The dawn of Freemasonry in KwaZulu-Natal and Newcastle
Freemasonry is unlike any society in existence, with each brother finding something that is dear to him within the brotherhood’s ranks.
Some find comfort in the social side of the Lodge, whereas
others find solace in the structure and rituals.
Others find joy in the moral and esoteric teachings, the
symbolism hidden within the words.
Freemasonry’s rich history lures in other brethren,
reminding each one of us that the world is bigger than we imagine.
However, regardless of the reason for joining, there is one
common denominator.
We as Freemasons are not alone in the world. Where ever we
may roam, there is always a brother willing to lend a helping hand.
Freemasons are a breed of men who unite for a greater cause,
that of making the world a better place while improving ourselves.
But how did Freemasonry find its way to KwaZulu-Natal?
The District Grand Lodge of Natal, Scottish Constitution,
apparently began in 1885.
From limited available records, it seems that Lodge
Caledonian No. 447, chartered in Durban on 7 August 1865, and Lodge St Andrew
No. 771, chartered in Pietermaritzburg on 7 August 1884, petitioned Grand Lodge
to grant the erection of a District Grand Lodge.
This request was denied, as three lodges were considered
necessary to form the core of a District Grand Lodge.
In a way the denied request worked as an incentive towards
the grant of a charter to Eothesay Lodge No. 712, which took place on 7 May
1885.
On representation of these three lodges, the sanction was granted,
and the District Grand Lodge of South-East Africa was erected, with Brother
John Hulston as Right Worshipful District Grand Master.
According to records, the District Grand Lodge of South-East
Africa apparently became dormant, with the commission of Brother Hulston
lapsing in the early 1890s.
In April 1894, Past Masters from four active lodges held a
meeting and it was resolved that their respective lodges formed a District
Grand Lodge and other lodges within the territories could fall under their jurisdiction
if there was a willingness.
Little else happened until late 1896, when Grand Lodge was petitioned
to erect the District Grand Lodge of Natal.
Permission was granted, and District Grand Lodge was erected
and the first Grand Master, Brother Robert Douglas, was installed by Brother
John Hulston on 1 May 1897, in the Masonic Temple, Smith Street, Durban.
The South Africa War pressed heavily on Natal, with Brethren
winning distinction in both the Masonic sphere and on the battlefield, while fighting
for Queen and country.
After the war, with scores of British soldiers making South Africa
their homes, numerous lodges were formed.
In fact, Coronation Lodge No. 930 was established on 7 August 1902, directly after the end of the war.
This was the second Masonic Lodge in Newcastle, with Newcastle
Lodge No. 2097, English Constitution, established in 1885.
Its meetings were held in Freemasons Hall in Greenacres buildings on Scott Street.
Its meetings were held in Freemasons Hall in Greenacres buildings on Scott Street.
Newcastle Lodge then built its Masonic Temple in Harding
Street between the years of 1892 and 1893, with the first meeting held on 1
April 1893.
The new Masonic Temple was commissioned in 1902, the same
year of the establishment of Coronation Lodge, as the existing temple had grown
too small.
Through the years, both Newcastle and Coronation Lodges have
become a part of Newcastle’s history, with its members contributing to the town’s
development and charities.
Newcastle Lodge celebrates 133 years of existence this year,
while Coronation Lodge celebrates its 116 years of existence.
The two lodges now share premises, but their mission is still the same. As brothers, the two groups of Freemasons work together to make good men better.
After all, it is only through making a good man grow as an individual, can we grow as a society and reach new heights.
A brilliant bit of history! Well written!
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