Our Lodge: Lodge History

The First Lodge in the Grand Lodge of Alberta – Cornerstone Lodge #19

The town of High River has the distinction of being the first centre to be granted a dispensation by the newly formed Grand Lodge of Alberta.

Thus the name "Cornerstone" was chosen as the name of the Lodge. Prior to this Alberta Lodges operated under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Manitoba.

The first issue of the town's newspaper, The High River Times, carried an account of Cornerstone's institution: "On Tuesday last (Nov. 28, 1905), DDGM M.J.T. Macdonald of Calgary, accompanied by several brethren , instituted a Masonic Lodge in High River - the first one formed in the new province of Alberta. This fact suggested the very appropriate name it bears, Cornerstone Lodge AF&AM. "The evening train of that date was late, which prolonged the session somewhat. The meeting place will be above the Gilles & Richardson store.

"Organization was affected by the following officers: WM, Percy Taylor; SW W.C. Laycock; JW, Mr. Gould; treasurer, W.P Walker; secretary Charles Clark (founder of the High River Times, and grandfather of former Prime Minister Joe Clark); chaplain, Rev. Howcroft; SD Dr. H.E. Bedingfield; JD, W.B. Thorne; Tyler, W.T. Baird. They will control the destiny of the Lodge for the ensuing years. "All adjourned to the Astoria Hotel where a banquet was tendered by the local craftsmen. W.C. Armstrong was toastmaster. Mr. Barwis followed with a college song, the chorus of which was throated by about 30 lusty-lunged Masons."

The Charter was granted at the First Communication of the Grand Lodge of Alberta and the ceremonies of Constitution and Consecration were held in High River on Nov. 25, 1906. "Grand officers of the Grand Lodge of Alberta were present and performed their part well," reported the High River Times. "One year ago this Lodge first started and during the 12 months has made rapid strides. W M Percy Taylor has just reason to be proud of the great success of Cornerstone Lodge, for it is largely due to his efforts that such a flourishing society exists in High River." Most of the original officers served during the first year following consecration, the exceptions being: treasurer, James McNeill; JD, Rev. Howcroft; SS, J.W. Sutherland; and JS, W.B. Thorne. "Following the installation of officers, the brethren, numbering about 70, adjourned to the Oxford Hotel where a banquet was tendered officers of the Grand Lodge and visiting brethren from other points."

A newspaper account of Cornerstone Lodge's "At Home" held on April 2, 1907 gave a glowing report, calling it "undoubtedly the most successful and pleasant function ever held in High River. "By 10 p.m. the Lodge room was crowded with an animated group of Masons and their lady friends. A large phonograph from the Fair Store provided music, while the banqueting room was made ready. Although a more than usual feast had been expected on this auspicious occasion, the Astoria Hotel truly did itself and Cornerstone Lodge full justice in preparing this feast for the gods.

"Dainty and emblematic Lists of Dancing were handed the guests who retired to the Lodge room and the banquet hall prepared for dancing. Night had passed away and morning dawned ere the hundred and fifty guests, weary but happy could tear themselves away from the festive scene."

Granite Lodge #127

In 1921 Cornerstone Lodge was pleased to be associated in the formation of Granite Lodge #127 at Blackie and is proud to be Granite's Mother Lodge.

Prince of Wales

When the late King Edward VIII (later the Duke of Windsor) was still Prince of Wales, waiting to succeed his father as King, he visited High River in 1919 and purchased the Bedingfeld ranch west of the town. He renamed it the EP Ranch (Edward Prince). On one of his several visits to the community he attended Cornerstone Lodge as a Brother Mason. His signature is preserved in the Lodge registry. On his return to England, he sent the Lodge a Masonic carpet, as a remembrance of his visit and warm reception. The carpet is now displayed in the Calgary Heritage Park Lodge Hall. For several years during World War II, High River was the site of a Elementary Flying Training School. Cornerstone Lodge was please to welcome young Masons from all over the British Empire who came here to train as pilots. Sadly, many were later casualties of war and did not return to their families and homes. The memories of their sacrifices endure, however.

While for the first year or so meetings were held above the Gilles & Richardson store, for some 58 years thereafter meetings and socials were held in the rooms above the Koch & Pflughaupt Block at 111 - 3 Ave. W.

New Building in 1963 for Cornerstone Lodge, Golden West Chapter and Easter Star.

In 1963 the Lodge purchased a corner lot at 3 Ave. and 4 St. S.E. and constructed a modern single-storey Lodge and banquet room. This cinder block structure put all facilities on the ground floor, eliminating the need to go up and down stairs - a feature appreciated especially by older members of the craft. The High River Masonic Temple is jointly owned by Cornerstone Lodge, Golden West Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, and Occidental Chapter Order of the Eastern Star. The three Masonic bodies moved into the building in January 1964. M.W. Bro. Sam Hardin performed the cornerstone-laying ceremonies on May 1, 1964. The hall also serves as home for the local Shrine Club and is offered as well for other community events such as wedding, anniversaries and organization events.

Cornerstone Players

In 1999, ten members of Cornerstone Lodge and a brother from Glenbow Lodge formed an acting troupe named the Cornerstone Players. They acquired a script from a Lodge in England which allows the recreation of a Lodge meeting as it might have been conducted in 1765, at which a new Brother was initiated. The actors use costumes and regalia that is representative of the period. The play was widely acclaimed and the group has performed for Lodges as far away as Vancouver.

As Cornerstone Lodge nears its 100th anniversary it can be noted that 18 members have served as DDGM, the first being RW Bro. Percy Taylor, the charter WM. Several members have occupied other Grand Lodge chairs over the years as well. The Lodge, however, has yet to produce a Grand Master from its ranks.

Cornerstone Lodge has a long and proud history in the Grand Lodge of Alberta and looks forward to serving the fraternity well for many years to come.

FROM THE HISTORICAL REGISTER

Long time ago 1914

February 24, 1914 - W. Bro. J.F. Casteel attended the annual "At Home" of Nanton Lodge #17 and reported an excellent time.

January 30, 1914 - The Eighth Annual "At Home" was held in the Masonic Hall, some 75 brethren and visitors being present. Dancing was indulged in until midnight when all sat down to a most delicious supper supplied by members' wives. During supper short speeches were rendered by various brethren and members, songs were sung by Bro. J.T. Gibson of Perfection Lodge #9 of Calgary, and readings by Mrs. Lane which were greatly appreciated. The music supplied by the George Orchestra for the dance and during the supper was excellent. The evening's entertainment broke up at 4 a.m. and was pronounced by tall present as the best yet.

April 7, 1914 - W. Bro. J.F. Casteel, W.M., and 9 other brethren of our lodge journeyed to Calgary to pay a fraternal visit to Perfection Lodge #9 -- some 125 being present. The Third Degree was conferred in a most skillful and impressive manner. W. Bro. D.C. McHugh entertained the members of Cornerstone at dinner at the Commercial Club. A banquet was also held in the lodge rooms after the meeting.

1954

February 18, 1954 - A minute of silence was observed in memory of our departed Bro. Alfred Leonard Watkins. $5.00 was donated to the polio fund. Bro. Lewis Abraham Douglas was elected to membership by affiliation. Messrs. David Whitley Forsyth and Tilton Albert Adair were obligated as Entered Apprentices.

January 21, 1954 - Regular Communication with 26 in attendance. Golden West Chapter is now helping with rent of the hall. After the meeting pictures were shown by Bro. LR. Mallett.

April 22, 1954 - Regular Communication. A moment of silence was observed in memory of our late R.W. Bro. A.S. Dick and Bro. J.C. Prosser. R.W. Bro. J.M. Blair, DDGM and brother of Cornerstone, was received in form and welcomed. Five brethren were passed in the F.C. Degree. Attendance 37.

1979

February 15, 1979 - Regular Communication with 24 members and 2 visitors. Messrs. John LeBoutillier and Brian Jukes were obligated as Entered Apprentices.

January 18, 1979 - Regular Communication with 25 members and 1 visitor. Bros. Joe McDonald and James Boswell were elected to membership by affiliation.

April 19, 1979 - Step-Up Night. Bros. Brian Juke and John LeBoutillier were obligated as Fellowcrafts. Attendance 36.

1913

January 31, 1913: W. Bros. Austin Francis, H.H. Gould, Wm. Smith and G.D. Stanley paid Nanton Lodge No. 17 a visit, the Grand Master also being present.

February. 7, 1913: The seventh annual "At Home" was held in the lodge rooms with some 125 members and visitors and their ladies present. A most enjoyable evening in dancing and cards was enjoyed. It was claimed by many to surpass all previous efforts. At Homes are becoming more popular as the years go on and are looked forward to by members and their lady friends as the most enjoyable event of the year.

March 6, 1913: R.W. Bro. G.H. Jaurnick, D.D.G.M. of Stavely, made his official visit to this Lodge and spoke at length for the good of Masonry in general and urged the officers to use the new York Rite ritual and it alone.

April 1, 1913: W. Bros. H.H. Gould, V.C.W. Stanley, and Bros. E.S. Bahl, R.E. Buswell, G.R. McCorquodale attended a meeting of Vulcan Lodge U.D. and assisted in the raising of four candidates. They reported having been loyally received and had a good time.

April 24, 1913: W. Bro. Austin Francis and a dozen members attended the funeral of our late Bro. John Lineham at Okotoks, under the direction of Corinthian Lodge #22.

May 25th 1913W. Bros. Austin Francis attended the 8th annual meeting of the Grand Lodge at Banff.

June 14, 1913: An invitation was extended by Vulcan Lodge U.D. to assist in the instituting and consecrating of their Lodge. With their usual alacrity the members of Cornerstone responded by sending five Brethren. Leaving High River at 5:45 p.m. they arrived at Vulcan at 7:45 after many jolts over newly graded roads, a merry party, one blown tire Y Chauffeur Bro. F. Coleman. We were pleased by the esteem and honour in which our second Past Master, Henry H. Gould is held by our Most Worshipful Grand Master who appointed him to hold the gavel in the absence of the Master-elect for the duties outside of the instituting and consecrating which was carried out to the satisfaction and appreciation of all present.

November 20, 1913: Grand Master M.W. Bro. S.J. Blair, and R.W. Bro. D.J. McDiarmid, D.D.G.M. made their official visits to the lodge. They complimented the officers on their work and spoke for the good of Masonry in general.

December. 27, 1913: Our Lodge has certainly not been very active this year, especially in the way of new material coming to the fore, as it will be noticed that only two special communications were held outside the regulars. At the same time the members were very active in visiting other Lodges which made the year very bright.

1953

January 14, 1953: Emergent Communication to attend the funeral and conduct the graveside service for Bro. Gavin James Findlay, age 74. Came to High River with his parents in 1884.

January 15, 1953: Resignation of R.W. Bro. J.F. Casteel after 16 years as Secretary accepted with regret. W. Bro. W.T. Davis was appointed Acting Secretary. Mr. Earl Lower was obligated as an E.A. Attendance 31

February. 19, 1953: Regular Communication. Attendance 58

March 19, 1953: Regular Communication. W. Bro. W.T. Davis invested as secretary. F.C. Degree conferred on Bros. M.E. Terriff, F.C. Baldwin, R.H. Cunningham, E.G. Lower, and J.A. Baker. Attendance 49.

April 16, 1953: Bro. R.E. Haaland, Pyramid #108, Lomond was elected to become a member by affiliation. Past Masters obligated Bro. Mallett as a M.M. Attendance 74, including the DDGM, R.W. Bro. Wm. S. Daley.

June 18, 1953: M.M. Degree was conferred on Bros. M.E. Terriff, F.C. Baldwin, R.H. Cunningham, E.G. Lower, and J.A. Baker. Attendance: 92.

September 17, 1953: Moment of silence for late departed Bro. Leman of Turner Valley. $5.00 was donated to the Johnny Goodwin Memorial Fund. Les Mallett was obligated as an Entered Apprentice. Attendance: 39.

October 22, 1953: Cornerstone #19 hosted the District #6 meeting.

November 19, 1953: $100 donated to Wood's Christian Home. This being "Oil Field Night" Brethren associated with the oil industry took the chairs. Bros. Melvin Terriff, Frederick Baldwin and Richard Cunningham were initiated. $25 was donated to the Eastern Star to help pay for kitchen utensils purchased.

December. 28, 1953: Festive communication held to install the W.M.s and invest the other officers of Cornerstone and Granite at Blackie Masonic Hall. Installing Master was R.W. Bro. A.C. Moore. Bro. Earl Goodwin was installed as W.M. succeeding W. Bro. Vance Hitchner.

1978

January 3, 1978: Joint Festival Communication to install the Masters and invest the other officers of Nanton #17 and Cornerstone #19. Bro. Mickey Gang was installed as W.M. of Cornerstone. Installing Master was R.W. Bro. J.M. Longson

January 19, 1978: A minute of silence was observed in memory of Bro. John Morrison and W. Bro. Bruce Sanderson who recently passed away. R&E was a talk and discussion on the differences between York and Canadian Rites. The D.D.G.M. was among 24 members and 15 visitors in attendance.

February 16, 1978: Regular Communication. Bro. Lance Wendall Jansen, Douglas Morley and Tony Marshall were obligated in the E.A. Degree. Attendance 42.

February 18, 1978: The Masonic Cabaret was hosted by Cornerstone Lodge at the Temple. Meadows' Orchestra provided the music.

March 16, 1978: Past Masters' Night. Five Past Masters put on the Mentor Plan in the E.A. Degree. Attendance 39.

April 20, 1978: Bros. Lance Jansen, Douglas Morley and Tony Marshall were obligated in the F.C. Degree. V.W. Bro. Costigan gave a talk on "Visiting Standards in Masonry".

May 18, 1978: Tyled at 5:30 p.m. Attendance: 16. A fraternal visit to Zetland Lodge, Calgary followed.

June 15, 1978: Bros. Lance Jansen, Douglas Morley and Tony Marshall were obligated in the M.M. Degree. 34 members and 39 visitors attended.

September 21, 1978: The Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Robert Costigan was received in form and welcomed. R.W. Bro. Don Christie of Chuchuni #160, Ontario, was elected to membership by affiliation. Attendance: 33.

October 19, 1978: R.W. Bro. J.K. Williams, DDGM, was received in form on his official visit. Stampede City Chapter of Demolay performed one of their Degrees following the meeting. Attendance was 27 members and 12 visitors

November 16, 1978: W. Bro. Mickey Gang was re-elected as W.M., Bros. Jack Siemens and Don King were elected as wardens, Bro. Don Smith as Secretary, Bro. C.A. Fredell as Treasurer, and W. Bro. Reg Powys-Lybbe as Tyler. Attendance: 27/12

December, 1978: Joint Festival Communication held at Nanton to install the W.M. and invest the other officers of Cornerstone and Nanton. Bro. Mickey Gang was installed as W.M. 1912

January 30, 1912: The sixth annual "At Home" was held on this date. A very nice supper was supplied by the ladies in the lodge room., while a dance, with excellent music supplied by W.W. Piperís Orchestra of Calgary was held in the banquet hall. Some 150 brethren and visitors with their lady friends were present. This "At Home" was pronounced as one of the best yet held.

February. 22, 1912: The Lodge held a Smoking Concert and Entertainment in the Lodge room and quite an enjoyable time was spent.

April 25, 1912: The DDGM R.W. Bro. G.H. Legler made an official visit to this lodge.

June 1912: Nothing reported.

December 5, 1912: The members attended a banquet to honour Bro. F.J. Manning, J.W. and also presented him with a Masonic ring prior to his departure for eastern Canada.

December 27, 1912: Bro. Austin Francis was installed as W.M. for 1913 by W. Bro. William Smith. The Lodge not being as active this year, it was decided to discontinue holding regular communications during the months of July and August. It will also be observed that the regular meetings exceed emergent meetings by almost double, just the reverse to former years.

1952

January 17, 1952: Regular Communication. Mr. J. Frank Hunter was obligated as an Entered Apprentice Six brothers were suspended N.P.D. Attendance 28.

February 21, 1952: Memorial Service held in honor of his Royal Highness George VI, an honored member of the craft, who passed away on Feb. 6. Bro. J. Frank Hunter was obligated as a Fellow Craft Attendance was 47.

March 20, 1952: Special guests included the Deputy Grand Master and Grand Secretary. Bro. Korczynski of Turner Valley showed moving pictures following refreshments. 64 attended.

June 19, 1952: Contingent from Granite #127 in attendance. Bro Frank Hunter raised as a Master Mason. Attendance 57.

October. 16, 1952: Bros. Henry Buhr and G. A. Pringle were obligated as Fellow Crafts. 50-Year Masonic Jewels were presented to R.W. Bro. J.F. Casteel and Bro. William Bews by the Grand Secretary M.W. Bro. George Moore. Attendance was 44.

December 5, 1952: "At Home" was held at the Memorial Centre.

December . 18, 1952: Bro. R.V. Hitchner was elected as W.M. for 1953. $100 donated to Wood's Christian Home, Calgary. Attendance was 33. Attendance was 29.

December 28, 1952: A Joint Festival Communication was held at the Blackie Masonic Hall to install the W.M.s and invest the other officers of Crnerstone #19 and Granite #127. Installing Master was R.W. Bro. A.C. Moore.

1977

January 20, 1977: Regular Communication. Bros. Les Fox, Barry Hergert, Grant Marshall, Lance Oike, and Bill Longson were obligated in the Fellow Craft Degree. The new Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Reg Powys-Lybbe was in the East.

February. 17, 1977: Moved and carried that $500 be spent on a public address system for the temple. An exemplification of the Masonic funeral service was given for education and it produced interesting discussion. R.W. Bro. Reg Evans spoke on "Uniformity in Lodge".

March 17, 1977: Bros. Les Fox, Barry Hergert, Grant Marshall, Lance Pike and Bill Longson were obligated and raised in the Master Mason Degree.

April 21, 1977: Elbow River Lodge provided Masonic Education, presenting papers on Masonic Secrets, Early Masonry in Canada, and Masonic Friendship.

June , 1977: Bros. David Suitor and Norman Priest were obligated as Fellow Craft's. Thirty members and four visitors in attendance.

October 20, 1977: Bros. Ray Johnston, David Suitor and Norman Priest were obligated and raised in the Master Mason Degree. 30 members and 3 visitors were in attendance.

December 13, 1977: Emergent Communication to attend the funeral of Bro. John Lineham Morrison, age 80.

December 5, 1977: Bro. Harold Carter was elected to membership by Affiliation. Attendance was 30

Top