Marking 150 Years: Glen Innes Masonic Lodge Celebrates a Historic Milestone
03 March 25
The Glen Innes Masonic Lodge No. 44 celebrated its sesquicentennial—its 150th anniversary.
In 1874, a group of Freemasons residing in Glen Innes convened to discuss the establishment of a Masonic lodge in the town. They petitioned the District Grand Lodge of England for a warrant, which was granted by the District Grand Master, A.T. Holroyd, on October 14, 1874. Holroyd authorized a dispensation allowing the Freemasons to meet as a lodge pending the receipt of the official warrant. The inauguration and first installation of a Worshipful Master, Henry Downer, along with his invested officers, took place on January 25, 1875.
In commemoration of 150 years of Masonic heritage, a rededication ceremony for The Glen Innes Masonic Lodge was held on February 8, 2025, coinciding with its 150th installation. During this event, Worshipful Master Peter Filewood was reinstalled, with more than 100 attendees present. The Most Worshipful Grand Master, Kris Albano, of the United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, along with 42 Grand Officers, traveled to Glen Innes for this significant occasion.
For the first time in Glen Innes, a Masonic lodge was opened to selected members of the public, including women, who were invited to witness this historic event. All guests were seated as the rededication commenced, with the Most Worshipful Grand Master taking the floor to read the original dedication from 1875 and present the original charter, signed by His Royal Highness Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VII. The Grand Director of Ceremonies, Right Worshipful Brother Jay Tayag, led the re-enactment, which showcased the rich history of the lodge. The pageantry of the ceremony was remarkable, with spectators describing it as a truly memorable experience.
During the celebrations, special recognition was awarded to Christine Thomas for her extensive research and dedication in documenting the history of The Glen Innes Masonic Lodge and its members in a commemorative book. This presentation was followed by afternoon tea.
Following the rededication, the lodge reconvened for the reinstallation of Worshipful Master Peter Filewood as the 150th Master of the lodge with Brethren only, a ceremony conducted by the Most Worshipful Grand Master himself, following the ceremony the lodge closed and under a dispensation guests were admitted to the lodge to witness the three addresses that conclude the installation ceremony.
This momentous occasion concluded with a formal banquet in honour of the lodge’s 150 years of service. Among the distinguished guests was the Mayor of Glen Innes, Margot Davis, who joined the head table alongside the Grand Master, the newly reinstalled Master, and his wife for the evening’s celebrations.
The Glen Innes Masonic Lodge has been an integral part of the local community for a century and a half. Its 90-year-old building, a landmark on Church Street (formerly East Street), stands as a testament to its enduring presence. Beyond hosting Masonic meetings, the lodge serves as a venue for dance and fitness classes, funerals, markets, and various community events. Its members—men of good character—come from all walks of life, united by their commitment to faith, hope, and charity. Through their dedicated efforts, they continue to support the local community in numerous ways.
As The Glen Innes Masonic Lodge embarks on its next 150 years, we extend our best wishes for its continued growth and success.
Article supplied by Mrs Irene Bateman, wife of Peter Filewood the Worshipful Master
📸 Bro Renan Legaspi
