Page 9 - Needles Lodge 2838 History

At an emergency meeting in May 1918, there was a ballot for

three candidates and reference made to the ‘Book of

Constitutions’ that only two initiations were permitted at any one

meeting. This reference was we think refers to a July 1916

meeting, when five ceremonies took place: two initiations, two

passings and one raising all on the same day!

Between The Wars

In April 1919, a proposal to investigate the cost of a banner as a

fitting memorial to the “peace year” was carried.

1920 proved to be a very busy year as there were seven

emergency meetings. In all, there were 17 – 1st-degree

ceremonies (25 candidates), 14 – 2nds (25 candidates) and 16 –

3rd-degree ceremonies (29 candidates). Six of the ceremonies had

two candidates in each degree.

For the first time at the January meeting, a reference to “Absent

Brethren” appeared on the summons, to be given at 11 pm

precisely (for brethren still overseas due to the war). There was no

repeat of this edict that was until January 1950 and no recorded

reason for its reinstatement. It has continued ever since at 10 pm

to this day.

In June 1920, W. Bro. H. Marfleet retired as Secretary after

having served 14 years in that office. At the meeting, it was

proposed to purchase a unique jewel of suitable design for

presentation to him.