophy for Curling, W Bro Bill Ireland, his Officers and Brethren held a Father and Son Banquet, a Ladies Night, a Pancake Supper, a Pit BBQ, and with 20 Brethren visited every Lodge in the District. In later years RW Bro Ireland was noted for his large repertoire of ritual work. Needless to say there was a great deal of Degree work involving many brethren.
RW Bro George Cowie, Lodge Secretary from 1955 – 64, was renowned for his prodigious memory and his ability to step into a role at a moment’s notice. He was WM in 1952, made a Life Member in 1968 and was DDGM in 1973. He told me a story of being in a pub in Lanark, Scotland when a man stood up and started to give the “Grand Hailing Sign of Distress” to beg a drink. No sooner had that man begun than he was frog marched out of the pub by two grim- faced men. George never saw that man again.
RW Bro Art Phillips, WM 1956, was tireless in his devotion to the Lodge. He was Secretary from 1965 – 1976 and was the final authority on correct procedure. In 1969, he became DDGM and was made a Life Member in 1978. In January 1981, the Lodge held an “Art Phillips Night” recognizing his long and distinguished service to the Lodge. His son, Bro Doug Phillips, has presented his DDGM Regalia and a CD of his Masonic addresses to the Lodge.
I have been told that RW Bro Art Phillips was to have updated our Lodge History. Unfortunately, he was unable to obtain the return of the Lodge Historical Register from the daughter of RW Stephenson, our Historian, when he died. She felt that she had been deprived of the care and attention traditionally conferred on a daughter by her father because of his pre-occupation with Masonry. They are both dead now and the Historical Record is still missing. The minutes are, however, intact and complete.
RW Bro C.D. Holmes, 33rd Degree, was WM 1970-71, DDGM 1981-82 and served on the Board of General Purposes. A stickler for “doing things right” he would tackle any role if given notice and has acted as King Solomon and Installing Master. He will be recognized at the 2005 Masonic Spring Workshop for 40 Years continuous attendance.
In 1925, the first Joint Installation of Red Deer Lodge #12 and Kenilworth Lodge #29 was held. These Joint Installations were suspended in 1969 when Red Deer Lodge #12 changed its Masonic year. Since 1983, all three Red Deer Masonic Lodges are installed in the spring.
The DDGMs of Red Deer Lodge #12 have performed yeoman service as Installing Masters. RW Bro A.T. Stephenson, WM 1908, DDGM 1910 – 1911, and Historian, with his brother RW Bro W.J. Stephenson, WM 1916, DDGM 1925 and Historian were pillars of the Lodge for many years and served as Installing Masters.
They were aided in the early years by MW Bros Botterill and Galbraith of Kenilworth Lodge #29 and, more recently, by RW Bro “Bert” Dueck of Beacon Lodge #190. In April 2000, at a ceremony arranged by RW Bro Joe Stalter, RW Bro Dueck was presented with a plaque commemorating his many years as Installing Master.
MW Bro W.E. “Curly” Foster, Grand Master in 1980, is another staunch supporter from Kenilworth Lodge and was made a Life Member of Red Deer Lodge #12 in 1981. He has been familiar presence in the East. Skilled in both Rites he often gave the lecture in the N.E. Corner. For many years MW Bro Foster took personal responsibility for the physical well being of the Temple. On April 5th, 2005 “A Tribute to Brother Curly” will be held where MW Bro Foster will preside over a Lodge with Past Grand Masters in every chair.
One cannot stress too highly the pivotal role played by Secretaries, later, Secretary/Treasurers, in the well being and continuity of the Lodge. These Brethren who served a number of years are as follows:
W Bro A.G. Ayres
W Bro A.J.N. Chamberlain W Bro George Cowie RW Bro A.G. “Art” Phillips W Bro R.R. “Bob” Brown Bro S.A. “Sam” Mc Makin W Bro Ben Mudd W Bro Scott Campbell |
1915 – 1941
1943 – 1954 1955 – 1964 1965 – 1976 1976 – 1991 1991 - 1998 1998 - 2002 2002 - |
In September, 1974 a 75th Anniversary Banquet and Ball was held at the Elks Hall. The evening was organized by JW Bro Benn Mudd and the Brethren. MW Bro Gordon Towers and Bro Bud Lund spoke on the History of Red Deer Lodge. MW Bro Jim Woods, Grand Master, spoke after the banquet.
Officers of Red Deer Lodge #12 75th Anniversary
WM W Bro R.R. Brown
IPM W Bro G.I. Grierson
SW Bro R.C. Campbell
JW Bro B. Mudd
Treas W Bro P.A. Lund
Sec RW Bro A.G. Philipps
SD Bro T.W. Clay
JD Bro J. Osz
SS Bro W.A Shortt
JS Bro H.R. Gummow
Chaplain Bro R.S. Cameron
Registrar RW Bro G.S. Cowie
D of C W Bro W. Ireland
Organist Bro K.L. Pollock
Tyler W Bro G.C.P. Wates
WM W Bro R.R. Brown
IPM W Bro G.I. Grierson
SW Bro R.C. Campbell
JW Bro B. Mudd
Treas W Bro P.A. Lund
Sec RW Bro A.G. Philipps
SD Bro T.W. Clay
JD Bro J. Osz
SS Bro W.A Shortt
JS Bro H.R. Gummow
Chaplain Bro R.S. Cameron
Registrar RW Bro G.S. Cowie
D of C W Bro W. Ireland
Organist Bro K.L. Pollock
Tyler W Bro G.C.P. Wates
On October 21, 2000, Red Deer Lodge #12 celebrated its 100th Anniversary. A Rededication and Consecration of the Lodge was held during the day. It was followed by a Banquet and Dance at the Black Knight Inn. Michael Dawe, City Archivist and Author was the guest speaker. He delivered an interesting and informative history of Freemasonry in Red Deer. He told the brethren that they should be proud to be members of the only institution in Red Deer to have survived intact for 100 years. This, despite two World Wars, an epidemic, a drought and depression. On Sunday morning 100 people attended the church service at St. Luke’s where Masons had laid the Cornerstone 10 years ago.
To commemorate our Centennial, the lodge purchased gold regalia, an organ for the temple, commemorative buttons which we proudly wear and established a Masonic Library. The success of this Celebration was due to the hard work of MW Bro Roberts and W Bro Mudd. They were assisted by W Bro Blaine Newton and Bro Scott Campbell. MW Bro Gerry Webber, Grand Master, and his Officers were most helpful and co-operative.
To commemorate our Centennial, the lodge purchased gold regalia, an organ for the temple, commemorative buttons which we proudly wear and established a Masonic Library. The success of this Celebration was due to the hard work of MW Bro Roberts and W Bro Mudd. They were assisted by W Bro Blaine Newton and Bro Scott Campbell. MW Bro Gerry Webber, Grand Master, and his Officers were most helpful and co-operative.
Officers of Red Deer Lodge #12 100th Anniversary
WM Bro Blaine Newton
IPM W Bro Don Westrop
SW Bro Scott Campbell
JW Bro Blair Woolward
Sec/Treas W Bro Ben Mudd
SD Bro Rob Harrison
JD Bro Leo Hynes
SS Bro Korey Campbell
JS Bro Dennis Roszell
Chaplain Bro Murray Lamb
D of C W Bro Bob Oxman
Organist MW Bro Jim Roberts
Tyler W Bro Denis Robinson
WM Bro Blaine Newton
IPM W Bro Don Westrop
SW Bro Scott Campbell
JW Bro Blair Woolward
Sec/Treas W Bro Ben Mudd
SD Bro Rob Harrison
JD Bro Leo Hynes
SS Bro Korey Campbell
JS Bro Dennis Roszell
Chaplain Bro Murray Lamb
D of C W Bro Bob Oxman
Organist MW Bro Jim Roberts
Tyler W Bro Denis Robinson
MW Bro Jim Roberts, Grand Master 1998 – 1999, has been active in the affairs of Red Deer Lodge #12 since his Affiliation and was presented with his Life Membership in 2000. His background as a clergyman made him a natural Chaplain, a chair he filled for several years. On a number of occasions recently, his thoughtful prayers have lent a special dignity and significance to our reflections. Always willing to participate in Degree work he is our resident expert on procedure. He presently serves as Lodge Organist.
Since 1995 Red Deer Lodge #12 has been involves in the “Caring of Alberta Highways Program”. Brethren clean a 3 Km stretch of Highway 11, west of Highway 2, in June and September.
For years Red Deer Lodge #12 and Kitchener Lodge #95 have held Joint Meetings twice a year since both lodges meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month. These meetings are always interesting and well attended. Several years ago this writer was driving to Rimbey with a van load of Brethren. The air conditioning was feeble and the windows became foggy. So engrossed were the brethren in visiting and the driver in listening that he drove miles past the turn off and would ended up in Edmonton if someone had not asked where we were. Needless to say, Lodge opened late and yours truly always has a navigator.
Starting in the late 1930s with Bro Hugh Gilchrist and continuing with Bros R.A. Lund and P.A. Lund, the Lodge delivered flowers every Christmas to Masonic widows. When, in the 1950s Poinsettias were developed to bloom for 4 months, previously 10 days, they became the flower of choice. This tradition continued, with Widows Teas held in some year, until 1997 when it became The Masonic Families Christmas Tea. This event, initiated by the Venus Chapter, OES, is very popular and includes young and old. Every year, MW Bro Jim Roberts conducts a spirited Carol singing.
Red Deer Lodge #12 has a large number of Brethren who work in the Oil patch. The nature and location of their work often necessitates their absence from Lodge meetings. This awkward situation is compounded when these Brethren hold an Office and are constantly on call. For many years now, the WM has been able to rely on W Bro Bill earl who, before every meeting, faithfully calls the WM and offers to fill any vacant Chair. This is Masonry at its best.
Ever since our centennial celebration, there has been a marked decrease in Lodge attendance, visiting, and attendance at installation Ceremonies, District Meetings, Grand Lodge and Masonic Spring Workshops.
At our June 1974 Meeting MW Bro Gordon Towers spoke briefly on Masonry and its affect on our lives. He advised the Brethren not to be discouraged by falling interest and attendance since we have no way of knowing just how much a Brother’s contact with Masonry had affected his living outside the Lodge. It is vitally important that a strong core remain active so that the teachings of Masonry are not lost.
Since 1995 Red Deer Lodge #12 has been involves in the “Caring of Alberta Highways Program”. Brethren clean a 3 Km stretch of Highway 11, west of Highway 2, in June and September.
For years Red Deer Lodge #12 and Kitchener Lodge #95 have held Joint Meetings twice a year since both lodges meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month. These meetings are always interesting and well attended. Several years ago this writer was driving to Rimbey with a van load of Brethren. The air conditioning was feeble and the windows became foggy. So engrossed were the brethren in visiting and the driver in listening that he drove miles past the turn off and would ended up in Edmonton if someone had not asked where we were. Needless to say, Lodge opened late and yours truly always has a navigator.
Starting in the late 1930s with Bro Hugh Gilchrist and continuing with Bros R.A. Lund and P.A. Lund, the Lodge delivered flowers every Christmas to Masonic widows. When, in the 1950s Poinsettias were developed to bloom for 4 months, previously 10 days, they became the flower of choice. This tradition continued, with Widows Teas held in some year, until 1997 when it became The Masonic Families Christmas Tea. This event, initiated by the Venus Chapter, OES, is very popular and includes young and old. Every year, MW Bro Jim Roberts conducts a spirited Carol singing.
Red Deer Lodge #12 has a large number of Brethren who work in the Oil patch. The nature and location of their work often necessitates their absence from Lodge meetings. This awkward situation is compounded when these Brethren hold an Office and are constantly on call. For many years now, the WM has been able to rely on W Bro Bill earl who, before every meeting, faithfully calls the WM and offers to fill any vacant Chair. This is Masonry at its best.
Ever since our centennial celebration, there has been a marked decrease in Lodge attendance, visiting, and attendance at installation Ceremonies, District Meetings, Grand Lodge and Masonic Spring Workshops.
At our June 1974 Meeting MW Bro Gordon Towers spoke briefly on Masonry and its affect on our lives. He advised the Brethren not to be discouraged by falling interest and attendance since we have no way of knowing just how much a Brother’s contact with Masonry had affected his living outside the Lodge. It is vitally important that a strong core remain active so that the teachings of Masonry are not lost.
“WE DON’T NEED MORE MEN IN MASONRY,
WE NEED MORE MASONRY IN MEN”
WE NEED MORE MASONRY IN MEN”
The historic overview was written in response to request from Grand Lodge. Each lodge was asked to bring their history up to date to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Province of Alberta. The materials examined include the Minutes of Lodge Meeting, Historical Records, Red Deer Archives, interviews with Bros Bud Lund and Jim Ireland, as well as my own recollections. This account represents a mere glimpse until H.J. Snell comes along a definitive history.
Fraternally,
Ben Mudd
Ben Mudd