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Chapter
III
1908
to 1933
The years in which the Lodge resided in the Whiteinch
Burgh Hall were indeed happy and prosperous ones. At
the end of its first fifty years in 1933, the assets
of the Lodge stood at £4,200. The Benevolent Fund,
which had been established in 1889, had at its disposal
in 1933 £1,100. Thus were the early Brethren truly
concerned with the welfare of others.
The Lodge suffered the loss of many Brethren during
the Great War. Almost every minute of the War years
records the death of a Brother as a result of enemy
action. Those returning on leave and visiting the Lodge
were awarded Roll of Honour Certificates. These members
were remembered at Christmas and gifts were sent to
them. When victory was in sight, an In Memoriam Lodge
was held on Sunday 5th May, 1918. During the service,
the Roll of Honour was called by the Secretary. The
Last Post was sounded. The Brethren stood in silent
tribute while the Dead March in Saul was played. A magnificent
oration was delivered by the Chaplain, Bro. Rev. David
Ness, M.A.
Even before the War ended, interest in the Craft seemed
to be reviving. On 23rd May, 1918, 34 Entered Apprentices
were passed to the Second Degree.
The Craft cannot escape the economic circumstances
of the outside world. It is interesting that the Secretary's
report of 1932 makes reference to the 'great depression
of trade'. Indeed in its 50th year, there were only
5 intrants.
An important landmark in the Lodge's history was celebrated
on Saturday 6th May, 1933. A Special Meeting was called
to commemorate its 50th Anniversary. On that occasion,
the Chair was occupied by Bro. J.B. Miller. A Deputation
from Provincial Grand Lodge headed by the P.G.M. Bro.
John Marr Grant was received. Grand Secretary Bro. T.
G. Winning also attended the Jubilee Meeting. Two of
the Founder Members, Andrew Martin Smith, the first
Master, and John Brodie, numbering 4 and 9 on the Lodge
Roll respectively had the great satisfaction of seeing
an ambition realised. Suitable congratulatory speeches
were made by Bros. Winning and Grant. Once more guests
enjoyed Lodge hospitality in the Grand Hotel.
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