omn JItlfsra, N«m fork FROM THE BENNO LOEWY LIBRARY COLLECTED BY BENNO LOEWY 1854-1919 BEQUEATHED TO CORNELL UNIVERSITY Cornell University Library HS598.H17 P96 History of the Lodge of Probitv.,,rio. 61, 3 1924 030 291 888 olln.anx The original of tiiis book is in tine Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924030291888 w o Q o H-1 w ffi H CO M tn 00 O IH en 2 P< t-H < Z D O 1—1 1— 1 U w W K ffi H H W p:; « o O fn (n W Q m W c« P W H <: hJ Ph HISTORY OF THE LODGE OF PROBITY. No. 61 ON THE REGISTER OF THE UNITED GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND OF ANTIENT FEEE AND ACCEPTED MASONS, TOGETHER WITH AN ACCOUNT OE THE^ FOEMATION OF THE PEOVINOIAL GEAND LOD&E OP WEST YOEKSHIEE AND THE LODGE OF PEOMTJLGATION. HERBERT CROSSLEY, (8.W. of the Lodge oJ Probity), HALIFAX. PUBLISHED BY THE LODGE OF PROBITY. 1888. A 'f^o \isr M. C. PECK & SON, STEAM PRINTERS, lO MARKET PLACE, HULL. ^0. T 7' THIS VOLUME OF THE EEC0ED8 OF THE LODGE OF PBOBITY IS RESPECTFULLY AND FEATEENALLY DEDICATED TO BEOTHER FEANCIS FLEMING, WOESHIPFUL MASTEE, IN THE 150th YEAE OF ITS EXISTENCE, BY HEEBEET CEOSSLEY, SENIOR WARDEN. HALIFAX, 17th December, 18 PREFACE. Brethren of the Lodge of Probity, T a meeting of the Lodge, held in Fehruary, 1885, it was requested that the records should be collected, with a view to the History of the Lodge being published. A Committee appointed for this purpose, delegated me, as the then Secretary, to carry out the work, which it is now my pleasure to present to you. I have to thank many brethren for their kind assistance ; most notably Bro. Henry Sadler, Grand Tyler of England, for his searches in the records of the Grrand Lodge ; Bro. M. C. Peck, Grand Standard Bearer of England, and Grand Secretary of the Province of North and East Toikshire for his examination of the minute books of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Yorkshire, and Bro. W. J. Hughan, P.G.D. of England, for his advice on many occasions. I have also to thank Mr. Ogden (Halifax Guardian), and Mr. J. Turner of Halifax, for the perusal of documents in their possession, and lastly Bro. Charles Middleton, for his valued assistance in preparing the manuscript and revising proofs. VI. I trust that you will find this record of the transactions worthy of our antient and honourable Lodge, and all I ask is that you will not consider the task of compilation has been labour in vain. I have the honour to remain, Yours sincerely and fraternally. HISTOEY OF THE LODGE OF PEOBITY. TABLE OF CONTENTS. , PAGE Chapter I. Halifax and its -surroundings at the time of the formation of the Lodge of Probity 9 ,, II. Formation of the Provincial Grand Lodge of the West Biding of Yorkshire, and its connection with the Lodge of Probity. . 15 ,, III. Formation of the Lodge of Probity, and its History to a.d. 1769 . . . . 23 „ IV. History of the Lodge of Probity, a.d. 1769 to 1780 .. .. .. .. 73 „ V. History of the Lodge of Probity, a.d. 1780 to 1801 .'. .. .. .. 83 „ YI. History of the Lodge of Probity, a.d. 1801 to 1808 .. .. .. ' .. 107 ,, VII. Probity Lodge and the Removal of Loyal Halifax Lodge to Heptonstall, with the Inauguration of the same as Prince Frederick Lodge . , . . . . 117 „ ■ Yin. History of the Lodge of Probity, a.d. 1808 to 1815 ., .. .. ..135 ,, IX. The Lodge of Probity and the Lodge of Promulgation .. .. .. 156 ,, X. History of the JJodge of Probity, a;d. 1816 to 1822 .. .. .. ..176 ,, XI. The Lodge of Probity and the Formation of the Provincial Grand Lodge of "West Yorkshire.. .. .. ..189 „ XII. History of the Lodge of Probity, a.d. 1822 to 1888. Conclusion . . . . 219 APPENDICES. 51 List of Members since 1762 294 ^• The By-Laws of 1767 . . 309 @- Extracts from the Halifax Journal, 1809 . . .. 317 P- Memoir of Bro. Jas. Inglis, M.D., P.M. . . 318 §■ Memoir of Bro. John Sutcliffe, P.M. 319 ^■ List of Worshipful Masters. .. 323 ^■ List of Officers in 1888 325 Addendum . . . . . . . . . . 326 List of Lodges in the West Eiding of Yorkshire . . 329 Index .. .. •• •• ■• ■■ 331 ILLUSTRATIONS. Old Engraved Plate Frontispiece E.W. Brb. Wm. Horton page 18 Fac-simile of Engraved List and Calendars .,• 29 „ of Minute Book (Signatures, etc.) . „ 45 „ of Certificate „ 50 W. Bro. Charles WMteley . . „ 105 Eac-simile of Gravestone „ 109 W. Bro. John Sutcliffe „ 142 W. Bro. Thomas Perkinton . . ,, 246 E.W. Bro. Sir Henry Edwards „ 261 HISTOKY OF THE LODGE OF PROBITY. CUAPTEE I. Halifax and its suRRorNDiNGs at the time of the fohmation of the Lodge of Pbobity. GENERAL desire having been expressed to have the records of the Lodge brought before its members ; and also a resolution having been carried in open Lodge that the "History of the Lodge of Probity " should be compiled for publication and circulated amongst its members, this work has been taken in hand. The information having been obtained from minute books, letters, and other materials which are the property and in the possession of the Lodge, it is hoped something may be found which will prove of interest not only to the members of the Lodge of Probity but to all members of the Craft. B 10 HISTORY or PROBITY LODGE. Bro; John Eamsden Eiley, in his " History of Yorkshire Lodges," says of the Lodge of Probity — *' That through all the vicissitudes of Masonry, during " a most trying period, had its loyalty (to its mother " Lodge the Grand Lodge of England) remained "unshaken and firm as a rock. It upheld its most " appropriate name of Probity, whilst other Lodges at "various times were distracted with discussions on " the merits of seceders and so called Antient Masonry "and Old Institutions." The publication, however, of the before-mentioned book, and also that of Sadler's " Masonic Facts and Fictions," and Hughan's " Origin of the English Eite of Freemasonry " have made this work easier, and it would be well perhaps for the Masonic student to read these books, and in perusing the records of this old Lodge to see how the different changes have come about. Hence will be found some of the radical changes which have taken place in the Masonic world, and in what respect the Lodge of Probity was affected thereby. Before going into the early history of the Lodge, it may be as well to deal with the community which gave its first welcome to the heralds of Freemasonry in Halifax, and invited the workers in the secret HISTORY 01? PROBITY LODGE. 11 degree to find and found for themselves a home in our good old town ; and at the same time give a glance at the place where the fathers of our Lodge lived, moved,- and had their being. These notes are to shew the class of people amongst whom they had thrown their lot, with whom they were in daily contact, and also how far the founders of the Lodge were connected with the town and its work. ''The town of Halifax, from whence the parish "takes its name, may be considered the centre of a "large and populous manufacturing district of the " North of England. It lies 14 miles from Leeds, 7 "from Bradford, 16 from Wakefield and 12 from the " borders of Lancashire."* It is situated in the valley of the Hebble, a branch of the river Calder which it joins some two or three miles away. The immediate district, and in fact the whole parish, may be con- sidered as one valley, with numerous forks bounded at unequal and varying distances by two high barren ridges of moorland. The valleys through which the different tributaries to the Calder fiow are somewhat fertile, and the water afforded the power which was made subservient to the purposes of manufacture, and to the many industries by which the population gained * Whitlakoi's History of Halifax. 12 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. a livelihood. The principal manufactures were shalloons, tammies, draw-boys, kerseys, baizes, etc. and as a necessary consequence other trades, such as dyeing and fulling, and the grinding and preparation of dyeing materials. The brooks and streams which drained the moorlands supplied water of such excel- lent quality that the operations of dyeing were of a superior character ; and to this day the neighbourhood may boast its superiority in this respect. In 1757 a scheme was promoted for rendering the Aire and Calder navigable, and the works were carried into execution by John Smeaton and James Brindley ; but before the whole line of canal was completed, such of the works as were then made, were destroyed or greatly damaged by the violence of repeated floods. Application was then made to Parliament for powers to extend the navigation of the Calder to Salterhebble and Sowerby Bridge, and these extensions were duly carried out ; thus bringing Halifax into a position of great advantage, having a cheap and commodious means of communication with the port of Hull. The canal having been opened, it was found of such great advantage, not only to the neighbourhood of Halifax but also to the towns in Lancashire, that it necessi- tated the formation of better means of communication HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 13 with those towns, and thus the highway to Eochdale and to Manchester was constructed. It became a thoroughfare over whose wide wild tracks the manu- factures of the busy Lancashire towns were carried and sent to Hull, and from thence shipped to all parts of the world. Thus the town increased, and its ways of ingress and egress were improved as it grew in prosperity and magnitude. The first scheme for sup- plying the townspeople with a regular supply of water was promoted in 1762. The Piece Hall was opened in 1779, owing to its having been found that the old cloth market was not sufficiently large for the greatly increasing wants of the town. In all these great and useful objects it will be found that the Brethren whose names are enrolled on our books as members, and often as rulers of the Craft, were by no means in the back-ground, but were promoters in all objects which might prove useful to the well-being of the town. It would seem somewhat ostentatious to mention names of members of the Lodge, but the names of Wm. Greame, Wm. Norris, Elk. Hoyle, Ch. Eawson, Huntress and Akroyd, may be given as townsmen who were always to the front in the promotion of any- thing which was for the welfare of the town. The 14 HISTORY OP PEOBITY LODGE. population of the town of Halifax in 1764 was about 6,300. Watson says that even with this estimate the town was considered a populous district, and that the population had increased rapidly during the previous fifty years. Hence at the time of the introduction, so far as is known, of Freemasonry into Halifax it was a thriving and populous community ; always to the front in the leading features of the times; its inhabitants were pushing and striving men ; never backward in the race ; possessed of considerable wealth and true Yorkshire pluck. Whilst among them were to be found members of the most ancient and honourable families, whose aim and desire seemed to be not only to make the town one of the most important in the district, but to prove themselves to be good and true citizens of an ever increasing, and what has proved to be a mighty nation. CHAPTER II. FoKMATION OF THK PbOVINOIAL GrEAND LoDGE OF THE WeST EiDisa OF Yorkshire and its costneotion with the LoDOE of Pkobity. I HE Grand Lodge in London, after its resuscitation in 1717, made rapid strides, and greatly increased its boundaries. It had been presided over by a number of noblemen of the highest rank, and in the year 1737 had received into its ranks Frederick, Prince of Wales, the father of King George III. Writing on this subject, Preston says — "There "cannot be a better proof of the flourishing state of " the Society at this time than by adverting to the "respectable appearance of the brethren in Grand "Lodge at which the Grand Master never failed to " attend. Upwards of sixty Lodges were represented " at every communication during Lord Darnley's "administration, and more Provincial patents were 16 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. '' issaed by him than by any of his predecessors." Before proceeding fuither, attention is called to another remark which somewhat bears upon the history of Masonry in Yorkshire during the Grand Mastership of the Earl of Crawford in 1734. "The "Earl of Crawford seems to have made the first "encroachment on the jurisdiction of the Grand "Lodge of Masons in the City of York, by con- " stituting two Lodges within their district, and by "granting, without their consent, three deputations, " one for Lancashire, a second for Durham, and a " third for Northumberland. This circumstance the "Grand Lodge at York highly resented, and ever " after seems to have viewed the Grand Lodge at "London with a jealous eye. All friendly inter- " course was stopped, and the York Masons for the " moment considered their interest as distinct from "that of the Masons under the Grand Lodge of "London." In the year 1738 the Marquis of Car- narvon was appointed to preside over the Grand Lodge, and it was in this year that an application was made to Grand Lodge for a warrant to form a Eree Masons' Lodge at Halifax. Eeverting again to " Preston " it is found that " Two deputations for the "office of Provincial Grand Master were granted by HISTORY OP PEOBITY LODGE. 17 "Ms lordship, one for the Caribbee Islands, and the " other for the West Eiding of Yorkshire. This " latter appointment was considered a third encroach- " ment on the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge in " York, and so widened the original breach between " the brethren in the north and the south of England, " that from henceforward all further correspondence " between the two Grand Lodges totally ceased." This is treading on dangerous ground, and raising questions of a controversial character. It is matter for regret that there are such scant records bearing on this question which can prove the assertion, quoted from Preston, that this was the iirst home of the messengers of Freemasonry from the Grand Lodge in London, is correct. It is of little conse- quence whether this introduction of Freemasonry- caused a rift between the Grand, Lodges of the north and south ; however, the fact remains that the Grand Lodge of London was pushing out its branches, and forming Lodges in the provinces. When it is taken into consideration that it was trespassing on the preserves of the York Grand Lodge, it would seem, whether true or not, that the York brethren might feel some jealousy of the London brethren, and also 18 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODOE. an additioaal reason for this when it is remembered that affairs were not at that time in the York pro- vince in the same flourishing condition as were those of their apparent London rivals. The Grand Lodge at York had been i~n existence before this time, and numerous evidences prove that the Craft had been in a flourishing condition anterior to 1738; but when it is stated by brethren who speak with great authority that the Provincial Grand Lodge of the West Eiding of Yorkshire never had a separate existence before 1822, then, with the testi- mony at our disposal, an endeavour should be made to settle the question. In Entick's Book of Constitutions for 1757, it is stated that the Provincial Grand Lodge of the West Eiding of Yorkshire was formed in 1738, and that William Horton, Esq., was appointed the Pro- vincial Grand Master. This statement is vouched for by the evidence of Preston already quoted. In addition to this proof, Bro. Sadler, who has kindly searched the records of Grand Lodge in Lon- don, has obtained the following information from the records of the Grand Lodge. " William Horton, Esq"- for y« West Eiding of y« " County of York. Carnarvon G,M. Edward Eooke R.W. BRO. WILLIAM HORTOx\, J.P. "g'rotJ. g.ran& faster for 35csf ^orgs^ire, 1738. Nat 1702, Ob. 1739. From a Painting in the possession of Bro. Capt. J. T. Horton, J. P., Howroyde, Barltisland. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 19 " Leeds, Esq"- Provincial for the West Eiding of y* " County of York, instead of "W"'- Horton, Esq"- "deceased. Kintorb, G.M." In the Book of Constitutions by Entick, which is in the possession of the Lodge of Probity, and which has been in its possession since 1764, it will be found that some brother has written after the name of Wni. Horton the word "Coley," signifying that he lived at this place ; and on reference to Watson's History of Halifax, this will be found to be the case. " William Horton, of Coley, Esq"- justice of the ''peace, who was baptised at Eipponden Chapel, "Feb. 11, 1702, and died 1739-40." This is further borne out by an epitaph which is in the family vault in EUand Chapel. Eeferring again to the Book of Constitutions named, it will be found, after the name of Edward Eooke, the words " Eodes Hall " is written ; and on reference to Watson's History, a family of this name is stated to have lived at Eodes Hall in the Bradford parish ; and that one "Edward Eooke, Esq"- born March 23, 1714, "who married in 1740 the daughter and heiress of " . . . . Leedes, of Milforth, Esq"- and took the name " of Leedes." The copy of Grand Lodge records already referred 20 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. to, shows the name Leedes coming after that of Eooke, and perhaps it might be thought that he belonged to the town of that name ; however this is explained by the last reference, wliere it is stated that Edward Eooke took the name of Leedes on his marriage. Again, in " The Pocket Companion and History of Free Masons," published 1764, the appointment of Wm. Horton, Esq., as Provincial Grand Master for the West Eiding of the County of York, is mentioned in the Marquis of Carnarvon's year. Further, amongst a list of appointments of Provincial Grand Masters, there is named that of Edward Eooke, Esq., for the West Eiding of Yorkshire " in the room of Wm. Horton, Esq., deceased." In confirmation of the foregoing statements it may be as well to mention here an extract from one of the minute books of the Lodge of Probity, entered June 8, 1763. " Order' d^That the Secretary do write a proper " letter to the Eight Worshipful ye Provincial Grand " Master for the West Eiding of the County of York, " that the Lod^e, No. 97, at the Eose and Crown in " Halifax, will be kept next St. John's Day in due " form." This is another addition to the number of proofs. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. ~ 21 not only that tlie Provincial Grand Lodge of the West Eiding of Yorkshire did once exist, but also that it was in existence in 1763 ; a supposition which was doubted on the occasion of the publication of the formation of the Eoyal Arch Chapter connected with this Lodge. From the evidence here adduced, the assertion is warranted that the "West Eiding of Yorkshire had a Provincial Grand Master in 1738 ; and as there is some doubt as to the truth of this statement, the writer felt he was justified in having gone out of his way to vindicate this assertion; and also as the Provincial Grand Masters, who were appointed, were men who resided in the immediate vicinity of Halifax, andwere probably members and founders of the Lodge of Probity. In addition to the fore- going, it is with a degree of pride that, as a member of the Craft to which the writer has a great attach- ment, his own town should have been able to find brethren who were considered fitted for this high and honourable office, and who at the same time were members of families of great repute, dis- tinction, and character ; families that have assisted in building up not only the history of Freemasonry, but also the history of the town of Halifax. Further he 22 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODffE. cannot but remark that one of the family of Horton, a direct descendant of the before mentioned William Horton is at the present time enrolled on the list of the members of the Lodge of Probity. CHAPTER III. Formation or the Lodge of Probity and its History TO A.D. 1769, IN the archives of the Grand Lodge in London it is placed upon record that a Lodge was constituted on the 12th July, 1738, at the Bull's Head, Halifax, to meet on the last Monday in the month, and this Lodge we find from the engraved lists of that date, was numbered on the register of the Grand Lodge of London, " 176," and held its meetings at the Black Bull Inn. It is much to be regretted that the above is the only record of the formation of the Lodge, with the excep- tion of the Warrant from the Grand Lodge (a copy of which is appended). The minutes of the Lodge, if written, are not known to be in existence ; and the records of Grand Lodge afford us no assistance in the matter, as no list of members of private Lodges was 24 HISTOUY OP PROBITY LODGE. kept between the years 1730 and 1770. Witli the exception of the name of John Senior, whom we may- define as the Father of the Lodge, and whose name is the only one on the warrant, we have no means of knowing who were the other founders and members of the Lodge. It is just possible that Bros. William Horton, P.G.M. and Edward Eooke, P.G.M. were con- nected with and assisted in founding the Lodge, and there can be no doubt that there would be many others. This is borne out by the statement made by Bro. Sadler in his " Facts and Fictions," that in various parts of the country there were Lodges in existence that were unattached to any Grand Lodge, and this may have been one of the reasons why the first Provincial Grand Master of the West Eiding of York- shire was appointed, so as to unite these brethren into one central body ; and it seems onlynatural that some intention of this sort must have been the object of Grand Lodge, for why form a Provincial Grand Lodge when there was only one Lodge in the immediate neighbourhood, and only two in all Yorkshire, ,with the exception of those that were under the jurisdiction of the York Grand Lodge ? In proof of this there are evidences of the existence of Masonry in the neighbourhood, as is stated by Bro. Craven in his HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 25 " Freemasonry at Bottoms," that long before the formation of the " Prince George Lodge " there had been an inn on the turnpike between Halifax and Manchester named the Free Masons' Arms, and there are no other connections, except the name, to shew that Freemasonry had existed there at any time. However, it is as well to state that even before the formation of the Haworth Craft Lodge, there are evidences that there had been both a Eoyal Arch Chapter and a Knight Templar Encampment, and it is scarcely possible that these could have been formed without some previous existence of Craft Masonry. What other conclusion can be arrived at, but that stated by Brqs. Craven and Hughan, that ■there would be a number of Masons in the district belonging to Lodges warranted either by the Lodge of Antients or the Grand Lodge at York, and this conclusion is supplemented by the fact that during the first three years of the working of Prince George Ijodge no less than fifty-one members were initiated. This number is large, and especially in so thinly populated a district as Stansfield. The old Free Masons' Arms and the Black Bull are now no longer in existence, and from a Masonic point of view wo can only regret that we cannot visit D 2G HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. these scenes of the earlier working of the Craft. We can, however, console ourselves with the knowledge that nobler structures in building and engineering art have long since taken their places. The Probity Lodge, now No. 61 on the register of the United Grand Lodge of England, when first warranted was, as stated, No. 176. At the subsequent re-numberings it was changed as follows : — a.d. 1740, No. 162; A.D. 1756, No. 97; a.d. 1770, No. 81; A.D. 1781, No. 65; a.d. 1792, No. 61-; a.d. 1814, No. 84; a.d. 1832, No. 73, and in a.d. 1863, No. 61. (It is somewhat curious to note that the Lodge which before the Union in 1813 was numbered 61 should again have the same number allotted in 1863; and also that the Bacchus Lodge, the second Lodge in Halifax, should be numbered 448, the same as the second Lodge now in Halifax— namely St. James's Lodge.) The warrant under which the Lodge of Probity now works is not the actual one which it received at its dispensation, but one which was presented to the Lodge, and is noticed in the minutes under date July 24th, 1765. This warrant was presented to the Lodge by Bio. Samuel Spencer, G.S., who was born in Halifax, and the event is notified in the minutes HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 27 as follows : " Eesolved — That Bro. Simpson draw up " a letter of thanks to Bro. Spencer for his magnificent *' present to this Lodge of a renewed Warrant." The warrant, which is in a good state of preservation, is a fine specimen of the art of penmanship, and we can only regret that it is not the original warrant itself. It was signed by the G.M. the Marquis of Carnarvon, and by the D.G.M. John Ward, afterwards Lord Ward and Dudley. The following is a verbatim copy of the Warrant : — Carnarvon, G.M. ^o atZ and every our Right Worshipful, Worshipful and Loving Brethren. We, HENRY, MARQUIS OF CARNARVON, Knight of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath, of the Most Antient and Honourable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons, §enb ^veeting. Know ye, that we, of the great trust and confidence reposed in our Right Worshipful Brother John Senior of Halifax, in the County of York, upon the humble petition of him, the said John Senior and several other brethren, do hereby 28 HISTORY OF PEOBITT LODGE. authorize and appoint Mm the said John Senior, for us and in our name and in our place and stead, to convene our brethren residing at Halifax aforesaid, who have signed the said petition, and in due form do constitute them into a regular Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, with the like privileges as other ~ regular Lodges do enjoy. He, the said John Senior, taking special care that all and every the members thereof, have been or shall be regularly made Masons. And that they do observe, perform, and keep all and every the Eules, Orders and Eegulations contained in the Book of Constitutions (except such as have been revoked or altered at any Quarterly or other General Meeting) ; and also all such other Orders, Eegulations and Instructions as shall from time to time be trans- mitted by us, or John Ward, Esq""- our Deputy, or by any of our successors, Grand Masters, or his Deputy for the time being. And we do hereby will and require you the said JoTin Senior, to send to us or our successora. Grand Masters, an account in writing under your hand, of what shall be done by these presents. And also a List of the Members of the Lodge, together with copies of such Eules, Orders, and Eegulations as shall be agreed on for the government thereof. 176 M 7JS ■2W.^ « . /z trunfer JSre. Pea. S^&T- Ti'tn-cetthy. 97 THEOID Cock.. Jul /73% Ix OliCocK l/or7c4iA€^ WednedcU Jul ^sOUC^ci, lMi/iK,r<»i/hirf, irfi*B/4rt»^«fc«%. Wa^knaew dSl. /^g/ txtnu*" S^iv.M^^ J'^aoMMv, ^vya-ay. 6] Uvim Crops, Halifax, Tn-hjhWe — id anA i^ih WrSmfdoj — iZODCS^ or JPROSITY. — HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE, 29 ^ix>en at London, under our hands and Seal of Masonry, this 1st day of August, a.d. 1738, a.l. 5738, By the Grand Master's Command, Witness Samuel Spencer, G.S. J. WAED, D.G.M. Born at Halifax,'Yorkshire. — His gift — Bro. Michael Devon, D.G.S. del»- This, as has been stated, is not the original warrant of the Lodge, but is a renewed one, and the one under which we are proud to work. It is to be regretted that we are not able to produce the names of the " several other brethren " who petitioned Grand Lodge along with our Brother John Senior, and further, that no trace can be found of the '* List of Members together with copies of such Eules, Orders, and Eegulations as shall be agreed on for the govern- ment thereof." This we do know, however, that the Lodge was formed; that it preserved its existence until the time when the written records commence, and continued trorking as a Lodge. For this proof of its existence we have to thank the Engraved Lists of Lodges that were published from time to time, and also Entick's Book of Constitutions, which was published by Grand Lodge authority 1757, and which includes our Lodge as meeting at the Black Bull in its list of Lodges. 30 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. Th.e first written records of the Lodge in oar possession are the minute book commencing in 1762, and also the Treasurer's book bearing same date. It is somewhat curious that both books should be com- menced at the same time. Possibly the records had not been written before that time; at any rate, in 1762 it seemed in a prosperous condition, and this may be accounted for that in 1761 the Grand Lodge of York was revived, and several Lodges warranted by it. Perhaps this fact stimulated the Brethren to look into the state of their own records, and they at once set about to put their house in proper order. Nov. The first meeting which can be recorded is notified 1762. , . as follows in the minute book, and was held at the Eose and Crown, thus shewing that a change in the place of meeting had been effected since the formation of the Lodge. These first records are given in extenso as they are quaint in wording, and contain interesting matter: — " We, the members of this Lodge, held at the Eose "and Crown in Halifax, this lO"" Day of Nov'- 1762, "being our regular Lodge Night, have assembled " ourselves in ample Form with our Eight Worshipful " Brother William Newby in the Chair. Bro. Pressic "Darby, Senior Warden, and Bro. James Hindson, HISTORY" OF PROBITY LODGE. 31 "Jun'- Warden, have opened an Apprentice's Lodge "in ample Form. We have duly and regularly " gone thro' the Apprentice Work ; after that the "Worshipful addressing himself to the Lodged "asking if any Bro"- had any Thing to propose "for the Good of the Lodge. Bro. James Hindson, " addressing , himself to the Chair, proposed John "Hindson to become a Candidate for Masonry, and " being seconded by Bro. Pressic Darby as a person of "worthy Character and good Eepute, it was resolved " that he should attend at our next Lodge night. All "our business being over we have closed the Lodge "to Tuesday, Nov. IG'" 1762. Yisitors— Bro. James " Whitley, Bro. James Vaughan, Bro, Eobert Barrett, "Bro. John Wheelhouse, Bro. Wm. Pollard, Bro. "Wm. Dunn." There is nothing to shew the position which Bro. William Newby occupied in the town, but Bro. Pressic Darby was a printer and publisher, as proved by several works that were issued by him. Bro. James Hindson was the occupier of the Eose and Crown Inn, and in 1761 the trustees of the Halifax Waterworks are said to have met at the house of Master James Hindson, as there was at that time no public building set apart for the business of the town. 32 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. This Brother was very likely also a Past Master in the Craft, although not mentioned as one in our P.M. list, for he is noted as acting as a D^- Master in the Arch on its formation. 1762 " ^®' ^^® members of this Lodge, held at the Eose " and Crown in Halifax this 16'" day of Nov'- 1762, ''being an Extraordinary Lodge night, have as- "sembled ourselves in ample form with our Eight " Worshipful Bro. Wm. Newby in the Chair. Bro. "Pressic Darby, Sen'- Warden, and Bro, James "Hindson, Jun'- Warden, and proceeded to the "reception of John Hindson, balloted and approved "of at our last Lodge night, and having duly "initiated him in the Apprentice's part, and read "the several charges contained in our Book of " Constitutions, as also our by-Laws, and regularly "gone through the Apprentice's work, after that " the Worshipful addressing himself to the Lodge, "proposed Wm. Finch to become a Candidate for " Masonry ; and being seconded by Bro. James " Hindson as a person of worthy Character and good " Eepute, it was resolved he should attend our next "Lodge night. All business being over, we have "closed the Lodge to Nov'- 24*" 1762." "Visitors — Bro^- James Vaughan, James Whitley, HISTOEY OF PROBITY LODGE. 33 *'Eobt. Barrett, John Wheelhouse, Wm. Pollard, " Wm. Dunn, Eobert Sutcliffe." The visitors are fairly numerous at this, as well as at the former meeting, which fact would lead one to suppose that although the Lodge was the only one known in the district even at this date, there must have been Lodges of some kind in the immediate neighbourhood. On this evening Bro. John Hindson was initiated. This entry concerning him is found in the Treasurer's book : — "Nov. 16th. By Expenses in making Bro. ' ' John Hindson — all the members agreed to "make him gratis, he being for the Tyler. . 16b. 6d." The names of Brethren present, with the exception of three principal officers and visitors, are not given ; but why is not explained. At this meeting it will be noted the cost was 1 6s. 6d. which would be more than sufficient for those named. Nov. " We, the members of this Lodge, held at the Eose ^'^^" "and Crown in Halifax, this 24*'' day of Nov'- 1762, "being our regular Lodge night, have assembled "ourselves in ample form and proceeded to the " reception of Wm. Finch, balloted and approved of "at our last Lodge night, and having duly initiated " him in the Apprentice's part, and read the several E 34 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. " charges eontained in the Book of Constitutions, as " also our Bye-Laws, and regularly gone through the " Apprentice's work ; after that the Worshipful "addressing himself to the Lodge ask'd if any Bro'- " had anything to propose for the good of the Lodge, "receiving an answer in the negative; all business " being over, have closed the Lodge to Wednesday^ "Dec^- S"' 1762." " Visitors — Bro°- James Whitley, James Vaughan, " Wm. Pollard." The items in the Treasurer's book respecting this meeting are again worth noting. They read as follows: — Dr. Nov. 24th. dS 8 d To Bro. Wm. Finch.. .. 1 11 6 ir Overplus in expenses from Visitors 1 £1 12 6 Not. 24th. £ s d By Aprons 6 II Candlesticks, etc., as per note 14 6 " Jewels of Bro. Shipley, (evidently a gift) II Ribhons for Jewels 2 II Tyler 1 £13 6 The" attention of all rulers of the Craft is drawn to this initiation. " The Bye-Laws were read" as well as the several charges in the Book of Constitutions. How often, it might be asked, is this done in Lodges of really superior working ? HISTORY OF PROBITY LOTIGE. 35 The minutes of next Lodge meeting are very similar in wording to those already given, and the reader's attention is drawn to them from the fact that although there was no business to be brought before the Lodge, the E.W.M. most religiously "went through the Apprentice's work." The visitors this night were five in number, and are the same as those who had visited before, with the addition of Bro. Thomas Whitley and Bro. John Senior. It will be particularly pleasing to members of the Lodge of Probity to find this latter name in the books either as a visitor or as a member, and from what occurs after, this brother can be no other than the John Senior who applied for the dispensation to work the Lodge in 1738. The particulars of next Lodge meeting are again given in full, for reasons that will be obvious. Dec. " We, the Members of this Lodge, held (as afore- '"said) this 27th day of December, 1762, being St. "John's Day, have assembled ourselves in ample "form, with our Worshipful Bro. Wm. Newby in •"the Chaii-, etc., etc., have oi^ened an Apprentice " Lodge in ample form, we have duly and regularly "gone tbro' the Apprentice's work; after that the- "Worshipful addressed himselfj asking if any 36 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. " Brother had anything to propose for the good of the " Lodge; being answered in the negative, all business '* being over, have closed the Lodge to Wednesday, "Jan^- 8^ 1763." " Visitors, Bro. Thos. Whitely, Wm. Harper, Eobt. " Sutcliffe, Wm. Birdwhistle, Thomas Holden." '' Treasurer's Book. JJI . 1762, Dec. 27th. B d To Bro Wm. Newby'a \ Subscnption . , . yr's 15 n SntclifiFShepley'B do. 15 Pressic Darby's „ 15 James Hindson's tr 15 Wm. Appleyard'f II 15 Wm. Finch's II 16 W. Pollard, a Visitor 2 6 Five Visitors.. . 5 Cr. 8 d 1762, Deo. 27th. By Expenses — being St. John's Day 14 6 II Tyler 1 The minutes of the Lodge, which were written in a rough Minute Book at the time, and then entered into a regular Minute Book, are from the before mentioned date of a very meagre character, as they simply state the names of Members and Visitors who were present, the names of Candidates with their proposers, and generally with results of the ballot. There was also a detailed account of expenses. These expenses in total have always been most carefully re- entered in Treasurer's Book ; and the accounts, for HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 37 the most part, were kept in a very creditable manner. They were duly audited without intermission from the year 1762 to 1823. The writing too, for the most part, is of a very superior character, and would put to shame much of the caligraphy of the present day. As this work would be unusually protracted if the names of all Candidates were given who were admitted, mention only will be made of those who are known to be of some distinction ; and in an appendix a full list of members* who have joined the Lodge, will be given, together' with such particulars as have been attainable. Mention may be made in passing, that the Lodge meetings were held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. This fixture would be a very con- venient one, being the evening previous to the Market Day, and was no doubt fixed at that time for that reason, so that Visitors and Members from a distance who would find it necessary to spend the evening in the town, could attend Lodge meeting and market, and thus kill two birds with one stone. These days were not those of railways and easy and late travel- ling, but in the so-called "good old times," when the stage coaches and the carrier's cart or private carriage * See Appendix. 38 , HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. had to be ths means of conveyance ; and when the taking of a journey even from towns in the neighbour- hood was no light undertaking. The roads were none of the best, and, according to history, were not even safe to travel upon after dark. It was the time when foot-pads and highwaymen were able to earn a good, though perhaps, precarious livelihood, and these gentlemen of the road, so far as we can learn, were no respecters of persons, not even Freemasons ! It seems to have been the custom too, for Candi- dates to visit the Lodge on the evening of their being proposed members, and when, having once been admitted into the Craft, they would, at the succeeding meeting be proposed and passed to the degree of Fellow Craft, or as the case might be, raised to that of Master Mason. Jan. On January 8th, 1763, it is recorded that "William 1763. •' ' Gream was proposed as a member, and on the same eveuing this gentlemen who was already dubbed " brother," gave as a legacy a Book of Constitutions- This Book of Constitutions was Entick's, 1757, already mentioned. It is somewhat doubtful as to whether Bro. Wm. Gream was not already a Mason. Perhaps he was a member of some Lodge under the York Grand Lodge, or under the Antients. This HISTORY OF PEOBITY LODGE. 39 suppositioQ is made from the fact that Bro. Greara Duly paid the same fee as a Joining Member admitted about the same time ; but as he was duly initiated, passed, and raised, it would seem that if he had belonged to some Lodge, it must have been under another jurisdiction. "Jany. 26th, 1763. " Pd. Bro. P. Darby for inserting tlie Lodge "intlie List .. .. 28. 6d." And on the next succeeding Lodge "Bro. Jno. Light- foot's address to the Lodge was received for leave of absence till the 4th Wednesday in March." These were times when members were kept well to their work, for what brother nowadays would ask permission to be absent from the next two regular meetings? It was evident that the By-Laws were not only stringent, but the penalty was carried out. Mar. March 9th, 1763. Mr. Wm. Norris was proposed ' as a candidate. This is a name that will be known to all Halifaxonians, as one belonging to a family which has for many years been connected with the town a9 that of one of the foremost tradesmen. May May 8th, 1763, appears this minute— " Lodge, ■ No. 97, extraordinary, held by agreement at the White Swan, Skircoat Green." At this meeting, 40 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. "Bros. Gream and Norris proposed themselves to be raised Masons. Bro. Gream defrayed the expenses of this night." At the meeting held next day, and which was called a " Master's Lodge," and was also an " extra," the two last named brethren were duly raised Masters. No such place as the White Swan at Skircoat Green being now in existence, it is very probable that it was a convenient place for assembling, and particularly so for the two brethren interested, as they lived in that locality. June, June 8th, 1763. The minute occurs which has 1763. . „ . . . already been referred to, viz., that of intimating to the K.W. Prov. Grand Master of the "West Hiding of Yorkshire, that on the next St. John's Day, the Lodge would be kept in due form, and that Lodge meeting was held in due course may be an excuse for again referring to this minute. June 24th, 1763, is the first mention of the Festival of St. John the Baptist being held, and this is the first occasion where a new appointment of Officers is mentioned. Eefer- ence shortly will be made to the appointment of W.M. at this meeting. Bros. P. Darby and James Hindson were re-appointed Senior and Junior War- dens, and Bro. Wm. Appleyard again took the office HlSTORy OF PROBITY LODGE, 41 of Secretary; Bros. Wm. Norris and A. Woodhead were appointed respectively Senior and Junior Deacon. This is the first record, so far as is known, of the appointment of Deacon in a Lodge under the Grand Lodge of England, tboiigh there is mention of this office in Lodges under the " Antients," and reference is made thereto both by Bros. Sadler and Gould.* But the most strange appointment on this day is that of W.M., Bro. "Wm. Gream being elected for the year to preside over the destinies of the Lodge. When it is borne in mind that he was only initiated on February 23rd — passed to the degree of F.C. on 23rd of March — and duly raised to the sublime degree May 9th, it seems to be an advancement of a very rapid character, and one which in our time might be envied by such brethren who preferred high rank to hard Masonic plodding. On turning to Watson's "History of Halifax," a reference will be found which bears on this meeting, and where mention is made of this worthy Brother. It is as follows : — " Gejemb, William. — A gentleman of fortune, who " lived at Heath, in Skircoat near Halifax, was the " author of a short speech addressed to the antiont * Gould's History of Freemasonry, Vol. II., pp. 465 and 500. Sadler's Facts and Fictions, pp. 78 and 15.5. F 42 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. "and honourable Society of Free and Accepted " Masons in a Lodge held at the Eosc and Crown, in "Halifax, upon Friday, the 24th of June, 1763. " Halifax, printed by Brother P. Darby, 1763. And " in the year of Masonry 5763." From this extract it would appear that our E.W. Bro. Gream was an expert in the Craft ; but it seems strange how one so young a Mason was able to expatiate on Masonry in open Lodge before many who were Past Masters in the Craft, and also in the heariog of the Provincial Grand Master who was invited. It would be interesting to have a copy of this printed speech, and every endeavour has been made to find one. Neither the British Museum nor the Bodleian contains any mention of such, nor is it known that any collector of Masonic literature possesses the work. It is somewhat disappointing that all researches in this direction have been un- availing, as it was hoped that a connecting link would be found between the Bro. Wm. Gream named and a Bro. Wm. Greame, M.D., F.R.S., who held the offices of G.J.W., G.S.W., and D.G.M. in the Grand Lodge in London ; and this latter Brother was holding that high and exalted position at the time that the Lodge received its warrant in 1738. On severing the HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 43 connection with the name of Bro. Wm. Gream, it may be mentioned that he attended his duties as W.M. with assiduity until his death, in 1766, at the early age of 36 years. He was a regular attendant at Lodge, and seems to have gained the respect of all who knew him. He was buried in the choir of the Halifax Parish Church, and a monument erected to his memory bears this epitaph: — "This monument " was erected with every sentiment of gratitude and "respect by the executors of -Wm. Gream who was a " captain in Sir George Savile's battalion of Militia — "an amiable and benevolent temper, joined to an " uncommon penetration and clear knowledge of men "and things rendered this gentleman a truly valuable "member of the community and of course universally " beloved and honoured." Eeverting once more to the meeting of June 24th, a few matters are found which must not be passed over : — " The members present subscribed 12d. each, "making a total of 17s., which was given to Bro. " Jas. Wilson, being an object of charity." The Treasurer's book was written up and the balance £2 Os. lid. was duly received from the late W.M. and the book signed by the incoming W.M. and his two Wardens. One of the concluding items 44 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. was for 10/6 paid to Bro, John Senior for the old ■warrant, shewing that a warrant was then in exist- ence, and it was disposed of as will appear hereafter. S ^^^y l^tli' 1763. "It was agreed to send to the 1763. " Grand Lodge the sum of £2 2s. as a gratuity." June, June 25th, 1764—" St. John's Day." " Bro. Wm. 1764. ' ■' "Norris raised to the Chair; Bro. James Hindson, " Sen"'- Warden ; Bro. Abram Woodhead, Junior "Warden; Bro. Shipley, continued as Pass Master; "Bro. Wm. Appleyard made Treasurer (first mention " of this office) ; Bro. Wm. Simpson raised to " Secretary ; Bro. Wm. Medley, Sen'- Deacon ; Bro. " Saml. Lord, Junior Deacon." These particulars shew the additions which wer'e made to the list of ojBScers, and also to the fact that Bro. Wm. Norris was made Master ; he being only a Mason of some fifteen months' standing, and who had never held the office of Warden prior to this appoint- ment. The meeting was well attended, over twenty being present. July, July 25th, 1764. A change in By-Laws was made on this date. — "It was agreed (nem. con.) that the " second Wednesday in every month shou'd be held " a Lodge of Obligation, and the fourth Wednesday a " Master's Lodge (a Vaveniry ^as^z^ FAC-SIMILE OF PAGE IN MINUTE BOOK. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 45 iSepti 1764, Sept. 12 th, 1764. Occurs a minute which, although not strictly within the lines of the Masonic Art, shews that the brethren in former times were truly alive to the interests of the community at large ; but perhaps in these times such a method of raising subscriptions would not be adopted, seeing that the Lodges receive members from all creeds and denominations. The minute is as follows: — " Subscribed, by the " Members for the Defence of the Organ intended to "be set up in Halifax Church, Aug. 22nd, 1764." ' £ B. d. James Hindson 3 3 Saml. Lord 10 6 Sut. Shipley ... . 1 1 Wm. Appleyard 3 3 Wra. Simpson ... . 1 1 Wm. Gream ... . ., ... 10 10 P. Darby 10 6 John Senior 10 6 Will. Finch ... . .. ..11 Ed. Parker ... . 5 5 F. Hillous ... . 1 1 Wm. Gream 3 13 6 £31 10 As the object of this subscription is fully and 46 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. shortly explained in Crab tree's History of Halifax- in the article on the Halifax Parish Church, it will not be out of place to reproduce it here. 1764. "In the year 1764 a subscription was set on foot "for purchasing the present valuable organ, for "providing a salary for the organist, and "keeping the "organ in repair; the amount raised was upwards of " £1,200, out of which sum the organ loft was " purchased. Considerable opposition appears to have "been manifested by the township of Sowerby to the " erection of this organ, on the plea that it would "entail additional expense on the township, and their " Churchwardens appeared by Proctor to oppose the "faculty; a suit was instituted, but such was the " strong feeling of the parishioners generally in favour "of the organ, that a subscription was entered into "amounting to upwards of £720 to defray the " expenses of the suit. The call upon the subscribers " only amounted to twenty-five per cent. The sum "received being £194 5s. Od. when the law suit was "happily terminated, and on the llth July, 1766, "the Faculty for playing the organ was granted, by " the Archbishop of York." The minute states that 25 per cent of the amount only was eventually required, but the Masonic HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 47 principle was there, and is an example of the liberal spirit shewn by Masons in early times, Oct. October 10th, 1764. "The Lodge gave Bro. 1764. Lightfoot thanks for his present of a ribbon." Jan. January 9th, 1765, occurs a minute which led to the discovery that a Eoyal Arch Chapter was estab- lished in connection with the Lodge, and as this may constitute a portion of the History of the Chapter of Sincerity, it is only necessary here to give the; minute as it is recorded. Eesolved — " That the 1st proposition for establish- ing a Eoyal Arch Lodge be adopted. (Vide) The Memorial." The Memoi'ial had the eflPect desired, and a Eoyal Arch Chapter was formed. The first bieeting was held January 30th, 1765, being the first known Eoyal Arch Chapter in the north of England, with the exception of the one at York; which at this time was in abeyance. There is also another record which should here be noted,^ and it goes against the opinion so shortly ago expressed. The rough Minute Book states that " Bro. proposed Simon the Jew as a Candidate, but was refused," and the regular Minute Book also confirms this statement, and gives the proposed his 48 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. proper name, which is purposely omitted from pub- lication. This minute is not in accordance with the opinion so recently expressed respecting our former brethren who could so liberally subscribe towards, the Organ Defence Fund, and who had so kindly extended the hand of Charity towards their deserving brethren, yet should refuse a Candidate because he was a Jew! The Acts for the emancipation of Dissenters, Catholics and Jews were not then the law of the land, and this will probably account for the action taken ; at any rate it is only fair to say that the brethren did not entertain such a liberal and charitable spirit as is nowadays shewn towards all sects and creeds, and they must have forgotten, for the moment, the nationality of the so-called founder of Freemasonry, and whose person the W.M.'s symbolically represent ; but let us remember the words of an old Masonic toast : — " Should Charity be banished from all the world "beside, may she ever be found in a Freemason's "breast." June, The 24th June, 1765, was the last day of the Mastership of Bro. Wm. Norris, and brought to a close a year of successful Masonic working; the number of members who attended and paid their HISTOEY OF PIIOBITY LODGE. 49 half-year's subscription was thirty-three, and the Treasurer handed over a balance of £37 4s. lOd., which did not include the above-named half-year's subscriptions. This accumulation in the space of three years speaks well for the prosperity of the Lodge in these days, and for the advance which the Craft was making. The Lodge had voted during the year £3 10s. Od. for the relief of brethren, and £2 2s. Od. as "Charity to Grand Lodge." In addition to these expenses there seem to be frequent purchases of ribbons, gloves, and skins for aprons. There is a minute which is worth recording on this date. " Eesolved that the thanks of ye Lodge, No. " 97, be transmitted by the Secretary to our worthy "Brother Mr. Saml. Bruckfield, of Coventry, for his "magnificent present of Eibbons." Whatever all this ribbon was for can scarcely be explained. Further there is an entry in August, 1765. "Pd. " Is. 2^d. again for ribbon," but the colour on this occasion is specified as being yellow. An entry, 12th February, 1766. "Bro. Benson, £1 14s. 6d. for "Eibbons." There is also one more note of this year's proceedings ; a Lodge Extraordinary was held October 28th, 1764, on which occasion Mr. Thos. Banbury was proposed and balloted for, and on same G 50 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. evening initiated in the 1st degree. Bro. Saml. Bruckfield, of Coventry, was present as a visitor. Another Lodge Extraordinary was held February 4th, 1765, when " Bro. Banbury passed Fellow Craft and " Kaised Master." It is not recorded that this Bro- ther^ attended again, except on 22nd May, when he received his Certificate, and pnce after. Attention is drawn to this fact, not from the exceptional way in which this Brother was received into Masonry and passed and raised, although this is sufliciently start- ling, still there are instances of this kind of working in other Lodges, — but from the fact that there is in the possession of the Lodge this Brother's Certificate, which is a curiosity — herewith is a copy — ■ " To the Eight Worshipfull Masters, Wardens, and " Brethren of the antient and honourable Society "of Free and i^ccepted Masons. " This is to certify that the Bearer hereof. Brother " Thomas Banbury, being well recommended to us, "was made a Mason in the 1st degree, afterwards "received the 2nd and 3rd degrees of Masonry, in "the Lodge, No. 97, of Free and Accepted Masons, " assembled at the Kose and Crown in Halifax. He "having behaved himself as a worthy Brother. We " recommend him to your Friendship and Protection tj" FAC-SIMILE OF CERTIFICATE. J^U. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 51 "after due examination. Given under our hands, *' and the Seal of our Lodge, this 22nd day of May, "1765. A.L. 5765. "Wm. Norris, M. "P. Darby, S.W. "Wm. Simpson, Secty. "Josh. Tool, J.W." For this Certificate the Lodge is indebted to K.W. Bro. T. W. Tew, P.G.M. of this Province, who received it from W- Bro. Barton, P.P.G.S.W. of Berkshire, with this note — "This document was found at Kenil worth, 22nd "September, 1884, when pulling down an old house, "'The Priory,' On enquiry I found that the house " had at one time been in the occupation of a Mrs. "Banbury, who was no doubt a relative of the Bro* "ther named in the Certificate." Bro. Banbury was probably a resident in Kenil- worth or Coventry, and that accounts for his initiation, and subsequent passing and raising taking place at Emergency meetings. He would probably be pro- posed through the influence of Bro. Bruckfield,- who was present on his initiation, and who has been referred to before. ^^\> July 24th, 1765. " Eesolved— That Bro. Simpson 1765. ' " draw up a letter of thanks to Bro. Spencer for his 52 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. "magnificent present to this Lodge of a renewed ''Warrant, and also remit him £fh 2s. Od. as an " annual present, and £5 5s. Od. towards purchasing " Candlesticks and Chairs for the Grand Lodge." This has been referred to previously, and the warrant is still in the possession of ' the Lodge. Although not the original, it was evidently highly esteemed by the brethren. At that time attention was also drawn to the fact that in June 1763 the Lodge paid John Senior 10/6 for the old warrant, and this would probably be relinquished on obtaining the new one. This warrant is of especial interest to Probity brethren as it was presented to the Lodge by -the then Grand Secretary, Bro. Saml. Spencer, who has it notified on the warrant that he was born in Halifax, Yorkshire. Whether this worthy Brother was initiated in Halifax, or was a member of the Lodge which was then in Halifax is not known. But this we knoWj he had so much interest in his native town as to present to its only Lodge the beautiful warrant which it is proud to own. Bro. Saml. Spencer was appointed Grand Secretary in 1757 ; he was a Grand Steward in 1754, and at that period must have belonged to one of the old London Lodges, but as he died before the law for HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE, S3 compulsory registration of members came into operation there are no means of ascertaining to what Lodge he belonged. The Lodge on this occasion also subscribed a sum of money for purchasing chairs and candlesticks for Grand Lodge ; and although Probity Lodge cannot boast of being on the list of subscribers to the Hall Fund, yet it then subscribed handsomely towards the the furnishing of Grand Lod-ge at a time before the building of the Free Masons' Hall was mooted. Aug. Aug. 14th, 1765, is the first mention of the moving ' of the Lodge to the Old Cock Inn, the resolution being " That this Lodge be removed to the Old Cock " in this town when Bro. Hindson- leaves this place "(Eose and Crown), provided Bro, Crowther goes " thither." On Sept. 4th the committee appointed to inspect rooms at the Old Cock as to their suitability, gave their report as follows: — "We have examined the " Eoom at the Old Cock very nicely, and our opinions " are, except a door is erected at the South end of the "room, the two closets at the North end converted "into one, the Garret over the false roof rendered "inaccessible, or the vacancies appertaining thereto "be made secure. — We say except these are per- " formed, 'tis inconvenient ; if these are rectified no 54 HISTOEY OP PROBITY LODGE. "objection we think can be had to the Eoora itself." Bro. Norris was appointed to see if these alterations could be made, and if so,- that " he give proper "instructions for perfecting and superintending the " same." Evidently the arrangements were satisfac- torily carried out, and the Lodge was moved to tho Sept. Old Cock Inn by resolution on Sept. 30th, 1765. 1765. -, . , Previous to this, Bro. Hindson was presented with the sum of £2 2s. as a gift, and the Lodge left the old Eose and Crown Inn. This, the second meeting place of the Lodge, was situated in the old Swine Market, and occupied the site on or near that of the present Sportsman Inn. It was evidently a noted house, being the place, as already stated, where the trustees of the first Halifax "Waterworks met ; it was the house also where Daniel Defoe once for a time resided, and where probably some of his works were written. The Old Cock Inn, to which the Lodge was moved, was undoubtedly a fine place for the purpose, and if bricks and mortar could only hear, the walls of that old oak room would be able to reveal to us many an interesting scene in the history of the Lodge. The Lodge did not make this its permanent resting place, as it left for the Union Cross Inn, Sept. 1782, and HISTORY OF PROBITY LOBGE. 55 returned again to the Old Cock Inn in 1804, where it remained until 1869, when the present Free Masons' Hall was built. The old Lodge room at the Old Cock has within recent years been restored, and nothing now remains, with the exception of the old fireplace, of the Lodge room, as occupied by the brethren 120 years ago. On the restoration of the room, the proprietors inserted a small stained glass window to commemorate the fact that a Free Masons' Lodge had once been held there, and the arms of the Probity Lodge form the emblem for this commemoration. ^^^- Lodge Extraordinary, Jan. 31st, 1766. It is noted, " Whereas it has pleased God, the Master of all "Masons, to take from us our well-beloved Brother " John Sprawl this morning, it is Order'd— That the " whole body of the Lodge attend the funeral of the "said deceased Brother (provided parties agree) in " due form. "Order'd — That, the whole body of the Lodge "attend at the Lodge room on Sunday next, at 1 " o'clock in the afternoon, in order to attend the said " funeral, and that Bro. Ehodes be desired to furnish "a Pall, and gloves for every member, and Bro. "Simpson new plain Aprons." It is recorded that the whole body attended the funeral of Bro. Sprawl in 56 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. due form ^ and the following expenses were incurred : For Supporters of Bro. Sprawl Tyler for extra attendance 34 Aprons Gloves and Pall Expenses . . . £ s. d. ... 7 ... 2 ... 1 14 ... 2 6 £4 3 6 ... 14 3 £4 17 9 April, April 9tli, 1766. " Kesolv^— That the Body of 1766. ^ •' "this Lodge (or as many as to whom it may be " convenient) visit the Wakefield Lodge on the 2nd " Lodge night they have in the month of May." According to Lane's Records the Unanimity Lodge, Wakefield, was opened 15th Feb. 1766, therefore the brethren seem to have lost no time in visiting and exchanging fraternal greetings with new -Lodges. Jan. At a meeting, January 22nd, 1766, it is noted that Bro. Linecar visited the Lodge with several others from Wakefield, including Wm. Walker, Senr., Wm. Walker, Junr, and Ed. Kilvinton, whose names also appear on the warrant of the Unanimity Lodge as the first W.M. and Senior and Junior Wardens. HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. 67 June, June 19th, 1766. Lodge Extraordinary. 17 Bro- thers present. "Whereas it has pleased God, the Master of all " Masons, to take from us our well-beloved Brother " Sutcliff Shipley this morning, it is Ordered that the "whole Body of the Lodge attend at the Lodge Eoom "to-morrow, at 3 o'clock in the afternoon, in order "to attend the Funeral of the said Brother in due " form." June 20th, 1766. Lodge Extraordinary. Twenty-two Brethren present. "The whole body attended the Funeral of Bro. "Sutcliff Shipley "Pass Master" in due form." £ s. d. Paid Supporters of Bro. S. S. 6 „ for Pall, to Bro. Khodes 10 6 ,, „ Expenses .. '...0 9 6 „ „ Tyler 2 £18 And thus passed away a good and worthy Mason. There are no means of knowing much of him, except that he was always described as a " Pass Master " ; he was indefatigable in his attendance, as the Minute Book shews that out of over 100 meetings of the Lodge, he had attended 90, and was present for the H 58 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. last time, 28tli May, 1766. Whenever he attended Lodge, he invariably took the post which we should now assign to Ihe Immediate Past Master, and it can truly be said of him, in the words of an old Past Master's song — " His art has told of better worlds, Where comes not tear nor sigh, "We tiust he left his Lodge on earth For Grand Lodge in the sky." It is stated in Bro. M. C. Peck's extracts from the minutes of the Antient's Lodge, No. 78, at the sign of the George, Church Lane, Kingston-upon-HuU, that Bro. Sutcliffe Shipley was one of the original members to whom the Warrant of this Lodge was granted in 1759. He was S.W. from January to June, 1760, and Master July to December, of the same year ; when he left the town he was described as a "linnen draper." * 1766-7. During the years 1766^7 there was some dissension in tho Lodge, a Brother having been admitted to whom there appears to have been some objection, and the following minute is recorded — " Prom a dispute happening betwixt Bro. J. Poole ** and Bro. J. Crowther, in which Masonry is greatly "concerned, it was agreed that the above Bros, (viz.) * History of Freemasonry in Kingston-upon-HuU. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 59 " J. Poole and J. Crowther should be regularly bal- " loted for, whether either or both should be expelled." The vote was in favour of Bro. Poole, and Bro. Crowther's half-yearly subscription was re-paid to him. Some months after, the same case was again brought before the Lodge, when the follow- ing minute appears in the transactions : — " It was "proposed whether Bro. Jas. Crowther shou'd be "admitted as a Member, accordingly hallo tted for "and found 12 for, and 6 against, but was at Liberty "to visit when he chose, and it was agreed to by "the Members pros'- that the dispute betwixt Bro. " Crowther and Bro. Poole should not be brou't before " the Lodge any more." From the foregoing it is shewn that even in those remote days difficulties from time to time came before the Lodge ; and no difficulty is greater to cope with than that which arises through personal differences between Brother and , Brother. It were hotter indeed " that one or both should retire "than that the harmony of the Lodge should be " disturbed by their presence." In this year the Lodge lost, by death, Bro. John Hillhouse, who had held the post of Treasurer for some time, evidently with credit to himself and profit to the Lodge. 60 HISTORY OF PEOBITT LODGE. At the close, of the year the Treasurer had a balance in hand of £18 17s. 3|d. ; having commenced the year with £21 14s, 4gd. This may not seem a very great hoard. The Lodge, however, this year, in addition to the annual gift of £2 2s. Od. to Grand Lodge, and many extra expenses, had paid in charity to distressed Brethren the sum of £4 17s, 6d. In addition to this disbursement, we have the following minute, dated 11th Feb., 1767 :— "Eesolved that "£10 Os. Od. be given to the distress'd People of " Halifax, and others who are represented as worthy " of Charity, or in real distress ; and that the said " £10 Os. Od. be lodged in the hands of Bro. Simpson, " and be distributed by him agreeable to those who " are members and send vouchers." This is truly the end and aim of Masonry — " Faith, Hope and Charity, "but the greatest of these is Charity." In this year it also became patent to the brethren that they should set their house in order. They ai)pear, in their past working, to have had a code of rules, as frequent reference is made to them. These By-Laws were, however, found not to have been sufficient, and a committee was appointed to revise the same, and make "what alterations or amendments " they think proper, and to be read to the Lodge HISTORY or PEOBITY LODGE. 61 " next Lodge night, that they may be confirmed by ''the Majority present, and strictly adhered to in " the future." " Likewise the Secretary send a particular summons "to every member of this Lodge, as a number have " lately absented themselves, and for so doing their •'reasons are thought necessary to be known." These By-Laws were duly written and submitted to the Lodge for confirmation, and each member present signed the same. The original copy is now in the Lodge's possession. As these regulations are probably the oldest, in existence, of any Lodge, they may not be uninteresting, especially to students in Masonic literature, and as a curiosity it has been thought they are worth copying. In the appendix will be found a copy of same. It is particularly interesting to note that the duty of each ofiicer of the Lodge is carefully described ; and acknowledged authori- ties in Masonic history will be pleased to know that the office of Deacon, which was not known previously to exist in Lodges under the Grand Lodge of England, is described, and the duties set forth, even as at the present day. It will be noted that the office of Inner Guard had not then been inaugurated. The penal- ties were somewhat severe, but when we take into 62 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. consideration that the business of Lodges was not then conducted as at the present time, it can be understood why particular attention should be called to the sober and decent conducting of the same. The penalty for abstention from Lodge meetings seems to have been rather harsh, and those who took liberties were dealt with in what would now be deemed a somewhat stern fashion. The rule that the Festival of St. John the Baptist, and that of St. John the Evangelist, should be regularly commemorated, may be thought to be a good old custom, and perhaps in this respect it might be copied with profit, not only by Lodges, but also individual members. However, that it should be incumbent on every Brother to attend, will perhaps appear exacting — still, such meetings would be a means of preventing rejpeated abstentions, and the interest of the brethren being kept up, the Craft would be benefitted thereby. It is well not to omit to call attention to the closing paragraph of this copy of By-Laws : — "We subscrib'd, being members of the Lodge of " St. John the Baptist, but assembled for the present "in the Eegular and Constituted Lodge (No. 97) at " the Old Cock in the town of Halifax, do promise to HISTORY or PROBITY LODGE. 63 " observe the Laws, Orders and Eegulations in this "Book coritain'd. " In witness thereof in full Lodge we have here- "unto set our Hands, Anno Christi (June 24th) 1767 '•of Masonry 5767." And here follow the names. It is to be regretted that the hand of the vandal has been at work ; some of the names have been erased, and remarks of a questionable character attached to some, which, to say the least, were not Masonic. It will be noted that the name in the By-Laws is "The Lodge of St. John the Baptist," and in a sub- sequent copy of By-Laws this same name is used, until June 29th, 1795, when the name had been changed by resolution to that of the " Lodge of Probity." 1767-81. The years 1767-8 passed over without an occurrence of interest. On May lllh, 1768, there is a minute to this effect--" Ordered y*- the Lodge will be always " glad to see Bro. Senior without any expense to him, "he being an old Standard and Well-wisher." This record must be pleasing to the members of the Lodge of Probity. Bro. Senior was a regular attendant at the Lodge, but always as a visitor. From the time of the commencement of the written minutes, it cannot be found that he subscribed to the Lodge funds as a 64 HISTOEY OF PROBITY LODOE. member, but most religiously the sum of 1/- per Lodge night was paid by him ; and if this Brother was the founder of the Lodge he must certainly have been a member once, and also at the date when the above minute was written. He must have been getting on in life, as the Lodge was now in its thirtieth year ; probably he may have been in reduced circum- stances, and this thought may have been in the minds of the brethren when the alteration with respect to him was made. June, June 22nd, 1768. Occurs a minute which is 1768. ' entered in full in the rough minute book, but it appears to have been only partially written in the regular book, although a page seems to have been left blank for the purpose. It is a minute peculiar in itself, and seems worthy of consideration. The number of members of the Lodge appears at this time to have dwindled down considerably, the numbers varying from 14 to 16 ; but there was a fairly good balance in the hands of the Treasurer (some £20), which the Lodge apparently was at a loss to know how to dispose of- With this difficulty in view the following resolutions were passed : — '« Eesolv'd. " That it is the opinion of the members present JHISTOliY OP PROBITY LODGE. 65 *' that they have full power to make such EegulatioQS " and Alterations in the Bye-Laws of this Lodge as "to them shall seem necessary for the continuance " and emolument thereof. "Proposed. That the Expenses of the next year, " taking date June 24th, 1768, and ending June 24th, " 1769, shall be paid from the money already in the " hands of Bro. Appleyard, and that all Visitors shall " pay One Shilling p'- Lodge Night. Order'd. That " the said proposal be wrote in the Book of Transac- "tions, and that the same be put in full force for one ' ' year next ensuing. " That any Brother who is desirous of becoming a " Member of this Lodge, and who was not made "therein, shaU be liable to pay 10s. 6d. Entrance and "Is. p'- Lodge Night that he attends, till the period of "June 24th, 1769. Eesolv'd. That it is the opinion "of the Lodge that the above Eules will greatly "contribute to advantage and Emolument thereof, "and that they be void to all intents and purposes " when the term of one year is expired ; unless it be "thought then necessary for continuing the same, and " that to be regularly propos'd and enter' d in the " Book of Transactions." After these resolutions appear the following lines, which are interesting :— I 66 HISTORY OF PEOBITT LODGE. " War begets Poverty, "Poverty Peace, " Peace makes riches flovr, " Fate ne'er doth cease. " Eiches produce pride, "Pride is war's ground, " War begets Poverty, " And thus all things go round." " Omnium rerum Vicissitudo.'''' The foregoing is a suspension of standing orders with a vengeance ; the brethren evidently determined as we Yorkshire folks say — " To use off th' side," and also as it is sometimes said — "That money is round and is to go round;" so the brethren of that time thought, and as the translated Latin phrase states "All things change," so the balance in the Treasurer's hands of £20 16s. Od. was converted, by the end of the time, into a balance of 13s. 6d. on the wrong side of the ledger. The brethren had a year of Masonry for nothing, not even paying their sub- scriptions, and they also took the precaution that any new-comers should not participate in the same privilege; but where such a proceeding on the whole was to the " advantage and emolument of the Lodge " is strange. There appears to have been some correspondence with Grand Lodge, with respect to HISTORY OF PKOBITY LODGE. 67 subscriptions towards Charity Fund and Hall Fund but as has been explained, the surplus funds of the Lodge had already been disposed of. For the copy of the following letters the Lodge is indebted to Bro. Hy. Sadler, and they are given here in extenso and speak for themselves ; had the course suggested been adopted, the Lodge would now be in possession of the " Hall Fund Medal." Brother John Haedcastle to Bro""- Fbbnch, Halifax, December, 1768. Sir, The Lodge of freemasons. No.- 97, have received several letters from you, with acc*^- of the contributions which have been made from time to time, for the General Fund of Charity, and we are glad to see how well such Sub'''- are attended to and supported by the numerous Subject Lodges, which generous support is a plain proof of the good opinion your Subjects have of the Institution, whereof they are become willing Contributors and Members. It is some time since (we honestly acknowledge) that we did ourselves the pleasure of making you any remittance for the said fund owing to some very affecting objects, which have most naturally required our primary Charitable Benefactions at home, as they have been too frequently exhibited before our own Eyes, altho' it has been at some time, with some regret that we thereby rendered our- selves incapable of complying with your wonted expectations. The reason that rendered so many objects of Charity in this place was, we suppose, from the late high prices of Corn, and the discouragement which your great folks at the west end of the town, throw upon the woollen manufactories, which are largely carried on in and about this town, and in so much that we have 68 HISTOEY OF PROBITY LODGE. not confined our benefactions to Masons alone (from the numer- ous Families who have been depressed by sickness, want of trade, and dearness of provisions, &c. ) in the gifts we have made, and moreover as we recollect to have recommended a poor, infirm, and aged brother to the Charity of the Grand Lodge, and that application, not effectually taking place with you, from what good reason we know not, yet after we had done our mite, the poor man died under the care of the parish Officers in about two months time, to our inexpressible concern. This we beg leave to mention only as en passant, and as another plea to convince you that we have often affecting Objects of Charity even before our own eyes. At same time beg leave to assure you that we revere the Grand Lodge, and shall always pay a punctual attention to its charges and commands. In answer to the honor of your last letter of the 12th of November we assure you that we profess ourselves friends to the laudable Scheme of the worthy Nobleman (late Grand Master) for raising a fund to build a hall, and purchase Jewels, &c. independent of the General fund of Charity, and we should heartily concur in being conformable to the said articles for raising the fund, was not the late Overture we made for the relief of our reduced brother (mentioned above) to afford us some small idea of the ultimate end which these new regulations are made for, namely, that of serving those brethren who are more immediately under the eye of the Qaarterly Cdm^™- held in London. Upon these several accounts we most humbly beg you'U signify to the Com"=- that we desire to be excused should they not find us so ready in contributing to this new Scheme as they found us in the year 1755 when we subscribed £5 5s. for silver candlesticks, and to this day have not had the honor of knowing whether that subscription was sufficiently fiUed to enable the Grand Lodge to purchase them or not. If not we suppose that money lays at our disposal, therefore please to accept it for the present scheme and apply to the person who is the keeper of the money for that subscription, as it will be a pity that two schemes should be HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 69- projected, and both of them only half encouraged. We have the honour to be with much respect the Grand Lodge's and Sir Your most Ob'- H^e- Sery*- Jij°- Haedoastle, Master. W"- Faircloth, S. Warden. EoB'^- Dean, J. Warden. (Signed) John Cartwriqht, Secretary. P.S. — We are sorry to inform. you that a set of masons or people are forming themselves in an illegal manner in this town who probably may apply for a warrant ; we suppose they will be a discredit to the Fraternity. To the Lodge at the Old Cock, Halifax, Yorkshire. E.W. Master, I have lately been informed that your Lodge is offended on acct. of some neglect or inattention to a Petition sent to the Grand Lodge relative to a distressed Brother for which I'm very sorry, but as Bro. Spencer is dead, and Bro. French, late Grand Secretary, is out of the way at present, I am totally at a loss for the particulars of the matter, and therefore cannot give you any satisfaction. I can only assure you that proper attention shall be paid to your future favours, and that I am, with truth and sincerity, Your most affectionate Brother, Drs. Commons, J. Heseltine, 13th July, 1769. G.S. Doctors Commons, 29* Aug*-- 1769. The Mr. of the Lodge at Halifax, E.W. Master. 1 was yesterday favoured with a letter from B""- Cartwright, Sec'^'- of your Lodge, acquainting me that a 70 HISTOET OP PROBITY LODGE. Number of loose fellows had from time to time assembled in Halifax under the name of Masons, and that you had been informed they were applying to the Grand Lodge for a Constit"- of which you thought it your duty to acquaint me. I really think myself much obliged to you for the care and attention you pay to the principles of Masonry on all occasions, and am sorry your hint came too late, for a Constitution was granted last week to John Irvin, Thomas Irvin, Jn°- Mills, Jonas Turner, Sam'- Magson, and Thomas Aked. t cannot however take upon me to say whether any of those persons are hinted at by you, but am inclined to think they are, as you say ' ' The person whom you are told is making applic°°- was made a mason in London," and Mr. Magson was the person who applied to me, and was made a mason here. I was really surprized at the contents of your letter as the pet™- for this Constit™- was signed by the Mas"- and Wardens of two very respectable Lodges in London recommending the petitioners as regular masons, &c. Upon the whole I hope the granting of this Constitu"- will not be attended with any bad consequences to the Craft in Halifax, but that on the contrary the Lodges will unite in support^- its laws and dignity. I am directed to acquaint you that the Grand Master intends to hold a Com- mittee of Charity at the Horn Tavern, Fleet Street, on Friday, the 20*'' of October next, and also a Quarterly Communication at the Crown and Anchor Tavern, in the Strand, on Friday the 27th of the said month of October next, at six in the evening, before which time you are requested to remit to me such sum as your Lodge shall think convenient to subscribe towards the General Fund of Charity. I am, With Truth and Sincerity, Your most Affectionate B'- and Obedient Servant, Ja^- Heseltine, G.S. N.B. — All petitions for Charity are to be transmitted to the G.S. at least ten days before the Committee. HISTOEY OP PROBITY LODGE. 71 On reading these letters, and knowing the circum- stances, one cannot help thinking that our brethren might have saved themselves a great deal of trouble in making the elaborate excuses which they did. It is not a pleasure to have to note this episode in the history of the Lodge of Probity. How the name is belied ! Had the brethren not wished to contribute to Grand Lodge, why not have said so ? or said nothing at all ; but to cover their excuse by saying that they had "so much distress, etc., in their own immediate vicinity that they could not subscribe " was paltry. During the year already named, when the Lodge was living on its principal (its principles being entirely obliterated), it gave for charitable purposes, the munificent sum of twelve shillings. The formation of the Lodge referred to in the letter is noted in Lane's Eecords as "Bacchus, "Halifax, Yorkshire," N'o. 448, warranted 18th August, 1769, This Lodge had but a short existence, f-^g^g-and was erased, 9th April, 1783. Several of its members occasionally visited the Lodge, as it is found that some of the names mentioned as the founders of the Bacchus Lodge are on the List of Visitors, Let it be hoped that although there is but such a scant record of their existence, that the brethren who formed HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. the Lodge were good and true Masons, and that they were not of such a character as they had had given them. With this record this chapter of the Lodge's history is -closed, as it is the end of the first regular book of minutes extending from June, 1762, to June, 1769. Within such a short space of time many changes have taken place in the condition of the Lodge ; its fortunes have ebbed and flowed ; we have seen it full of good intentions and high aims ; its members a fairly good roll; and we draw the screen over its last records, with a roll of twelve members and a balance to its debit. CHAPTER IV. History of the Lodge of Peobity. A.D. 1769 TO 1780. I HE heading to this Chapter might very properly be called " The Dark Ages." It certainly reveals a time when the Lodge was simply struggling on aimlessly, like a ship without a rudder, or an army without a leader. The number June, of brethren on June 24th, 1769, was only twelve, and 1769. ' six months after, that number was reduced by two, whilst later on it fell to as low as five members. Yet the brethren regularly met at the fixed regular Lodge meetings, sometimes to initiate a brother, or erase the name of another for non-attendance ; to alter a rule only to change it again a short time after ; but with all their lack of Masonic zeal, they do not appear to have omitted their regular refreshment, and if they did nothing else, they at any rate took the regulated number of suppers, Noticing however the state of K 74 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. their funds, they provided by resolution " That a " Bye-Law be made that the Treasurer allow no more " for expenses tlian one shilling per member," This was undoubtedly a wise proceeding, for had the expenses been as great as in the preceding year, even with the subscriptions, they would have been con- siderably in debt, and the Lodge would not at this time have been able to enjoy the privilege of being a Centenary Lodge. With a careful regard to the expenditure they had a balance in hand at the end of the year of £3 7s. lid., even after disbursing 16s. in 1770-1. charity. The years 1770-1 were conducted on lines similar to the previous year, and the minutes are bare of results. The minutes for two or three years succeeding, although not displaying much Masonic work, record a series of incidents which are full of humour. However, we should take into consideration the times in which the Lodge was then existing. The customs, habits and language of the people, even of the educated classes, were not those of the present day. It was a time when the excesses of the table were freely indulged in ; to be in a state of inebriation was not considered an offence against good manners ; ribald talk and conversation were in vogue ; and in fact the social refinements of our times had not HISTORY OF PROBITY LODOB. 75 -« ^ L ^ H — ' been attained ; the temperance movement had not yet been promulgated, and many of the societies for the promotion of well-being which now exist, had not been mooted. To this may be added that a great part of the minutes of this period are written in a sort of shorthand, a system probably only known to the writer of those minutes. This writing has been shewn to several friends who are experts in the art of pho- nography, but they have not been able to interpret the mystic signs. This is perhaps to be deplored; or perhaps on second consideration it is not; for it is possible that if the veil were withdrawn, we should not care to know the secret which is kept from our view; at any rate, "the grapes are sour." The brother also who recorded these minutes seems to have had a genius for inventing new names, and has somewhat drawn on his imagination for some of the titles which he has given to the different officers. Here are a few specimens of his art — Present: Joseph Benson, General. Will. Simpson, Will. Newby, Will. Croft, Subalterns. Sam. Lord, Jno. Woodworth, J. Hardcastle, Esq. Governor of all. 76 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE, On another occasion he introduced the titles of General, Major, Capt.^ Lieut., Adjut. and Ensign* Again, the W.M. is described as Master ; the Secretary, Scribe and Head Master ; whilst the remainder are private men. He seems to have ransacked all the professions for further titles, such as Commander, Purser, Governor, Deputy Governor, Scribe, Advocate, President, Council and Jurymen. One more instance as a climax : PRESENT. His Excellency, Wm. Newby, The Venetian Ambas*"- ; Don W . Simpson, Spanish Inquisitor ; The Grand Vizier, Sam. Lord, whom Mahomet preserve ; Seraglio Keeper, J. Wood worth, The Chaste ; His Honour, J. Benson, Lord of Trade ; and Major J. Hardcastle, Gov''' of the Lodge. Before leaving this portion of the Records, a few examples are given of the minutes which have been handed from the far past. Five members were present at one meeting ; no business was noted, but after their names is written, "who frugally spent in harmony with each other 3s. 6d." The Tyler appears to have been "absent," and on one occasion it is recorded — " Be it remembered, that " Mr. Dewhurst, our Eev^- Tyler, did not attend his HISTOEY OF PROBITY lODGE, 77 " duty. The Lodge ordered hia pay to be forfeited "for his neglect." The Tyler appears to have repeated the offence several times, for it is recorded — " That the Tyler excused himself for his non-attend- " ance to the satisfaction of the Court." Wm. Simpson is noted as being present at one meeting, but after his name the remark is made that "he came creeping in at 10 o'clock." " Bro. Wm. " Newby, a candidate for matrimony, was nominated to " be Master for the ensuing year, and passed nem. con.^^ " Order'd — That Bro, Lord procure a Book, with a "Hebrew name, in place of one which was lost." Probably this was the Ahiman Kezon. " Bro. Hardcastle has married a wife, and cannot " come. The Honey-moon is not yet expired." At one Lodge meeting four members only are noted as being present, when thiff remark was made : "Fe^ members this night, few indeed, but quiet ones." The Festival of St. John the Baptist was celebrated June, June 27th, 177,4, when only seven members attended, 1774. and that probably was the total number of subscribers at the time. The Secretary remarks : " Oh Babylon ! how art thou fallen ; " Few are thy Nobles now ; "Pew indeed!" 78 HISTORY OF PEOBITV LODGE. With this reference vre now pass on to the next period of the Lodge's history. The members had, as before remarked, lost all interest in the Craft, and nothing can be gathered by lingering longer over the records of the time. June, June 28th, 1775. " Wilkinson Pool was introduced 1775. ' " as a Candidate for Masonry, and was made in due "form, as also appointed Tyler without paying any "fee for the same." Attention is called to the fact, because this Brother turned out to be a good and true Mason, and also because it happened during the recent restoration of the Halifax Parish Church that the gravestone of Bro. Pool was found, and a fac-simile of it is now in the Lodge's possession. Further on, attention will be again drawn to this Brother. Dec. December 22nd, 1776. The brethren were invited ' to visit the Wakefield Lodge, to celebrate with them the Festival of St. John the Evangelist, and Bro. Lord was requested to procure seven aprons for the occasion. This invitation interfering with the cele- bration of the Lodge's own festival, it was decided to postpone the same to another and more convenient occasion; the invitation was duly accepted and the engagement kept ; and to the same meeting the brethren of the Bacchus Lodge were invited. Whilst HISTOEY OF PROBITY LODGE. 79 at Wakefield bad feeling of some kind was displayed, the cause of which there is no indication except the following records, obtained through the kindness of Bro. M. C. Peck, Provincial Grand Secretary of North and East Yorkshire. Extract from Minutes of the Apollo Lodge (York) : " Feb. 19th, 1777. Letter received from the Master *' and Wardens of y* Bacchus Lodge, Halifax, No. 383, "complaining of an affront put upon them by the " members of the Old Cock Lodge, Halifax, No. 81'. " In consequence of which the Secretary was ordered " to write to the Master of the Lodge at Wakefield." There evidently was some correspondence * on the Nov. subject, for in our minutes of November 26th, 1777, is ' the following : " Order'd — That the Secretary do " send an answer to Bro. Eussel Prov'" Grand Sec'^' " to the County of York respecting our behaviour to "the Bacchus Society at Wakefield, on St. John's " Day in December last." This letter was of such a character that our brethren were able to shew that nothing unmasonic in their behaviour could be attached to them, and had the further effect of * Letters from Wakefield were received by the Apollo Lodge on April 5th, Sept. 22nd, and Oct. 25th, 1777, and from Halifax on Nov. 26th, and another shortly afterwards, hut copies have not been preserved. 80 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. causing the following resolution to be passed by the Apollo Lodge : — "Dec. 3rd, 1777. It was agreed that a letter be " wrote to -the Grand Lodge to inform them that after "due consideration we thought the Bacchus Lodge " should be totally erased from the list of Lodges, the " members being a disgrace to Masonry or any other " society." Before leaving this subject, another record in our Sept. minute book should be mentioned : " Sept. 9th, 1778. 1778. ^ " Order' d — That Bro. Hodgson write to the Prov. " Grand Master, Sir Thomas Tankard (Tancred) "relative to the erasing of the Bacchus Lodge." The erasure of the Bacchus Lodge from the list of the Grand Lodge is noted in April 1783, and thus after a brief life of thirteen years, this Lodge ceased to exist. It will be remembered from the correspondence which took place at the formation of this Lodge, that such was not welcomed by the brethren of No. 97, and during its short life it seems to have been a thorn in the side of the "Old Cock" Lodge, for there never was that fellowship existing between the brethren which it is desirable should always take place between sister Lodges of not only the same town, but the wide world over; that is if, as we are taught to believe, HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 81 Masonry is universal, and all who rank under its banner claim to be of the same Brotherhood. The period with which this section of the work treats, 1770 to 1780, is without any great interest, and attention needs only to be drawn to one or two more transactions. Two names which were familiar in the previous period, are only mentioned- once during this space of time. James Hindson had removed to London, and the brethren sent to him two Hams as a present for his kindness ; and John Senior, who had been a regular attendant at the Lodge, as a visitor, during the six years which commence these records. After 1770 he ceased to attend, and the last mention made of him is as a recipient of the Lodge's charity. Thus passes away from notice the founder of the Lodge, thirty-five years from its being warranted ; poor Bro. Senior ! it is to be feared his latter days were not of the most pleasant character. Let us express, in the words of our ritual, the hope that not only he, but we also "may pass safely under His protection " through the valley of the shadow of death, and "finally rise from the tomb of transgression to shine *' as the stars for ever and ever." One pleasing instance of the Lodge's charity is L 82 HISTORY or PROBITY LODGE. mentioned August 9th, 1775, when, it was proposed and passed nem. con.: — "That we should contribute £\ Is. Od. to propagate " the Gospel in Foreign parts." The history of the ten years just ended, is not altogether a pleasing one. However it is past and gone. The experiences of the Lodge are before us, that with which we do not agree let us forget, that which was good let us strive to imitate. CHAPTER V. History of the Lodge of Probity. A.D. 1780 TO 1801. |T the commencement of this period the number of members was seven or eight, and although so small, the Lodge had a sum of £20 Os. Od. to its credit. The brethren had initiated, during the preceding two years, more than the average number of Candi- dates, but these appear not to have permanently made the Lo^ge their home. Some of the initiates were from Keighley, whilst several hailed from Huddersfield, and it could hardly be expected that they would become settled members. Whilst mentioning the last named town, there is a record that in September, 1780, the brethren, by invitation of the Huddersfield brethren, visited Huddersfield, and sometime afterwards they visited Keighley, also by invitation. 84 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. It could not have been to a Lodge meeting, as it ig found that a Lodge, so far as is known, did not exist at either place. Possibly, however, there might have been unattached Lodges. The first Lodge in Hudders- fleld was the White Hart Lodge, No. 513, warranted January 1st, 1793, and now altered to No. 290 ; whilst the first Eeighley Lodge was warranted in 1788, and was known as the Milnes Lodge, No. 530, now changed to No. 265.* Undoubtedly the majority of the brethren forming these Lodges would be initiated in Halifax. The initiation fee had been raised, by orders from the Grand Lodge, to the sum of £2 2s. Od. and 2s. 6d. for registration ; and the contributions to Grand Lodge Fund and Charity were again regularly commenced. The Charity contributions during the last few years had been omitted. The Lodges were re-nurabered in 1770, and our Lodge's number became 81 ; again in 1780 a re- numbering took place, and it is noted for the first time, March 28th, 1781, "that the Lodge is No. 65." Sept, September 11th, 1782. The Lodge meetings were 1782 ■ removed to the Union Cross, the landlord, Bro. J. Mc. Kinnel, of that noted hostelry, having become a member of the Lodge. Shortly after the above date * Lane's Masonie Records, p. 155. HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. 85 is noted the first payment to the fund of Provincial Grand Lodge, the sura being 10s. 6d., and at the same time £1 6s. 9d. to Grand Lodge. The Lodge purchased during 1783, a book called the "Use and Abuse of Masonry," and an edition of "Preston^s Illustrations." These books and others are lost to us. What a valuable accjuisition to the Lodge's library they would be 1 Deo. December 9th, 1782. Bro. Hardisty, of Keighley, 1782. was requested to return the candle moulds, which were the property of the Lodge. Thankful we ought to be that we are not obliged to be dependent on candles. The same night a motion was made that " no wine be called for during Lodge hours." What peculiar thoughts pass through one's mind on reading a minute /of this sort ; just imagine such minute being requisite in this enlightened period ! There are no records of any note from this time until the next date. The Lodge however met in the regular way, and transacted its business, but of what character the minute book does not shew. Dec. December 31st, 1789 ; St. John's Day. The Senior 1789. • . 1 j> .1. and Junior Deacons were appointed tor the ensuing year. The work of these officers seems to have fallen into abeyance since about 1770, The reason was 86 HISTORY OV PROBITY LODGE. probably owing to there being so few members on the roll. The Lodge had on this occasion a good muster, having recently more than doubled the number of its members. A month previous to this last-named date, another Lodge was warranted in Halifax, the Lodge of Harmony, Ho. 569, (Nov. 12th, 1789), now No. 275, of Huddersfield, and the two Lodges always were on terms of friendship, and frequently exchanged courtesies, some of the members of each belonging to both Lodges. It will be necessary to mention them in connection with this Lodge, as in some respects the two worked well together, and in all matters concerning Masonry connected with the district, they unitedly took the initiative. June, June 9th, 1790. By resolution, the By-Laws were 1790. re-written, and the articles were to be signed by none but those who were members. Next Lodge meeting, being the Festival of St. John, the By-Laws were signed by sixteen members. These regulations are a copy of those passed in 1767. About this time several resolutions, relative to the payment for refreshments, were passed. For instance, visitors attending on St. John's Day had to pay 5s. each, this again was altered to 7s. 6d. if they HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 87 remained the day ; but if attending at supper, then 2s. 6d. only had to be paid. Shortly after it was agreed that every member of this Lodge should pay for his supper, except he makes reasonable excuse or resides out of town ; and it is recorded that several brethren shortly after paid 8d. each for suppers which they did not consume. The penalties for non-attend- ance were also exacted. About this time several brethren were initiated from Kochdale and Haslingden who would probably form the nucleus of the Lodge of Amity, Haslingden, which received its dispensation 10th June, 1791, and Lodge of Harmony, Eochdale, warranted 10th Dec- ember, 1793. The brethren from this latter Lodge attended a Lodge meeting, shortly after their own was formed, to borrow the By-Laws, so as to "be a guide to them in framing their own." It should be mentioned here that a Brother John Lyon Taylor, Grocer, Eochdale, who was made a Mason in 1793, had to be "re-made," April, 1794, as there had been some error in his age. He was passed the three degrees in one night free of expense. Dec. St. John's Day, December 27th, 1791. "Agreed, 1791 "in consequence of Bro. Pool, the Tyler's constant 88 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODOE. "and assiduous attentioa to his office, and the ill ''health of his wife, one Q-uinea be given him besides "his usual allowance," The usual allowance seems to have been a bottle of Rum for " Barbara Poole." Next meeting we find that there were evidently late sitters in those times, as it was necessaiy to pass a resolution — "That all members quit the Lodge room " every Lodge night by Eleven o'clock." During the year that had just passed, the Eoyal Arch Chapter was resuscitated, commencing its work- ing February, 1791, as the Chapter of Sincerity, No- 73.. In the next year, the Lodge of Harmony followed suit and opened the Perseverance Chapter, whilst about the same time the Hope Encampment of Knights' Templar was formed in connection with the last named, so that altogether. Masonry was flourish- ing; the tide had evidently turned. June, On St. John's Day, June 28th, 1792, 23 Members 1792 ' signed the roll and paid their half-yearly subscrip- tions, whilst the Treasurer had a balance in hand of £15 2s. 2d. The penalty for non-attendance at supper had been considered unreasonable, and a resolution was passed that 9d. be paid for the same, and that absent Brethren be exempt. This resolution was during the next year HISTORY or TEOBITY LODGE. 89 rescinded, and a resolution was passed that each . visitor and member pay 1/- for his supper, and that " one shilling in liquor for each person be allowed in " the Lodge, (and no more), from the fund." Bro. Poole, Tyler, had again his usual allowance voted, and a bottle of Eum for "Sister Barbara"; and it also was passed that an old Tyler have a donation of a pair of new Shoes. Whilst on this subject it may be mentioned that the Lodge had previously voted a " strong Top-coat for the Tyler." In addition to supplying raiment for the Tylers, it is noted that four Past Masters' Jewels were bought for the use of the Lodge, and two of these old jewels are still in its possession. Oct. October 4th, 1793. Lodge of Emergency. Matters of grave importance had evidently been the cause of this Lodge of Emergency, as a copy of a letter that had been addressed to the E.W. Prov. Grand Master has been inserted in the minutes. As the method of conducting affairs of this kind was considered very serious, and the conduct of the brother very derogatory to the influence and general standing of the order, the letter is here reproduced : — The E.W. Master, Deputy Master, Wardens and Brotliers of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons for the County of York. M 90 HISTOEY OF PROBITY LODGE. Gentlemen and Brothers, By order of the Master and Brethren of our Lodge, I have to lay before you a circumstance which we consider of a very serious nature, touching our Institution, and a violation to good order and society in general, which has lately made its appearance from a Brother of our Lodge. The points upon which we are induced to bring forward this charge arise from different conversations he has held with different Bro"-, as also information given us by many respectable persons of this town of his breathing disaffection towards the Government under which we at present so happily live. A charge the Master and Brothers of our Lodge deem of the greatest importance. Especially as the eyes of the world are to us particularly directed on this occasion, and wishing as a j ust body, and ever anxious to support our honourable Institution, and to maintain the order of Masonry in its proper and true light, beg in the most humble terms to request your kind opinion on this weighty subject, and also resting its decision on your judgment for his expulsion. By Order, G. Emerson, P.T. Secty. At the Emergency Meeting before mentioned, the following resolution was passed : — "Transactions — A motion was made by Bro. " Chambers, and seconded by Bro. Cartwright, that " in consequence of the improper and unmasonlike " behaviour of John Wilson, he be hereafter expell'd " this Lodge. Balloted and passed. A motion was " made by Bro. Mason and seconded by Bro. Emerson, " that a letter be wrote to Jno. "Wilson to inform him " of the aforesaid motion." HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 91 Copy of a letter sent to Jno. Wilson. I am. instructed to infovm you tliat in consequence of your behaviour for some time past, and your iconduct of late being consider'd so contrary to the principles of our Institution, a Lodge was called on Friday last and the matter fairly weigh'd and investigated ; the result was that in future your company as a Member or Visitor wiU be dispensed with. I hope you will take this in a proper light, and my most ardent wish is that you will soon see the error of your way. By order of the Master, Wardens and Brothers, Thos. Kiohlet, Secretary. The nature of the offence is not entered in the minutes, but evidently it was considered of a very- grave character. At the next I>odge Meeting it was decided, by a motion that a proof impression of Bro. Preston's portrait be purchased for the use of the Lodge, and this engraving is still in our possession. Bro. Wilkinson Poole appears to have been in delicate health, and it was decided to visit him at the Black Horse, instead of at his own house, on account of the indisposition of Sister Barbara. ' St. John's Day, December 30th, 1793. The usual bottle of Eum voted to Sister Barbara. Jan. January 25th, 1794. An extraordinary Lodge 1794 ' Meeting was held to consider an invitation from the Lodge of Harmony, to take part iil a procession, and pay a last tribute to the memory of their well-beloved 92 HISTOET OF PROBITY LODGE. Bro. Miles Eushworth, probably one of the founders of tbe Lodge of Harmony, and who was a late Serg*- of the 33rd Eeg*- of foot. The brethren of No. 439, Eeighley, No. 493, -Leeds, and No. 513, Huddersfield, had also been invited. The brethren to the number of twenty-four, duly attended this funeral on Sunday the 26th inst., and as there is a full description of the order of proceedings, they are reproduced here, and the perusal may perhaps prove interesting to some Director of Ceremonies. The Procession from the Lodge Eoora : — The Tyler. Two Stewards with Eods. Master. Past Masters. Senior and Junior Wardens. Two Deacons. Secretary and Treasurer. E.A. W.M. P. Craft. Ent*" Apprentices. The Lodges Stations up street. ( 1 ) The Lodge of Harmony. (2) Old Cock Lodge, No. 61. (3) The rest by Seniority. HISTORY OP PEOBITY LODGE. 93" " Note : — When the last Lodge arrives at the house " of the deceased Brother, the whole to halt; the Tyler " of each Lodge, and the two Stewards of each Lodge, "immediately retire to theother end of their respective " Lodges, and the whole body to face downwards ; and " upon notice, the whole move forward till the Lodge "No. 461 arrives at the house to receive the corpse, and " in that form to proceed to the place of interment. In " the place of worship every Lodge to keep as much "together as possible, and the Lodges to come out of " the chapel in the same order as they came down " the street. "Note: — All the Lodges, except the Lodge of "Harmony No. 461, to march round the grave and "form a circle, leaving a space for the corpse, and the "Lodge No. 461 to form inside of them to perform "the service. After the service, the Tyler and " Stewards to go to the same places as they were on " going up street. " Note ; — The Lodge of Harmony first, next No. "61, the rest according to Seniority." ^ May 13th, 1795. A motion was made that the ^'^^' Lodge be removed from the Union Cross. This being carried, it was decided to meet on Sunday, May 24th, to determine the affair according to the Book of 94 HISTOHY OV PROBITY LOBGE. Constitutions for Eeraoval of Lodges, Art. 2. Every Brother had due notice sent him to attend the meeting, and the summons had to specify the business. The Lodge duly met on the day appointed, when it was proposed that the Lodge be moved to the house of Bro. Lun Jagger, — however this was nega- tived, and a resolution was carried that "it be removed to the Bath Tavern." June, The Lodge accordingly was moved to its new 1795 ■ home, on St. John's Day, June 24th, 1795. The following resolutions were passed : " Ordered — That in Future the name of our Lodge '■be called the Lodge of Probity, No. 61. " Order'd — That large Wax Candles be hereafter " made use of in this Lodge., A motion made and properly seconded was :— " That no Landlord keeping the House at which "the Lodge is kept be admitted a member." The first resolution is one that speaks for itself, and the name of Probity is one of which every member of the Lodge is proud. It is hoped it will ever bear that name with credit to itself and honour to the Craft. The third resolution was evidently passed owing to some disagreement with the Treasurer, Bro. Mc. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 95 Kinnell, who was the landlord of the Unioa Cross. Feb. rebruary, 1796. At the Worshipful Master's 1796. special request the brethren met on a Sunday at the Old Cook. The business of such meeting is not stated, bnt it was seemingly to discuss the desirability of again changing the meeting place of the Lodge, for the next regular meeting, which was a Master's night, was held at the Union Cross. The difference with Bro. Mc.Kinnell had evidently been arranged, but it is not recorded that he again became a member of the Lodge. Probably the resolution recently mentioned would prohibit him from again participating in tho benefits of the Lodge. Eeferring to the Bath Tavern, it should be stated its site cannot be determined, as the public-house of that name is not a licensed house now ; and the premises named after it being built in recent times, would not be in existence at the time with which we are dealing; at any rate wherever it was, the Lodge did not long use it; however, although the stay there was short, one act was done which has left its mark. It was there that the Lodge received its present name. One evening it is recorded that " there was only a slack attendance, but a good supper was provided." This circumstance is men- tioned because it is the only occasion when the menu 96 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. is recorded, the brethren having had a goose, etc. ; "and a starving night occasioned the expense of a few bottles of black-strap." July, July 18th, 1796, records a meeting called to make 1796. arrangements and mode of attending the funeral of our beloved Bro. James Mc.Kinnell. The brethren were summoned to appear in black, with white gloves, black stockings, and black buckles or shoe-strings.- The funeral took place the next day, when twenty-two members and five visiting brethren attended our brother to his last resting place. Sept. September 19th, 1796. Capt. Joseph McLean, of 1796. the 23rd Eegiment of foot, was passed to the degree of Fellow Craft, and as he had to join his regiment it was considered a case of emergency ; and he was also raised to the third degree the same night. During the year 1796, the Loyal Halifax Lodge, meeting at the Ring of Bells Inn, was formed, and it is recorded in October of this year. " That no brother " of that Lodge be admitted into this Lodge until a " certain matter respecting the said Loyal Halifax " Lodge be explained." During the succeeding month this resolution with respect to Lodge 'No. 549, was rescinded. The brethren exercised an amount of discrimination as to who were fit and proper persons HISTOEY OF PROBITY LODGE. 97 to be admitted into their fellowship and society. In fact the Lodge assumed authority over its immediate neighbours prior to the formation of the Provincial Grand Lodge of West Yorkshire. This fact and also that referring to the Loyal Halifax Lodge will be dealt with later on. Oct. October 27th, 1796. There was a great influx of 1796. ' ° members from the Army on this date ; Capt. Thomas Lowther Allen, Adjutant ; Lieut. Joseph Thomp- son ; Lieut. Eohert Buckley ; Quarter Master Jno. Macdonald ; all of the 88th Eegt. of foot, were proposed as candidates for the "Honourable degrees , of Masonry." Eichard Brown, Ensign of same regi- ment, was proposed the succeeding Lodge meeting, and phortly afterwards Lord George Beresford, also an officer of the 88th, was duly admitted and joined the community. At this time Bro. Saml. Lord, Jun., merchant, was proposed as a candidate. This Brother was balloted for, initiated, and passed to degree of Fellow Craft on one night, and being -the son of a Mason, was admitted free. This is the only case where a Brother was initiated and passed to the 2nd degree on the same night. Numerous instances are recorded when the 2nd and 3rd degrees were con- ferred at one meeting, and also where the 3rd degree 98 HISTORY OP PKOBITY LODGE. and passing the chair were performed ; though such acts are now quite against the constitutions, and are irregular. May, May 24th, 1797. Being the day appointed for the funeral of Brother George Emerson, it is recorded— " That Bros. Holden, Brown, Mason, Kighley, Parker "and Palmer, being commissioned and non-com- " missioned officers in the Halifax Volunteer Corps, "were obliged to attend the funeral of Bro. G. "Emerson as such, therefore could not attend the " duties of the Lodge." This funeral ceremony was an important one, for a special dispensation was obtained from Provincial Grand Lodge so that the members could attend as Masons; and Bro. Emerson was evidently held in high esteem. The dispensation is as follows : — " Sir, "I received your favour this morning requesting a " dispensation to pay the last duty of your Lodge to " a deceased Brother, for whose death I am sorry, for "being convinced from your application that he was " worthy of the honor, and his loss the Society must " in some degree feel. I beg to assure you that the "Provincial G*- Lodge has not the least possible " objection to your requisition, being fully satisfied of " your care and attention to the procession in conduct- HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. 09 " ing it in such order and regularity as the solemnity " in that case requires — I am, Sir, "Your Humble Servant and Brother, "Signed— Jno. Watson, P.G.T'" The brethren assembled to the number of sixteen, in addition to those already mentioned, and the Lodge was put in mourning as a last tribute of respect to the memory of this worthy Brother. It may here be mentioned that the Lodge shortly after sustained another loss by the death of Bro. Sergt. Dunn," and the brethren attending the funeral were requested to appear " in Black with clean white " stockings and white gloves." Oct. October 1st, 1797, Sunday. The brethren met on 1797. . . n • this day m consequence of an invitation having been received by the Worshipful Master from the Eoyal Brunswick Lodge, Sheffield, to attend a grand Masonic procession, on the occasion of the opening of the Sheffield Infirmary. Two brethren were appointed to attend and represent the Lodge, and the expenses, amounting to £2 Os. 2d., were paid out of the Lodge funds. j)gg The day of Lodge meeting had, within the preceding few years, been frequently changed from Wednesday to Thursday, and then to Monday. On December 100 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 28th, 1797, this resolution is recorded, " that in "future, all our Lodge nights be held on the second "and fourth Wednesdays in each month, and that on " no account whatever shall they be altered any more "from these nights, so long as any member present " shall continue to be as such in Lodge No. 61, and " that this motion may be more permanent and lasting, " we have hereunto set our names." Here follow the signatures of the brethren present. This resolution fixing the day of the week, though so strongly worded was useless, as this day was afterwards changed to Thursday, and remained so until it was changed to the present fixture. Why the brethren ever adopted a day governed by the moon does not appear. This latter change was made between the years 1840 and 1844, and so is not of so antient a date as some of the brethren have ventured to assert. May May 9th, 1798. Occurs a minute which is particu- 1798 ' larly interesting, and is as follows : — " The members "and brethren having very liberally contributed "towards the defence of the countrv in aid of the " government, it was agreed that the money should " be paid by five instalments, every two months, till " the whole is paid, commencing on the 31st of May "last." For this cause the sum of £64 2s. Od. was HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 101 subscribed, the contributions varying in amount from 2s. 6d. to £10. The money subscribed shews the attachment of the brethren to the throne, and their loyalty to the government. This year it was decided not to provide the members with supper, and at one meeting there being only a small attendance the Secretary quaintly remarks : "The Brethren who attended this evening were " very quiet and peaceable, and went home in good "time." Perhaps the dispensing with suppers had something to do with this course of conduct. Pgg Dec. 1798. In consequence of a letter received ^^^^' from the Lodge of Unanimity, "Wakefield, the Lodge subscribed for an engraving which was being pub- lished of Kichd. Linnecar, Esq., a prominent member of the first Wakefield Lodge, and one of H.M. Coroners for West Eiding of Yorkshire, This engraving is in the possession of the Lodge, and is a copy of the oil painting which adorns the wall of the banqueting,room of the Wakefield Lodges. In July, 1799, "An Act of Parliament was passed 1799. ufop tiie more effectual suppression of Societies " established for Seditious and Treasonable Purposes ; "and for the better preventing Treasonable and 102 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. " Seditious Practices." The passing of this Act was notified by Grand Lodge in August of that year, so that no time was lost. It is recorded in September "That agreeable to the wishes of Government relative " to a late Act of Parliament, an attested Register " and Certificate be sent to Mr. Foljambe, the Clerk " of the Peace." There is a copy of this Act, and also a copy of a later one passed 31st March, 1817, in the possession of the Lodge. Inserted with the first Act is a letter, dated from King's Bench, London, 20th Sept., 1808, and which was from Bro. Lun Jagger, who had evidently become reduced in circumstances, and was under the necessity of becoming a prisoner there. This Brother, who was a subscribing member, for many years, and at one time was in fair circum- stances, applied for relief. Dec. St. John's Feast, December, 1799. The minutes 1799 ' on this occasion are for the time unusually voluminous, filling three foolscap pages of the minute book. One minute refers to a letter received from Mr. John Smallpage, relative to a meeting of Prov. Grand Lodge, to be held at Tadcaster, for the purpose of forming a Provincial Committee ; and the Master and Wardens were requested to attend. The subscription of members was increased to HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 103 sixteen shillings per half year, ou account of a demand made by Grand Lodge of two shillings per annum to be paid by each member, for the liquidation of their debt. The admission feeS were also raised to three guineas, '' which had to include the Tyler and registering fees." The sum of 10s. 6d. had been paid half yearly to Grand Lodge, being denominated for Charity, but on account of the before-mentioned charge this contribu- tion was to cease. The By-Laws of the Lodge were ordered to be printed, and each person choosing to possess a copy, had to pay one shilling. The Lodge has no copy of these printed By-Laws, though one would certainly be prized as a curiosity. Jan. January, 1800. 4th Wednesday, Only three ' members are stated to hare attended, but the remark attached states — "This night the Lodge met in due "form, agreeable to adjournment. Though few in " number, went through the duties of the Lodge in " due form and harmony, enjoying the great pleasures "thereunto belonging." The bill for the evening was 10s. Id. for four brethren including tyler; we can therefore imagine that they did really enjoy " the great pleasures there- unto belonging." 104 HISTORY OP PEOBITY LODGE. April, April, 1800. Finds the Lodge debtor to Cash, and 1800. ° ' the W.M. drew the attention of the brethren to this matter, and a motion was made "That the Ace*- ag^'- "the Lodge being at this time more than the sub- " scriptions, that the same be taken into consideration " the fourth "Wednesday in the month." The following meeting contains no account of the matter having been considered, but it is noted from that meeting and several following ones, that there are no expenses. " All present paid their own bill.' The question of arrears in funds was again reverted to in August, 1800, when it was decided "That on "ace*- of the Lodge Funds being exhausted, every " member who attends the Lodge shall pay his own "expenses until next St. John's, and that it be a " standing rule in future, whenever the Treasurer is " in advance, for the Brothers to pay their own " expenses as specified." All Brothers connected with the Lodge had to be waited upon by the Master, to request they would pay up arrears. This question is not again mentioned, except the remark which is attached to the minutes in January, 1801, "when the members present defrayed the expenses." The close of the year 1801 found the brethren on the right side, and nearly all the expenses W. BRO. CHARLES WHITELEY, (P.M. of the Lodge of Probity) ■g'ro». §enior (iixaxxb '^^civbcxi for ^csf '^iorfisBire, 1823. From a Drawing in Sepia in the possession of tlie Lodge of Probity. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 105 in the meantime had been paid out of funds in tho usual way. Sept. September 10th, 1800. A candidate for Masonry 1800. -was proposed, balloted for, and passed nem. con. ; and being a case of Emergency, he was accordingly made in due form. This candidate was one who in after years exercised great influence on the working of the Lodge, and also made his mark outside that circle ; it was through his advocacy that the idea of the division of the Province of Yorkshire was first promulgated. This Brother was Charles Whiteley, the grandfather of one of our present Past Masters. Two brethren also were initiated the succeeding Lodge night, and possibly this influx, together with the attention which had been called to the arrears, had something to do with turning the tide, and making the Lodge once more prosperous. Oct. October 22nd, 1800. Only the Master and S.W. 1800, attended, together with the Tyler, who officiated as J.W- The cause is thus stated—" That this being " the day that the Halifax Cavalry and Infantry were " reviewed by General Stanley, our Honourable Tyler " made a motion that the members belonging to this "Lodge be exempt from any fine for non-attendance." Before the end of the year, Thos. Youdj a name 106 HISTORY OF PEOBITY LODGE. well known in Halifax, was initiated, and Thos. Davey, Capt. of Marines, was introduced ; also Lieut. Tlios. Smithies, of the Navy. Being a case of Emergency, the latter was proposed, balloted for, and initiated in one night; and it was ordered, with respect to this Brother, that he be admitted to second and third degrees of Masonry next Lodge night, or sooner if in case of Emergency. On further reference, it is found that this Brother was duly passed and raised at an Emer- gency Lodge only three days from the date of his initiation. This would be irregular nowadays, and was undoubtedly done then under pressure of circum- stances. This ending of the Chapter is that of the close of another minute book. CHAPTER VL HiSTORT OP THE LoDQE OF PrOBITT. A.D. 1801 TO 1808. I HE minutes at this time are of very meagre description, and matters are referred to whicli do not affect the history of the Lodge. At the beginning of the- minute book com- mencing 1801, the resolution referred to in December, 1797, with reference to changing the day of meeting is repeated, and duly signed by the brethren present. Jan. January 2nd, 1801. A note is made which, 1801. . . although not referring to matters Masonic, may be of interest to some Halifax members. It is that " This "night Stern Mill was on fire, and the whole "premisies Were destroyed." 108 HISTORY OF PROBITY LOBGEr Jan. January 27th, 1802. It is noted that "our -worthy 1802. / ' J " and well respected Tyler, Wilkinson Foole, being at *' present indisposed in a very severe cold, the Master " out of tender regard for him and to his great age "(being now upwards of 70), got Bro. Bradley to "oflB.ciate for him in his stead this night. Bro. " Wilkinson Poole's better health was drunk with the " Honors of Masonry." Arig. The next item of interest, dated 9th August, 1802, 1802. / o > ) also refers to the Brother just named who had passed away. The reference shews that he was well beloved and respected. " In consequence of the Death of our worthy and " very well respected Tyler, Wilkinson Poole, the *' Master convened a meeting of Past Masters and " OflScers of this Lodge, to take into consideration " the mode and manner of attending the Funeral of " our said beloved Brother on Thursday evening next. "Eesolved that the Brothers of the Lodge be "summoned to appear in full and compleat Black, " with White Gloves, Black Stockings, Black Buckles " or Shoe Strings, precisely at 4 of the clock in the "aftern"- of Thursday, the 12*^ inst. "Resolved that new Aprons be provided, and " Jewels and Ribbons cleaned for the occasion." REDUCED FACS IMILE COPT OF A PORTION OF AN INSCRllTIOWt UPONATOMBSTONE FOUND IN THE HAUFAX £ABISH CHDRCH DURING THE HESTOHAnaNAJ).l§78-3. AlfotheBoclyof WilkinlbnPool of Halifax who was Tyler to thefree Mafon Lodge of IVobity3iyear5 \Vliicli office he filled withc^ealous Fidelity He was changed to tlieLodge above Aug. 8*^802 Aged 71 Year^. HISTORY Of PROBITY LODGE. 109 The next record refers to the funeral. " Agreeable to the resolutions of Monday night " last, our late Bro. Wilkinson Poole was interred, and ** the above-named members (12 in number) attended " his funeral as Pall Bearers, he having been 31 years " Tyler of this Lodge j during which time he behaved "himself with the greatest propriety, being ever " faithful to his Trust, and his Loss is much regretted " by the members, and his Memory will ever be " respected. Bro. Wilkinson Poole died on Sunday, "the 8** inst.j aged 71 years." Shortly after the last-named record, the Lodge, suffered by the loss of three other brothers, and one of them had been a member for a considerable time f the reference is as follows : " That a Lodge of Emergency shall be called, and " be put in Mourning for our late departed and worthy " Brother Samuel Lord Setf-, being a true and labour- "ing Brother, and Master, and Past Master many " years. Also for our well respected Brothers and true " friends Thos. Eawlinson, John Parker, and our well " beloved and faithful Tyler, Wilkinson Poole." The remark respecting Bro. Samuel Lord was certainly well merited. This Brother had been a member of the Lodge from June Sth, 1703, and had no BlSTORY 01* PROBITY LODGE. held the office of Worshipful Master four times J he was a regular attendant at Lodge meetings ; always ready to take office if required; and to take upon himself more than his share of the duties if for the benefit of the Lodge. He must have lived to a good age, having been a member of the Lodge over thirty- nine years, and his name appears on the list of those present at the first meeting of the Eoyal Arch Chapter in January, 1765. June, June 25th, 1 804. The Lodge was removed from the 1804. Union Cross, where it had been held (with the excep- tion of about eighteen months, when it met at the Bath Tavern) since September, 1772, to the Old Cook. At this place of meeting it remained until 1869, when it was taken to the present Freemasons' Hall. The Secretary during this year was possessed of some humour, as shewn in the records of one meeting : " Memo. "Worshipful Bro. Lord having a friend to ** sup with him, tripp*' away at an early hour. "N.B. The Brethren highly gratified with the "Style and Excellence of Bro. C. Whiteley's Singing "during the time of Kefreshment." At another meeting shortly after this, the minutes read as follows : " Be it known to the Craft that for this night only HiSTORy OF PROBITY LODGE. Ill " Bro. Eamsden was promoted to the Junior "Warden's " Chair in which he had a comfortable Nap during an "Exquisite song from Bro. Jones, and also during "Bro. Schorey's song." Bro. Bamsden evidently was not qualified for the post of J.W., for during the hours of refreshment he particularly should have been wide awake. The brethren on one occasion were invited by the Lodge of Harmony to join with them, in paying a tribute of respect to the memory of deceased Bro. Eobert Sutcliffe. The Lodge of Fidelity, Leeds, and the Loyal Halifax Lodge were also invited to the funeral. As the circumstance is peculiar, and different to any other, the following copy of the record may be of interest. " Several brethren joined in the mournful procession " at the funeral of the above-named deceased Brother. " who was interred at the Independent Chapel "(Square?) A solemn March was played by a "Band during the procession, and an Ode, written "and composed for the occasion, was played and " sung in the Chapel, in a most impressive and "affecting manner, the whole concluding with a " suitable address and exhortation from the Minister " of the Chapel, and after which the members returned 112 HISTORY OF PEOBITY tODGE. — — ,- — « "in proper order of procession to their respective, " Lodges." June, June 19th, 1807. Bros. C. Whiteley, John Holds- 1807. . . worth and James Eoyston paid the joining fee and were admitted members of this Lodge. Bro. C. Whiteley, it will be remembered, was initiated a member of this Lodge, but he must have left and joined some other Lodge (probably the Loyal Halifax), for it is recorded that he is designated as P.M. on occasions when he attended as a visitor. Bros. Jno. Holdsworth and Jas. Eoyston joined from the Lodge of Harmony, the former liaving been made in that Lodge Feb. 1790, and attained the degree of W.M. It is probable also that he was one of the founders of the Loyal Halifax Lodge, 1796, as a member of that name appears amongst the list of founders. At any rate he seems to have been a very accomplished mason for it is recorded on Sept. 9th, 1807, that he occupied the chair of S.W. in the Lodge of Probity, and "a Lecture was given by him in a masterly style." Again, on another occasion it is recorded that Bro. Holdsworth, "in compliance with the request of the Brethren "present, delivered a lecture on the first degree in " Masonry with great precision and forcoj elucidating "several important and instructive reasons for the HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 113 " peculiar Forms and situations of Lodges in general." Dec. St. John's Festival, SOtli December, 1807. On the 1807. ' motion of Bro. Chas. Whitelev, of which a month's notice had been given, it was decided " in future Ihat "the Election of Officers take place the night previous " to the Festival of St. John the Evangelist, instead "of that previous to St. John the Baptist, as has been "heretofore customary in this Lodge, and being found " more agreeable to the Eule of the Grand Lodge." Feb. February 10th, 1808. The brethren having re- 1808. solved to discharge the Tyler, Bro. Ashton Jones, it was proposed and seconded that Bro. Dan Hemingway be the Tyler. This motion was put to the Lodge, and he was unanimously elected and invested with the " Badge and Arms of the Office." Bro. Ashton Jones was one of the founders of the Loyal Halifax Lodge, and had held the office of Tyler almost continuously since the death of Tyler Poole. Bro. Hemingway also belonged to the Loyal Halifax Lodge, and must have been a member almost since its formation in 1796, as he was then and frequently afterwards a visitor at the Lodge of Harmony. On this date is the first mention of passing the Chair; when Bro. Smith had that honour conferred. P 114 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. Mar. March 16th, 1808. This evening Bro. Chris. 1808. ° Eawson, St. Alban's Lodge, No, 22, London, visited the Lodge, and a Brother of Harmony Lodge, No. 461, was represented to be in urgent need of assistance, when the visiting brother headed a subscription with jGI Is. Od. and a handsome sum was then made up. The next two meetings are particularly worth noticing, and are both Emergency meetings. The first, being called at the request of Bro. Illingworth, was held on Friday, the 1 8th of March, 1 808. There were present the W.M., S.W., J.W. and Tyler, aiid in addition Bros. Murgatroyd and Illingworth. Bro. Illingworth proposed himself to be raised to the 3rd Degree, which proposition being duly passed, he was properly prepared and accordingly raised. The minutes then state "that Bros. Murgatroyd and Illingworth were " afterwards passed the Chair in due form, preparatory " to their being exalted to Eoyal Arch Comp°°-, a Koyal "Arch Chapter of Emergency, No. 73, being to be " held on Sunday next." Bro. Murgatroyd had been passed and raised on the 1 6th inst. ; Bro. Illingworth was raised at the meeting just recorded ; and yet it was not considered infra dig. that such young Masons should at once be passed the Chair. 1808. The next meeting referred to was held on Sunday HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGfE. 115 the 20th inst., and must have been held immediately prior to the E.A. meeting. At this Emergency meeting it is recorded that Bro. Chris. Eawson be passed the Chair, which ceremony having been per- formed, he (Bro. Eawson), paid the fee of lOs. 6d. for passing the Chair. On referring to the minutes of the E.A. Chapter, it is found that a meeting was held on this date, and that the three brethren just named were duly exalted E.A. Companions. It was undoubtedly a wise proceeding on the part of Grand Lodge to change the form of passing the Chair, and also to fix the space of twelve months before a Master Mason could be exalted to the degree of Eoyal Arch. May May 11th, 1808, Being the meeting previous to the Festival of St, John the Baptist, the Worshipful Master was elected ; and in consequence of a motion, passed 30th December, 1807, the officers were elected for the six months ensuing. The voting for W,M, was in favour of Bro, Thos. Youd, Bro, Chris. Eawson, Banker, was proposed as a joining member, and was agreed to. The next meeting was an " Emergency," when Wm. Huntriss, Cotton Merchant, Skircoat, was regularly initiated into Freemasonry; and Bro. John Thomson, 116 HISTORY OP PEOBITT LODGE. M.D., of the Canongate Kilwinning Lodge, Edinburgh, was admitted as a joining member. June, The Saint John's Festival, June 28th, 1808, was 1808. _ ' duly held, and Bro. Thomas Youd was installed W.M., and appointed Bro. Eawson as J.W. It is stated " that the Festival was commemorated by the " few brethren present with the most perfect cordiality " and good order." At the subsequent meeting Messrs. John Garlick, Banker, and John Sutcliffe, Liquor Merchant, both of Halifax, were proposed as candidates for Freemasonry. These three last-named candidates, immediately on their being made Master Masons, along with Bro. Thomson, were duly passed the Chair, preparatory to their being made E.A. Masons. Particular attention is called to this form of passing the Chair these several times to shew the proceeding was no uncommon one, and that it was continued for some time. The Lodge at this period was in a most flourishing condition; its members were constantly increasing ; and the persons who were admitted were members of society held in high esteem by their fellow townsmen, and who to this day have left their mark in the town and neighbourhood. CHAPTER VII. Probity Lodge and the Removal oe Loyal Halifax Lodge TO Heptonstall, vith the Inattgukation of the same as Prinoe Frederick Lodge. y. 1 HE Lodge of Probity, from its seniority in the district, and also from the evident inability of the Provincial Grand Lodge to make a close supervision of the Lodges at a distance from its centre, took upon itself the functions of an intermediary, and reported to the Prov. Grand Lodge on difficulties as they cropped up in its own immediate vicinity. The Loyal Halifax Lodge, which received its dis- pensation, January, 1796, first met at the Eing of Bells, and afterwards at the Sun Inn. This Lodge had not had a very prosperous or lively existence since 118 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. its formation. The brethren did not often visit the Lodge of Probity, but are frequently noted as visitors at Harmony Lodge. On several public occasions (funerals) the brethren joined the other Lodges in the town ; and on one or two occasions it has been noted that differences of an exceptional character existed between them and the premier Lodge;, differences which from time to time were happily arranged. At this period (1808), the Loyal Halifax Lodge got into straitened circumstances; the Lodge was evidently not only in debt, but was considerably reduced in num- bers. In this state of embarrassment it had a prospect of recouping itself for the losses, by surrender- ing the dispensation, as about this time a number of brethren residing in the neighbourhood of Hepton- stall, who had probably been initiated into Masonry at Halifax and Haworth, were desirous of forming a Lodge for themselves. Knowing the difficulties into which the Loyal Halifax Lodge had fallen, they thought the opportunity a good one of setting up the fallen house in their own locality. They were not well versed in the articles of the Book of Constitutions referring to the removal of Lodges, and in their ignorance offered the few remaining brethren of the Loyal Halifax Lodge, such a sum of HISTOEY OF PROBITY LODGE. 119 money as was deemed by them adequate to pay off their indebtedness. This breach of Masonic Law becoming known to the members of the Lodge of Probity, they at once summoned the Heptonstall brethren, and the brethren of Loyal Halifax Lodge, to an Emergency meeting, at which also the brethren of Harmony Lodge were asked to be present. The proceedings are of great interest, and have been already noted in the book "Freemasonry at Bottoms," by Bro. John E. Craven, but as more correctly belonging to the Lodge of Probity, they are given here as they appear in the Minute Book. "Lodge of Probity,. No. 61. " Old Cock Inn, in Halifax, Nov. 30th, 1808. "Emergency, Masters' Night. PRESENT. "Bro. T. Youd, W.M; J. Holdsworth, S.W. ; Chr. "Eawson, J.W. ; Chas. Whiteley, P.M.; J. Jones, " P.M.; and five other brethren of Lodge No, 61. "Bros. Wm. Hartley, W.M.; John Brear, S.W. ; " John Fenton, J.W. ; and thirteen other brethren "from Lodge Harmony, No. 461. "Bros. James Fielding, Thos. Smith, and John " Uttley, No. 550, Haworth, and Bro. Wm. Midgley, " of Heptonstall." 120 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE, "The expenses were this night paid by the Hep- " tonstall brethren. "The Lodge was opened in due form upon the " third degree. " The Loyal Halifax Lodge, No. 549, having made "an illegal transfer of their Dispensation to several " brethren at Heptonstall who were anxious to cstab- " lish a Lodge at that place, it was thought proper to " convene the Lodge of fiarmony on this Emergency '"to take their opinion and sentiments on the subject. "The brethren from Heptonstall attended, and stated " that under idea that they were not acting contrary to " any established rules of the Grand Lodge, the^ had "paid the members of the Loyal Halifax Lodge £30 "for the Dispensation in question and the furniture; "but finding themselves in error, they readily " acknowledged the same, and requested our assist- "ance in forwarding and recommending the fallowing "petition to the Provincial Grand Lodge at York, " which was unanimously agreed to in full Lodge. "It was likewise the unanimous opinion that circular " letters should be sent to those members of the Loyal "Halifax Lodge who were concerned in* the above " illegal transaction, to inform them that unless they " submitted themselves on this occasion, and refunded HISTORY OF PEOBITY LODGE. 121 "the money thus obtained, such of their names as "refused should be particularly noticed at a subse- "quent Lodge, and their conduct marked with the " severest reprehension. Copy of the Petition of the Heptonstall brethren above alluded to : "To the Eight Worshipful the Provincial Grand " Master of the Society of Free Masons for the " County of York. "We, the undersigned, having been regularly' "initiated and admitted members of the Society of " Free and Accepted Masons, and having the prosperity "ofttihe Fraternity at Heart, are willing to exert our " best endeavours to promote and diffuse the genuine "principles of Masonry; to this end for the con- " veniency of our respective dwellings, and other good "reasons, we are desirous of forming a Lodge at " Heptonstall, in the parish of Halifax. And whereas " the Lodge Fo. 549, called the Loyal Halifax Lodge, " has for a considerable time been held at the Eose and " Crown, in Halifax aforesaid, under Dispensation from "the Provincial Grand Lodge at York, but is now " reduced fo a very small number of members, all of " whom arc willing to relinquish the said Dispensation "in our favour, We therefore pray that until such time Q 122 HISTORY OF PEOBITY LODGE. " as a Constitution can be obtained by command of the " Grand Lodge, or your authority recalled, We may "be empowered by virtue of such Dispensation, to " assemble as a regular Lodge, at the House of John " Uttley, the sign of the Stagg's Head, in Heptonstall "aforesaid, on the 3rd Monday in every month, and " then and there to discharge the duties of Masonry " in a regular and constitutional manner, according to " the original Forms of the Order, and the Laws of "the Grand "^ Lodge. And we further beg leave to "nominate and recommend William Midgley to be "first Master, James Fielding to be first Senior " Warden, and Thomas Smith to be first Junior " Warden of the said Lodge. "The Prayer of this Petition being granted, we " promise strict conformity to every regular edict and " command of the Grand Master, and to all the Con- "stitutional Laws and Eegulations of the Grand " Lodge." " Signed— John Foster, Wm. Sutcliffe, Thos. Smith, "James Fielding, Eobert Pickles, Henry Patchett, "William Midgley, Thos. Sutcliffe, John Thomas, " John Hazzard, William Sugden." HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. 123 Copy of the Dispensation of the Loyal Hali&x .Lodge, No, 549, heretofore held at the Kose and Crown Inn, in Halifax. "To Brothers John Holdsworth, John Colliugwood, "James Shaw, Ashton Jones, John Bancroft, Daniel " Hitchen, and James Heap." " Brethren —You are hereby authorized to assemble "as a regular Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, " under the Title or Denomination of the Loyal " Halifax Lodge, at the Eing of Bells, in Halifax, " Yorkshire, and to make, pass and raise Masons as " occasion may require. And also to do every other "act as a regular Lodge until a Warrant of Constitu* " tion shall be made out. " Given at York, under our Hand and Seal of "Masonry, the 28th day of January, A.D. 1796,' "A.L. 5796. " By the Provincial Grand Master's Command. " Witness— Wm. Spencer, P.D.P.G.M." John Watson, P.G.T'" Copy of Recommendation sent to the Provincial Grand Lodge at York, enclosing the Petition of the Brethren at Heptonstall. 124 HISTORY OF PROBITY lODGB, "Halifax, Nov. 30th, 1808. "To tlie Eight Worshipful the Provincial Grand " Master for the County of York." *' Eight "Worshipful Sir and Brother, "We, the' Master and Wardens of the Lodge of " Probity, No. 61, and the Master and Wardens of the "Lodge of Harmony, No. 461, assembled at a Lodge " of Emergency in the Hall of the former this Day, "humbly yet earnestly beg leave to recommend the "enclosed Petition to your Worshipful attention; and "in doing this, we take the opportunity of laying " before you a Statement of Facts which have induced " us to concur in the same. " 1st. The Loyal Halifax has of late years been "rapidly decreasing in numbers. " 2nd. A number of the Brethren residing in and "near Heptonstall in this County, in a populous " district, have found themselves at a distance of nine " miles from any Lodge, and are desirous of meeting "for the sake of instructions and working, and of " promoting the general interest of the Craft. To pro- " mote this intention, the possession of a Lodge has "been, desirable, and the majority of the members at- " tending the Loyal Halifax, No. 549, have consented " to relinquish their Dispensation (of which a copy is "annexed) in favour of the Brethren at Heptonstall. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE, 125 " 3rd. In alluding to this transaction, we are sorry "to state that the conduct of the Brethren of the " Loyal Halifax, No. 649, has been contrary to the "Constitutions of the Fraternity, and altogether " derogatory to the Character of Masons, inasmuch "they have accepted a pecuniary reward for the " Transfer. " 4th. We express our utter abhorrence of this " conduct of the Loyal Halifax Lodge, No. 549, and as " soon as the names of the individuals concerned in it " are known, we shall think it our duty to mark them " with a Vote of Censure and Disqualification. " 5th. We have, however, to call your attention to " this important distinction, viz. : that the members " of the Loyal Halifax Lodge, No. 549, are alone " culpable, and that the Brethren at Heptonstall have "nothing to do with the disgrace. They have been "pilfered of their money, and have been the dupes " of this unworthy artifice. They have come and met "us at this Lodge of Emergency disclaiming every "part of this transaction ; surrendered the Dispensa- "tion in question to our care, and requested us to " assist them in their endeavours to obtain a regu- " lar Lodge. We do earnestly and affectionately "recommend these brethren to your notice. Eight 126 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. "Worshipful Sir and Brother, from a knowledge "and conviction that they have the Interests of "Masonry at Heart, and that the Lodge Loyal "Halifax, No. 549, will be removed to better hands. " 6th. We trust you will distinguish the cause of "the innocent from that of the Guilty, and that " you will encourage and cherish the former by " granting the prayer of their petition. "Signed, " Thos. Youd, W.M. \ " JohnHoldsworth,S.W. ^""^f .'^e!™^'^^' " Christ'- Kawson, J.W. ) " Wm. Hartley, W.M. \ " John Brier, 8.W. ^'^''^ ^g™^' " John Fenton, J.W. ) Copy of letter sent to the undermentioned Brothers, being officers and members of the Loyal Halifax Lodge, No. 549, heretofore held at the Eose and Crown, Halifax : — Halifax, 1st December, 1808. Brother, I am commanded by the Officers of the Lodge of Probity, No. 61, and the Lodge of Harmony, No. 461, to acquaint you that at a numerous Masters' Lodge of Emergency, held at the Old Cock Inn in Halifax, on the 30th November — HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 127 It was unanimously ^resolved that the Conduct of the Officers and Brethren of the Loyal Halifax Lodge, No. 549, in selling their Dispensation and sharing the money, was contrary to the Constitutions of Masonry and derogatory to the character of Masons, and I am further directed to inform you it is required that you immediately make due submission to the W.M.'s of No. 61 and 461, otherwise your conduct wiU be noticed according to the Constitutions of the Fraternity. I am. Your humble Serv*- and Bro"^- Signed, Jonathan lUingworth, Secretary to Lodge No. 61. To John Kershaw, W.M., Joiner, Halifax. Wm. Eushworth, S.W., Sergt-SS'* „ Thos. Frankleton, J.W., Joiner, ,, Jonathan Haly, Whitesmith, ,, John Orabtree, Eoper, ,, John Lister, Stone Mason, ,, John Collingwood, ,, „ Eev. J. Booth, Burly. At a regular Lodge meeting, held 8th February, 1809, the Lodge Avas opened in due form upon the 2nd Degree of Masonry, when Brothor Collingwood appeared, but as he refused to refund his share of the money obtained for the Dispensation of the Loyal Halifax, Ko. 549, he was, after a remonstrance and reprimand from the Chair, commanded to withdraw, and informed that till he did so the Lodge of Probity, No. 61, refused to admit him to its meetings. 128 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. No further mention is made of this business until June 14th, when it is noted that the Brethren agreed upon the date of the Festival of St. John the Baptist, 30th June, 1809, "till which time ye consideration of the answers to the Heptonstall Lodge was deferred." There is no mention in the minutes as to when the Festival was commemorated, but at the next meeting, 11th July, it is noted that Bro. Uttley visited from Prince Frederick- Lodge, Heptonstall; so it may be assumed that the answer from Pro- vincial Grand Lodge had been received, considered, and was of such a character as was desired. Although the whole of the money was not refunded, the prayer of the petition was granted, and the mediation of the two Lodges interested, had the desired effect. July, July 14th, 1809. An Emergency Lodge was called, 1809. ' and it was decided that the Lodge should be convened to meet on the 1 7th July, at Heptonstall. The following is a full account of the proceedings : Lodge of Probity, No. 61, Stag's Inn, Heptonstall, July 17th, 1809. ■ Present — Bro. Thomson, E.W.M. Bro. T. Toud as S.W. Bro. J. Eoyston S.D. „ J. Jones J.W. „ B. Smith J.D. „ J. Sutcliffe as Treas. „ J. Illingworth, Seoty. HISTORY OP PaOBITY LODGE. 129 Bro. 0. Whiteley, Marshal „ D. Hemingway Tyler „ J. Holdsworth, E.A.Z Bro. Boothroyd, as E..A.J. „ Ingham „ R.A.H. „ W. Gregory „ E.A. „ Hall „ „ Yisitors —Resident Lodge of Prince Frederick, No. 549. Bro. Wm. Midgley, W.M. 1st Light „ J.Fielding S.W. 2nd „ „ T. Smith J.W. 3rd „ „ Eobt. Sutcliffe, Secty. Stewards — Bros. J. Head, Et. Barker, J. Head, J. Ingham. Bro. B. Hartley J. Smith Ed. Law J. Greenwood J. Astin J. Sutcliffe D. HoUindrake E. Pickles "Wm. Mitchell J. Judson Wm. Parker Wm. Sutcliffe J. Crabtree W. Plurat Bro. J. Harwood „ W. Sugden „ Eobt. Howarth „ J. Sutcliffe „ W. Sutcliffe „ E. Crabtree „ W. Sutcliffe „ J. Midgley „ J. Sutcliffe „ J. Burn „ T. Pickles „ A. Cockcroft „ J. Foster „ H. Patchett Bros. J. Beswiok and Eev. J. Eiitter, Lodge 332. Bro. J. Smith, Lodge 461, Holy Bible „ E. Bolton, „ 439, Constitutions „ J. Booth, „ „ Globe „ T. /Driver, „ „ „ Bros. Thos. Bailey, 504, and James Field, 539, Warrant of Constitution Bros. Eobt. Ellis and Jno. Thomas, 539 „ James Hartley and John Ashworth, 550 As Craft Masons, 57 K 130 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. As E.A. Masons : Janitor, Mordeoai Fortune Comps. Bates, Z., Bottomley and Milner, No. 86 „ Crabtree and Eushworth, „ 106 Comps. Kershaw, Drake, Tidswell, Turner, Eichardson, Shaw, Frye, Bateson, and Farrar, No. 86 Comps. TJttley, Ibbotson, and Pickles, No. 91 As B.A. Masons, 23 As Knight Templars, Conclave of Hope : Comp. Sir "W. G. Taylor, M.E.M. Comp. Sir Jon"- Farrar, O.C. and Wm. Hartley, O.C. Comp. Sir Eichd. Ashworth Comp. Sir Jos'*- Pollard John Brice J) Jos"- Denton Jas. Speak >) Jas. Layoock John Fenton j> Hy. Warton Geo. Whitehead )> Jno. Sutoliffe ^^ Ely Holmes » J. Barraclough Jos'"- Eushworth » Timy- Bancroft i Jno. Horsfall » John Hodgkin Joseph Crowther >5 Jos'*- Bancroft o John Wilson » Jon"- Whittaker w John Binns »» Jas. Feather Jos'"- Harrison n Jno. Wood Adam Pearson, » John Swittenburgh, Keighley Bradford Thos. Ward man 3> Jas. Bancroft, Howarth, M.E.M. Thos. Tetley J> Wm. Farrar, Equerry Hope, 33 As Knight Templars 33. • As Craft Masons a ..57 As Eoyal Arch Masons .. 23 As Knight Templars ., 33 Total . . 113 HISTORY OF PROUITY LODGE. 131 The E.W.M. took the Chair precisely at Eleven o'clock, and opened the Lodge in the three degrees in Masonry in due form, after which the brethren were arranged in procession in the following manner : Band of Music Two Equerries Knight Templar Companions, two and two Knight Templar Officers Three Banners M.E.M. Janitor Eoyal Arch, carried by two Companions Eoyal Arch Companions, with banners, white rods, etc. two and two Eoyal Arch Officers Principals, three and three Tylers Master Masons Master Mason, with light Junior Deacon, with column Junior "Warden, with jewel Globes, carried by Master Masons Secretary and Treasuj-er Master Mason { ^^g'J'^ution ( Master Mason Senior Deacon, with column Master Mason, with light Senior Warden, with jewel Holy Bible, carried by W.M., No. 461 Chaplain, Eev. Bro, Eutter, of Littlebrough Master Mason> with light 132 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. Past Masters Book of Constitutions, carried by Master Mason E.W. Master, No. 61, Bro. Thomson Four Stewards, with rods They then proceeded to church, where a sermon was preached by the Chaplain from Deut. chapter X, verse 12. At the door of the church the Companions Knight Templars, formed the Steel Arch, when the brethren opened to the right and left, and the proces- sion was inverted ; on their return the same was done at the door of the inn. The brethren afterwards sat down to a plentiful dinner. At three o'clock the E.W.M. addressed the Brothers and Companions in a very impressive manner, recommending the duties of Masonry, and a regular, orderly, and sober conduct, both in and out of the Lodge. Bro. Toud then proposed a subscription for the poor of Heptonstall, and he reminded the brethren that charity was the foundation of Masonry, which motion was then seconded by Bro. C. Whiteley, and carried unani- mously. The collection amounted to £4 5s. 3d. ; 20s. of which was ordered, on the motion of a Brother, to be given to a poor Mason's widow in tbe neighbour- hood, and the remainder was left witli W.M. Midgley, No. 549, to be given to the Minister of Heptonstall, HISTORY 01? PROBITY LODGE. 133 the Eer. Mr. Charnock, to distribute to such poor person's as he thought proper. Bro. Youd then very seriously recommended to the different members of Lodges present, to be very careful whom they admitted as members of our Institution; none but men of good character, and of regular and respectable lives. The whole was conducted with the greatest regularity and decorum. The W.M. then closed the Lodge till the 2nd Wednesday in August, and announced it to be holden in the regular Lodge Koom, at the Old Cock at Halifax. Thus ends an episode in the history of the Loyal Halifax Lodge. It lost its name, and on taking its new one, "Prince Frederick," commenced life again with the brightest hopes. The Lodge of Probity acted its part well in the resuscitation of the sister Lodge, and although there is now no opportunity to play a similar part, owing to the close connection which all Lodges have to the Provincial Grand Lodge, yet we can look back, with a degree of pride to the motives which actuated our brethren in those days to become peace-makers, and promoters of true Masonic harmony. It may be mentioned that at the succeeding Lodge meeting Bro. Illingworth was congratulated by Bro. 134 HISTOEY OP PROBITY LODGE. Thomson on his ingenuity, by which a circumstantial narrative of the proceedings at Heptonstall on the 17 th July was di-awn up, although he was not present at the ceremony.* • See Appendix for account of proceedings (as given in the Halifax Journal.) CHAPTEE VIII, History of the Lodqb of Probity. A.D. 1808 TO 1815. fCCOEDING to the resolution which had been passed in December, 1807, the elec- tion of officers was appointed to take place on the Festival of St. John the Evangelist, and Bro. Youd was to preside over the Lodge for six months. Bro. Dr. Thomson was unanimously elected his suc- cessor, and commenced his year of office well. He was efficiently supported by a staff of good Masons as officers. Several candidates were initiated during the year, and frequent minutes shew some good Masonic working. One exception should be noted, as it is recorded on one occasion "that the Secretary of the " Lodge of Probity came boldly to his duty between "nine and ten o'clock." 186 HISTOEY OF PEOBITT LODGE. Oct. nth October, 1809. Occurs a minute which is of 1809. ' great importance, and will be interesting to all Masons who celebrated so recently the Jubilee Year of Her Most Gracious Majesty Queen Victoria, a patron of our Order, and the mother of our M.W. Grand Master. " Bro. Sutcliffe moved that the 25th of this month "being the 49th anniversary of His Majesty's (King *' George III.) reign should be celebrated by the " Fraternity with particular respect, and proposed a " dinner on the occasion ; this was seconded by Bro. " lUingworth. " Ordered — That the Lodge of Harmony be invited " to join us in the Festivities of the Day. Also that a " subscription be made on the occasion, and be devoted " to such charitable purposes as shall be agreed upon " in full Lodge assembled." Oct. Lodge of Probity, October 25th, 1809. 1809. "Jubilee." Members Present : — Bros. Thomson, W.M. ; C. Whiteley, S.W. ; Joshua Jones, J.W. ; T. Youd, P.M. ; J. Sutcliffe and J. Eoyston, Deacons ; J. Mason, P.M., Treas. ; Jon°- lUingworth, Sec*^-; B. Smith and J. Ingham, Stewards; J. Holdsworth, J.Hall, "Wm. Gregory, — Jackson, — Boothroyd, Wm.Wooler, W. Huntriss, — Baldwin, C. Eawson, J. Goodall, E. Eamsden and J. Bentley. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 137 Visitors : — — Ibbotson, Lodge No. 174. Bros. J. Brier, W.M. ; J. Fenton, S.W.; Win. Hartley, P.M. ; D. Mitchell, T. Edwards, J. Speak, J. Milner, B. Burn, T. Turner, — Harrison, — Eobertshaw, J. Shaw and J. Astin, members of Lodge 461. Bros. J. Talbot, E. Scholefield, W. Wilson, Sam'- Glover, Hy. Jowett, J. Greenwood, Jo. Harrison, John Berry, Jos''- Scholefield, Jas. Laycook, David Fawcett, Thos. Tetley, John Booth, John Wiggles- worth and another, from Lodge 539. Bros. J. Binns, T. Brownhill, J. Wilson, B. Hartley, John Utley, Edmund Law, Thos. Smith, Wm. Parker, Wm. Mitchell, Jas. Head, Jer''- Burn, Jas. Fielden, John Utley, Wm. Sugden, Hy. Sutcliffe, Eobt. Barker, John Head and another, from Lodge No. 549. Bro. Holmes, Lodge No. 575, Making a total of brethren present from the different Lodges as follows : — Lodge. Probity St. Nicholas Harmony Hope Prince Frederick Allman's 70 Place. No. Members. Halifax 61 22 Harwich 174 1 Halifax 461 13 Bradford 639 15 Heptonstall 549 18 Almondbury 575 1 138 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. The Lodge was opened at 10 a.m. in due form in th.e 1st degree, when it was put to the Brethren assemhled by the K."W. Master whether the Brethren should go to church in procession ; and on a division there was a great majority averse to it. The W.M. then adjourned the Lodge till two p.m., when the Brethren recorded above sat down to a "very plentiful dinner" provided by Mrs. Wright. Bros. Toud, Mitchell and Utley, managers of the subscriptions made in consequence of the resolution passed on the 11th instant, made their report, by which it appeared that the sum subscribed amounted to £42 10s. Od., which was agreed to be presented to the Halifax General Dispensary, of which the E. W. Master, Bro. Thomson, was one of the physicians. The above managers then went to present it to the Treasurer, "Wm. Eawson, Esq. On their return Bro. Youd stated that the Treasurer returned his best thanks for the very handsome benefaction, Bro. Chas. Whiteley proposed that the brethren of the Lodge No. 61 and the other neighbouring Lodges should annually visit each other alternately, and the 12th of August, the birthday of our • Illustrious Grand Master, was considered a propel" day ; the proposition was seconded by Bro, HISTOEY OF PROBITY LODGE. 139 Jones, and unanimously agreed to. The Lodge of Harmony, being the next oldest Lodge, was to have the next meeting, except it waived its right in favour of the Lodge of Hope, No. 539. The day was spent with the greatest harmony and sociability ; many loyal and Masonic toasts were drunk, and the greatest unanimity and brotherly love prevailed. The following appears iii the minutes.: — " To commemorate the day on which His Majesty "King George III. enters into the 50th year of "his reign, the Society of Free and Accepted "Masons in the Town and neighourhood of Halifax " propose to testify their loyalty and attachment to " His Eoyal Person by observing the same as a Day "of Jubilee and Thanksgiving, and they conceive " that they cannot do a more acceptable work, nor one "more in unison with their profession, than to con- " tribute their humble efforts towards 'binding up the "broken-hearted, restoring sight to the blind, and " setting at liberty those that are bruised.' " In conformity therewith the subscriptions were applied to the use of the Halifax General Dispensary. The subscriptions, of which the Minute Book contains a detailed account, were subscribed by the different Lodges as follows ; — 140 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. Lodge No. 61 „ „ 461 „ „ 549 £ 8. ... 23 18 ... 13 14 ... 4 17 d. 6 6 £42 10 The cost of collection was £1 Os. Od. This method of celebrating the King's Jubilee sets us a mosst appropriate and worthy example, and we should not get far wrong if we tried to imitate it more. Certainly there are institutions now which are closely connected with our Order, and which deserve and claim our support — Charity should justly be de- nominated the distinguishing characteristic of a Free- mason's Heart. And if we endeavour, to the best of our ability, to carry out its many excellencies, we shall no doubt feel that we are doing our duty to the G.A.O.T.U., our neighbours, and ourselves. 1809. At the close of the year 1809, the brethren unanimously elected Bro. Dr. Thomson to again preside over the Lodge for the ensuing year; he, however, owing to his professional duties was obliged to decline, and the brethren elected Bro. Chas. 1810. "Whiteley as W.M. Bro. Whiteley had been a Mason since 1800, but had never occupied the Chair of HrSTORY OP PROBITt LODGE. 141 the Lodge of Probity ; he had not been during the whole of the past nine years a subscribing member to the Lodge ; but it was no uncommon occurrence for many brethren resident in the town to become Masons, though not active subscribing members j and though these brethren often visited the Lodge, and occasion- ally took part in the proceedings, it may be inferred they would not be allowed to have a voice in the government of it. He was duly installed in the Chair of the Lodge. This was the commencement of one of those periods of quietness which frequently occur. The previous year had been full of interest and activity. On one occasion a candidate, who had been initiated some six months before, came forward to be passed to the 2nd degree. He however stated that, owing to domestic affliction and the distance of the place of meeting from his residence (Horton), he had been unable to attend. This was considered a sufficient -excuse, but " the " K.W.M. endeavoured, in a serious and pointed " charge, to impress upon the Brother the duties of a " Freemason, to the performance of which the Brother "had renewed his act and obligation, with the "additional duties and obligations for their discharge " undertaken by being raised to a Fellow Craft." At 142 HISTORY OF PROBITY LOBGE. two meetings the Worshipful Master was unable to attend, and on one of those occasions it is remarked, " our E.W. Master, Bro. Whiteley, we know, was on " his way to the great metropolis, there to facilitate a " supply of fashionable Hats for the Modern Beaux " of Halifax." As arranged the year previously, the Anniversary of His Eoyal Highness the Grand Master was celebrated at the invitation of the Lodge of Hope, Bradford. A goodly number of brethren attended, and reported that a respectable number of Brothers was present from the neighbouring Lodges. Bro, John Sutcliffe was appointed the W.M. for the year ensuing (1811). He had only been a Mason since August, 1 808, and therefore had a rather quick advancement to the chair. Not perhaps so rapid as some who have been noted, but quick for Probity. This Brother continued, except for a short period, a good worker, and repeatedly occupied the chair of the Lodge. He turned out to be a truly good Mason, and was a great prop to the Lodge ; one whom it could always rely upon through fair weather and foul. At one time it seemed as if the Lodge would have lapsed altogether, if it had not been for him and other zealous brethren, amongst whom may be mentioned as taking ''■■^,X^..a/i:#vr-^;. W. BRO. JOHN SUTCLIFFE, (P.M. of (he Lodge of Probity) '^vcv>. Senior ^vanb ^eacon for ^esf ^orfisljire, 1842. From a-Drawing in Crayons in the possession of ttie Lodge of Probity, HISTOEY OP PEOBITY LODGE. 143 a prominent part, Bros. C. Whiteley, John Holdsworth, and Josh. Jones. The Lodge is now in possession of a portrait in crayon of our worthy Bro. Sutcliffe, and it is hoped it may long be allowed to adorn the walls of the instruction room. On the day of the Installation of Bro. Sutcliffe the sum of lOs. 6d. was ordered to be given to the Prisoners in Halifax Gaol, and during the year £2 2s. Od. was voted in charity to British Prisoners. The brethren at this time were somewhat low in Masonic working, and it was therefore requested at one Lodge meeting that " every member be examined "in the grips and signs." At the next Lodge the brethren present " went through the antient mode of "examining and trying each other, which they found " had been much wanted." The brethren this year received an invitation from the officers of the Lodge of Harmony, No. 461, to dine with the Lodge at the Union Cross on the E.W.G. Master's birthday. Owing to some misunderstanding Bro. Whiteley resigned as a member of the Lodge. This fact cast a cloud over Bro. Sutcliffe's year of office, and it was at one time suggested that the Lodge be closed until certain internal dissensions were healed. Happily .144 HISTOET OF PKOBirr LODGE. however this did not take place, and the brethren signified their confidence in again electing Bro. Sutcliffe to the chair for the two succeeding years 1812-13. (1812-13), and again the brethren voted the sum of 10s. 6d. for the Prisoners in Halifax Gaol. At the last meeting of the year 1812, it is noticed that Bro. Isaacs was a visitor from Lodge No. 53 (Antients), Hull. This is the only instance mentioned in the records of a member of an Antients' Lodge visiting the Lodge. It may have been that the members of that Grand Lodge did not associate with those who were under the Modems; at any rate, let it be as it may, the time had nearly arrived when there were to be no such distinctions as "Antients" and "Modems," for the "glorious union" of the two Grand Lodges took place on the 27th December, 1813. The news of the Tnion did not appear to have reached the Lodge of Probity until some time after. Whether it was that the brethren had lost all interest in the Craft, or that the arrangements for working Lodges under the Union had not been completed, the Lodge did not meet as regularly as heretofore, for, at the end of 1813, they omitted to appoint the W.M., and it was not until 1814. June of next year that Bro. John Holdsworth was HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 145 appointed. There does not appear to have been any resolution that the date of election should be changed from December to June. At a meeting held in ^November, it was decided that the Festival of St. John the Evangelist should be held on 29th of Dec, but there is no account in the minute book that the commemoration took place. The Treasurer's book however has an account of the expenditure on the occasion, so it may be inferred that the meeting was held. At the meeting in November a letter was read "from Grand Lodge respecting the meetings of " Instruction given by the United Grand Lodge of "Antient Free Masons of England," when it was resolved that the letter stand over for consideration J,, until the first Thursday in February, 1815. The Lodge 1815. jjjet accordingly, 2nd February, 1815, when eight mem- bers, including Tyler, were present; "and the Lodge "met and was opened in due form, after which "a ballot took place respecting the members going "to London to the Grand Lodge for Instructions "according to the letter of proposition therefrom " November 21st, 1814. The ballot was upon Brother "J. Holdsworth, Brother James Eoyston, and Brother "John Sutcliffe, and that every member in this Lodge " do deposit each £2 Os. Od. on or before the 16th 146 HISTORY OF PEOBIIY LODGE. " inst. in order to defray the expenses." The sum of £18 Os. Od. was accordingly subscribed by nine brethren, the Tyler being exempted. It is very likely that was then the total number of members. On this evening there were three visitors, one of whom was Bro. Chas. Wbiteley — ^his first appearance at Lodge meeting since his resignation before mentioned. On the 23rd inst. the Lodge again met, when it was decided that Bros. Sutcliffe, Smith, and Bates should go to London as delegates, and that £6 Os. Od. each bo allowed for expenses. This matter took some arranging, for at a raeetrag on the 27th, Bro. Sutcliffe stated that, owing to pressing engagements, he could not go to London, and voluntarily gave up his place to Bro. Holdsworth, who stated "that he should go to London on Saturday, but likewise signified that he should go at his own expense." Bro. Whiteley was a visitor, at both these latter meetings. Just a remark in passing. It is recorded — " The " Transactions of this Lodge having been repeatedly "divulged to the other Lodges in this Town, and " turned into Eidicule ; and as every member declares " his innocence, it was thought the Tyler must have " been the Tale-bearer ; in consequence a ballot took "place, when he was, by the unanimous consent of HISTORY OP PROBITY LODOE, 147 " the members, discharged, and Bro. Thomas Bradley " was then proposed for Tyler, who was unanimously "approved of." This disclosure, whatever it mSy have been, pro- bably had something to do with the reicent action of the Lodge of Harmony which had usually worked in unison with the Lodge of Prdbity. The subsequent formation of the Lodge of Promulgation was not at first cordially taken up by the Harmony and one or two other Lodges. 1815. j^ would appear from the records of the next meet- ing of the Lodge held 16th March, that certain of the brethren had been to London, and had received instructions in the revised form of working, and a cordial vote of thanks was accorded to them. At this meeting Bro. Charles Whiteley was proposed and received as a re-joining member. When any work was to be done he was always to the front ; dull monotony was not his line; he was busy, restless, ever ready for change, and always on the look-out for something new. Many of the changes brought about in the government and working of the Craft in this district are owing to him, for what he put his hand to he did with his might. '* At the same meeting, on the motion of Bro. 148 HISTORY OF PROBITY LOD(JE. "Whiteley, it was agreed that a handsome Masonic "Stick shall be sent immediately, or as soon as "possible, to Bro. Philip Broadfoot, member of the " Lodge of Eeconciliation, 8 Norwich Court, East "Smithfield, as a mark or token of gratitude and " esteem of the- Lodge of Probity, for his kindness and " attention to the brethren on their visit to the Lodge "of Eeconciliation, and that the same be mounted "with silver." It was also unanimously agreed that a circular should be sent to the neighbouring Lodges, informing them that the Lodge of Probity is willing and ready, as a Lodge of Eeconciliation, to communicate to them all the new regulations of Grand Lodge, together with the present mode of working as Masons with the New Obligations, on condition that the members of such Lodges shall be obligated on the penalties of their obligations, not to divulge or communicate the same to any Lodges or to any member of a Lodge, except to those Lodges or to those members who have complied with the requisition of Grand Lodge, and received instruction from the Lodge of Eeconciliation, or with some Lodge that has done so. In compliance with the vote of the 16th instant circulars were sent to the following Lodges : — HISTORY OF PROBITY LOBGE. 149 Lodge No. Place Answer Hattnony . . TT Ti. Declined the offer .Halifax ..j at present. Prince Frederick . . , . Heptonstall. . No answer Prince George . , . Stansfield . . „ Three Graces 541 . . Howarth . .Accepted the offer Philanthropic , 540 . , Skipton . . ,) t, Eoyal Yorkshire . . 503 . . Keighley . , „ „ Amity . 280 , . Steeton . . „ „ . 502 . Bingley .. '„ „ Hope . . Bradford . . No answer AUman's . . . , . Almondbury . . „ . .Huddersfield.. The above report from the various Lodges was received at a meeting on Sunday, the 26th March, when the subsequent resolutions were passed. It is to be regretted that the Lodge does not possess a copy of the circular which was issued. The following resolutions were proposed by Bro. Whiteley, seconded by Bro. Sutcliffe, and afterwards unanimously agreed to, viz. : — 1 . "That any Lodge receiving the Union Lectures, " etc., of this Lodge, or according to the circular letter «« of the 16th inst., should pay their quota along with " this Lodge towards the expenses of our Delegates going to London, which expenses are hereby ordered " to be stated at Twenty -five Pounds." 2. " That the expenses to any individual Lodge (C 150 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. "shall not be more than Four Guineas, which it "must pay, and the surplus be afterwards fairly " divided." 3. " Every Lodge receiving the necessary instruc- " tions from us shall engage not to give them any " other Lodge but on agreeing to these Considerations." At this time the Lodge of Harmony, which was not working with its usual unison with the Lodge of Probity, also issued the following letter to all the neighbouring Lodges, with the exception of Probity : Worshipful Master and Brothers, The ISth inst. being our Lodge night, we received that information from London which proves to us that one delegated from this part to London to receive the new instructions will answer the end for a number of Lodges, say Halifax, Harmony, Bradford, Huddersfield, Almondbury, Heptonstall, and Bottoms Lodges. If, therefore, you think right to fall into our plan of sending one Brother from sonie of the above Lodges, and contribute your equal part towards the expenses of Buch delegate, we will thank you to meet our Worshipful Master and Brothers at the Union Cross Inn, on Sunday, the 26th inst., at 11 o'clock in the fore- noon, in order to settle the business. N.B. — If the above plan does not meet your approbation will thank you for a line previous to the proposed meeting. I am, Sir and Brother, Your humble Servant, Jos'*' EodgerS) SectJ- Halifax, 18th March, 1816. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 151 As will be seen from the list of replies to the Probity circular, the Lodges mentioned in the Lodge of Harmony's letter had not sent an answer. The effort made by the Lodge of Harmony was, however, without effect; and the Lodge of Promulgation, aa proposed by the Lodge of Probity, was formed, and information as to the working of the same will be found in a special chapter. It is to be regretted that the Lodge of Harmony, which since its formation had always worked with the senior Lodge, should on this occasion have broken its previous practice. This of all times, when the contending Grand Lodges had agreed to sink all differences, should have been an example to private Lodges to, at any rate, work with that love and harmony which should at all times distinguish Free- masons. It will be seen in the subsequent proceedings that the Lodge of Harmony and the other Lodges mentioned in their circular did eventually join the Lodge of Promulgation. At a regular Lodge, held 6th April, 1815— "It " was unanimously decided that a very handsome Past "Master's Jewel should be procured and presented to " Bro. Sutcliffe as a testimony of esteem of the Lodge "to him as a Brother, and gratitude for the services 152 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. " lately rendered by him to Masonry, but particularly " to this Lodge." At this meeting it was ordered that an Inner Guard's Jewel be obtained. This is the first mention of this office in the Lodge. May, At a meetinsj held 1st May, 1815, and called a 1815. ^ •" ' Masters' Lodge — " The Past Master's Jewel referred "to having arrived, was duly presented by Bro. " Whiteley to Bro. Sutcliffe with an appropriate "speech, which was answered in a very feeling " manner by Bro. Sutcliffe." The Masonic stick for Bro. Broadfoot, to which reference has been made, did not give entire satisfac- tion, and was ordered to be sent to Messrs. Cattle and Barker, York, to be further ornamented. It must at length have been made to suit, for at a meeting held 18th May, the following letter from Bro. Broad- foot, dated from London, was read : — ' To the Worshipful Master and Brethren of the Lodge of Probity, No. 84, Halifax. I have to acknowledge with great pleasure and satisfaction the receipt of your letter containing the resolutions of your Lodge, and finally the stick you did me the honour to vote ; feeling as I do on the present occasion, I hope you will accept of my best wishes for the happiness and prosperity of your Lodge, and also all those who kie connected with it. Yova- handsome present has far exceeded my humble endeavours, but be assured HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 153 that I think it the bounden duty of every Mason to afford information to the brethren if in his power. Should any of the members attend in London, as stated, I shall again feel it my duty to pay any attention which may be required ; I shall conclude with my earnest desire for your temporal and eternal happiness. Philip Broadfoot. Bro. Broadfoot's promise was not like some of those of which we have heard ; he did yeoman service, and many brethren who, in after times, had cause to visit London, received every attention from him. Other matters also which were connected with the Lodge, and did not require a representative from the Lodge, were duly attended to by him. Bro. Broadfoot also repeatedly communicated by letter with the brethren, and numerous queries were from time to time addressed to him on diflferent points in the new Masonic working. The replies to these are still in the possession of the Lodge. They are particularly interesting, and shew that the ritual has been well preserved to the present tirne. It will be obvious to all members of the Craft that these letters could not be published here. June, 1st June, 1815. It is recorded "That in con- 1815 '■ sequence of the inability of our present Tyler to "fulfil the arduous duties of the Lodge, it was " unanimously agreed that an Inner Guard should be " made to assist him, and that he should have half the TJ 154 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE, "fees of Initiation, the Tyler the other half; also that "he should have 6d. for liquor allowed each Lodge " night. Bro. Bates proposed Dan'- Sugden for this *' office, which was agreed to." Brethren who are Inner Guards,, or who aspire to be such, should take particular note of this resolution. The Festival of St. John the Evangelist was duly celebrated December 29th, 1815, when Bro. Joshua Jones was installed in the chair, who very impressively addressed the brethren on the duties and principles of Masonry. At this meeting the "Worshipful Master presented our worthy Bro. Mason with an Apron, which was subscribed for by the individual members of the Lodge, to be presented to Bro. Mason as the Father of the Lodge, and as a Mark of Esteem for him as a Brother. Bro. Mason received the Badge in a very feeling manner. As reference will not again have to be made to Bro, Mason, it may be mentioned that it is recorded during the following year, that this old brother had departed this life, and the following testimonial to his character as a Mason' is written. "A Brother who from " his great zeal for Masonry conducted himself so as " to gain the general esteem of the Craft, as well as HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 155 *' the universal esteem of every member belonging "to this Lodge during twenty-eight years. He being ''initiated in this Lodge, February 13th, 1788, and " has continued a member to the day of his death; a " pattern to every zealous Mason, a regular attender " on this Lodge, and one who acted up to the prin- *' ciples of our Order ; this was Joseph Mason." May we all have such a record appended to our Masonic career. (During this year the Encampment of Salamanca was inaugurated in connection with the B.A. Chapter of Sincerity), The year just ended was truly a memorable one in the history of the country, in the history of English Freemasonry, and in the history of the Lodge of Probity. The arms of England had been eminently^ successful in alliance with the European powers, and had reduced the power of the great Napoleon, thus removing from the arena one of the great disturbers of the peace; the two Grand Lodges had become united, makitig one grand harmonious organisation J and the Lodge of Probity had effectually brought the Sister Lodges of the district into closer communion with each other, thus promoting Brotherly Love and Peace. CHAPTER IX. The Lodge of Probity, and the Lodge of PEOMTixGATioif. [S the proceedings of the Lodge of Promul- gation are of great interest, and may be deemed worthy of special reference by other Lodges, the whole of the minutes are here reproduced. The records themselves were carefully written in a separate book, which is in the possession of the Lodge of Probity. From the minute book of the Lodge of Probity it appears that, in consequence of an invitation from the Royal Yorkshire Lodge, No. 503, Keighley, the members went to Keighley, and formed a Lodge of Promulgation. They were met by members of the Eoyal Yorkshire Lodge, No. 503; Philanthropic Lodge, No. 540; Three Graces Lodge, No. 541; HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 157 Amity Lodge, No. 280; and a Bingley Lodge. "The day was spent in the most agreeable and proper manner, and the whole departed to their own homes much gratified." The following is a record of the proceedings. " Lodge of Promulgation, under the Union of the "two Societies of Free and Accepted Masons, held at " the Lodge Eoom and under the Warrant of the Eoyal "Yorkshire Lodge, Wo. 503, Eodney Inn, Keighley, "Yorkshire. April 2nd, 1815. A.L. 5819. " Present — Members of Lodge of Probity, No. 84, "Bros. Jno. Sutcliflfe, W.M. ; Josh. Jones, P.M.; "Benj. Smith, S.W. ; "William Bates, J.W. ; Chas. " Whiteley, l.G. ; J. Holdsworth, S.D. ; Chas. Yicker- "man, J.D. ; Jas. Koyston, P.M.; E. Bottomley, " Wm. Johnston, Secty. " The Lodge being opened in due alid proper form, " the Officers and Brethren of the Eoyal Yorkshire, " No. 503, Keighley, were proposed to be obligated "according to the Articles of Union; they were "unanimously accepted of, and the following Officers " and Brothers of the aforesaid Lodge were accordingly " obligated in the first degree. Bros. Wm. Eobinson, "W.M.; Jerh. Parker, J.W. ; Phineas Smith, P.M.; " Edward Whitaker, John Slater, Thos. Fox, Secty. ; 158 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. " Win. Fox, Wm. Smith, Thos. Teal, Joseph Smith, " Eichd. Midgley, John Corlass, Wm. Iveson. David "Bastow, Ed. Hattersley, Jas. Greave, John Long- " bottom, Eichd. Stall. " The Officers and Brethren of the Lodge of Amity, "No. 280, Steeton, "were then proposed and unani- " mously accepted ; accordingly the following brethren "received the 1st degree. Bros. Wm. Camm, W.M. ; " Benj. Hallam, S.W. ; Wra. Lumm, J.W. ; Jonas " Cooper, Joseph Stell, John Emmett, Jas. Hattersley, " Isaac Longbottom, Titus Longbottom. " The Bingley Lodge, No. 502, was then proposed "and agreed to, and the following brethren obligated, " etc., Bros. Wm. Wilkinson, W.M. ; Wm. Lidell, P.M. " The Skipton Philanthropic Lodge, No. 540, was " then proposed and agreed to, when the following " members received the 1st degree, Bros. Matthew " Smith, W.M. ; Wm. Grievson, Secty. ; Josh. Porritt, "S.W. " The Howarth Lodge was likewise proposed, and " the following brethren received the Entered Appren- "tice degree. Lodge of the Three Graces, No. 541, "Bros. Jonathan Whitaker, W.M. ; Henry Harrop, " P.M. ; Jon°- Wright, S.W. ; James Bancroft, J.W. ; " Joseph Toothill. , HISTOEY OF PROBITY LODGE. 159 " Teansactiotsts. — The following resolutions were " agreed to by the before-mentioned Lodges. "1st. That they will pay their shares towards the " expenses the Lodge of Probity has been at in "obtaining the necessary Instructions under the "Union in London, which are stated by the said " Lodge of Probity to be Twenty-five Pounds. " 2nd. That they will pay to the Treasurer Pour " Guineas for each Lodge towards the above expenses. " 3rd. That every Lodge wishing and receiving •'the different degrees in future of any of the before- " mentioned Lodges, shall pay to the Lodge (of whom "they receive the said degrees) the sura of Pour " Guineas, which is to be sent to the Treasurer; and " the said Lodge is likewise to engage not to give it " to any other Lodge but on the same conditions. " 4th. That the money received shall, in the first "place, be applied to paying the Lodge of Probity, " No. 84, the aforesaid Twenty-five Pounds, deducting "their quota of Pour Guineas, and when the sum " amounts to . Pounds, it shall be equally " divided amongst all the Lodges forming this Lodge "of Promulgation, likewise a fair division shall be "made by the Treasurer at the dissolution of the "said Lodge. 160 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. " 5th. That Bro. Charles Whiteley of the Lodge of "Probity, No. 84, be appointed Treasurer, to whom " all monies are to be paid, and all correspondence "necessary and belonging to the said Lodge of " Promulgation is to be addressed. " 6th. That the Treasurer is to deduct all expenses " he may be put to in regard to Stationery, Postages, " etc. " The Lodge was closed in proper form. " Cash received by the Treasurer, April 2nd, 1815. £ s. d. Eoyal Yorkshire Lodge, No. 503 ... 4 4 Lodge of Three Graces, ,, 541 ... 4 4 „ Philanthropic, „ 540 ... 4 4 „ Amity, „ 280 ... 4.4 „ Bingley, „ 502 ... 4 4 £21 At a regular meeting of Probity Lodge, April 6th, 1815, Bros. Jones, Speake, Bottomley, Johnson, and lUingworth (members of No. 84), and likewise Bro. Wm. Cheetham, and Bro. Hartley, who had previously been initiated in the 1st degree according to the new system, were passed to the degree of Fellow Craft in due form. HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. 161 At another meeting of Probity Lodge, held April 16th, it is noted that the Lodge was opened in due form on the first degree of an Entered Apprentice, and a Lecture gone through on that Degree, and likewise a Lecture gone through upon the Degree of a Fellow Craft, and was then closed in due form ; and also closed in due form on the first degree of Masonry. Present at this meeting, besides the members of the Lodge, Bros. Phineas Smith, Edward Whitaker, Jon. Whitaker, John Ogden, and Josh. Waddington. " Lodge of Promulgation. Bro. Sutcliffe gave the " 2nd degree to the Officers and Brethren of the "Philanthropic Lodge at Skipton, in their Lodge "Eoom, on Tuesday, April 18th. " Bro. J. Sutcliffe held a Lodge of Promulgation at '■'■ Steeton, in the room of the Lodge of Amity, No. 280, "on Wednesday, 19th April, when he gave the 2nd "degree to the Officers and Brethren of the said " Lodge of Amity. He also gave the 2nd degree to " the Officers of No. 502, Bingley, at the same time " and place. "Bro. Sutcliffe likewise held, on Thui^sday, the 20th "of April, a Lodge of Promulgation in Lodge Room " of the Eoyal Yorkshire, No. 503 ; when he passed " to the 2nd degree the Officers and Brethren of the " said Lodge. ^ 162 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. " Halifax, April 24th. Two Brothers of the Koyal ' Yorkshire, and two Brothers from the Lodge of the ' Three Graces received the 2nd degree in the Lodge ' of Probity. "Wednesday, April 26th. Brother Sutcliflfe gave ' the 2nd degree to the Officers and Brethren of the 'Three Graces at Haworth in their Lodge room. ' Bro. Sutcliffe was accompanied by Bros. Chas. ' Whiteley and Speake from Halifax. In consequence ' of receiving a letter from the Amphibious Lodge, 'No. 489, High Town, requesting to receive the 'different degrees under the Union, the Treasurer ' summoned the members for Friday evening next, ' at Six o'clock, for the purpose of giving the depu- 'tation from the above Lodge the 1st degree. "April 28th, Old Cock Inn, Halifax. Members 'present — Bros. Charles Whiteley, W.M., John ' Holdsworth, Benj. Smith, James Speak, E. Bottom- 'ley, James Eoyston, Will"- Johnston and Chas. 'Vickerman. Visitors — Richard Ashworth, Wm. ' Hartley. Members present from Haworth — Bros. * Whitaker, Ogden, Harrop and Feather. Members 'present from the Lodge of Amity — Bros. Caramj ' Allan and Lund. Members present from Amphibi- 'ous Lodge, No. 489 — Bros. Richard Kitching, HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 163 "E*- "Wear, John Senior and William "Webster. "The above Brethren of the Amphibious Lodge " were proposed, unanimously accepted, and received " the Entered Apprentice's Degree. "Amphibious Lodge ... ... £i i "On the 29th April, Bro, "Wm. Bates held a "Lodge of Promulgation at Burnley, at the Cross " Keys Inn, under the warrant of the Silent Temple, "when he gave the 1st degree to the Officers and " Brethren. "On the 30th day of April, Bro. Bates held a " Lodge of Promulgation, at New Church, Rossendale, " under the warrant of Lodge of Tranquility, No. 515, "when he obligated in the 1st degree the Officers " and Brethren. " Lodge of Tranquility, No. 515 ... £4 4 " Lodge Silent Temple, No. 206 .. £4 4 " In consequence of receiving a letter requesting to " participate and become members of this Lodge from "the Huddersfield and Heptonstall Lodges, bearing " date the 20th and 23rd May, the Lodge was sum-* "moned to meet at the Old Cock, on Thursday "evening, at 7 o'clock. May 23rd, 1815. ^^ Note: — The Brethren of Probity Lodge who had " received the 1st and 2ud degrees were raised to the as W.M. ») P.M. >) P.M. M S.W. » J.W. Treas, as Secty. J7 S.D. )7 J.D. J) I.G. 164 HISTORY OF PEOEITT LODGE. *' 3rd degree at meetings held May 1st, 4th and 18th. "Halifax, May 25th, 1815. " Present. Members of the Lodge of Probity. "Bro. Sutcliffe „ Holroyd ,, Holdsworth ,, Smith „ Bates „ Chas. Whiteley „ Illingworth „ Vickerman ,, Bottomley ,, Speake "Visitors. Bros. Eichd. Ashworth, Wm. Hartley; " Bros. Wood, Swallow, from the White Hart, Huddersfield. " The above brethren received the 1st degree, like- " wise the 2nd degree. Bro. Ashworth also took the *' 2nd degree. " Eeceived of the White Hart Lodge, £4 4s. Od. "June 1st, 1815. Bros. John Utley and James " Head, from Lodge of Prince Frederick, Heptonstall, "attended the Lodge of Probity, and received the "1st and 2nd degrees. " On June 4th, Bros. Whiteley, Sutcliffe, Bottomley, "and Speake went up to Heptonstall, and obligated " such of their brethren as attended. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 165 " In consequence of receiving a letter from the " Philanthropic Lodge, Leeds, a Lodge was summoned " for Wednesday evening, June 7th. *' Old Cock Inn, Halifax, June 7th, 1815. " Present, in addition to members of Probity Lodge, " Bros. Eobinson W.M. \ Royal Yorkshire Lodge. Whitaker 8.W. Parker J.W. Bairstow Smith Teale Wm. Camm W.M. John Longbottom Isaac Longbottom John Emmett Head Utley Alexander Little, *' Transactions. — Bro. John Emmett of the Lodge " of Amity, No. 280, took the 2nd degree under the ''Union. All the brethren present except those of " the Lodge of Probity, and Bro. Little of Skipton, " were raised to the sublime degree of a Master "Mason, "The following Lodges signified their wish that " Bro. Broadfoot should be invited to come down, and " his expenses be paid out of the funds of this Lodge. Amity, Steeton. Prince Frederick. Skipton. 166 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. " Lodge of Probity, Amity, Eoyal Yorkshire, Prince " Frederick, HuddeTsfield, and Haworth. "Old Cock Inn, June 19th, 1815. "Bro. Philip Broadfoot, (from the Lodge of " Eeconciliation, London), W.M. The other ofl&ces "were taken by members of the Lodge of Probity. "Fifteen members from the Lodge of Harmony, "No. 517, besides two members from the Prince " Frederick also attended. " Transactions. — Bro. Farrar of the Lodge of " Harmony went through tlie initiation of an Entered "Apprentice, and passed Fellow Craft according to "the forms adopted by the Union. Bro. J. Jones, " (P.M. of Probity), with the brethren of the Lodge " of Harmony and the brethren of Prince Frederick, "received the Master's obligation. Bros. Nathan " Whitley and Danl. Sugden, (members of Probity), " were raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason, " and the Lodge was closed in due form. "A Lodge of Promulgation was held on Tuesday "evening, June 20th, at the Union Cross Inn, "Halifax, under the warrant of the Lodge of " Harmony. Bro. Broadfoot presided, and obligated " the members who had not attended at the Lodge "of Probity. The Officers of the Lodge, No. HISTORY OF PEOBITY LODGE. 1G7 *' 674, Bottoms, Stansfield, were likewise obligated. " Bio. P. Broadfoot of the Lodge of Eeconciliation , "London, arrived at Halifax on the 17th inst., "in consequence of the invitation given him. He "began with the brethren of the Lodge of Probity on "the 18th and the 19th, and presided as before "mentioned. He also on the 20th and the 21st " instructed the brethren. On the 22nd inst. he " presided in the Lodge of Probity room, when there "were present the following brethren : — Bro. Philip Broadfoot of the Lodge of Eeconciliation, W.M. „ B. Smith, Lodge of Probity, No. 84 „ W. Bates „ „ „ John Sutcliffe ,, „ „ Chas. Yickerman „ „ „ E. Bottomley ,. „ „ Dan Sugden „ „ „ Ohas. Whiteley „ „ Also of No. 84, Bros. Jon"- lUingworth, W™- Johnston, Jas. Speake, J. Holroyd, J. Jones, J. Sheard and J. Holdsworth. Lodge No. 503, Bros. Wm. Robinson. Wm. Smith, Ed. Whitaker, Jer''- Parker, Rich''- Hattersley, Thos. Pox,David Bairstow and Wm. Avison. „ „ 540, Bros. M. Smith, Grievson and Stansfield. „ „ 280, Bros. Camm, Cooper and "Wilkinson. „ „ 252, Bros. France, Senior and Dixon. „ „ 541, Bros. Whitaker, Barraclough, Bancroft and Holmes. „ 545, Bros. Barker, M.D., Ashworth and Hartley. No. 84 . . . . S.W. No. 84 & 545 . . J.W. No. 84 .. .. P.M. )> .. .. S.D. >J .. .. J.D. )J .. .. I.G. )> Secty. & Treas '168 HISTORY OF PEOBITY LODGE. Lodge No. 492, Bro. Ponty. „ „ 547, Bros. Wood, Swallow, "Wigney, Horsfall, Hanson and Eastwood. „ „ 489, Bros. Weare, Kitchen, Eamsden, Webster and Senior. „ „ 673, Bros. Head, TJtley, Head, Law, Sutcliffo, Liley, Drake, Dawson and Farrar. „ „ 517, Bros. Wainhouse, Eothwell and Farrar. „ „ 515, Bro. Aspden. Bro. Thos. Bradley, No. 84, Tyler. " Transactions : — Tlie Lodge was opened in the "1st degree, when the whole ceremony was gone " through ; it was opened in .the 2nd, and the same "business was done. The Lodge was then opened in "the 3rd, when all the brethren who had not been "previously obligated took it in a solemn manner. "After the business had been gone through, Bro. " Chas. Whiteley rose, and addressing himself to the "W.M. and the brethren present, said — 'He was " greatly gratified in seeing so numerous and respect- " able a meeting of brethren occasioned by the union "of the two Societies of Free and Accepted Masons; "an object which had long been wished for by every "well-wisher of the Order.' He suggested to the " meeting the propriety of congratulating H.R.H. our " M.W. the Duke of Sussex on the re-union, and " assuring him of our cheerful acquiescence in all the HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. 169 "rules and edicts of the Grand Lodge, and of our "duty and attachment to H.K.H. He concluded "that such an address should be presented to H.R.H. " our M.W.M. the Duke of Sussex. The motion was " seconded by Bro. Smith of No. 640, and carried "unanimously. Bro. C. Whiteley then produced the "address he had prepared, and which he read. He " then proposed that the draft of the address he had "just read should be adopted by the present meeting, "and by the W.M.'s and Wardens present, in the "names and on behalf of their respective Lodges, " which was seconded by Bro. Sutcliflfe, and carried " unanimously. The address was ordered to be " directed to the Grand Secretaries, and that Bro. "Broadfoot should be requested to carry the same. "The thanks of this meeting were given to Bro. " Broadfoot. The Lodge was then close.d in the three "degrees, and the brethren afterwards, dined and " spent the remainder of the day very cheerfully." Lodge of Probity, Halifax, June 22d, 1815. To Sis Boyal Highness Augustus Frederick Buke of Sussex, Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Antient Free-Masons of England. Most Worshipful and Boyal Grand Master, We the undersigned, in the Names and on the Behalf of our respective Lodges, beg leave most humbly and dutifully to offer our respectful Congratulations to your Most W 170 HISTORY OF PROBIxy LODGE. Worshipful Eoyal Highness on the accomplishment of the Union of the two Fraternities of Pree and Accepted Masons ; an Ohject long desired by every well wisher to the Order and which we pray the Most High may prosper, with his Blessing, by granting an abundant increase of Brethren, -who wiU live according to the Principles of this Most Antient and Honourable Institution. Permit us respectfully to assure your Most Worshipful Eoyal Highness of our unshaken Attachment to the Constitu- tions of our Praternity, our cheerful .Obedience and Submission to the Eules and Edicts of the United Grand Lodge, and of our mutual Endeavours to promote and further the same. May the Grand Architect of the Universe, grant that your Most Worshipful Eoyal Highness may long govern the Craft, and that he will protect and bless your Most Worshipful Eoyal Highness, and every Branch of your Most Worshipful Eoyal Highness's Illustrious Family ; give you all length of Days, and an Increase of Felicity in this World, and receive you hereafter into His Glorious Temple not made with Hands, but eternal in the Heavens. So mote it be. Charles Whiteley, Treasurer of the United Lodges undersigned. Jno. Holdsworth.W.M. Lodge No. 84 NatM. WainhoTise, "W.M. No. 5lf Benjn. Smith, S.W. Jon. Farrar, S.W. Wm. Bates, J.W. John Spencer, J.W. David Dixon, W.M. No. 252 Joseph Wilkins, No. 280 Geo. Henry France, S.W. Wm. Carver, S.W. Joseph Senior, J.W. Jonas Cooper, J.W. Matthew Smith, W.M. No. 540 Jon. Whitaker, W.M. No. 541 Wm. Greivson, S.W. John Barraclough, S.W. S. B. Stansfield, J.W. Joseph Holmes, J.W. Edward Weare, W.M. No. 489 Wm. Bates, No. 545 John Eamsden, S.W. Henry Hargreaves Wm, Webster, J.W. Luke Barker David Whiteley, W.M. No. 574 John Wood, W.M. No. 547 James Holt, S.W. Wm. Swallow, S.W. Geo. Howaith, J.W. Amor Hanson, J.W. Wm. Robinson, W.M. No. 503 Jas.. Head, W.M. No. 570 Edward WhitaUer, S.W. Jas. Lily, S.W, Jerh. Parker, J.W. Francis Drake, J.W. Thos, Aspdon, W.M. No. 615, Wm, WUkinson, W.M. — No. 502 Wm. Liddol, P.M. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 171 FREEMASONS-RALL, LONDON, 16th November, 1815. R. W. Brother, I have received the Commands of the M.W. Grand Master, The Duke of Sussex, to acknowledge in his Name the receipt of the Address of Congratulation, signed by you and the Master and Wardens of the Lodge of Probity, No. 84, and the Masters and Wardens of thirteen other Lodges in the Neighbour- hood of Halifax. His Eoyal Highness participates most sincerely in the gratification you express, at the accomplishment of the Union of the two Societies of Free and Accepted Masons, formerly existing in this Kingdom; an object which His Royal Highness, in conjunction with every Friend and Lover of the Craft, has long most ardently desired. The assurance of your unshaken attachment to the Constitu- tions of the Fraternity, and of your cheerful submission to the Eules and Orders of the Grand Lodge, and also of your utmost endeavours to promote and further the same, afford His Eoyal Highness the greatest pleasure, and leave him no room to doiibt (from the known Zeal of the Lodges whose Officers have signed the Address) that the Union which has been effected upon the pure principles of our Antient Institution, will remain firmly cemented till the latest period of Time ; to ensure that per- manency, the best efforts of the M.W. Grand Master will unceasingly be exerted. His Eoyal Highness has further commanded me, to return to you his unfeigned Thanks, for your expressions of attachment to the Members of His Family, as well as to his own Person, and to assure you, that his Prayers will always be offered up, to the Grand Architect of the Universe, for the eternal Peace and Happiness of every Member of the Ci'aft. - His Eoyal Highness begs you will convey to the Officers of the Lodges who have signed the Address, these his Sentiments, and request that they will communicate them to the Members composing their respective Lodges, and at the same time assure 172 msToEY dv probity lodoe, them, that although he cannot receive the Address as coming from them in a collective capacity, not heing in Provincial Grand Lodge, but only as the Address of Individuals, yet the Senti- ments it contains are not the less acceptable, or less grateful to his feelings. £y Command of Sis Royal Highness, The M. W. Grand Master, William H. White, G.8. Halifax, Nbvemher 22d, 1815. £. W. Sir Sp Brother, It gives me great pleasure to transmit to you the enclosed Copy of the Answer of His R. H. the M. W. G. Master, the DTJKE of SUSSEX, to the Address forwarded hy Brother Broadfoot on the 22d June last, which you will have the goodness to communicate to the Members of you/r Lodge. You will observe His Royal Highness received the Address in the most gracious manner. J remain. Your humble Servant and Brother, " Copy of Lodges returned, per Bro. Broadfoot, to " the Grand Lodge ; being the List of Lodges forming " the Lodge of Promulgation under the Union of the *' two Grand Lodges of Freemasons. No. 84, Lodge of Probity Halifax „ 503, Eoyal Yorkshire Lodge... Keighley „ 208, Amity ,- Steeton „ 502, Duke of York's Lodge ... Bingley „ 540, Philanthropic Skipton HISTORY OP PROBITY 10D(?E, 173 541, Three Graces Ha worth 489, Amphibious High Town 515, Tranquility New Church, Lancashire 547, White Hart Huddersfleld 545, Harmony Haslingden, Lancashire 573, Prince Frederick ... ... Heptoustall 517, Harmony Halifax 574, Prince George Bottoms, Stansfield In addition to the foregoing minutes of the Lodge of Promulgation it is further recorded — " October 2nd, Brother Bates held a Lodge of Pro- ** mulgation, at Accrington, Wo. 539, and obligated " the brethren. The Lodge at Haslingden it appears *' was divided in opinion on the subject, and as the " members who attended at Halifax, and had paid the "money, were not likely to be reimbursed, the same " was accordingly repaid to Bro. Dr. Barker. " Bro. Bates obligated the Officers and Brethren of " the Lodge of Fidelity, No. 508, at the Thorn Tree, " Burnley. "Bro. Bates likewise obligated the brethren of the "Lodge Eoyal Lancashire, Colne, No. 182. No. 539, Samaritan Lodge, Accrington ...£4 4 „ 508, Lodge of Fidelity, Burnley ... 4 4 ,, 182, Lodge Eoyal Lancashire, Colne... 4 4 0" 174 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. The Lodge of Promulgation thus completed ita mission, having received into membership some sixteen of the Lodges in the immediate neighbour- hood; and the brethren of each Lodge had an opportunity of being individually again obligated in the three degrees ■ of Freemasonry. The greatest harmony prevailed at the meetings which were held in the different Lodges. The brethren of the Lodge of Probity, one and all, seem to have been most assiduous in their exertions to give the necessary instructions to the different brethren, and particular note should be taken of the energy displayed in the cause by Bro. John Sutcliffe. He was undoubtedly a most enthusiastic Mason, and was animated by a desire to make the Lodge of Promulgation no mere cypher, but a tower of strength and efficiency in the Province. The Grand Lodges had become united into one powerful Grand Lodge. It issued its instructions that all Lodges under its jurisdiction should become conversant with its new edicts; all petty differences were to be sunk ; all Lodges had to have the same system of working ; and, in fact, it was intended to produce harmony, unanimity, and peace, amongst the Brotherhood. It was really a page in the history of HISTOEY OP PROBITY LODGE. 175 Freemasonry that should be written in letters of gold, or should be, as it were, marked with a white stone in the Grand Masonic Temple, CHAPTER X. HiSTOKY or THE LoDOE OF PeOBITT. A.D. 1816 TO 1822. i|T has been stated that Bro. Joshua Jones was appointed to preside over the Lodge 1816.1^1^^^ during the year 1816, which opened in a very quiet and inauspicious manner after the busy times of the past two years. There was nothing to look forward to except a term of ordinary Masonic work. It was found however that, owing to the various changes which had taken place in the different branches of Masonry since the Union, several altera- tions had become necessary in the Bye-Laws, and it was therefore decided that they should be thoroughly revised. A voluntary subscription was made during the year towards the funds of Grand Lodge, when the sum of £5 5s. Od. was raised, to be used for repairs which were required. HISTORY OF PEOBITY LODGE. 177 During the year Bro. John Sutoliffe resigned the office of Treasurer, and also Kioilibership of the Lodge. No reason was assigned for the course adopted, and it was several years before he again re-joined the Lodge, During a part of the time however that he was not connected with the Lodge of Probity, he attached himself to tbe Lodge of Harmony. A Dispensation was applied for, for the appointment of a Tyler in place of Bro. Bradley who, through age and infirmity, was unable to perform the duties required of him. Bro. Benj. Wood, cabinet maker, was afterwards duly initiated into Masonry, and appointed as Tyler, and entrusted with the badge of the office. It was however deemed requisite that he should agree as under : — " I, Benj. Wood, do hereby declare on ray honour " that, if I am elected as Tyler of the Lodge of " Probity, No. 84, of Free Masons, I will not commu- " nicate any of its proceedings to any one who is not "a member of the said Lodge without orders fi'om " the Master of the said Lodge ; that I will punctually "obey the orders of the said Master, and fulfil my " duty to the Lodge to the best of my power. " Signed, Benjamin Wood." " Witness— D. H, Sugden." X 178 HISTOET OF PROBITY LODGE. Oct. October 1st, 1816, occurs a minute which proved 1816; afterwards to be of the greatest moment, for Bro. Chas. Whiteley proposed that a petition be presented to the Prov. Grand Master of Yorkshire as follows: — " That owing to the great increase of Lodges in the " Province, and for the better working of the same, it *' was advisable that the Province should be divided." As this matter is of importance and interest, the proceedings leading to the change will be dealt with under a separate division. Nov. November 21st, 1816. Mr. James Akroyd, worsted 1 Q 1 I* ■ spinner and manufacturer, Old Lane, was proposed as a candidate for Masonry, and, having been duly accepted, was initiated December 5th. Dec. December 27th, 1816. The Festival of St. John 1816. was celebrated, and Bro. B. Smith was installed Worshipful Master. Bro. Gillespie presented the Lodge with a profile likeness of the late W.M. Bro. Jones, for which the best thanks of the Lodge was ordered to be conveyed to the donor. It is also recorded that, after enjoying a most excellent dinner in the front room, the brethren adjourned to the Lodge, and spent the remainder of the day in the greatest harmony. HISTORY OJ PROBITY LODGE. 179 About this time it was found necessary that the following rules should be passed for the guidance of the Tyler, and the same posted in the preparing room. Kules. — " The Tyler is to refuse admittance to any " member of this Lodge whom he perceives to be " intoxicated. " He is to refuse admission to any member of thd " Lodge who is not clean and decently clad with a " white neck-cloth and in proper clothing. " No visitor is to be admitted who has not proper •* clothiflg according to the regulations of the Craft. "Xo visitor is to be admitted with a color'd neck- " cloth. " Expense of visiting one shilling and sixpence." Mar. March 6th, 1817. It was proposed that an address 18l7 ' should be presented to H.E.H. The Prince Eegent, congratulating him on his escape from the late daring attempt to assassinate him, and it Was recommended that the address should be presented to H.E.S. by Bro. Lord Geoi-ge Beresford, who, it will be remembered, was initiated into Masonry in the Lodge of Probity. The following is a copy of the address :— ^ 180 HISTOEY OP PROBITY LODGE. To His Eoyal Highness George Prince of Wales, Eegent of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, and Grand Patron of the Antient Free Masons of England, etc. May it please your Eoyal Highness, We, His Majesty's most loyal and dutiful suhjects, the Imembers of the Lodge of Probity, No. 84, of Free and Accepted Masons, held at Halifax, in the County of York, fully appreci- ating the Blessings of that protection we have experienced under the Government of your Eoyal Highness's Father, our Beloved Sovereign, and being truly sensible, as men and Masons, of the value of your Eoyal Highness's Patronage, humbly beg leave to address your Eoyal Highness as a Brother, to express our abhorrence of the late treasonable and atrocious attack made upon the sacred person of your Eoyal Highness, on your return from Parliament, on Tuesday, the 28th January last, and beg leave to declare our sincere wish that those who have been so desperate, together with their aiders and abettors in attempting so diabolical an act, may be discovered, and brought to that punishment they so deservedly merit. Whilst we deeply lament this flagrant outrage, we acknow- ledge the hand of Providence in your preservation, and we implore for your Eoyal Highness and for this kingdom a con- tinuance of the same Almighty protection. We further beg leave, as Britons and Brothers, to congratu- late your Eoyal Highness upon your happy escape, and to avail ourselves of this opportunity of declaring our firm attachment to your sacred person in particular, and to the Eoyal Family in general, our firm determination, not only to defend, but to support our most enviable Constitution. Done in open Lodge this 7th Day of March, 1817, Benjamin Smith, W.M. ; William Bates, S.W. ; Charles Whiteley, J.W. ; Joshua Jones, Sect^- The address was transmitted by Lord George Beresford, and presented by Viscount Sidmoath,.and HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 181 a copy of the same was published, amongst others received at the time, in the London Gazette. The following is a copy of a letter received from Lord George Beresford in reference to the above. London, April 21st, 1817. Sir, I am this day honoured with your letter of the 12th, and regret very much that my former letter must have mis- carried, as I -wrote the day but one after receiving the address, to acquaint you I had presented it to the Prince Begent, and that His Eoyal Highness received it most graciously. I hope you will believe me when I assure j'ou I felt great pleasure in forwarding tlie wishes of the Lodge of Probity, and have the honor to be, Sir, your most obed'' Humble Serv*- George T. Beresford- This is but another proof of the loyalty and attach- ment which brethren had to the throne and to the rulers of the Craft ; and it is to be hoped_ that this feeling will always exist. Tor every Freemason is charged seriously to be exemplary in the discharge of his civil duties, to pay due obedience to the laws of the state, and above all never to lose sight of the allegiance due to the Sovereign. The proceedings of the Lodge are without interest for the remainder of the year, and also for the year following, with the exception of several communi- cations with respect to the formation of the Provincial 182 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. Grand Lodge of West Yorkshire, of which notice will be taken elsewhere. The accounts of the Chapter of Sincerity and the Craft Lodge appear at this time to have been kept together, and the proceedings of the Chapter are frequently referred to in the records of 1818. the Lodge. The E.A. Chapter during the year 181 B received its charter from the Grand Chapter, and was henceforth to be recognised in connection with the Lodge of Probity. The number also was changed from 73 to 84, which was the number of the Lodge, a system which since that time has been adopted. October Ist, 1818, Bro. Hammerton, J.W., who apparently was a good and active worker, " announced "his departure for the Metropolis, for the purpose " of being initiated into the secret arts and mysteries " of a solicitor, attorney, etc. The Lodge unanimously " wished him every good fortune on his entrance into "public life, and at the same time expressed their " thanks to him for his conduct since he had become a " member of this Lodge, and for his constant attendance "and zeal and good conduct while there; they much " regretted his loss, but they sincerely hope that he " will successfully pursue the path he has entered " upon, and arrive in good time at the highest post of " his profession — even the wool-sack. So mote it be." HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 183 This Brother whilst in London did not apply himself exclusively to the study of the law, for there are several letters from him describing the new method of working both in the Craft and Arch ritual, and also reports of several meetings of Grand Lodge. At the close of the year 1818 Bro. C. Whiteley was elected Worshipful Master,, but in consequence of urgent private business he declined the honour. This office was again offered him two or three years later, but he had for similar reasons again to decline. Since its formation, in February, 1796, the Prince George Lodge at Stansfield had been worked under an interim warrant, but it was now thought necessary by the Lodge that it should have its warrant confirmed. To accomplish this, the advice of the members of Probity was taken, which resulted in some correspondence with the Grand Lodge in London. The following extract from one of the letters from. Bro. Harper, Grand Secretary, bears upon this matter. "I beg leave to say that the Lodge at Stansfield "never having had a Warrant of Constitution, it is "essential that they should be possessed of such a " document, and for this purpose a Petition pro firma "should be drawn up to this effect, addressed to the "M. W. Grand Master, and signed by as many of 184 HISTORY OF PEOBITY LODGE. " your members as can be conveniently got. It will "also be requisite that the dispensation should ac- " company your Petition, in order that the parties to " whom it was granted may be recited in the Warrant. " Upon a receipt of your Petition I will use my utmost " endeavours to get it effected." The petition was duly sent, and its prayer received the sanction of Grand Lodge. Bro. Broadfoot in one of his letters, referring to some matters brought before the Board_of General Purposes, says — " that the warrant "for Stansfield is granted, and only awaits the signa- " ture of the Duke — the Master has been informed." It appears from this letter that other Lodges had evidently been named by Probity as being in the same position as Stansfield. The warrant was in due time transmitted to Stans- field, and is now the one under which the "Bottoms" Lodge is working. For the action which Probity Lodge had taken in the matter, it duly received the thanks of the brethren, which was conveyed in the following letter. Eespected Sir and Brother, I am requested by our Body of the Lodge of Prince George, No. 574, to announce to you the pleasing intelligence that they have received this day from Bro. Harper, G.S., Free Masons' HaU, London, saying that our "Warrant is ordered to HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 185 be made out, by the Board for General Purposes, but must await till it receives the signature of H.E.H. the Duke of Sussex, who has gone to Tunbridge Wells, and is not expected in London till the middle of January, and it must have his Signature before it is transmitted to us. It is also a general request of the Members of our Fraternity, that I return you our united thanks for your services and brotherly kindness to us as a Body of Masons, and we trust they will be long and gratefully remembered. You are requested to give our united thanks to Bro. Bates for his kindness, along with Bro. Garlick, ^nd we trust your worthy recommendation will never be effaced by any inattention or disorderly conduct of our body as Masons. On behalf of the Body. I am, with fraternal regard and due respect, Yours, etc., Bottoms, Wm. Utley. Dec- 7th, 1818. 1818. At this time the mediatorial influence of Probity Lodge was sought by the Lodge of Harmony at Haslingden. This Lodge had not for some time made the necessary returns to Grand Lodge. This, with other differences, had so provoked the Grand Lodge authorities, and so touched their dignity, that the Worshipful Master was ordered to appear in London and shew good reasons for the conduct; or other- wise the Lodge should be ignominiously erased from the roll of Lodges, The good offices of Probity were therefore invoked, and after much correspondence, the Worshipful Master of the Haslingden Lodge, Bro. John Crossley, made a full and complete return, 186 HISTORY OF PEOBITY LODGE. and having paid all dues and demands, (to the extent of i>14 13s. 6d.)i the oJBfience was condoned, and the Lodge resumed its place as a ■working community. This Lodge shortly afterwards changed its place of meeting to the White Hart Inn, at Todmorden, where it has since continued to work in accordance with the Constitutions. It is very grati- fying to know that the Lodge of Probity was able to assist its Sister Lodges in their difficulties, but at the same time it also points to the fact, that the so called Provincial Grand Lodge was of very little use to the Lodges in this district. There were good reasons for the action which the different Lodges had taken to bring about a division of the great Province of Yorkshire, and to provide them- an authority to which they could refer, and which would have power to adjust their differences as they might occur. The Lodge about this time had become a subscriber to the Institution for the support and education of children of indigent Masons, and it is recorded that 1819. in September, 1819, the brethren having petitioned the Board of Benevolence, were enabled to render substantial relief to the widow of a deceased brother, 1818-22. The minutes during the years from 1818 to 1822, contain very little worthy of record,, with the exception HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 187 of those referring to the Provincial Grand Lodge. During 1821 the Brethren decided to purchase an Organ for the use of the Lodge, and subscribed the sum of thirty-five pounds for that purpose ; part of such subscription was a gift, and the remainder was a loan to be repaid. The Instrument the Brethren had in view was to be purchased at an auction at Throstle Nest, but having been sold at a much higher price than the sum named, Bro. Whiteley was requested to look out for one in London, The minutes do not shew that he was successful. A period in the Lodge's history is now reached when it is impossible to continue the record of its proceedings, as the Minute Books from April 4th, 1822, to December 20th, 1847, are not in the posses' sion of the Lodge. The books, it is to be feared, are lost, as every endeavour has been made to find the missing link. The records from which this history has so far been compiled have been found in several places ; some in boxes belonging to the Lodge, and -others in the office of a deceased Brother. It is still hoped that the missing records will some time be found, and that the Lodge of Probity will have a complete account of its proceedings from 1762 up to the 188 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE, present time. It would have been a serious blow had it not been possible to prove that the Lodge continued its working during the interval of which the records are lost. The continuation however of the Lodge's vitality is proved by the existence of the returns to Grand Lodge and Provincial Grand Lodge from the year 1814 to the present time. It was by this living proof that the sanction of H.E.H. the M.W. Grand Master was obtained for the Cen- tenary Warrant which was granted in the year 1885. By a strange fatality, the concluding words of the minute book of 1822 are — "Happy to meet, happy to part, and happy to meet again." CHAPTER XI. The Lodoe of Probity and the Formation of the Provinoial Grand Lodge of West Yokkshibe. |TTENTION has already been drawn to the formation of a Provincial Grand Lodge for the West Eiding of the County of York, and of the appointment of William Horton, and after- wards- Edward Eooke Leedes as the Grand Masters for this Province. After this latter appointment, no further information is to be had as to the length of time that this Province,, as a separate organisation, existed. The records of such Provincial Grand Lodge are not to be found, and this has caused considerable doubt as to a Provincial Lodge having been previously formed. The Provincial Lodge probably fell into abeyance some time after 1765, and in 1774 the whole of the County appears to have been placed under the jurisdiction of Sir Thomas Tancred. During the 19,0 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. time that this Gentleman occupied the position it will be remembered that the Old Cock Lodge, then No. 81, had reason to refer its differences with the Bacchus Lodge to the then Provincial Grand Master. We learn that Sir Walter Vavasour, Bart., afterwards presided over the Province, and he was succeeded by Ei chard Slater Milnes, and subsequently followed by Robert Pemberton Milnes; and it was during the presidency of the last-named Provincial Grand Master that the Province of Yorkshire was divided into Two Provinces — one consisting of the Lodges in the North and East Eidings, and the other of the Lodges in the West Eidiug of Yorkshire. The first reference found respecting this division has already been noted. The information given here is taken from minute books, and from a number of letters which had been received and were addressed either to the W.M. of Probitj Lodge for the time being, or to Bro. Chas. Whiteley. It is unfortunate that the correspondenc is one-sided, as no copies have been kept of the letters that were written from Halifax. Oct; Probity Lodge, October 1st, 1816. The following 1 Q 1 C minute appears referring to the transaction : — " Bro. Charles Whiteley proposed the following HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 19] " resolutions, vrhioh were seconded by the Worshipful " Master (Bro. Joshua Jones). "That from the great and increasing number of " Lodges (31), in the West Eiding of this County of "York, it is highly necessary that the new laws " respecting Provincial Grand Lodges should \te "observed, but that the great distance most of the " Lodges in this Province are from York, the expense "and time required to attend there, has been the " cause, and will still make it impossible for many of " them to comply with those laws. That in order to " enable the Lodges to observe those laws, we are of " opinion that the division of the Province into two or "three, and the holding of the Provincial Grand " Lodge for this part, near the centre of the West "Eiding, either at Leeds or Wakefield, would enable " above three-fourths of the said Lodges to attend the " same without either inconvenience or expense, and " both the above towns are near the seat of our " Worthy and Worshipful Provincial Grand Master. " That the Ofl5cers and Members of this Lodge beg " leave humbly to submit and recommend the above "resolutions, together with the annexed explanatory " map, to the E.W. Eobcrt Temberton Milnes, Esq., "Provincial Grand Master for this County, that such 192 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. " measures may be taken as lie and the Grand Lodge "in their wisdom may think fit, at the same time "assuring him of our submission and cheerful obedi- " ence to the General Laws of Masonry, and to his " Worshipful Commands as Provincial Grand Master, " Signed by order of the Lodge J. Jones, W.M. C. Whiteley, Sec." That a copy of the above resolutions be sent to the P.G.M. for this Province, likewise another copy to the Grand Lodge. The brethren afterwards decided not to send the resolutions, but that a memorial be substituted. This memorial was transmitted by post November 10th; one copy to the P.G.M. and another to the Grand Secretary in London. It reads as follows : — "To the Eight Worshipful E. P. Milnes, Esq., M.P., " Provincial Grand Master for the County of York, " etc. " The Memorial of the Worshipful Master, Wardens, " and Brethren belonging to the Lodge of Probity, " No. 8i, held at the Old Cook Inn, Halifax. " Most humbly sheweth, " That as under the auspices of His Eoyal " Highness the Duke of Sussex, Grand Master of " England, the Union of the Antient and Modern HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 193 " Masons has been effected, and as both bodies have " united their endeavours to promote the Koyal Art, "and promulgated a new code of laws, founded " upon usages and customs, for the better regulation of "the Craft, it is a matter highly desirable by the " real friends of Masonry in this Province that every " facility should be given to regular communications " with the Provincial Grand Lodge, and a regulai- " attendance by the Masters and Wardens of the " different Lodges in the West Eiding. Your " Memorialists, after due consideration of so weighty " a subject, are decidedly of opinion that it is highly " necessary, from the great and increasing number of " Lodges in the West Eiding, that there ought to be " a Provincial Grand Lodge for this Eiding alone, and "that from their central situation, either Wakefield "or Leeds would be the most proper place for the " Provincial Grand Lodge to be held. "Your Memorialists, well aware of its being super- " fluous to give any advice to one so eminently skilled "in Masonic Art, and yet willing and wishful to " further so desirable an object, beg leave humbly to "offer their sentiments on so important a subject, "it being in their humble opinion a matter of the "greatest consequence that the Provincial Grand z 194 HISTORY OF PEOBITY LODGE. ' Lodge should be established on the most respectable ' and permanent foundation. "Your Memorialists humbly conceive, as the Pro- 'vincial Grand Lodge is a representative body ' composed of the Provincial Grand Officers also the ' Past Masters and Wardens of every Lodge under its 'jurisdiction, it ought not to be attached to any 'particular Lodge (as is the case at present), but ' should be a separate and distinct body of itself, the ' present constitutions having provided a fund for its ' support. " That it is highly requisite for the good of Masonry ' for the Deputy Provincial Grand Master to be also 'of a highly respectable character and a Man of ' Business, well qualified to execute the Duties of ' that important office ; and the Constitutions provide ' that the Deputy Provincial Grand Master shall be a ' Past Master, and consequently not an acting Master ' of any private Lodge. " That it is highly requisite, in order to prevent 'jealousies, and to establish union and brotherly love ' amongst the different Lodges, that after your Eight ' "Worshipful has annually nominated your principal ' Grand Officers, the assistant and subordinate Grand ' Officers should be annually chosen from the Masters HISTORY or PROBITY LODGE. 195' ' and Past Masters of the different Lodges, and not ' more, if possible, tlian one officer from a Lodge ; and ' as the Provincial Grand Officers are usually men of 'rank and of the highest respectability, it would 'contribute to maintain that respect and dignity 'whioli ought to be attached to every Provincial ' Grand Lodge. "That your Memorialists have no doubt but ' Masonry would flourish in the West Eiding under 'the patronage of their worthy Provincial Grand ' Master should the object of their memorial receive ' his kind support, and through his recommendation ' the sanction of H.E.H. The Most Worshipful Grand ' Master. " The Worshipful Master, Wardens and Brethren * of the Lodge of Probity, No. 84, beg leave to present 'their best respects and fraternal regards to your ' Eight Worshipful, and pray that the Almighty may * give you every increase of happiness, and that youl? ' Eight Worshipful may long, very long, continue to ' preside over them and guide them by your Wisdom. ' Done in open Lodge this seventh day of I^ovember, 'A.D. 1816 andA.L. 5816. " Jos"- Jones, W.M. *' Chas. Whiteley, Secty." 196 aiSTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. This memorial is very exhaustive ; reasons for the division pf the Province had been well weighed and discussed before being drawn up, for Bro. Whiteley had been in correspondence for some months previously with Bro. Thompson, P.M., of Halifax (sometime a member of Probity), and also with brethren from Wakefield and Sheffield. The Brother from the latter town (Bro. Eowley) took up the matter most enthusi- astically, and put himself in communication mth other Lodges in Sheffield, Barnsley, Eotherham and I>oncaster; all of whom, with the exception of Doncaster, gave the project their hearty support. The corresponding Brother from Wakefield (Bro. John Kobinson) gave the scheme his support; but, though cautious and apparently inclined to be luke- warm, he evidently had a desire that the new Province should be formed. From what can be gathered from letters from other correspondents, Bro. Kobinson seems to have had an eye on the office of D.P.G.M. for himself. The brethren from Leeds interested them- selves also in the matter, but the question of fixing Leeds as the place of meeting most directly concerned them. Bro. Kobinson cites a good many difficulties. The following extract from one of his letters, dated Oct. HISTOEY OF PROBITY LODGE. J 97 31st, 1816, may fairly be inserted here. — "I see a " good deal of diflBculty to surmount in this matter "■with the York folks, but nothing relative to the "change has yet transpired. The Deputy P.G.M. " the Hon'''^- Lawrence Dundas, has Masonry much in "esteem, and he will not like the division, i.e. of "taking anything from York — he is M.P. for the "City of York, and his father. Lord Dundas, as you " will know, is D.G.M. for the United Lodge of the " Empire." In another letter, dated December 13th, 1816, Bro. Eobinson states that " he has ha;d an interview with "the P.G.M. who. received him with Eespect and " Politeness, and was very glad that he (Bro. Eobinson) " had taken this step ere he had received a deputation, "for he had received a plan and some petitions but " could not thoroughly comprehend the intention, and "he saw numerous obstacles in the way. For he " says, to attempt to draw anything from the City of " York would be looked upon with great Jealousy, "and, in this case, instead of cementing the Brother- "hood would be more likely to create a Schism "' amongst them. The P.G.M. further gave expression "to his readiness at all times to do everything for the "benefit and satisfaction of the Craft consistent with 198 HISTOEY OP PROBITY LODGE. "his duty to all parties. He observ'd that the "neighbouring Lodges were inclined to have an " annual, biennial, or triennial meeting amongst them- " selves; such as he learnt had been at Sheffield " last year and at Doncaster this year, and which " were very respectably attended, therefore why not "continue it so long as such meetings were conducted " with decorum and propriety." Thus the question was being well ventilated, and Lodges throughout the West Eiding almost unani- mously petitioned in favour of the division. The Lodge of Prince George, No. 574, officially writes to the "W.M. of Probity, stating " that they are greatly " obliged to him and his Lodge for their interesting " communication and Form of Petition, which we with " great pleasure assure you we have adopted, and "sent our Petition off with the addition of Halifax "to Leeds and Wakefield." The P.G.M. ultimately came to the conclusion that a meeting of the Worshipful Masters who had •petitioned for the division should be held, or more particularly of those who had more directly interested themselves in the matter. A meeting was therefore arranged to be held at his residence at Fryston, Feb- ruary 3rd, 1817, and amongst others who attended HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 1&9 • ■ ' 7 were Bros. Jones and Whiteley from Probity Lodge ; Bro. Kobinson from Unanimity, and Bro. Eowley from Britannia Lodge. The report of this interview from the brethren of Probity appears in the minutes of the 6th February as follows; "The Eight Worshipful " perfectly agreed to the substance of the Memorial, " and he promised to use his interest with His Eoyal " Highness the Most Worshipful Grand Master." From a remark made in a letter by Bro. Eobinson it appears that the P.G.M. was favourably impressed with the promulgated change, and ventured to remark that the change could be effected in a fortnight at the next Quarterly Communication. This however did not take place, owing to some serious illness in his family, and the P.G.M. writes to Bro. Whiteley, March 6th, that he had been detained at Fryston, and had not been able to present the Petition. "The E.W. Bro. Milnes again writes (June 21st), "that the Petition was submitted to H.E.H. the " Duke of Sussex in May with the wish of the Lodges "within my Province." The P.G.M. further states "that he accompanied the statement with an expres- " sion of his own opinion of the reasonableness of the "Petition, and should he not have a reply before "many weeks, he would remind His Eoyal Highness 200 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. " of the anxiety of the Lodges to have an answer to "the prayer of their Petition." Nothing more is heard of the matter for some time, except a letter from Bro. Eobinson, dated November 27th, 1817, in which he remarks "I thank you for " your communication, and think it augurs well. I " wish our P.G. Master for the West had as much " zeal for the Craft as the intended P.G.M. for East " and North. Shall hear more by and by, I hope." Prom this letter it appears that the brethren had already heard that the sanction of Grand Lodge had been given to the prayer of their Petition, but they were awaiting official information. The next communication on the subject, (March 7th 1818), is from the Grand Secretary (Bro. Harper), in which he informs the W.M. of Probity Lodge, " that "he is quite unable to say anything respecting your "Provincial Grand Lodge, it is a subject totally " in the hand of the Provincial Grand Master, and " his own Officers. In the next Calendar the Lodges " will be divided under their respective Provinces." " Hope deferred maketh the heart sick " ; so the brethren of the Province were becoming, according to the proverb, " sick at heart," as from the communica- tions they feared that their memorial "had been of no HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 201 avail," and Bro. Broadfoot requested the Probity brethren to petition the Board of General Purposes again. In accordance with this request it is noted, in the minutes of the Lodge of Probity (December 3rd, 1818), that in consequence of Bro. Broadfoot's recommendation, the Worshipful Master and his Officers forwarded a memorial to the Board of General Purposes, praying their assistance in forwarding the formation of a Provincial Grand Lodge for this Province. The Sheffield brethren also sent a similar memorial at the same time. This Petition was duly presented to the Board, and Bros. Broadfoot and Hammerton (one of them a Probity brother then residing in London) report that it had received consideration, and further that instructions had been sent to Lord Dundas two years previously, appointing him Grand Master of the E'orth and East Hidings, and requesting him to call that Province together; he was requested also to communicate with E.W. Bro. Milnes, and to inform him of his appointment as P.G.M. of the Western Division. Lord Dundas reported to the Board that he had never received those instructions, and the matter had A2 202 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. to stand over until H.R.H. the M.W. Grand Master returned from Tunbridge Wells. Bro. Broadfoot writes, under date August 10th, 1818, that Lord Dundas is in Yorkshire, and has promised to call a Provincial Meeting, and that he would see Bro. Milnes on the subject. In the mean- time the Leeds brethren had been apprised that the question had been settled, and that Wakefield had been appointed the head-quarters for the Province of West Yorkshire. This rumour gave rise to some correspondence, and a meeting was called, which resulted in the accompanying circular being sent to different Lodges. To EOBEET PEMBEETON MILNES, Esq. Most Worshipful Provincial Grand Master for tHe West Hiding of the County of York : THE humble Petition of the several Persons whose Names are here- unto suhscrihed, leing Masters and Wardens of the respective Masonic Lodges held in Leeds. Whereas it has been ordered by the Grand Lodge, that a Provincial Grand Lodge shall forthwith be holden in some convenient and central place within the West Eiding of the County of York, for the future government and management of the various Masonic Lodges therein : and whereas it has been represented unto us, by the Officers and Brethren of several Lodges, in different parts of the said Eiding, that Leeds, from its central situation, from its being most decidedly the first commercial town in the said Eiding, and from the number of Masonic Lodges therein held, appears to bo the most convenient HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 203 place in which such Provincial Grand Lodge should be estab- lished. Your Petitioners, therefore, being ever ready and willing to assist in all measures calculated to promote the interests, good government, and welfare of the Craft, respectfully submit. Most Worshipful Sir, to your consideration, the following Extract from the Minutes of a Committee Meeting held at Leeds on the 30th inst. " Star and Garter Inn, Leedt. Geoboe Smith, ., ..W.M. PRESENT : ■ T. Sherwood, ....P.M. T. C. STUBBiNa S.W. Lodge of Fidelity) Geo. Mudie Sec. J. H. Leach, as J.W. No. 546, J. Rathmell, as Treaa J. Smalpaoe, .... P.M. , T. F. FODKN, J. Smith, ..,.,. J. Spencer, W.M. \ ;...asS.W. Philanthropic Lodge No. 668. M. Barker, . . . J.W. \ W. Atkinson, . W.M. W. Beckwith, . S.W. Alfred Lodge, No. 571. S. WlDDOP, . . . ......J.W. (Brother G. SMITH, W.M. in the Chair :) " Resolved Unanimously, "That it is the opinion of the Brethren present, that it is desirable that the Provincial Grand Lodge for the West Biding of Yorkshire should be held in the Town of Leeds. " That Robert Pemberton Milnes, Esq., P.G.M. be accordingly requested, by humble Petition, to hold his Provin- cial Grand Lodge in this Town, and that he be further requested to suspend his decision as to the most proper Place for holding such Lodge, until the sense of the Lodges at large can be taken." We, therefore, the Officers of the aforesaid Lodges, respect- fully accompany this Petition with the declared sentiments of the other Lodges who accord with our wishes, and humbly pray that you, Most Worshipful Sir, as Provincial Grand Master for this Eiding, will be pleased to appoint that yoUr Proviiicial 204 HISTORY OP PEOBITT LODGE. Grand Lodge shall be held at this place, as being most conveni- ent to the Lodges in general. And your Petitioners will ever pray. GIVEN under our Hands, and the Seals of our respective Lodges, this Thirty-first Day of August, A.L. 6823. A.D . 1819. G. Smith ....W.M. T. C. Stubbins, . ....s.w. (• Lodge of Fidelity. T. Scott J.W. J. Smith ....W.M. J. Pearson, ....S.W. Philanthropic Lodge M. Baekeu, ....J.W W. Atkinson, . . . ....W.M. W. Beckwitb, . . . ....S.W. Alfred Lodge. S. WiDDOP, ....J.W. LODGE OF FIDELITY, LEEDS, August 3 let, 1S19. WORSHIITUL MaSTEK, WE, the undersigned, the Officers of the several Lodges in Leeds, having -learned, that in consequence of an Order from the Grand Lodge, a Provincial Grand Lodge is about to be instituted for the West Riding of Yorkshire, and it having been intimated to us, that many of the Lodges consider the town of Leeds would be the most convenient and central situation, in which such Provincial Grand Lodge could be held, particularly as from its great Commercial importance, many of the Brethren visiting their Provincial Grand Lodge, might be enabled to combine their Masonic duties with attention to their own affairs and business, have accordingly, this day, resolved to petition R. P. MiLNEs, Esq. P.G.M. praying him to appoint that his Provincial Grand Lodge shall be held here. And, being desirous, that in all Masonic undertakings of importance, wo should have the satisfaction to know that we act in unison with the feelings, and in conformity to the wishes of our Brethren at large, we have transmitted to you, (as on the HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. 205 other side,) a copy of our Petition, for your inspection, and for the signatures of yourself and Wardens, if you think proper, in order that it may be presented to the Provincial Grand Master at the same time with our own ; and we have particularly to request, that you will immediately, (in a post or two, if possible, J so signify to us, your approval or disapproval of such intended Provincial Grand Lodge being holden at Leeds ; your communi- cation to be addressed, " J3rother G. Smith, W.M. Chairman of the Committee of the Leeds Lodges, at the Star and Garter Inn here." We are, Worshipful Sir and Brother, Your most obedient humble Servants and Brothers, The Masters and Wardens of the beforementioned Lodges. We, the undersigned, being the Master and Wardens of the Lodge of No. in in the West Eiding of the County of York, hereby express our Concurrence in the Prayer of the above Petition. W.M. , . _8.W. . J.W. To R. P. MILNES, Esq. Most Worshipful Provincial Grand Master for the West Riding of Torhshire. Two letters were received, which are not only very interesting, but are an acquisition to the Masonic collection which belongs to the Lodge of Probity, and which will be considered a valuable addition to this account of the West Yorkshire Provincial history. The letters are from Bro. the Eev. M. J. Tfaylor, D.D., 206 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. Vicar of Wakefield, and subsequently the P.G. Chap- lain of the Province. These letters are addressed to the W.M. of Probity Lodge. The first letter bears no date, but probably was ■written June, 1819. It runs as follows : — "Permit me to assure you, both for myself and the "Lodge of Unanimity, that no brethren can be more " desirous than we to see the Provincial Lodge estab- "lished in the most respectable and independent " manner, nor can any be more averse to doing any " thing that is mean or that shall have a tendency to "prefer private advantage to the general good of the " Craft. I certainly agree with you perfectly that " the Provincial Lodge should not be attached to any " particular Lodge, and should strenuously set my "face with the very first against such a design, did I " conceive such a one was forming." The second letter is most important, and more particularly bears upon this history. " Wakefield, October 3rd, 1819. " Dear Sir and Brother, " After some time of anxious expectation I " have received a letter from the Most Worshipful " P.G.M. which I take an early opportunity of com- " muni eating to you, though I am confident you will HISTOKT OF PROBITY LODGE. 207 "agree with me it is perfectly unsatisfactory. He "says: — " I should be happy to give you my aid towards "the Masonic proceedings you mention, but really "the interests of the Craft throughout this Province "are in so unsatisfactory a condition that I almost " despair of the general co-operation of the Lodges, " and without this it would be worse than useless to "attempt the meeting. Indeed I hardly know to "what Lodges my authority extends, and whether "Yorkshire forms one entire Province or is sub- " divided into as many Provinces as Eidings. When " our brethren at Wakefield and other places waited "on me three years since, on the subject of having a " Provincial Lodge held at Wakefield, I communicated " all that passed to our Grand Master, the Duke of " Sussex, but from that day to this I have received "no authority upon the subject, nor do I find that it "occupied the attention of His Eoyal Highness so "as to enable me to refer to his sanction to the "proceeding. I fear without this it would give "umbrage to our brethren of the Grand Lodge at "York if any Provincial Grand Lodge were held out " of that city. I intend on my arrival in London to " solicit an interview with His Eoyal Highness, when 208 HISTOBT OP PROBITY LODGE. "I hope matters may be put upon some more in- " telligible footing. " It would seem from what the W.M. says of his " not having received any authority from His Royal " Highness the Duke of Sussex, that Lord Dundas " has not yet made the communication you allude to •' in your letter; and perhaps it might not be improper "to apply to his Lordship on the subject. This I "just mention for your consideration. I think you "will agree with me that the P.G.M.'s letter betrays " a degree of lukewarmness in the business which is " likely to prove some impediment to its being brought " to a desirable conclusion, unless some means are hit "upon to excite his attention to it. If in anything " you think that I can be farther useful it would give " me great gratification to be an^agent in promoting " the general good of the Chapters (Province?). I am "ready either to write to or wait personally upon the- " P.G.M. if you and the brethren at Halifax think I "have any prospect of serving our cause. "I Eemain, "Dear Sir and Brother, " Yours most affectionately, "M. J. Naylor." HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 209 There are only two others bearing on this subject now to give. Feeling the value of these letters for a clear and succinct record of the early history of the Province of West Yorkshire is the reason for inserting them here. The letter referred to is most important, and may in fact be considered the top-stone of the newly formed Provincial Grand Lodge of West Yorkshire. "London, October 13th, 1819. <' Free Masons' Hall. "To the Master of the Lodge of Probity, Halifax. " W. Master, " In reference to your observations respecting " your Provincial Grand Master, We beg leave to say "that in July, 1817, the M. W. Grand Master ad- " dressed a communication to our R. W. Bro. E. P. " Milnes, and which was sent through the medium of "Lord Dundas, intimating that He had thought it "advisable to divide the County of York into two "Provinces; And it having but recently transpired " that the communication alluded to had never reached " that Gentleman, We have, by this day's post, and "by Command of His Eoyal Highness addressed a " copy of that letter to him. We are induced to hope B2 210 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE, " that that E. W. Brother •will now adopt such "measures as maybe in conformity with the direc- " lions of H.E. Highness the Grand Master, and for " the prosperity of the Order under his jurisdiction. " We are, W. Master, " Your very obed*- Serv**- and Bror^- Wiir- H. White, ya.s. Edw Harper, In addition to this letter there is another from the Grand Secretaries addressed to Bro. Broadfoot, which he forwarded to the W.M. of Probity Lodge for perusal. This letter fully bears out the one already quoted. The Grand Secretary further remarks : — " He (Bro. " E. P. Milnes) is therefore now thoroughly informed " upon that point, and by a proper application to the " Provincial Grand Master for the Eiding or Province "there can be no doubt but he will adopt such " measures as may be in conformity with the com- " mands of H.E.H. the Grand Master, and thereby " give effect to the Honor and Interests of the Order " under his jurisdiction." With the instructions and commands which were issued, the formation of the Provincial Grand Lodge of West Yorkshire should have been put on a firm basis ; HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. 211 but -unfortunately, although this Provincial Lodge was actually in existence, it had no vitality, and the remarks made with respect to the lukewarmness of the Provincial Grand Master were fully borne out. It might be thought that had he had the interests of the Craft at heart he would at once have set about to put the Province into working order, and to have carried out the precepts which he had pro- fessed to admire, and which he had promised to further. This, however, the E.W. Brother failed to do, and the brethren of Probity Lodge in August, 1820, were constrained to send the following memorial: "To the Eight Worshipful Eobert Pembertojl "Milnes, Esq., Provincial Grand Master of Antient " Free Masons for the West Eiding of the County of " York. " The Memorial of the Worshipful Master, Wardens "and Brethren of the Lodge of Probity, Ko. 84, held " at the Old Cock Inn, Halifax, "Most humbly sheweth — "That your Memorialists on the 10th Day of "November, 1816, forwarded a petition, praying that " Tour Eight Worshipful would assemble your Pro- " vineial Grand Lodge according to the Constitutions " of the Fraternity. 212 HISTORY Of PROBITY LODGE. " That another Memorial, signed by Twenty-five " (25) Lodges of this Biding, was forwarded to your "Worship in February, 1817. Since which time *'your Memorialists understand that His Koyal " Highness the Most "Worshipful Grand Master has •' been pleased to divide the County of York into two " Provinces, and to appoint you our Eight Worshipful " Grand Master for the West Eiding. " That your Memorialists humbly request that it " would please your Eight Worshipful, as speedily as " possible, to assemble your Provincial Grand Lodge, *' that such measures may be agreed upon as are most " likely to ensure the proper fulfilment of its Duties "in the most respectable manner, •' Done in Open Lodge, "this 9th day of August, 1820."] The effect of this Memorial is not known, and we have no minute or record which would lead us to suppose that a meeting was held or that the P.G.M. formed a Grand Lodge. The next reference to Provincial Grand Lodge is found in the minute book, February 20th, 1821, when Probity Lodge, at the request of the Leeds brethren, took the initiative, and called a meeting of Masters and Oificers of the different Lodges in the Province. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 218 The meeting was to be held at the New Inn, 13rad- ford, when it was stated that our E.W. Brother Eobt. Peraberton Milnes had resigned his position as P.G.M. for the West Eiding of this County. The circulars referred to are reproduced here, and are interesting to all connected with the Province of West Yorkshire. LODGE OF PROBITY, No. 84, OLD COCK INN, Halifax, Feb. 20ih, 1821. Worshipful Sir 8f Brother, OUR R.W. Brother ROBERT PEMBERTON MILNES having Resigned his Situation as Provincial Grand Master for the West Riding of this County — AT THE REQUISITION of several Lodges we request a Deputation from your Lodge to attend a Meeting at the NEW INN, in Bradford, on Monday the 26th Instant, at 10 o' Clock in the Morning, in order to nominate a proper Person to the M. W. G.M. the Duke of Sussex, to succeed to that high Office. I am, Worshipful Sir and Brother, By order of the W.M. GEO. HAINSWORTH, Secretary. To the W.M. of the Lodge of 214 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. at a fll^eeting of OBretl^ren Deputed by the various Lodges of the West Riding of the County of York, held at the New Inn, Bradford, this 2&th Bay of February, 1821, in consequence of a Requisition from the Lodge of Probity, No. 84, Halifax, the following Resolutions were agreed to. Brother JOSHUA JONES, P.M. of the Lodge of Probity, No. 84, -was called to the Chair. RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY, I. Brother Whiteley, P.M. of No. 84, seconded by the Eev. Brother Naylor, P.M. of No. 252, proposed that^he formation of a Provincial Grand Lodge for the West Riding, as speedily as possible, would be highly conducive to the interests of Masonry in this Province. n. Proposed by Brother Kirkman, of No. 568, seconded by Brother Smith, of No. 556, that a Communication having been received by the Brethren of the three Lodges in Leeds, in answer to a memorial from the Officers and Brethren of their Lodges, in which our R.W.P.G.M. signifies his having resigned that exalted office, the Brethren of the West Riding humbly beg leave to recommend to His Royal Highness the Dake of Sussex, our M.W.G.M., some other person, from his station in life and character, qualified to succeed him. III. Proposed by Brother Bailey, of No. 546, seconded by Brother Tute, Secretary of No. 546, that this Meeting, deputed by the different Lodges for that purpose, unanimously agree, that LoEi) Viscount Pollington is a person in every respect fully qualified, and do agree, to recommend him accordingly. IV. Proposed by Bro. Whitehead, P.M. of No. 642, seconded by Brother Barker, of No. 574, that a memorial be presented, in the name of this Meeting, to our Royal G.M. the Duke of Sussex, containing this recommendation. HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. 215 V. Proposed by Brother Smith, W.M. of No. 556, seconded by Bro. Hesleton, of No. 546, that the wish of this Meeting be communicated to Lord Viscount Pollinotobt, with an earnest request that he would have the goodness to accede to it. VI. Proposed by Brother Haley, W.M. of ifo. 665, seconded by Brother Hainsworth, Secretary of No. 84, that the proceedings of this Meeting be communicated to the Grand Lodge, and the different Lodges of this province. VII. Proposed by Brother Atkinson, W.M. of No. 571, seconded by Brother Holroyd, J. W. of No. 84, that the following Brethren be appointed a Committee to carry the three last Eesolutioiis into full effect. Bros. M. J. Naylob, P.M. of the Lodge of Unanimity, Waiefield. Thos. Bailey, W.M Fidelity, Leeds. Josh. Smith, W.M. Eoyal Brunswich, Sheffield. Jas. Tute, Secretary Fidelity, Leeds. G. Hainswoeth, Secretary Prolity, Halifax. JOSHUA JONES, Chairman. Eesolved — That the Thanks of this Meeting be given to Brother Jones for his conduct as Chairman. M. I. NAYLOE, in the Chair. COPY. To Sis Royal Highness Prince Augustus Frederick, Duke of Sussex, Earl of Inverness, Baron of Arklotc, 8fc. ^c. Most Worshipful Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of England. The Humlle Petition of the Worshipful Masters and Brethren of the Lodges of the West Biding of Yorkshire, now assembled at Bradford, Mumhly sheweth, That your Petitioners are most anxious that a Provin- cial Grand Lodge should be formed for, and regularly held in 216 HISTOEY OF PROBITY LODGE. this extensive Province ; for wliicli purpose, the late Eight Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, Robert Pemherton Mihes, £sq., has been repeatedly memorialised by several of the Lodges in this Hiding, during the last two Years, requesting him to convoke a Provincial Grand Lodge, as soon as he conveniently could, when and where he should judge most proper, as your Petitioners are convinced it would tend rapidly to advance the interests of Masonry in general, and be to the mutual advantage of the numerous Ijodges of this extensive and populous district. After waiting for a length of time, with a degree of solicitude for the welfare of the Craft, your petitioners had the mortification to receive for answer, from the Eight Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, that he had some time ago, tendered his resignation of that exalted office, to your Eoyal Highness, as it was impossible for him to attend personally to its many and important duties. Tour Petitioners therefore, humbly hopei your Eoyal Highness wiU take this into your immediate consideration, and appoint, from the many Noble Brethren in the Province, One who will be able and willing to fiU the exalted situation, and preserve inviolate all the privileges of the order. With this object in view, your Petitioners most humbly beg leave to name to your Eoyal Highness, their Noble Brother Zord Viscount Pollington, as they are convinced his Lordship has the good of Masonry at heart, and would adorn the exalted office with his splendid talents, if his appointment should fortunately meet your Eoyal Highness's approbation. And your Petitioners will ever Pray, §•€. Given under our Hands, with the names of our respective Lodges, this 26th Day of February, 1821. The meeting was duly held, and the brethren unanimously agreed to petition the Most Worshipful Grand Master that Bro. Lord Pollington should be HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 217 appointed to succeed E.W. Bro. Milnes as Grand Master of the Province. The petition was formally granted, and the Provin- . cial Grand Lodge held its first meeting after this appointment at Wakefield, November 18th, 1822. The Provincial Grand Master was properly installed and invested April 3rd, 1823, by E.W. Bro. Robert Carr, as D.P.G.M. The first appointment of Provincial Grand Officers is interesting to members of Probity Lodge as a fitting reward to those brethren who had been so assiduous in promulgating the change. Bro. Charles Whiteley, P.M., was appointed the first Junior Prov. Grand Warden, Bro. Joshua Jones, P.M., the first Prov. Grand Secretary, and Bro. Nathan Whitley, a Prov. Grand Steward. The Provincial Grand Lodge, being inaugurated on a sound basis, has since continued to work for the good of every individual Lodge, and for the Lodges of the whole Province collectively. It is a matter for congratulation, that it is not now necessary that any Lodge should assume authority over any other Lodge as to how to conduct its affairs, and oiir brethren may feel justly proud of the action of Probity Lodge in bringing about this desirable result. 2 218 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. The continuation of the history of the Provincial Grand Lodge does not come within the aim or inten- tion of these records, and therefore needs no further consideration. The object has been to shew the manner in which the Province of Yorkshire was divided ; to point out when that division took place ; that Bro. E. P. Milnes was the first to preside over it ; and most particularly to shew the participation which the Lodge of Probity had in the division of the Province of the County of York, and the formation of the Provincial Grand Lodge of "West Yorkshire. CHAPTER XIL History of the Lodge of Probity, A.D. 1822 TO 1888.— Conclusion. HE minutes of the Lodge, from 1822 to. 1847, being lost, it has been necessary to collect information for that period from all available sources ; the chief of which has been the records of the Provincial Grand Lodge, In the interval there was one period of great depression, and from the smallness of the number of members it is a wonder that the Lodge did not cease to exist. The returns at the commencement of the year 1822 shew tliat there were twenty subscribing members, and this number varied in different years, getting as low as five in one year, whilst in 1847 there was a goodly roll of sixty-two members. Amongst those who had joined during the interval may be mentioned the names of Bros. Wm. Huntriss 220 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. Junr., Joseph Moxon Kirk, Andrew Frazier (First Deputy Constable of Halifex), Eli Walker Shaw, Joseph Sugden, Josh. Hy. Frobisher, James Inglia, M.D., Wm. Eothwell and Hy. Edwards, M.P., all names well known to the present generation as towns- men who were well connected and highly respected. 1824. During 1824 Bro. Benj. Wood, Tyler of the Lodge, Was appointed Prov. Grand Pursuivant of Prov. Grand Lodge. And in 1826 Bro. Josh. Webster was ap- pointed Provincial Grand Sword Bearer. A special dispensation was granted during 1826 to the brethren to attend the laying of the foundation stone -of the church of St. John in the Wilderness in the Cragg Yalley. A curious and humorous entry is made in the 1827. records of Provincial Grand Lodge for April 4th, 1827, which shews the position some of the members of Probity Lodge considered their own Lodge held. "Bro. C. A. Watson read a letter from Bro. C. " Whiteley of Halifax, when, after considerable dis- "cussion, the following resolution was agreed to. " Eesolution— ' That the letter of Bro. Chas. Whiteley " of Halifax, dated the 3rd March, 1827, addressed to " Bro. C. A. Watson of Wakefield, returning his draft "for £11 lis. 6d. as the supposed balance of Bro HISTORY OP PEOBITY LODCIE. 221 " Whiteley's account with the Provincial Grand Lodge ** having been read. This Lodge feels it a duty it " owes to itself and the Craft at large to express its " strong disapprobation of the language of that letter " as altogether un-masonic, particularly the threat of "Bro. Whiteley to lay the conduct of this Provincial " Grand Lodge before the Lodge of Probity, No, 84, "Halifax, which they consider as an evidence that " Bro. C. Whiteley must have altogether forgotten " the respect he owes to this Provincial Grand Lodge, " as this Lodge would think it highly derogatory to "its dignity to answer for its proceedings to any " Provincial Lodge whatever. Ordered that a copy of " this resolution be sent to Bro. C. Whiteley.' " 1837. In the year 1837 the Lodge of Harmony, which had considerably decreased in numbers, decided to move to Huddersfield, at which town it met in private rooms in South Parade, where it has since had a prosperous career. Thus the two Halifax Lodges which had worked harmoniously together for a period of almost fifty years became parted. But although separated, friendly communications continued to exist, for almost the first noteworthy transactions mentioned in the minute book for 1847 is one bearing date 3rd Jan., 1848. It states that Bro. Peace from Harmony 222 HISTOET OV PROBITY LODGE. Lodge, Huddersfield, took the chair, and being assisted by several other brethren from his Lodge, went through the opening and closing ceremonies of the three degrees. They also went through the three first sections in a highly creditable manner. July. July, 1838. The Brethren of the Lodge celebrated 1838. the Centenary of its existence in a very appropriate manner, — the granting of centenary warrants had not then been inaugurated, — for a special dispensation was obtained from Provincial Grand Lodge for the brethren to walk in procession to the Parish Church to celebrate the event. An account of the proceedings is duly noted in the Freemasons' Quarterly Eeview for September, 1838, as follows : — "Halifax, August. The brethren of the Mystic " Tie held a Jubilee in this town on Monday week, " in commemoration of the Centenary of the Lodge of "Probity, JSTo. 73, held at the Old Cock Inn. The " brethren went in procession to the Parish Church, " where the prayers were read by the Yenerable " Archdeacon Musgrave, the psalms and lessons being " selected for the occasion. The Eev. Dr. Naylor of " Wakefield, Provincial Grand Chaplain, preached a " most excellent sermon from i Peter, xvii. t*. 26— " ' Honour all men, love the brotherhood* fear God, HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 223 " honour the King.' Brother Walton of Leeds, Pro- *' vinoial Grand Organist, sang ' Comfort ye my "people' in excellent style, aided by Bro. Sugden " and the choir. The brethren afterwards sat down to " dinner, and harmony and brotherly love prevailed. " It was indeed the Masons' holiday. Bro. Hon. *' Philip Savile and the Provincial Grand Officers were "present." 1842. Bro. John Sutcliffe, P.M., was appointed P.S.G.D. for 1842. 1843. Bro. Josh. Simpson received the office of P.G.S.B. in "1843. 1844. October 23rd, 1844. The Provincial Grand Lodge held the yearly meeting under the banner of Probity Lodge, in the Old Assembly Eooms (Talbot Inn), as the accommodation at the Old Cock was not sufficient. The Kt. Hon. the Earl of Mexborough, P.G.M., pre- sided, and was supported by upwards of two hundred brethren. At this meeting W. Bro. James Inglis, M.D. (No. 73), was appointed P.G.S.W. After the Lodge business was concluded, the brethren marched in procession to the Eoyal Hotel, St. James's Eoad, where a banquet was provided. A Band and an efficient Glee Party were in attendance, and after the cloth had been removed, the loyal toasts were drank. 224 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. and heartily received. Bro. the Eev. Dr. Senior, P.G. Chaplain, proposed the health of the Prov. Grand Master, who suitably responded. He then formally presented two very handsome Silver Vases to W. Bro. Chas. Lee, D.P.G.M., from the brethren of West Yorkshire, as a mark of their respect and esteem. W. Bro. Lee acknowledged the presentation, and most cordially thanked the brethren of Probity Lodge, by whom the idea had first been mooted. The remaining toasts were of a Masonic character, and concluded by the Eight W, Prov. Grand Master proposing " Success to Probity Lodge," which was responded to by Bro. J. Simpson, who stated that the Lodge had then sixty members on its roll. The festivities of the evening were interspersed by songs, the Prov. Grand Master singing " two or three in his usual inimitable style." Bro. Kirk sang "The Masons' Holiday," written expressly for the occasion. It should" also be stated that a number of ladies were present. Mrs. Sunderland sang "Come, Sweet Melody" in such a manner as to receive the applause of all present. Por the arrangements for this gathering the brethren were greatly indebted to Bro. Jno. Sutcliffe, P.M. The festivities of the evening ended by singing the National Anthem. HISTOEY or PROBITY LODGE, 225 The foregoing notes are all we have at our disposal to connect the periods ; and though other records are not available they shew that the Lodge lived through the time, and that the brethren interested themselves as of yore in different Masonic undertakings, . 1847. The first meeting noted in the minute book is dated 20th December, 1847, when Bro, Joseph Simpson was in the chair. At this meeting Bro. Henry Edwards was passed the degree of Fellow Craft, and Bro, Lawrence Bramley was duly installed in the Chair. 1848. January 3rd, 1848, Provincial Grand Lodge of West Yorkshire held its meeting under the banner of Probity Lodge, when W, Bro, Chas, Lee, D.P.G.M, presided. 3rd March, 1848. The By-Laws were revised and signed by the Earl of Mexborough as Provincial Grand Master. 1849. March 5th, 1849, The brethren having been in communication with Grand Lodge formed a Lodge of Instruction to be held every second Wednesday succeeding regular Lodge meeting. At the same meeting several brethren expressed a desire that the Chapter of Sincerity should be re-opened, and Bro. John Sutcliffe promised to make the necessary D2 226 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. enquiries and to communicate to them when their wishes could be realized. At the next meeting, April 2nd, the sum of £10 was voted from Lodge funds to be placed in the hands of Bro. John Sutcliflfe to be applied towards the restoration of the Koyal Arch Chapter. About this time also a Lodge Building Fund was formed. May, May 9th, 1849. A dispensation having been 1849. granted, the brethren attended the funeral of Bro. Christopher Eawson, at. one time a member of the Lodge. Thus passed away another brother who lived to connect the past generation of brethren with the present. An extract from a speech by this esteemed Brother at the laying of the foundation stone of the Halifax Literary and Philosophical Society's Hall will not be out of place, and shews the true Masonic spirit with which Bro. Eawson was imbued.— " Gentlemen, the ceremony being now concluded, " and the foundation laid, it remains for me to express " my fervent hope, that the superstructure to be " raised thereon, may to the present and succeeding " generations ever prove a scene and source of in- "tellectual enjoyment and moral improvement; and " that its walls may be ever strangers to any HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 227 "sentiments and opinions which do not inculcate "universal philanthropy and brotherly love; senti- " raents and opinions, gentlemen, which, whilst they "teach us to a4mire the wonderful works of nature, " teach us at the same time to bow with humility and " reverence to that ' Great First Cause ' — Nature's "God! who made all things; who made man after " his own image, and having done so, enjoined upon "all mankind this sublime precept — ' love thy nigh- "hour as thyself ; and now, in conclusion, from my "heart I pray may God bless you all." Aug. August 27th, 1849. The brethren desired that the 1849. Lodge should hold its meetings at the New Assembly Eooms, and although every arrangement was made for it, through some cause or other the change did not take place. This is mentioned because notice had been sent to Grand Lodge of a change in the meeting place, and the Grand Lodge Calendar for that year states that the Lodge held its meetings at that place. W. Bro. James Thornber was- appointed Provincial Grand Pursuivant for the year 1850. Dec. 16th December, 1850. Application was made by 1850. Prince Frederic Lodge, Hebden Bridge, for a sub- scription towards a stained glass window to be placed 228 HISTORY OF PROBITY lOBGE. in Heptonstall Church. The brethren acceded to the request, and voted a sum from the Lodge funds in aid of the project. Julj', 19th July, 1851. At a Lodge of Emergency it was 1851. decided to attend the funeral of Bro. John Sutcliffe in plain clothes, and to invite the Brethren of the Keighley, Haworth, Bradford, Huddersfield, Hebden Bridge, Underbank, Heckmondwike and Dewsbury Lodges. It is only necessary here to state, as regards the Masonic reputation of Bro. Sutcliffe, that he had been connected with the Lodge for the past forty years, and its success was mainly due to his energy and enthusiasm. Again, the work which he did during the existence of the Lodge of Promulgation also proves that Bro. John Sutcliffe was a true Mason.* Sept. 22nd September, 1851. The Grand Lodge of 1851 ' England held a special meeting in Bradford, on which occasion Lord Zetland, M.W. Grand Master, presided, and the foundation stone of St. George's Hall was laid with Masonic honours. After the ceremony the brethren marched in procession to the Lodge, which was duly closed, and then partook of a banquet. * See Appendix. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 229 Between thirty and forty brethren from Probity Lodge were in attendance, and W. Bro. Lawrence Bramley was appointed P.G. Senior Warden. This year the Lodge suffered by the death of W. Bro. Jas. Inglis, M.D., P.M., P.P.G.S.W., and an account of his Masonic career was published in the obituary column of the Freemasons' Quarterly Eeview.* I*s<'- 8th December, 1851, occurs a minute respecting the custom of "Passing the Chair." Some brethren having attended the Prince George Lodge had been informed that they could be made " Chair Masons " if properly qualified, and the W.M. of Probity Lodge was communicated with respecting such qualification. He being doubtful as to the regularity of such proceedings, wrote to the Prov. Grand Lodge for guidance, and received in reply a letter from W. Bro. Chas. Lee, D.P.G.M., who strongly disapproved of the practice as being not only irregular, but unmasonic in the highest degree. The W.M. of "Prince George" was accordingly apprised of the irregularity, and thus an old practice which brought dishonour on the Chair, and was a mockery of the ritual of Freemasonry, was ofiicially considered unconstitutional, and was abolished. • See Appendix. 230 HlSTOHY OF PROBITY LOBGE. Jan. 5th January, 1852. The Provincial Grand Lodge loo2. " meeting was held under the banner of Probity when the D.P.G.M. presided, after which dinner was served to upwards of sixty brethren, in the Eoyal Hotel, St. James's Eoad. Nov. 18th November, 1852. The Mayor of Halifax 1852. ... - having invited the Lodge to join in a procession in memory of the departed Bro. Field Marshal the Duke of Wellington, a number of the larethren accepted the invitation and attended a public funeral service at the Parish Church. Feb. 21st February, 1853, Bro. Eev. Chas. Musgrave, 1853. Vicar of Halifax, was admitted as a joining member of the Lodge, and W. Bro. Ed. Carter was appointed P.G.S.W. July, July 6th, 1853. At a meeting of Provincial Grand looo. Lodge a letter was read from the Board of General Purposes (Grand Lodge) severely censuring the Lodges of Probity, 73, Halifax, Hope, 379, Bradford and "Wakefield, 727, Wakefield, for alleged irregu- larity in working ; and the Provincial Grand Lodge at once passed a vote of censure on the Lodges. The- brethren of Probity Lodge being apprised of this vote, which they considered quite undeserved, protested most strongly, and a great amount of correspondence HISTOEY OF PROBITY LODGE. 231 took place. It appears that a Brother who should have been passed to the degree of E.G. on 31st May was, owing to the room being engaged, passed at an adjourned meeting June 4th. This same Brother was duly raised to the M.M. degree on June 2Sth, which was considered irregular, the proper time not having elapsed" between the two ceremonies. The W.M. of the Lodge communicated the facts of the case to the Board of General Purposes, and, having satisfactorily explained the cause of the irregularity, the censure was withdrawn. A letter was received from the Deputy Prov. Grand Master on the subject, which is interesting ; it is as follows : — "Leeds, 8th April, 1854. ' " Worshipful Sir and Dear Brother, " I shall feel obliged if you will furnish me " with a statement of your remarks in the P.G. Lodge " on Wednesday last, relative to the protest of the " Lodge of Probity, in order that a correct report may " be made thereof in the next P.G. Lodge circular, for "I would not wish any misunderstanding or miscon- " ception to arise concerning the manly and Masonic " manner in which you met the emergency, and you "have manifested a right fraternal spirit in the "matter, and I hope we shall know one another 232 HISTORY or probity lodge. "better, and that this little circumstance of opposition " will tend to draw us together into closer union ; *' and I hope that the appointment of your worthy " Senior Warden as Provincial Grand Sword Bearer " will be accepted as the olive branch of peace by the " Lodge of Probity, from, " My Dear Sir and Brother, "Yours ever faithfully, " Charles Lee. " To the W.M. of the Lodge of Probity, "No. 73, Halifax." Thus ended a dispute which at one time threatened to bring the Lodge in disrepute. However, Bro. Pranklin happily was able to give a good account of the Lodge's action, for which service he was deservedly thanked in open Lodge. The office of P.G.S.B. given to the S.W. of the Lodge was received in the spirit in which it was oflfered. This compliment was the more pointed as it had not been customary in the Province of West Yorkshire for such a post to be given to any Brother who was not a Past Master. Aug. August 4th, 1854. Application was made to 1854. Provincial Grand Lodge for a Dispensation for the brethren to attend the funeral of the late Bro. Wm. Duckworth, who had expressed a desire to be buried HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 233 with Masonic Honours. The Dispensation was granted, and the W.D.P.G.M. (Bro. Chas. Lee) attended the funeral. Invitations were also sent to the neighbouring Lodges, asking the brethren to attend. Upwards of thirty of the Probity brethren were present, together with a number of brethren from the sister Lodges. The brethren proceeded to the house of Bro. Duck- worth, and having formed a Procession, moved to the General Cemetery in the following order : — Tyler, with Sword. Brethren of the Lodge. The Secretary and Treasurer. The Senior and Junior Wardens* Masters of Lodges. Past Masters. Senior Deacon, ) rpy,„ Mn^tPT ! Junior Deacon, with Wand. I ^'^^ ^^^^^"^ \ with Wand. The W.D.P.G.M. Tyler, with drawn Sword. Hearse, containing the Coffin with the Kegalia thereon and two Swords crossed. The Eelatives of the Deceased. Thus passed away a highly respected Brother at the ripe age of 86 years. He was initiated into Masonry in the year 1793 in the Harmony Lodge, E2 234 HISTORY OF PEOBITY LODGE. and ultimately became the Worshipful Master. On his mother Lodge leaving the town of Halifax, he became a joining member of the Lodge of Probity, and acted for many years as Tyler of the Lodge. Increasing years and infirmities compelled him to give up this duty, but ho continued almost to the last to attend Lodge meetings. He possessed a most retentive memory, and this, together with his know- ledge and love for the correct rendering of our beautiful ritual, caused him to be always welcomed by the brethren. During the last seven years of his life he enjoyed the benefit of the Koyal Masonic Benevolent Fund to the extent of £25 per annum. The remains of this Brother were interred in the General Cemetery, in a grave the property of the Lodge, and a headstone, with a suitable inscription, was placed over the same. Jan. January 3rd, 1855. The Provincial Grand Lodge 1855. was held under the banner of Probity, when W. Bro. Charles Lee, D.P.G.M., presided, and was supported by W. Bro. Bentley Shaw, P.S.G.W., and a number of other Provincial Officers. April, April 16th, 1856. A Lodge of Emergency was 1856. ._ . . held to consider a communication from Col. Akroyd, inviting the W.M. and the brethren of the Lodge HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 235 to attend the layiag of the foundation stone of the proposed All Soula' Church. The invitation was cordially accepted, and an application was made for a dispensation that the brethren might appear in full Masonic clothing. The brethren of the Lodges in the immediate vicinity were also asked to attend and assist in this interesting ceremony. Col. Akroyd presented to the Lodge the working tools of the second degree, and a gavel — all in ebony, — to be used at the ceremony. April, April 25th, 1856. The brethren assembled in the Lodge room at an adjourned Lodge meeting, at 10 a.m., and the following is an account of the proceed'' ings as recorded in the minute book. Present — Bro. Richard Carter, W.M., Bro. Henry Edwards, S.W., Bro. James Fielding, J.W., and other officers and brethren. Visiting brethren at- tended' from the following Lodges, viz. — Nos. 342, 877, 382, 364, 379, 386, 763, 656, 384, 642, 332, 727, 322, 365 and 874. The Masonic procession, being marshalled by Bro. Thos. Duncan, moved in the following order to the Haley Hill Parochial Ground : — The Haley Hill Sax-horn Band Tyler (Bro. Hudson), with drawn Sword 236 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. Yisiting Brethren (two and two) Junior Brethren of the Xiodge Cornucopia with Com, borne by Bro. W. Smith, p.m., p.p.g.s.B. Steward, j Ewer with Wine, Ewer with Oil, "i Steward, Bro. J.W. j borne by borne by > Bro. J. Johnson ( Bro. J. Franklin.p.M. Bro.T. Robertahaw.P.Jii.JEichardson Bro. Thos. Duncan, D.C. The Secretary (Bro. Riley) with Book of Constitutions The Treasurer (Bro. J. Fisher) Past Masters The Junior Warden (Bro. Jas. Fielding) with Plumb-rule. The Senior Warden (Bro. Hy. Edwards) with Level The Junior Deacon (Bro. H. Beek) Steward, ( The Chaplain ) Steward, Bro J.H.] (Bro. J. H. Warneford, M.A.) >Bro.Jno. Kershaw ( bearing the Volume of the Sacred Law J Barber The Square, borne by Bro. Law: Bramley, P.M., P.P.G.S.W. The Mallet, borne by Bro. Wm. Walsh, P.M; (The Banner of the Lodge, \ borne by Bro. J. H. Thornber, I.G. Steward, The Worshipful Master ^-J Bro. Richard Carter, P.P.S.G.W. } The Senior Deacon (Bro. Elliott) Tyler, with drawn Sword (Bro. Beckett, P.G.T.) The procession arrived at the burial ground in time to witness the consecration ceremony by the Bishoj) of Eipon, attended by the Ven. Bro. Archdeacon Musgrave, D.D., Vicar of Halifax ; the Eev. Dr. Burnett, Vicar of Bradford; and nearly 50 of the Clergy of the Diocese, HISTORY OF PEOBIiy LODGE. 2S7 The service of consecration being ended, a general procession was formed, which moved from the burial ground to the site of the church in the following order : — Laymen (fonr a breast) Haley Hill Allotment Gardeners' Society The Town Council The Magistracy The Antient, Free and Accepted Masons The Beadle, with Mace The Architect (G. G. Scott, A.R.A., London) The Mayor ) mi, tj- v, f Edward Akroyd, of Halifax J The Bishop } Esq., the Founder w,. -,,.., \ / The Incumbent The Minister J I f Pnl^v of the District, [ The Vicar of the Parish j jj^^ ^ H Eev.C.E. Holmes] ( -^^^ The Clergy in surplices (two and two) Arriving at the entrance to the site of the church, the procession divided — forming on each side of the road — and the Freemasons, followed by the Clergy, passed through to the north east corner. After the usual service prescribed by the church, Mr. Akroyd received a trowel — presented by the parishioners of the new district,— and, with the Worshipful Master, proceeded to lay the stone. After testing the stone with the square, the "W.M. respectively called on the S.W- (Bro. Edwards) and the J.W. (Bro. Fielding) to test it with the level and plumb. Having pronounced 238 HISTORY, OP PROBITY lODaE, the stone duly and properly laid, the W.M. received from the brethren the cornucopia and ewers, and proceeded to pour on the stone, corn, wine, and oil ; saying — "This foundation stone being duly laid, I " now proceed, in accordance with the immemorial " rites and usages of our antient Fraternity, to pour " on it corn, wine, and oil, as emblems of abundance '*' and plenty. And may the All-Bounteous Author " of Nature pour down continually on this place and " neighbourhood abundance of every spiritual and " temporal blessing. — May this work of Charity and " Love redound to the honour and happiness of the " liberal founder, and of all who are near and dear to "him. — May the work thus begun, be continued with- " out accident or injury to any one engaged in its " construction. — And soon may the top-stone be added " in joy, and this building become, lo all who worship " within its hallowed walls, The House of God, The " Gate of Heaven." Bro. Warneford offered a prayer, when the services were resumed by the Bishop and Clergy. The services concluded by singing a hymn. The Masonic procession was re-formed, and returned to the Old Cock Inn, when the Lodge was closed in due form. A Banquet provided with great taste and liberality, HISTORY OP PROBITY LODfJE. ' 239 at the sole expense of Mr. A.kroyd, was partaken of by fifty-two brethren, and the evening "was spent in much harmony and convivial enjoyment. The next event to be noted is very similar to the one just quoted, and, as it will be interesting to all Masons in the immediate neighbourhood of Halifax, it is reproduced here. . Laying the Foundation Stone of the Sowerby Bridge Town Hall, Whit Monday, 12th May, 1886. The brethren were duly summoned, and circulars of invitation sent to the Lodges of the Province. The Lodge was opened at Under Bank, near Sowerby Bridge, at One o'clock — Bro. Hy. Edwards, S.W. having kindly placed his business premises at the services of the Committee. Present — Bro. R. Carter, W.M., and the Officers and Brethren as hereafter described; and also the Visiting Brethren from Lodges Nos. 342, 877, 382, 363, 874, 379, 385, 642, 330, 442, 727, 422, and 365. The Lodge was duly opened, and a portion of Scripture read by Bro. Dr. Senior, P.P.G. Chaplain. The W.M. then proceeded to read the Dispensation from W. Bro. Chas. Lee, D.P.G.M., authorizing the brethren to engage in the Ceremonies of the day, and to be and appear in Masonic Clothing and Order. 240 HISTOBY OP PROBITY LODGE. The brethren were marshalled by Bro. Thomas Duncan, D.C., in the following order, preceded by the Band of the 2nd West York Yeomanry Cavalry. Tyler (Bro. Hudson) with drawn Sword Visiting Brethren — two and two Junior Brethren of Lodge of Probity Cornucopia with Corn, borne by Bro. Lord, p.m. \ ^i of East Lancashire f S" I Ewers with Wine and Oil, borne by Bro. L. Bramley, | § P.M., P.P.G.S.W., and Bro. J. Franklin, p.m. ) & Bro. J. Duncan, Director of Ceremonies Secretary (Bro. Eiley) with Book of Constitutions Treasurer (Bro. Fisher) bearing a Phial containing Coin, etc. to be deposited in the Stone Past Masters — two and two The Junior Warden, Bro. W. Elliott, S.D., pro tern., with Plumb The Senior Warden, Bro. Matthias Smith, pro tern., with Level The Junior Deacon, Bro. Jno. £>eid, pro tern. •a g ^ , The Chaplain (Bro. the Eev. J. H. Wameford, m.a. | f bearing the Volume of Sacred Law on a cushion i | The Square, home by Bro. Thos. Robertshaw, p.m. The Mallet, home by Bro. Wm. Walsh, p.m. Banner of the Lodge borne by Bro. J. H. Thornber, LGr. The Worshipful Master Bro. E. Carter was accompanied by Bro. Henry Edwards, S.W., who had been specially invited by the Town Hall Committee to lay the Stone. The Senior Deacon pro tern. (Bro. Wm. Stott, J.D.) Tyler with^awn Sword (Bro. Beckett, P.G.T.) HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 241 In this order the brethren fell into the rear of a very numerous Procession of the various Benevolent Orders, Gentry and Shareholders, as follows : — Band of Music Independent Order of Odd Fellows Music United Order of Odd Fellows Music Loyal Order of Ancient Shepherds Music Ancient Order of Druids Chief Conductor (Bro, Adjt. J. W. Johnson) on horseback Chief Constable Shareholders and Gentry Churchwardens and Constables Magistrates and Clergy Builders Directors of Building Committee with Bro. James Fielding, J. W. (the Chairman) carrying the Trowel The Freemasons Police The Procession moved along the Main Street of Sowerby Bridge, on West Street, up Broad Street, and down Sowerby Street, to the site of the intended Town Hall, near the Bridge over the Elver Calder. The Procession exceeded half-a-mile in length. On reaching the site, it opened to the right and left, leaving a space for the Worshipful Master, Bro. F2 242 HISTORY OP PEOBITT LODGE, Edwards, and the brethren to advance to the place appointed for the Stone to be laid. In spite of a heavy shovrer of rain, which fell on their arrival, the Ceremony was commenced by Bro. James Fielding, J.W., advancing, and, in the name of the Directors and Shareholders, presenting to Bro. Edwards, S.W., an elegant Silver Trowel, with an appropriate Inscription engraved thereon. After this had been suitably acknowledged, and Bro. the Eev. J. H. Warneford, the Chaplain, had offered a prayer, Bro. Fisher, Treasurer, deposited the Phial in the cavity of the lower Stone ; Bro. Edwards then proceeded to spread the mortar, and the Stone was lowered to its place, during which the band played "Eule Britannia." The W.M. then placed the Mallet in the hands of Bro. Edwards, with which he proceeded to strike the Stone three times, saying — " Thus and Thus and Thus, " in the Name of the Great Architect of the Universe, " I lay this Foundation Stone of the Sowerby Bridge " Town Hall, and may the work prosper, and become "a blessing to the neighbourhood." The W.M. proved the accuracy of the Stone with the Square, Level, and Plumb ; and poured upon it Corn, Wine and Oil, as emblems of abundance, cheerfulness and peace. He prayed that the All-bounteous Author of HISTORY or PROBITY LODGE. 243 Nature would pour down continually on this place and neighbourhood abundance of Corn, Wine and Oil ; and hoped the work might be speedily completed, without accident or injury to life or limb of any one engaged in its construction ; and the building itself become a blessing to the neighbourhood to the latest posterity. Bro. the Eev. J. H. Warneford concluded the Ceremony by an appropriate praj'er. After the National Anthem had been sung, the Masonic Proces- sion was re-formed, and returned to Under Bank, when the Lodge was duly closed. A Banquet was provided, which was presided over by Bro. H. Edwards, S.W., in his uniform as Deputy Lieut, of the West Riding, who was supported by Bros. Jas. Fielding, J.W., and W- Elliott, S.D., as Vice-Chairmen, together with about 180 brethren and friends. After a most agreeable and harmonious meeting, the brethren separated exceedingly gratified by the ceremonies and proceedings of the day. In this year the Loyal Antient Lodge of St. James, which had been formed at Thornton in 1836, removed to Halifax, taking up its quarters at the Bridge Tavern. The succeeding year, 1857, Bro. Henry Edwards presided over the Lodge as its Worshipful Master. 244 HISTOET OF PEOBITT LODGE. 1857. Bro. James Franklin, P.M., was appointed Prov. Junior Grand Warden. 1860, Bro. Thomas Eobertshaw, P.M., was appointed Prov. Senior Grand Deacon. July 4th, 1860. Provincial Grand Lodge met Tinder the banner of Probity Lodge, and the E.W. Deputy Prov. Grand Master, Bro. George Fearnley, M.D., presided over the same. 1861. Bro. Thomas Perkinton, P.M., was appointed Prov. Grand Superintendent of Works. Bro. William EothweU, P.M., was appointed Prov. Grand Sword Bearer. October 17th, 1861, A record is placed in the minute book — " That the Lodge desires to place on *' record its deep sense of regret at the loss sustained " by the lamented death of Bro. Eobert Hudson, who " for a period of fifteen years acted as Tyler, with "the greatest credit to himself, and advantage to " the Lodge." Bro. Hudson was buried in the Tylers' grave at the General Cemetery, Bro. T. Duncan kindly bearing the expense of the interment, for which he received a vote of thanks from the Lodge, Bro. John Greenwood, P.M., of Lodge No. 386, the Prince George, of Eastwood, was elected to the HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. 245 vacant postj a position which he held until his death on the 15th April, 1882. Bro. Greenwood never became a member of the Lodge of Probity, although he held the post of Tyler for a period of twenty-one years. A large number of the brethren of Probity Lodge attended his funeral in full Masonic regalia, he having expressed a wish to be buried with Masonic • honours. Bro. John Greenwood's memory will remain ever green in the recollection of those who knew him. He was always at the post of duty, and ready to give Masonic instructions and information when called upon for that purpose. His stories relating to his early connection with Masonry, when he had many miles to tramp over the moors to and from the Lodge meetings, will long be remembered ; and the memory of his musical experience will even yet bring a smile on the faces of those who have listened to his quaint . narratives. A painting in oil of Bro. Greenwood, subscribed for by the brethren, hangs in the Instruction Room of Probity Lodge. During the year 1862, Bro. Thomas Perkinton, a Past Master in St. James's Lodge, was elected Worshipful Master. The esteem in which this 246 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. brother was held by the members, cannot be better shewn than by quoting a minute in the records, dated 27th November, 1878. "Bro. John Fisher, "P.M., presented to Bro. Thos. Perkinton, P.M., his " portrait, which had been subscribed for by the ''brethren, as a token of their esteem and their "appreciation of the invaluable services he had "rendered to this Lodge in particular, and Free- " masonry in general. In making the presentation, " Bro. Fisher referred in feeling and appropriate terms " to the respect in which Bro. Perkinton was held " by all the brethren both of this Lodge and of the "Province. Several other brethren spoke in similar " terms, and a very agreeable evening was spent." " The presentation was suitably acknowledged by " Bro. Perkinton, who requested the brethren to " permit the portrait to be placed in the Instruction " Eoom of the Lodge." 1862. Bro. Henry Edwards, P.M., was appointed Prov. Senior Grand Warden. 1863. Bro. Wm. Stott, the present Senior Past Master of the Lodge was Worshipful Master in the succeeding year. Bro. William Rothwell, P.M., received the further appointment of Prov. Senior Grand Warden. W. BRO. THOS. PERKINTON, (P.M. of ihe Lodge of Probity) '^xov. §untor g>ran6 "^axben for ^esf "Sjjorfis^trc, 1865. From a Painting in the possession of the Lodge of Probity. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 247 1864. In 1864, Bro. Isaac Booth, presided over the Lodge, he having joined January 13th, 1862. Bro. Boothi had been a member of St. James's Lodge, and also Worshipful Master of Eoyal Yorkshire, in which Lodge he had been initiated. Prior to his joining Probity Lodge there is frequent mention of his name as attending the Lodge, and going through the lectures and ceremonies for the instruction of the brethren. 1864. Bro. the Eev. James Hope was appointed Prov. Grand Chaplain. 1865. Bro. Thos. Perkinton, P.M., received the further appointment of Prov. Junior Grand Warden. October 4tb, 1865. The Provincial Grand Lodge of West Yorkshire was held at Halifax, when the K.W. the Earl De Grey and Eipon, P.G.M. presided. This being the first visit of his Lordship to Halifax since his appointment, special arrangements were made for the occasion. The use of the Town Hall was specially granted, and was used for the Lodge Meeting. A banquet was served at the White Swan Hotel, and his Lord- ship accompanied by Lady Eipon, afterwards attended a Grand Ball given in the Assembly Eoom. The meet- ing was well attended, and many eminent Masons from 248 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. the neighbouring provinces were present. It may be mentioned that Lord Londesborough, P.P.S.G.W. of North and East Yorkshire had been invited, but failing to be present he sent two for^-quarters and two haunches of Yenison, which were gratefully accepted and made use of at the Banquet. The Lodge held its meetings from 1809 to 1869 at the Old Cock Hotel, but many times prior to the latter date, the brethren had tried to remove to more suitable premises, and schemes had been promoted to purchase land, and build thereon a Masonic Hall. These plans had however fallen through, either owing to want of funds or support. In 1864, the premises occupied by the Calder and Hebble Naviga- tion Co. in Southgate, were carefully examined as to their suitability after alteration for Masonic purposes, and a most elaborate report was made thereon. It was found however that the expenditure necessary to convert the rooms for the purpose, would require an outlay which would not compensate the brethren for the change. In 1867, the members of St. James's Lodge, then meeting at the Talbot Hotel, decided to build a Masonic Hall on its own account, and appointed a Committee to purchase a plot of land for that purpose. The brethren of Probity, having ascertained the views HISTORY OF PEOBITY LODGE. 249 of the sister Lodge, made such overtures that it was decided that the purchase of laud and the building of a Masonic Temple should be carried out by the joint Lodges. A Committee was appoiuted, consisting of members of both Lodges. The plans of the projected Hall were prepared jointly by Bros. J. E. Oates, B. W. Jackson, and W. H. D. Horsfall. It having been decided by the two Lodges that the Ceremony of laying the Comer Stone should be observed with due solemnity. Sir Hy. Edwards, Bart., M.P., P.P.S.G.W., was invited to preside on the occasion. A special Dispensation was granted by the Prov, Grand Master for the brethren to walk in procession in Masonic Clothing. 1866. Bro. John Fisher, P.M., was elected Prov. Grand Treasurer. June, June 30th, 1868. The Lodge which had been 1868. convened to meet at the Town Hall was duly opened. A large number of the brethren of the Lodges of Probity, and St. James were present, together with a number of visiting brethren from the various Lodges in the Province. The Chaplain (firo. the Eev. James Hope) read a portion of Scripture, after which the Dispensation G2 250 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. from the Provincial Grand Master was read: The Lodge was then opened in the 2nd and 3rd degrees. The brethren were afterwards marshalled in proces- sion, and preceded by the Band of the 2nd W.T. Yeomanry Cavalry, marched by way of Princess Street,' Crown Street, Silver Street, Harrison Eoad, and Trinity Eoad, to the site in St. John's Place. The following was the order of Procession : — Tyler of St. James's Lodge, No. 448, with drawn Sword Band Visiting Brethren Brethren of St. James's Lodge according to seniority Brethren of Probity Lodge according to seniority The Architect (Bro. "W. H. D. HorsfaU) with Plans Lorfof f ^"'- ^- ^- Walshaw, P.M., ) ^-^^^ f P'robity ( ''^^^^g Cornucopia with Corn j g^° f^^^^^ Bro. John Stott, P.M., bearing Ewer of Wine Bro. Geo. Normanton, P.M., bearing Ewer with Oil Superintendent of Works (Bro. J. B. Gates) with Scroll Secretaries of Building Committee Bro. H. J. Franklin and Bro. Austin Roberts, with Constitutions Treasurer of Lodge of Probity (Bro. W Keith) with Phial containing Coins Bro. W. Cooke, P.M., with Junior Warden's Column Junior Warden of Lodge of St. James (Bro. Ibberson) with Plumb Rule Banner of Lodge of St. James, borne by Bro. Howarth Bro. Gaukroger, with Senior Warden's Column Bro. W. Elliott, P.M., with Level Clergy HISTORY OF PROBTTY LODGE. 251 Bros. Rev. H. Bedford Hall, Rev. 0. Routledge, Rev. A. Bleasdale Bro. Geo. ( Chap. Bro. Rev. Jas. Hope, ) Bro. H. W. Jackson, P.M. ( with Holy Bible j Bates, P.M. W.M. of Lodge of St. James (Bro. E. Walshaw) with Plumb Rule W.M. of Lodge of Probity (Bro. T. H. 0. 8cratcherd) ' with Square Bro. Lawrence Bramley, P.M-, with Mallet Banner of Lodge of Probity Director of Ceremonies, Bro. B. W. Jackson Sword Bearer, Bro. Predk. Walker Bro. James Franklin P.P.Gr.W., with Trowel Btwd.withBod f Bro. Lt.-Col. Sir Hy. Edwards, Bart. 1 stwd. -with Rod Bro. P.M. 1 T3 nj- T> 13 a n Txr r Bro. P.M. T. Perkinton ( Jr.M , r.ir.b.ij. W J Joseph Ogdea Tyler of Lodge of Probity with drawn Sword. The Procession having arrived at the building, the brethren divided to the right and left, facing inwards, thus leaving room for Sir Henry Edwards and the brethren participating in the Ceremony to pass up tlie centre to the platform. At the site considerable preparations had been made to accommodate a large number of the public, and a platform was erected for the use of upwards of two hundred ladiess The Choristers of Holy Trinity Church, in their surplices, occupied a position on the north side of the platform. All being in readiness, Bro. Eev. H, B. Hall offered a dedicatory prayer, as follows : — "Almighty God, G.A.O.T.U., and Father of thd 252 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. " Spirits of the Flesh, who, by Thy- creative fiat, made " all things, and by Whose power they consist, look " down from Heaven on this our work begun in Thy " !Name, and dedicated to Thy service. Thou Who of "Thy Temple hast placed Jesus Christ as the Great "Corner Stone, grant that this Temple may advance "Thine honour, and be a blessing to the people. May "truth and brotherly love, kindness and charity, fill " the hearts of those who shall assemble therein ; knit "them in the bonds of peace and all virtues; build " them up in fear and love of Thy Holy Name, and "endue them with innocency of life until they be " called to the Temple above, not made with hands, " where Thou, Trinity in Unity and Unity ih Trinity, " ever dwellest. Grant this for Jesus Christ's sake " our Lord. Amen." The choir sung the following hymn : — Behold how good a thing it is, And how becoming well, For brethren, such as Masons are, In Unity to dwell. On Friendship's altar rising here. Our hands now plighted be. To live in Love with hearts sincere. In Peace aud Unity. The band played the tune "Old Hundred" during HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 253 which the Stone was raised, and a trumpet-call for silence was sounded. In the absence of Bro. John Fisher, P.M., Bro. James Franklin read and presented to the Honourable Baronet an Address on behalf of the two Lodges, in which was recounted the circum- stances which brought about the building of the Hall. Bro. H. J. Franklin read the Inscription, and Bro. A. ^Roberts read the list of Subscribing Members to the Building Fund. Bro, W. Keith having inserted in the cavity of the lower stone a bottle containing Coins, and Documents, and copies of the two local News- papers, Bro. James Franklin presented (in the name of the builders) the Trowel to Sir Henry Edwards. Bro. Sir Hy. Edwards, P.P.S.G.W., spread the cement on the lower stone ; the band played a sacred tune, during which the Corner Stone was lowered in its place, and the choristers chanted the following lines : Lower the stone and let it rest, Lower and lower all is best, What can we do but pray, We who Thy servants are, born to obey. That Thou who guidest all men on their way, Who givest life to them from day to day, Should when we try to do our best, Bless what we do — and leave it blest ; Should when we do our best endeavour, Bless it for ever, and for ever. 254 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. l5ro. Edwin Walshaw, W.M. then tried the stone with the Plumb Eule ; Bro. Elliott, P.M. tried it with the Level, and Bro. T, H. C. Scratcherd tried it with the Square ; after which Sir H. Edwards struck it with the Mallet which bore the following inscription : — "This Mallet used the 30th day of June 1868, on the occasion of the laying of the North East Corner Stone of the Freemasons' Hall, in the borough of Halifax, by Bro. Lieut. Col. Sir Henry Edwards Bart., M.P., P.P.S.G.W., was presented to tbe Lodge of Probity No. 61, and to the Lodge of St. James No. 448, by John Edwin Gates, Benj. W. Jackson, and W. H. D. Horsfall, Architects." Bro. Sir Hy. Edwards then said, " May the under- taking be conducted and completed by the craftsmen according to the grand plan, in peace, harmony, and brotherly love." The Hon. Baronet followed this by- strewing corn, and saying — "I pour this corn upon this stone as an emblem of plenty, and may the all- bounteous Heaven shower down its blessings upon us, and may we have abundance and plenty in this country." In emptying the ewer of wine he said — "I pour this wine as an emblem of joy and gladness, and may the blessing of Divine Truth enlighten our minds, and may virtue flourish as the vine." The pouring of HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 255 the oil was accompanied by — " I pour this oil as an emblem of peace, and may peace and happiness, and brotherly love and affection, prevail with us always." To each sentence the brethren responded — " So mote it be." Bro. W. H. D. Horsfall presented the plan of the building, and Sir Hy. Edwards addressed the brethren assembled. Bro. Eev. A. Bleasdale, curate at lUing- worth, offered prayer, and the following hymn was sung by the choir. Great Architect of earth, and heaven, By time nor space confined, Enlarge our love to comprehend Our brethren all mankind. With faith our guide and humble hope, Warm charity and love, May all at last be roused to share Thy perfect light above. Bro. Franklin then thanked Sir Henry Edwards for so ably discharging the work, and he suitably replied. Bro. the Eev. James Hope, M.A., P.P.G. Chaplain, delivered an oration, in which he eulogised the princi- ples of the Craft, and earnestly exhorted the brethren to carry out the tenets which they convey — "Brotherly love, relief and truth." The choir sang the Doxology, and the procession was re-formed and proceeded by 256 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. Ward's End, Southgate, Corn Market and Princess Street to the Town Hall, where the Lodge was closed in due form. A Masonic Banquet took place at six o'clock, in the New Assembly Eooms. Sir Henry Edwards presided, and had on his right Bro. T. H. C. Scratcherd, the W.M. of Probity Lodge, and on his left Bro. E. Walshaw, W.M. of St. James's Lodge. The usual loyal and patriotic toasts were drunk and heartily received. Bros. Capt. Coates, Capt. Eothwell and Lieut. Jackson responded to the toast of the " Army and Navy." The chairman proposed the M.W. Grand Master the Earl of Zetland, and Bro. E. Walker Shaw proposed the R.W.P.G.M. the Eight Hon. the Earl de Grey and Eipon. Amongst the other toasts were the " W. Masters and Officers of Probity and St. James's Lodges." — "Success to the Masonic Hall." — "The Chairman." — "The Secretaries to the Building Committee."— " The Building Committee."— " The Visitors."— and " The Ladies." All of which were received most enthusiastically, and were appropriately acknowledged, and the proceedings ended in harmony and good fellowship. The Lodge of Probity held its first meeting in the New Masonic Hall on the 16th August, 1869, Bro. B. W. Jackson being the Worshipful Master. HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. 257 The Masonic Hall was Consecrated on the 24th November, 1869, and a Lodge of Emergency was summoned for that purpose under the banner of St. James's Lodge. Bro. Eichard Lord, W.M., presiding, the Lodge was opened in the three degrees of Masonry. A procession, which was formed in the coi'ridor of the Hall, entered the Lodge in the following order : — Prov. Grand Tyler, a number of Past Prov. Grand Officers ; the Cornucopia with Corn, and the Ewers of Wine and Oil were borne by Masters of Lodges ; then followed the Prov. Grand Supt. of Works with the Plan of the Building; Members of the Building Committee; the Prov. Grand Kegistrar bearing the Seal of Prov. Grand Lodge ; Prov. Grand Treasurer ; Prov. Grand Secretary ; Visitors of Distinction ; the Column of Prov. Junior Grand Warden borne by the Master of a Lodge ; Prov. Junior Grand Warden with Plumb Eule ; the Column of Prov. Senior Grand Warden borne by the Master of a Lodge; Prov. Senior Grand Warden with Level; Prov. Junior Grand Deacon; Prov. Grand Chaplain bearing the Sacred Law ; the Deputy Prov. Grand Master with Square ; the Prov. Grand Sword Bearer ; the R.W. Prov. Grand Master, H 2 258 HISTORY OF PEOBITY LODGE. The E.W. I'rov. Grand Master of West Yorkshire, Earl de Grey and Eipon, ascended the Throne, and formally opened the Grand Lodge, Bro. the Eev. Jas. Hope, M.A,, P.P.G. Chaplain, offered prayer, and the Eoll of the Lodges was called, there being, with two exceptions, representatives from every Lodge in the Province. Other business appertaining to the Prov. Grand Lodge was then proceeded with, when E.W. Prov. Grand Master consented to Dedicate the Hall to Freemasonry. The Prov. Grand Chaplain offered up the Prayer of Dedication, and this portion of the Ceremony being concluded, the Prov. Grand Master descended from the Throne, a procession was formed, which proceeded three times round the Lodge, amidst solemn music, thus concluding the Ceremony of Dedication. The Prov. Grand Lodge was then closed, according to antient usage, and afterwards the Lodge was closed by the W.M. and Officers of St. James's Lodge. The brethren adjourned to the New Assembly Eooms, where a Banquet was provided; Earl de Grey and Eipon, E.W. Prov. Grand Master, presided, and was supported on his right by E.W. Bro. Bentley Shaw, D.P.G.M. ; Bro. Eev. J. Senior, P.G. Chaplain of England; Bro. P. Binckes, Secretary of the BISTOEY OF PHOBITY LODGE. 259 Masonic Boys' School, London ; and on his left by Bro. Sir Hy. Edwards, Bart., P.S.G.W. ; E. Armitage, P.J.G.W. ; E. E. Nelson, P.G.S. ; C. Oldroyd, P.G.T. ; Bros. S. Waterhouse, M.P. ; T. H. Tweedale, P.P.G.E. of East Lancashire; the Hon. Eev. P. Y. Savile, P.P.G. Chaplain and P.S.P.G.W. of West Yorkshire ; and Bro. Lucas, P.G.S. of Lincolnshire. The toasts of the Queen and Eoyal Family were most loyally responded to, and were followed by the usual Masonic toasts, which were received with the honours of Masonry. The evening was spent in harmony and concord, and the proceedings concluded by singing the National Anthem. Thus ended two most important Ceremonies in the Masonic history of Halifax. The two Lodges most directly concerned were drawn more closely together with the ties of brotherly love; the work happily begun had been conducted with the utmost cordiality, and was closed with that harmony which it is hoped will ever characterise the conduct of the brethren of both Lodges. A third Masonic Lodge was warranted for Halifax July 11th, 1870, and was named the De Warren Lodge, and held its first meetings at the White Swan Hotel. 260 HISTOEY OF PROBITY LODGE, 1871. Bro. "William Elliott, P.M., was appointed Prov, Senior Grand Deacon. 1872. Bro. B. W. Jackson, P.M., was appointed Prov. Grand Superintendent of Works. 1873. Bro. T. H. C. Scratcherd, P.M., was appointed Prov. Junior Grand Deacon. June 3rd, 1873. The members of the local Lodges of Freemasons took part in the Ceremony of laying the Corner Stone of St. Augustine's Church. Bro. J. Pisher directed the proceedings, and about My Masons, representing the Lodges of Probity, St. James, De Warren, Savile, Eybiim, and Prince George were present. The brethren were clothed in Masonic regalia, and walked in procession to the site of the intended Church, After the services of the Church had been gone through by the Eev. Bishop Eyan, Col. Ed, Akroyd, M.P., laid the Stone, The Masonic Ceremonial was then duly gone through, representa- tives of each Lodge taking a part. The Chaplain of Probity Lodge, Bro. the Eev. B. Town, then offered prayer, and the brethren returned to the Lodge. The next important event to be noted is the Installation of a brother of Probity Lodge as the Provincial Grand Master of West Yorkshire. Owing to the resignation of the Marquis of Eipon, H.E.H. R.W. BRO. SIR HEXRY EDWARDS, C.B. (P.M. of the Lodge of Probily) fxov. ^vatib SRasfcr for ^est ^orfisBirc, 1875=85. From a Photograph in the possession of the Lodge of Probity. HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. 261 the Prince of Wales, M.W. Grand Master, appointed Bro. Col. Sir Hy. Edwards, Bart., to this important position. A Lodge of Emergency was convened, to be held in the Drill Hall, April 21st, 1875. The Lodge was opened in the three degrees of Free- masonry by Bro. James Menzies, Worshipful Master of Probity Lodge, assisted by his OflSoers. The Provincial Grand Lodge was then admitted, and W- Bro. Bentley Shaw, D.P.G.M., took the Chair. The usual business being gone through, E.W. Bro. Major Nicholas Le Gendre Starkie, P.G.M. of East Lanca- shire, was asked to take the Ceremony of Installing the Prov. Grand Master. Bro. Sir Hy. Edwards was then received into Provincial Grand Lodge, and was duly installed as the Grand Master of the Province. After the usual salutations had been given, the brethren were formed into a procession, and attended Divine Service in the Parish Church, when a Sermon was preached by the Prov. Grand Chaplain, Bro. the Eev. A. W. Hamilton, M.A. The text was i. Cor., Chap. XlIL, last verse: "Faith, Hope, Charity, these three ; but the greatest of these is Charity." The offertory, which amounted to £36 7s, Od., was devoted to the funds of the Halifax Infirmary. The anthem was specially written for the Ceremony by Bro, 262 HISTORY OP PROBITY LOBGfE, Sewell, P.P.G.O., and dedicated to Bro. Sir Henry Edwards. The brethren then returned to the Drill Hall, and the Lodge \ras closed. W. Bro. E. M. Wavell, Jan., P.M., was appointed Prov. Grand Eegistrar ; and W. Bro. William Tasker, P.M., Prov. Senior Grand Deacon at this meeting. About 200 brethren afterwards met in the Assembly Eooms, Harrison Eoad, and partook of a banquet, which was presided over by Sir Hy. Edwards. After the loyal and patriotic toasts had received the attention of the brethren, E.W. Bro. Le Gendre Starkie, P.G.W. of Eng. and P.G.M. of East Lanca- shire, proposed the health of the E.W. Prov. Grand Master of West Yorkshire (Sir Hy. Edwards, Bart.), which was most heartily and enthusiastically received, and the Honourable Baronet suitably acknowledged the same. Other toasts followed, and this important event was concluded most harmoniously. The following distinguished brethren are also noted as being present :^E.W. Bro. T. W. Tew, D.P.G.M. ; Bro. Sergeant Tindal Atkinson ; W. Bro. Binckes (Sec. to Masonic Boys' School); Bro. Critchley, P.G. Treas., and Bro. Sutcliffe, P.G.M. of Lincolnshire. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. '263 1876-7. W. Bro. Isaac Booth, P.M., who had previously been appointed Prov. Grand Superintendent of Works, was this year appointed Prov. Junior Grand Warden, and the following year (1877) was promoted to the rank of Prov. Senior Grand Warden. 1878. Bro. the Eev. Israel Parkinson was appointed Prov. Grand Chaplain. 1879. Bro. the Eev. B. Town was appointed Prov. Grand Chaplain. 1880. W. Bro. J. Menzies, P.M., was appointed Prov. Junior Grand Warden. 1883. W. Bro. W. Gaukroger, P.M., was appointed Prov. Senior Grand Deacon, and W. Bro. G. Scarbrough, P.M., Prov. Grand Sword Bearer. E.W. Bro. Col. Sir Henry Edwards, Bart., C.B., held the post of Prov. Grand Master until January, 1885, when, owing to failing health, he resigned the office, and universal regret was expressed at losing the services of so genuine and true-hearted a Brother. Bro. Sir Henry Edwards did not long remain amongst us after his retirement. He gradually became more feeble, and on the morning of April 26th, 1886, he passed away to join the ranks, we hope, of the Grand Lodge above, to be with the world's Great Architect who lives and reigns for ever. 264 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. His funeral, which was public, was attended by a great number of his townsmen, representatives of the different societies with which he had been connected, the rank and file of the Eifle and Artillery Corps, and the 2nd West York Yeomanry Cavalry, of which he was for many years the commanding ofl&cer. Over 200 brethren of the Fraternity attended the funeral — almost every Lodge in the Province being represented. As each brother passed the last resting place of his departed chief, he placed upon the grave a sprig of acacia. Thus passed away one who will for ever live in the memory of those who knew him, — and par- ticularly the brethren of Probity, will cherish the remembrance of one who was initiated in their Lodge, and who rose step by step on the Masonic ladder until he reached the highest position in Masonry in the Province. His genial manner, his kindly disposition to those who needed his assistance will ever endear him in the hearts of the brethren. A stained glass window, representing St. John the Baptist, was placed in the north side of the clerestory of the Parish Church by the brethren of Probity Lodge to his cherished memory. In the year 1885 it was represented to the brethren that the Lodge had been in continuous working since HISTOBY OF PROBITY LODGE. 265 its formation. A petition to H.K.H. the Prince of Wales, Most Worshipful Grand Master, was drawn up, and was signed by as many of the brethren as were available; and it may be mentioned that Sir Henry Edwards, P.P.G.M.,. signed the same, it being his last act in the cause of his mother Lodge. The petition duly received the attention of the Grand Lodge, and a Centenary Warrant, signed by the Most Worshipful Grand Master, was granted to the Lodge. The formal presentation took place at a regular Lodge meeting on the 25th December, 1885. Bro. James William Davis, W.M., presided, and was supported by seventy brethren, composed of visitors and members of the Lodge. The Lodge was opened in the first degree, and after the usual business had been conducted, the K.W. Prov. Grand Master, Bro. T. W. Tew, was admitted, with a number of past and present Provincial Grand Officers. After the usual salutation had been heartily given, the W.M. called upon the K.W. Prov. Grand Master to formally present the Centenary Warrant to the Lodge. The K.W. Brother then, amidst the cheers of the brethren, uncovered the Warrant, and requested the Secretary to read the same. He then, in the name 12 266 HISTORY or probity lodge. of the Grand Lodge of England and the Provincial Grand Lodge of West Yorkshire, handed to Brother Jas. W. Davis, W.M., for his safe keeping and to bis successors when duly elected, the Centenary Warrant of the Lodge. The Lodge was congratulated in having so satisfac- torily proved its consecutive and continuous working since 1738, and also in having a Warrant signed by the Most Worshipful Grand Master of England, H.K.H. the Prince of Wales. The W.M. duly received the Warrant, and having suitably replied, requested the U.W. Prov. Grand Master to present, in the name of the Lodge, a Gold Centenary Jewel to the Secretary (Bro. Herbert Crossley). This duty he gladly accepted, and having congratulated him on his assiduity in procuring this Warrant, he pinned the Jewel on his left breast. The Secretary briefly responded. E.W. Bro. Tew then presented a Centenary Jewel to Bro. Wm. Berry and to Bro. the Eev. B. Town, P.P.G. Chaplain, as a mark of his esteem and friendship. The Lodge business being concluded, about seventy brethren adjourned to supper, and passed a most enjoyable and harmonious evening. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 267 1886. "W". Bro. G. Buckley, Jun., P.M., was appointed Prov. Grand Director of Ceremonies. 1887. W. Bro. William Stott, P.M., was appointed Prov. Grand Sword Bearer. 1888. W. Bro. F. Whiteley, P.M., was appointed Prov. Grand Pursuivant. We have now arrived at the last scene in the history of the Lodge of Probity — and what more fitting conclusion than the celebration of a third Jubilee of the Lodge. The Worshipful Master, Bro. Francis Fleming, consulted the brethren of the Lodge as to the best method of celebrating this most im- portant event, and it was decided to attend Divine Service at the Parish Church on some Sunday. A committee was appointed to carry out the wishes of the brethren, and arrangements were made with V.W. Brother the Very Eev. the Dean of York (Arthur P. Purey Cust, D.D.) to preach the sermon, and to appoint a day which would be convenient for him. The Kev. Canon Pigou, D.D., Vicar of Halifax, most kindly placed the Parish Church at the disposal of the Lodge for this 'special commemoration. The Provincial Grand Master, R.W. Bro. T. W. Tew, was consulted, and acquiesced most cordially with the proposed arrangements, and signified that as he should 268 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE, personally attend, with his Officers of Provincial Grand Lodge, there would be no necessity to have a special dispensation. A circular was sent to every Lodge of the Province inviting the Brethren of such Lodges to attend. In accordance with the arrangements made, the brethren assembled at the Freemasons' Hall, at 10-0 a.m., on Sunday, 4th November, 1888, and were marshalled by Bro. Charles Pole. The procession proceeded to the Parish Church in the following order : — Tyler, with sword ; Brethren of visiting Lodges ; Brethren of the Lodge of Probity; Officers of the Lodge, with the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Francis Fleming; Provincial Grand Officers; Provincial Grand Master ; Provincial Grand Tyler, with sword. The brethren were attired in ordinary morning dress, with white gloves, and Provincial and ordinary Craft clothing. Bro. James Booth (Mayor of Halifax) met some of the brethren at the railway station, who had arrived by later trains, and they walked to the Parish Church in procession. The Provincial Grand Officers who went to the Parish Church included the following: — K.W. Bro. T. W. Tew, P.G.D. of England, Provincial Grand Master. HrSTORT OF PROBITY LODGE. 269 W. Bro. Henry Smith, P.G.D. of England, Deputy Provincial Grand Master, W. Bro. C. W. KeigUey, P. J.G.W. „ Isaac Booth, P.P.G.W. „ J. Menzies, P.P.G.W. ,, Eev. A. B. Coorabe, P.G. Chap. „ W. Oxley, P.G. Treas. „ W. Gration, P.P.G. Treaa. „ H. G. E. Green, P.G. Sec. „ — Wright, P.J.G.D. „ T. H. C. Scratcherd, P.P.G.D. „ W. Gaukroger, P.P.G.D. „ W. Darling, P.P.G.D. „ C. T. Ehodes, P.P.G.D. „ W. C. Lupton, P.P.G.D. „ T. I. Walker, P.P.G.D. „ G. Normanton, P.P.G.D. „ B. W. Jackson, P.P.G.S. of W. „ J. Barker, P.P.G.S. of W- „ Geo. Buckley, P.P.G.D. of C. „ A. Koberts, P.P.G.D. of C. „ H. S. Holdsworth, P.P.G.D. of C. „ J. W. Monckman, P.P.G.D. of C „ J. L. Atherton, P.P.G.D. of C. „ W. Stott, P.P.G.S.B. „ W. Asquith, P.G.St.B. „ E. Eiley, P.G.St.B. „ F. W. Nicholson, P.G.O. „ F. Whiteley, P.G.P. „ J. Seed, P.P.G.P. 270 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. W. Bro. J. Wellsman, P.G. Std. „ Alfred Stott, P.G. Std. The Officers of the Lodge. of Probity who attended ■were : — Francis Fleming, W.M. ; Herbert Crossley, S.W. ; E. W. Evans, Chaplain ; Walter Wright, Secretary; Fred Buckley, S D. ; B. F. P. Horton, J.D.; Charles Pole, Almoner ; Walter Emmott, B.C. ; J. H. Sykes, Organist ; Alfred Binns, Assistant Secretary ; W. Dobson and G. H. Smith, Lodge Stewards ; E. M. Kerr, S.S. ; H. G. Davis, Geo. Patchett, James Duff, and Alexander Scott, Stewards ; Joseph Sagar, Tyler. In addition to these Officers, about 30 of the Brethren. The Visiting Lodges represented were : — 139, Britannia, Sheffield; 258, Amphibious, Heckmond- wike; 264, Nelson of the Nile, Batley; 265, Eoyal Yorkshire, Keighley; 275, Harmony, Huddersfield ; 289, Fidelity, Leeds; 302, Hope, Bradford; 304, Philanthropic, Leeds ; 307, Prince Frederick, Hebden Bridge; 308, Prince George, Eastwood; 387, Aire- dale, Shipley ; 408, Three Graces, Haworth ; 439, Scientific, Bingley; 448, St. James's, Halifax, (forty brethren); 495, Wakefield, Wakefield; 521, Truth, Huddersfield; 600, Harmony, Bradford; 603, Zetland, Kirkheaton; 910, St. Oswald, Pontefract; 974, Pentalpha, Bradford; 1019, Sincerity, Wakefield; HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 271 1034, Ecclesliill, Eccleshill; 1102, Mirfield, Mirfield; 1108, Eoyal Wharfedale, Otley; 1211, Goderich, Leeds ; 1231, Savile, Elland ; 1283, Eyburne, Sowerby Bridge; 1301, Brighouse, Brighouse; 1302, De Warren, Halifax; 1513, Friendly, Barnsley; 1545, Baildon, Baildon; 1645, Colne Valley, Slaith- waite; 1648, Prince of Wales, Bradford; 1736, St. John's, Halifax; 2069, Prudence, Leeds. The service at the church was in keeping with the event which was being celebrated. There was a large congregation. The musical portion of the service was in every respect worthy of the occasion, and much credit is due to Bro. W. H. Garland, Mus. Bac. Oxon., the organist of the church. The hymns immediately preceding and following the sermon were Masonic compositions, and were written in the early part of the last century. The music, specially composed at the request of the Lodge, is by Dr. Naylor, Mus. Doc, Oxon., organist of York Minster, and by Bro. Garland. The form of service was as follows : — Processional hymn, "Eastward, ever Eastward" (Bro. W. H. Garland); anthem before service, "Solomon's Prayer " (Wesley) ; " Venite " (W. Lee) ; Psalm xix. (Bro. Dr. E. G. Monk); Psalm cxxii. (Dr. Garrett); Psalm viii. (Barnby); First Lesson, 1 Kings viii., 22 272 HISTOET OF PROBITY LODGE. to 54, read by the Dean of York ; Te Deum (Stanford) ; Second Lesson, 1 Cor., xiii., read by Bro. the- Eev. A. B. Coombe, P.G. Cbap. ; Jubilate Deo (Stanford) ; anthem, "It came even to pass" (Sir F. Ouseley); hymn before sermon, " Unto Thee, Great God, belong" (composed about 1738); hymn during offertory, "Let there be light" (composed about 1738); chorus, "Hallelujah" (Beethoven) The Very Eev. A. P. Purey-Cust, Dean of York, Past Grand Chaplain of England, then preached the following truly Masonic sermon, "The Aim and Spirit of Freemasonry," which by his kind permission is here published. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 273 SEllMON, "/« every nation he that feareth Him and worketh riffhteousness is accepted with Ilim." — Acts x. 35. jTRANGE and startling utterance from Jewish and exclusive lips, in the ears of those who heard it ! What did it portend ? Not surely that the one only divinely revealed creed was henceforth to vanish away before a Vague fear of God, and an indefinite life of morality, according to each man's ideal standard, but rather, I think, an acknowledgment of God's recognition of those who had grasped or were seeking to cultivate simple truths which were the initial elements Which must underlie all religion; a conviction that" God would lead on such yearning hearts to a brighter light and a clearer knowledge of Him and of His ways ; would bring such thirsting spirits to the fount at which they inight drink to the full of that for which their souls K2 274 HISTORY or probity lodge. panted ; would reveal to them tlie clear manifestation of that ideal life of which they had as yet but caught indistinct and shadowy glimpses, and would commit to them the power of becoming that which their consciences approved, but which they lacked as yet the power to produce. Nay, such commendable, but Utopian generalities as those in the text, were not the sum of the religion which he, the preacher of the Gospel of the Crucified, was to preach, but they lay at the threshold of it ; nay, they could only be attained by it ; without it they were but" a dream, but a theory; by it, and by it alone, could they become substantial realities. These were but the utterances of the voice of the natural man, yet even that, per- haps, the token of the Spirit brooding within on the unresting troubled chaos of the soul. The feeling, God-implanted, which ever had pervaded, still per- vades, arid ever will pervade,' all reasoning hiidianity, all intelligent beings who are made in th« linage of God, as the created being surveys the creation and those who are denizens with himself therein, viz., that there must be a great first cause which is to be feared, and that there must be eternal laws of purity and order which are to be cultivated, for peace on earth. To go n6 further than this, would be to halt at the HISTORY OF PEOBITY tODGE. 275 tbreshold. To ignore this, or never to have felt this ■would be indeed never to enter, because never to find, never to enquire for, never to care about, the golden gates. Sm-ely to satisfy this divinely -implanted craving, Christ came, to make possible this fitful anxious .longing of the soul the Spirit descended and abides. And the Gospel is the satisfaction of an appetite inseparable from all intelligent humanity, the bread of life to those who are hungering for food convenient for them. And what is our Craft but the utterance of this primaeval universal voice; an utterance which has been sounding through all the ages, and is sounding still. Ours is no creed, nothing which is either to supplant or supplement Christianity. It expresses, we believe, -the conviction of the human heart long before the Sun of righteousness arose to dispel the dark Mouds of human ignorance, the thick mists of superstition, — while as yet only solitary individuals amidst all the nations of the world knew and walked with God, before ever God's chosen Israel witnessed to the world, by their solemn ritual, that He had revealed himself to men, though as yet only in a measure, whether as regards knowledge or persons. -■ Unless our traditions are utterly imaginary and 276 HISTORY OF PEOBITT LODGE. fictitious, we believe that our Craft expresses the voice which has been crying since the earliest days of the existence of humanity, the voice, as it were, of one crying in the wilderness, — crying for light, crying for sympathy, crying for order, crying for power. Shaping its ideal by some graphic analogy which seemed to express most distinctly what it had at heart, like the fabled sculptor who, having shaped from the mass of marble his ideal of perfect humanity, looked up to the gods to give the life which he lacked the power to give, and did not look in vain. What then is our ideal ? Surely a commendable one. One which God accepts and which man should therefore acknowledge and honour. To fear God and work righteousness is the raison d^etre^ the essence, the aim of our Craft. We but represent generations and generations of thoughtful earnest men who have felt the same ; yes, and of thousands amongst them who have embraced or prized Christianity, because they have found therein and thereby that which their souls lusted after. If our "clothing" is quaint, our diction con- ventional, our ritual archaic, they simply illustrate that which I have endeavoured to indicate; they simply refer to the time at which and the means by HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 277 which the great principles which our Craft has ever held and desired to promote were embodied and classified and given intelligible and lawful form and utterance. It were surely nothing irreverent nor incongruous that men should perceive, in their simple handicraft, an analogy of that after which their soul was longing, that in the sure foundation laid, the stones carefully prepared and accurately fitted, and the mntnal order and co-operation of the. several degrees of Craftsmen essential thereto, they should see types and expressions of those principles which they felt essential to the peace and stability of daily life, and should adopt them as illustrations and exponents of those principles of faith, and order, and conduct, which they would inculcate and practice. If the weapons of warfare became, in mediaeval times, the epic of Chivalry, surely it is not strange if, in more ancient days, the implements of a peaceful and necessary craft became the epic of Freemasonry. And is it unreasonable that men should have sought to fence their order from the prying gaze, the officious interference, the ridicule, sarcasm, and contempt of those who had neither part nor lot with them in the matter, by signs and tokens which should not shut in secrets which they were ashamed to acknowledge, but 278 HISTORY OP FEOBITY LODGE. exclude from their community any but those who had given solemn pledges of their sincerity to the truths and principles which they would fain preserve un- tampered with and inviolate. Look back, through the long vista of past years, into the dark ages, when civilization was scarce, when the world seemed peopled with a very race of Ishmaels, each man's hand against every man and every man's hand against him,^ — when the foundations of the earth seemed out of course, when violence and lust were for the most part simply limited by opportunity and controlled by capacity — when rapine and plunder were the rule rather than tiie exception, and there flourished, in all its cruelty and enormity, " That good old plan, " That those should take who have the power, " That tliose should keep who can." and when troubled Spirits sighed for the wings of a dove that they might flee away and be at rest. Shall we despise or scorn any of their simple efforts who strove, according to their lights and opportunities, to mitigate the trials or provide for the needs of men in these dark and troublous times. Shall we cut the cord of love and trust and order, whose strands, drawn together from all corners and all nations of the earth, HISTOKY OF PROBITY LODGE. 279 are twined together in one bond of fellowship which runs like, a golden thread adown the lapse of time ? Is it a condemnation that all our members have not always grasped this high ideal ; but, for less exalted motives, have become members of our Craft? Is there occasion for contempt because our fellowship has been abused, and made occasions merely for conviviality, and even for excess ? Shall we be ropildiated because, in other lands, never in our own. Privy Councils of our order may have provided opportunities for plots and conspiracy ? Shall we forfeit the respect and confidence of the men of this generation, because the reputation of all the members of our Craft has not been always spotless ; because men can put their fingers upon some blots in our community, and say, ^^Ex uno, disce omnes?^^ Nay, but what community of imperfect and frail humanity can stand a criticism so scathing, a require- ment so exacting ? What body of men are free from mixed motives; what flock, not excepting the flock of the great Shepherd Himself, is altogether without black sheep ? That we do not profess a form of godli- ness while we deny the power thereof, is manifest from our deeds as well as words, our schools for thfe young, our refuges for the aged, our seasonable and 280 HISTOBY OF PEOBITY LODGE. substantial help to almost innumerable cases of distress. That our gatherings are conducted in harmony with true religion, is manifest from the number of clergy- men amongst us. That they are compatible with true loyalty, from the fact that the Heir apparent to the throne is our Grand Master, and that members of his family are our brothers too. If we still seek to ensure that none but those who are at one with us should be members of our order, is there any cause for blame that we are endeavouring, by the maintenance of the ancient custom of our predecessors, to secure for our- selves simply what other communities are endeavour- ing, in their own particular way also, to secure. But it may be urged that these things are now out of date. What our predecessors professed to seek, has been found, what they essayed to provide has been, long ago, established, and that, therefore, for all practical purposes, in these practical days, our Craft may well be swept away as something which has served its purpose, and is effete. I venture, on the contrary, to submit that such a community as ours, with its high object, its long history and its grand traditions, is as much, if not more than ever, needed. It is an age, forsooth, of civilization and light and knowledge. But is it not HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 281 an age also which, in its specious self-sufficiency, is spurning the old principles for -which our fathers laboured, aye, bled and died, and pressing on in quest of new and vague theories which are to supersede these dry and played out superstitions and convention- alities, and to be the religious and political creed of the future. When the recognition of a God is being swept away from our legislature — when the voice from the Throne no longer exhorts, at each assize, the people to morality and purity, — when "National education" is becoming, more and more, mere Secular instruc- tion, — when an invertebrate and jelly-fish Agnosticism is paraded as the panacea for all the differences concerning the faith, — when the infinite and incom- prehensible mysteries of Heaven are to be subjected by finite minds to a captious Positivism, — when things Secular and things Sacred are being separated as by a gulf impassable, — when the wise men of the day meet in Congress, and the very mention of the name and existence of a God is hushed as at variance with' scientific enquiry, — when a pseudo - liberality is clamouring that the Church shall be disestablished and that the last traces of any national acknowledg- ment of God shall be plotted out,-^is it a time to L2 282 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. disparage those who, at least, put the being and attributes of God in the forefront of their Society, and never meet without His name and attributes being frequently and reverently uttered, and the Bible, " the centre light of Masonry," open in the lodge. When morality is depreciated, and the papers, day by day, contain the unsavoury records of impurity, dishonesty and vice, — is it a time to discourage and look coldly on an Association whose members are pledged to respect the laws of chastity and honour, and the dignity and obligation of which are rehearsed at almost every meeting. When order is derided, and submission to anything or anybody is coming to be disregarded as antago- nistic to freedom and intelligence, and ancient loyalty is rapidly disappearing under the name of modern independence, — is it a time to set at nought that which still, as throughout many generations, sets forth the beauty and power and liberty of discipline, obedience and subordination. In days when the storms of Political and Religious controversy are piping so loudly that those who are actuated by the same motives and have the same ends in view, are sundered wide as the Poles, and regard HISTORY OF PROBITY LODOE. 283 each other as Heathen and Publicans, or turn aside, disgusted thereat, to deem Eeligion and Patriotism alike to be shams, — or when distinctions of social rank and position must make many strangers to each other, who are one in heart and hope as they are by name and in profession, — is it not surely something that there is one place in the world where these considerations do not enter, a neutral ground, where, without any unreality or compromise, man meets his fellow-man and learns to know him apart from any differences or unequalities which prevail, and must prevail without, and thus to cultivate those feelings of mutual kindness and respect which, if they do not prevent, shall at least leaven and soften any differ- ences in the oulside world for the future. Say, ye lovers of your country, ye lovers of your Lord, is it a time to disband or disparage a community where, not from mere Ecclesiastical or professional lips, but from men of all classes and callings amongst us, the young may hear the principles of religion and virtue and morality continually rehearsed and extolled. Surely, my brethren, the temper of the times calls for something exactly opposite to this. From those who are not of us, it demands respect; from those who are members, it requires that we should be more 284 HISTORY OP PRoBITr LODGE. than ever circumspect in our lives and conversations, more than ever careful to proclaim and to promote the principles which our Fathers through many- generations have i:ried and proved. O, my brethren, my twofold brethren, brethren in the faith and in the craft, the appeal to us is to make the principles which we profess more than ever realities. If our craft had been nrere antiquated pageantry, mere parading of costumes, mere histrionic ceremonial, we. had no place here to-day, and my tongue had been silent on such a subject in this holy place ; but, because I believe it is far otherwise, and that it has been, is still, and may be made far more than it is, a mighty engine for the religious, moral and social stability of our nation, I rejoice to acknowledge myself as one amongst you, and to speak to you here, and from hence, to-day. The times are too momentous for mere trifling, however harmless or picturesque that trifling may be ; and words, however commendable and portentous, if they are but words, had better remain unspoken. It is said that every Institution in these days is on its trial : and Free- masonry therefore among the rest ; and men are watching and asking " what mean ye by this service," ' HISTORY OP PEOBITt LODGE. 286 and forming their own opinions as to whether it is worthy to be preaerved, or relegated to the tinsel and fripperies of the past. And better that it should not be preserved, than that, in these days of terrible earnestness, alike for good as for evil, we should still retain solemn words and significant ritual, which have lost their meaning and cease to have any hold upon the life and conver- sation. It is not enough to assert the antiquity of our order in the past, its efficiency for the present ; it is not enough to point to the roll of honoured and illustrious names which fill or have filled our ranks ; it is not enough to claim for it an expediency in the present days, and to prove all these things, even to a demonstration. It will be weighed, and is being weighed, in a sterner, less sentimental, and sometimes less friendly balance, and by what we ourselves individually are, not bj what we profess our Craft to be, it will be approved or condemned as regards its worthiness to be professed by Christian men. And if we would walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise men, we must take heed to ourselves. There are, as there must be in every ancient com- munity, deteriorations which need restoring, abuses which need reforming, principles, forgotten or over- 286 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. looked, which need to be re-asserted and re-affirraed. We have, as all communities have, our peculiar besetting dangers and temptations ; we are liable to be discredited by false brethren, and by those who, from selfishness or indiflference, expose us to obliqiiy and contempt. It is possible to pervert even the soundest principles and the wisest aims, and we, like all others, have to bear in mind the Apostle's signifi- cant caution, "let not your good be evil spoken of." Much has been done to reform, to cleanse, to restore and give increased efficiency to our order, and we can thankfully and boldly declare, what so many of our national institutions may declare, that very many of the blemishes and shortcomings of former days have long ago become things of the past. But it is never the time to fold our hands and rest contented ; never the time to assume that we are perfect, that we are doing all we ought to do or can do with the means and opportunities in our hands. I believe that a great future is open before our Craft, in the coming difficulties and complications of the future, if we will only be faithful and loyal members thereof. And that, as we may look back upon the past with grati- tude and pride, so we may look forward to the future with confidence and pleasure. The more genuine we HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 287 are, the better we shall be appreciated, and the mis- understandings and misrepresentations about us, which are fast dying out, will take their place amongst the " old wives' fables " of the past. The best and only- answer to such calumnies is ourselves ; and according as others estimate our daily life, will they form their opinion as to whether that to which we belong is, or is not, unworthy or unbecoming. " Is thine heart right as mine heart is with thine heart,' if it be, give me thine hand." And surely the touch will not defile us, even if our brother be neither almost nor altogether such as we are. Nor will " hand join in hand " in vain, if one troubled heart, wearied with " the burden and heat of the day," or buffeted by the storms of life, be assured thereby of another's sympathy, — or if one weaker brother's tottering steps be upheld and guided as he treads, with failing heart and bewildered eye, the *' slippery places " of life. Surely it is something that we have been brought here together, hand in hand to-day, and who can tell whether the brotherhood, thus sanctified, may not be cemented by the common fellowship of the bread of life, and find its even fuller and closer unity at the altar of the living God. For here is the fulness of our profession, for hence proceeds 283 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. the full harvest of the fruit which we would culti- vate. Brethren of the Craft, with all reverence be the words spoken and applied, " many prophets and kings desired to see the things which ye see and have not seen them, and to hear those things which you hear and have not heard them." What they desired was but, to them, a mirage on the horizon of life, but an ignis fatuus in their path, something which they saw, desired, wondered at, but could never really attain to, never hold within their grasp. To us it is no impalpable vision, but a great reality, — no fond and impracticable theory, but what is possible and profit- able for all; for the eye which longs to find God and holiness and order and unity, sees Him who has said " I am the way, the truth, and the life," and the ear which is listening for some encouragieraent to cravings of the heart, hears the voice which says, " If any man thirst let him come unto me and drink." Yes, my brethren, our Craft remains to remind us continually of what men yearned for in the past ; what the imperfect vision of those who could but "see men as trees walking," discerned to be the outline of that which was necessary for the peace of the human heart. The brightness of the Gospel light HISTOEY OF PROBITY LODGE. 289 has revealed tlie fulness and practicability of its details in all their beauty, stability and satisfaction. The former is the attestation of antiquity to the truth of the claim of the latter to be a " reasonable service." The former shews us man's estimate by nature of what was needful for his welfare, and how he turned to the ancient dispensation which partially, but only partially, provided for it. The latter exhibits the full satisfaction thereof, and offers to all who are really hungering and thirsting after righteousness the means of living it, i.e. the Bread of Life. And so when men taunt us with questionings and doubts, and, offering their crude theories and stilted precepts, invite us to barter our birthright for a mess of pottage, we cling to the principles of ages in preference to the aphorisms of yesterday, and the speculations of to-day. And, conscious that in our Craft we have the sound ideal, and in our Faith the unfailing power of a really noble, wise, pure, and useful life, we abide where God has called us, in thankfulness and peace. The preacher made reference to the Lodge of Probity, in connection with which the Jubilee cele- bration was being held. Ho was glad to see that M2 290 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. they had got the word "Probity" in the forefront of their society. It was an old-fashioned word, and it meant, if he understood it rightly, the same as honesty and sincerity. It meant that all those who were members of the Lodge should be what they seemed to be. He had glanced through the records of the Lodge, and found that in 1764 the members bore a part of the expense of providing a suitable organ for the Halifax Parish Church, thereby indi- cating their true desire and intention to promote harmony. In 1809, the Jubilee year of George III., a special effort was made by them to commemorate that event, and a sum of money was raised for the Halifax Dispensary. This again indicated the existence of a spirit of true loyalty and of genuine philan- thropy. In 1815, the Lodge took the initiative in bringing together the Lodges of the district into one united brotherhood. In 1838, the brethren attended this Church to celebrate the Centenary of the Lodge. Those might seem meagre details for so long a period, but like the feather on the~water, they showed the way the stream was running, and in this case he believed it was running iu the right direction. HISTORY or PROBITY LODGE. 291 la conclusion, the preacher asked the brethren to maintain the high prestige of their Lodge, and to make it even more deserving of confidence and respect in the future than it had been in the past. He urged them to make it what it ought to be in this nineteenth century, and what it should be under the eyes of the intelligent and watchful men of this generation. The offertory was in aid of the sick and poor of the parish. After the service, the brethren re-formed in reverse order, and proceeded to the Masonic Hall, where refreshments were served. This record of the Third Jubilee Celebration con- cludes the history of the Lodge of Probity ; the event was also Celebrated by holding other meet- ings of a social character, and also by the present publication. The Lodge's fortunes have been of a varied character; at times it has risen to the height of prosperity, whilst again we have seen it on the verge of extinction. At one time it was scarcely able to hold together, having but five members, whilst later on it had more than a hundred, and it concludes the hundred and fiftieth year of its existence with ninety- five members on its roll. Since the minutes were 292 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. commenced, there have been six hundred members enrolled. The brethren have been at times animated with a desire to make their influence felt, and Freemasonry in West Yorkshire would not be what it is to-day had it not been for the previous efforts of some of the members of the Lodge of Probity. It has been said that history is the experience of mankind. We have here the history of the Lodge of Probity, — let us hope we may profit by the experiences of the brethren, — that a knowledge of their faults may be a guard to our actions, and an acquaintance with their excellencies may be a stimulus to us, so that we may strive to imitate them, and " thus main- tain pure and unsullied the genuine tenets and principles of the Order." So mote it be. H. C. ppniiini List of Members taken from Minute Books since 1762. Those marked * are Joining Members. Name. Occupation. Residence. Initiated. John Senior, Founder of the Lodge. William Newby Merchant . . Skircoat Green, Halifax W.M. 1762 Pressic Darby Printer & Publisher Halifax . . 8.W. „ James Sindson Inn Keeper Eose and Crown, Halifax J.W. „ John Hindson Halifax Nov. 16, 1762 William Finch • > 24 „ *Sutcli£f Shipley William Appleyard . . *Joha Lightfoot • • . . . . Jan. 8, 1763 *William Qream Gentleman HeathHall, Skircoat Feb. 23 „ Abraham , Woodhead )) • • WhinneyHaU,Shelf Mar. 23 „ William Norris Merchant and In- surance Agent Southgate, Halifax » )) » Northend Nichol Captain 54th Foot, Lt.CoLofHudders- field Volunteers Elland June 8 „ William Medley Overseer . . Halifax . . 1} t} n Samuel Lord 9J >f It WUliam Simpson . . Merchant and Manufacturer Heath, Halifax . . June 24 „ William Foster July 27 „ Samuel Staniforth . . Aug. 10 „ Miles Flesber • • • • • • Oct. 26 „ Eobert Parker Attorney-at-Law . . Calico Hall, Halifax Nov. 24 „ Francis Bairstow Dec. 28 „ Joshua Poole Manufacturer Halifax „ 30 „ John Hardcastle Mar. 28, 1764 Thomas Wilkinson . . Halifax '.'. '.'. July 11 „ Elkanah Hoyle Trustee of Water- works >) • • • • ,, 25 „ John Hillhouse . . ~ .. It )V a — Bamage . , , . '.'. '.'. F.C. Sept. 25 „ Thomas Banbury . . Coventry . , Oct. 28 „ Eichard Ehodes Merchant , , Halifax . . Dec. 5 „ John Sprawl „ 12 ,, HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 295 Name. Occupation. , *William Eaircloth . *George Hazard William Crowther . James Wadsworth . — Binns Adam Stuart Joseph Benson Thomas Pickering . Thomas Holdsworth lEohert Dean James Dyson Eev. James Norris . John Hillhouse William Parker Edward Kilvington . John Whitacre Thomas Bolton Thomas Pife pMichael Atkinson . Isaac Hodgson John Cartwright Edward Benson John Johnson *Wmiam Croft *William Aked Eobert Hide Aaron Manby Bartholomew Hodgson William Johnson Wilkinson Pool John Holmes William Hardisty . , John Hardisty William Wetherhead Joseph Walker Thomas Smith Joseph Taylor John Taylor Samuel Illingworth . John Lane . . Joseph Anderson James McKiunel John LongstafI Stuff Manufacturer Linen Draper Gentleman Residence. Manufacturer Stone Mason and Contractor Clerk Mason Soap Boiler Tallow Chandler Stuff Maker Shalloon Maker Wool Stapler Yeoman . . Shalloon Maker Inn Keeper Erringden Halifax Astie (Ash Day), South. Owram Ovenden . . Huddersfield Halifax . Wakefield i» • Longwood House . Ovenden . . Initiated. Leeds Eipon King Cross Lane, Halifax Halifax Halifax Keighley Halifax Keighley . . Norland . . Huddersfield Dec. 12, 1764 „ 27 „ Peb. 13, 1766 „ 17 Mar. 13 April 10 May 8 „ 13 >) II Sept. 11 11 I) Oct. 24 May 14, July 9 Dec. 10 >> 1766 April 13, 1768 ft t1 )• July II, Mar. 13, Jan. 10, 1770 1771 1772 Oct. 14 Deo. 14, Feb. 8, June 28 Peb. 26, ») »» Mar. 11 1774 1776 1778 UuionCross, Halifax Torig Hall April 8 „ May 13 ,, Aug. 21 „ .. 12 „ £)ec. 14 „ II 28 ,, Peb. 8, 1779 June 14 ■ ,, 11 28 „ 296 HISTORY OF PROBITY LOBGE. Name. Occupation. Residence. Initiated. Mark Khodes June 28, 1779 Michael Atkinson . . July 12, 1780 Thomas Hudson Ironmonger Huddersfield Oct. 11 „ *Cha8. Geo. Plowman }9 If J) J. Wadsworth Attorney-at-Law . . Huddersfield July 12 „ William Edwards, Jr. Wool Stapler, Hali- fax Commissioner Cheapside, HaHfax Dec. 27 „ Charles Grace Keighley . . April 11, 1781 Thomas Boothroyd . . Halifax Mar. 13, 1782 John Sutcliffe Halifax Commiss"'- 17 « • • • April 10 „ M. Bachine . . June 27 „ George Woodhead . . May 14, 1783 Thomas Binns Dec. 27 „ William Atkinson ; , Nov. 10, 1784 James Taylor Merchant . . Halifkx .' .* „ 9, 1785 John Whitaker Dec. 14, „ J. Simpson . . • • ■ • Mar. 14, 1787 Samuel Fox . . Huddersfield II it 11 — Palmer Feb. 13, 1788 Joseph Mason Grocer 01dMarket,Halifax fi If 1} William Gregory ,, • • • ■ Corn Mrkt., Halifax ij J) ii J. Milner Overseer . . HaHfax . . June 11 „ John Addison Dec. 10 „ Eichard Brown Feb. 11, 1789 Charles Chambers , , Brighouse June 15 „ Thomas Holden Halifax Trustee . . Halifax . . ?] >i it James Wier . . July 2 „ ■ — Marsh Aug. 12 „ William Whitaker . , Dec. 31 „ James Coupland Sept. 10 „ John Taylor . . Dec. 31 „ John Aked . . Joiner Bradford . . April 14, 1790 Thomas Eawlinson . . Surveyor . . Halifax Sept. 10 „ Thomas Bradley Engineer . . New Eoad, Halifax >> » () John Wilson . . )9 }} 3) Lun Jagger . . Inn Keeper Halifax .. .. '> J> J> John Johnson Sergeant Instructor 37th Foot Nov. 17 „ John Brown . . . . Dec. 30 „ Charles Hopwood . . Eochdale . . Feb. 9, 1791 William Barritt Halifax . . May 11 „ John Parker . , Card Maker ,, • • • . Aug. 10 „ John Barker . . Banker ,1 • ■ . . Oct. 12 „ John Ambler Stationer . . ,j * • ■ > Feb. 8, 1792 Thomas Kighley Merchant . . ,, )) JJ ?) HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 297 Name. Occupation. Residei ice. laitiated. George Emmerson . . Tea Dealer Halifax .. May 20, 1792 Eichard Scholefield . . Card Maker )i » • • • j» 11 f} Christopher Ward . . Plumber . . Bradford . . June 28 „ William Patchett . . Inn Keeper Hepton Br idge .. „ „ „ Stephen Brown Merchant Woodhous ^ * it it if — Nicholson . , Stationer . . Bradford ■ • • it it ' it Joah Crabtree Cooper Halifax .. Aug. 8 „ Edward Smalley Engineer . , Bradford .. Oct. 26 „ Christopher Phillips . . Draper Halifax .. Feb. 13, 1793 James Green , , Inn Keeper M .. AprillO „ John Bown . . Engineer , , Bradford . . June 27 ,, John Lyon Taylor . . Grocer Eochdale • • ' it it it James Howarth Cabinet Maker . . Halifax * * * } ) it a Job Lees Merchant . . >l .. July 31 „ John Haigh . , Glazier f) .. Jan. 8, 1794 John Woodworth . . Stay Maker t1 . . Mar. 12 „ Nicholas Kitchen Gentleman t1 .. April 9 „ George Kitchen Card Maker )J • •• )j ») 1) James Chad wick Hatter MancheBte r .. July 29 ,, Benjamin Thornton . . Mason Driglingtoi 1 ... Sept. 10 „ Samuel Jagger Sadler . . Northgate, Halifax Dec. 10 „ J. McDonald Hamilton ■ ■ • • • • , , .. Nov. 19, 1796 Joshua Aked.. • ■ • • ■ • . Swine Mkt ,HaUfax Dec 9 „ Samuel Emmett Gentleman Halifax . . Nov. 19 „ John Hirst . . Paper Maker EUand .. May 11, 1796 Samuel Dyson J} tt • • Backisland , . June 9 ,, James Frankland . . Joseph McLean 23rd Eegt. Foot '. . Halifax . . June 19 ,, Thomas Poole Cabinet Maker . . it ■ •• it }f ,, Thomas Lowther Allen Capt. 88 Eegt. Eoo t .. Oct. 30 „ Joseph Thomson Lieut. ,, ?j • • •• ij jj )| Eobert Buckley Lieut. ,, ?» ' • • >) J» J) John McDonald Quarter Master „ yt .. Nov. 9 „ Eichard Eobert Brown Ensign „ it Lord George Beresford Captain ,, »» ' ' • • it tt it Samuel Lord Merchant . . i f .. Dec 14 „ A. Conte Bergeroon . . Foreign Clerk }j .. „ 27 „ Thomas Soholes Upliolsterer jt .. April 12, 1797 James Martin lAqf- Merchant , . ff 21 „ William Armitage . . . . .. Mar. 28, 1798 George Carver Farmer near Halif IX . . June 13 ,, John Chambers Card Maker Halifax .. Mar. l3, 1799 Eobert Eamsden f) • jy .. AprillO „ James Brearley M • it . . June 27 ,, Hargreaves Hudson Merchant . . M .. July 10 „ N 2 298 HISTORY OF PEOBITT LODGE. Name. Occupation. Residence. Initiated. Charles Whiteley . . Timber Merchant and Hatter Attomey-at-Law . . Halifax Sept. 10, 1800 Thomas Whiteley . . )> • • • Oct. 8 „ "William Gregory Grocer »> " }> f9 9) Thomas Youd Wool Stapler 1) ■ Dec. 19 „ Thomas Davy Captain of Marines j» • " >* )> John Joseph ZoUer . . Foreign derk >> • I) }) jy John Mc.Crobin Linen Draper II • Thomas Smithies Navy Lieut. Halifax . Ij ^(7 jy James Goodall Corn Dealer )> Jan. 14, 1801 Samnel Winpenny . . Aprill4, 1802 Joseph Bentley Card Maker Halifax ! Mar. 10 „ Joshua Growther Surveyor Highways )i Mar. 9, 1803 H. Schorey . . Merchant . . >) • Jan. 11, 1804 *Ashton Jones Tyler 1804 *John Denton > ■ • Sept. 12, 1804 Joshua Jones Gentleman Halifax . June 28 „ James Mellor ■ • ■ Oct. 10 „ J. Spencer . . • . • ■ Burnley . Dec. 27 „ — Vertue . • a • ■ Sept. 11, 1805 Francis Ingham • • • Oct. 9 „ Thomas Maude ■ • • William McDonald . . • « • Mar. 12, 1806 John gtott . . .. June 11 „ Gates Mann . . Filland . July 9 „ Joseph Sikes . . • ■ > * 1) 99 >> *John Holdsworth Brazier Halifax . . June 17, 1807 *James Eoyston Wire Drawer >> • * If )• » *Benjamin Smith Cabinet Maker . . y* • . Aug. 12 „ Jonathan Illingworth Book Keeper >i • Oct. 14 „ Hartley Murgatroyd Card Maker » . Dec. 30 „ *Daniel Hemingway . . >l • . Feb. 10, 1808 *Christopher Eawson. . Banker »> • May 11 „ *John Thompson, M.B Physician . . »> • . June 8 „ William Huntriss . . Cotton Merchant . . Skircoat . . Aug. 4 „ John Gailick Banker Halifax . O '• John Sutcliffe Liquor Merchant . . » )J »> >> *J. Hall Feb. 8, 1809 George Balmforth . . EllMid May 10 „ James Jackson Cotton Weaver . . Horton Aug. 9 „ WiUiam Wooler Com Dealer MeardoughBottom Norland , Oct. 11 „ John Sheard . , Wire Drawer Elland . . }| )) ff Jeremiah Holroyd . . Plaisterer . . HaJifax Sept. 2, 1810 Michael Garlick Stationer , . 7) • ■ >) )> 11 HISTORY OE PROBITY LODGE. 299 Name. John Bradley Joseph Green Enoch Bottomley *— HelliweU *James Speak *William Bates Frederick Simpson Charles Viokerman Henry Wilson *Thomas Bradley *Witliam Johnston Nathan Whitley Danl. Holgate Sugden *Thoma8 Smith Benjamin Wood Holden Hammerton William Holdsworth James Akroyd •Joseph Brook , . John Blomley Eershaw Holroyd . . John Holroyd •Nathaniel Wainhouse George Hainswprth . . John Gibson Jones . . Samuel Thwaite John Buckley Adam Cockcroft Jonas Patchett John Gbaveson Joseph Webster A. Cockcroft . . Thomas Chambers . . William MaUalieu . , George Irvine William Bates John Shepherd •John SutclifFe •William Barker •Squire Barker . . •Eichard Harrison , . •Abram Barker Thomas Casson , , Occupation, Hardwareman Corn Dealer Music Master Carrier Card Maker Inn Keeper Book Keeper Stationer . , Musician . . Card Maker Cabinet Maker Attomey-at-Law Banker Worsted Manufacturer Sadler Woollen Manufacturer Sadler Stationer , . Victualler . . Planter Banker Cotton Merchant Clerk Banker Draper Victualler . . Cotton Spinner , Draper Wool Stapler Paper Maker ■Liquor Merchant , Mechanic . . II House Steward Overlooker Inn Keeper Residence. Huddersfield II Halifax Halifax i> Huddersfield Halifax Leeds Halifax Ovenden Halifax Bury, Lancashire Halifax Demarary Halifax II Todmorden Halifax )i II Eipponden Keighley Halifax Rishworth Halifax. .Ee-joined Ovenden Halifax Ovenden Halifax Initiated. June 27, July 11 I, 2, returns Sept. 3, Aug. 6 Oct. 1 Dec. 3 Mar. 13, Feb. 23, Mar. 16 June 1 II II Deo. 7 Oct. 1, I, 10 Dec. 5 1811 1812 1814 1812 1814 1815 1816 12, 1819 26 „ Jan. 1, „ 22 Dec. 12 June 6, Nov. 23 Feb. 2, I, 8 Mar. 1 Dec. 13 Feb. 7, April 4, I) 11 Nov. 7 Aug. 7, Oct. 29 June 17, July 21, Sept. 28, Aug. 9, I) II Dec. 31, 1818 II 1820 1821 II 11 1822 II I) 1823 1824 1825 1829 1830 1830 300 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. Kame. *William Stephenson Joseph Etchells Geo. Edward Brown Joseph Matthews WilHam Huntriss, Jr. John Bagnold William Skaife *Williatn Eamsbottom Joseph Moxon Kirk . , Joseph Hopkinson , . *John Denniston Joseph Chamberlain Charles Clay Henry Wrigley Eobert Mercer Thomas Firth T. Watson Nicholson Joseph Holroyd Andrew Frazier *Samuel Peel *William Duckworth , WiUiam Walsh James Thornber Thomas Hirons Joseph Simpson John Ingham Thomas Styring J. Andrew Greenwood Thomas' Fawcett George Atkinson Dickenson Edelston , John Holland *A. Levain *George Bagley Eli Walker Shaw . Saml. Harper Walker William Barber James Fielding Benj. Wm. Holroyd Joseph Sugden Joseph Hy. Frobisher Isaac Dewhirst Samuel Howarth Jonathan Dennieon Eichard Price Occupation. Residence. Initiated. Banksman Halifax July 11, 1831 Overlooker Ovenden . . Aug. 8 „ Book Keeper Halifax" . . Feb. 13, 1832 Wool Stapler >) • • • • 7t • • • • May 14 „ Clerk JJ • • • ■ Jan. 14, 1833 Linen Draper J» . . • . I) 11 n Silk Dyer . , 11 • • • • Feb. 11 „ Book Keeper 11 • • • • April 8 „ Spirit Merchant . . 1) Aug. 12 „ Gentleman 11 ■ ' • ■ Sept. 9 „ Miller It • • • • Nov. 1 „ Attorney's Clerk . . 11 • • • • April 12, 1834 Spinner )( - J> »> )J " Plumber . . 17 • • • • July 13, 183.5 Maltster . . EUand Aug. 10, „ Inn Keeper Halifax Feb. 8, 1836 Woollen Draper . . 11 ■ « • . Nov. 11 „ Deputy Constable 11 • • • . Feb. 9, 1838 Shopkeeper Shelf April 13 „ Shoe Maker Halifax . . J1 IT )t Porter Merchant . . jf • ■ • t Feb. 14, 1839 Chymist . . }f * * • • »J »» J) Inn Keeper J» • • • • Mar. 6 „ Traveller . . Northowram July 8 „ Cashier Halifax . . Mar. 6, 1840 Wine Merchant , . fj * ■ • > May -11 „ Tailor jj • • • • June 15 ,, Stone Mason Elland . , July 13 „ Grocer Halifax Sept. 11 „ Dyer 11 • . Oct. 11, 1841 Wool Stapler Stead House Aug. 8, 1842 Brandy Merchant London Dec. 5 „ Manufacturer Stainland . . 11 )> )> Oct. 10 „ Worsted Spinner . . 11 • • ■ • Dec. 12 „ Card Maker Southowram Drysalter . . Sowerby Bridge . . ',! 28 ',', Wool Stapler Halifax .. ' .. Feb. 13, 1843 Traveller- . . Sowerby Bridge . . Mar. 3 „ Organist , . Halifax ,. .. Manufacturer Ovenden . . April 12 „ Cotton-band Maker Halifax . . ,, Ir 77 Manufacturer J7 • • ■ * J) >) J> 10 ,, Traveller . , Manchester T 7 -' J? July 9 „ HISTORY OF PEOBITT LODGE, 301 Name. John Gledhill Charles Child Thomas Blackburn Jno. Denton Whiteley James Crossley Joseph Barber Thomas Jackson William Coverdale . James Higginbottom John Wallis . . Luke Crossley James Inglis, M.B. . John Maitland George Dyson J. Stansfield Eawson C. Holdsworth Dawson James W. Carter Lawrence Bramley Thomas Wm. Eawson Thomas Bobson James Hervey Edward John Eudd . George Hirst Geo. Thomas Pollard Jno. Herbert Mitchell Henry Green John Prest . . Charles Gledhall . WiUiam Carter Samuel Dean Daniel Carter Eobert Forbes Thomas Parker Hanson Ormerod •Lewis Hodgson Albert Eskell James Holroyd Thomas Eobertshaw Edward Cockerham . *Matthew Smith Elkanah Holroyd , William Dean Samuel Parker Richard Carter George Holdsworth . Oooupation. Biltton Manufactr Architect . . Dyer Manufacturer Dyer Card Maker Worsted Spinner Spirit Merchant Spinner Oilcloth Maker Dyer Physician . . Druggist . . Solicitor . . Merchant . . Spinner Book Keeper Surgeon , . Merchant . , Gentleman Broker Solicitor . , Wool Stapler Merchant . , Solicitor . . Wool Stapler Draper Solicitor . , Surveyor . . Gentleman Draper Chemist . . Wine Merchant Dentist Surgeon . . Carrier Book Keeper Surgeon , . Manufacturer Mason Surveyor . . Manufacturer Residence. Halifax Stainland Sowerby North owr am Salterhebble Ovenden . . Sowerby Bridge EUand Halifax Scausby Lightcliffe . Halifax Halifax Manchester Halifax Sowerby Bridge Halifax Ovenden Halifax Initiated. Sept. 13, Oct. 1 1 June 14 Mar. 13 Jan. 1 Mar. 13 Dec. 13 Jan. 26, Feb. 14 >i >) July 1 1843 1844 15 22 „ 29 „ 26 Oct. 14 ,. 21 Nov. 25 II )) Dec. 30 Feb. 24, Mar. 24 June 16 II i> Aug. 11 Feb. 9, Mar. 9 July 13 Oct. 5 • July 13 Aug. 3 Nov. 3 „ 30 1845 1846 302 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. Name. Occupation. Residence. Initiated. Matthew Bland Cabinet Maker . . Halifax . . Nov. 5, 1846 John Eowbottom Surgeon . , Brighouse Dec. 28 „ Joseph Chappel Draper Halifax Mar. 8, 1847 Jonathan Yickerman Tailor & Draper . . If * • ■ ■ Mar. 8 „ Edward Aked Surgeon . . Luddenden June 8 „ John Barher Card Maker Larkfield, Brighouse Aug. 2 „ Joseph Barber Solicitor . . Brighouse 1) >» »» Francis H. Nicholson Draper HaHfax . . ,. 20 „ James Edward Norris Solicitor . . ?) • • • • Sept. 20 „ James Uriah Walker Printer J} ■ * ■ * ^^ Henry Edwards M.P. for Halifax . . ») • • • ■ Oct. 1 ',', John Eichard Ingram Solicitor . , »» • • }i )f fl Thomas Perkinton . . Land Surveyor . . >» • • ■ • )} 1^ If Joseph Dawson Hair Dresser M Nov. 22 „ WiUiam Kothwell .. Gentleman M * * ■ * Dec. 20 „ John Heape . . Grocer »> • • • ' *f }* H *Oourtney K. Clarke Gentleman Sowerby , . Oct. 18 „ *Wimam Elliott Surgeon , , . . Sowerby Bridge . . Nov. 22 „ John Hugh Kershaw Druggist . . Halifax , . Feb. 19, 1848 William Smith Dyer 1) • • ■ . Oct. 9 „ Michael Stocks Cornet 1st Eegt. Dragoon Guards >» • • Jan. 8, 1849 *Charles Wright Attorney's Clerk , . >) • ' • • )} t> }} Thomas James Shaw Plaisterer-. . )> . • . . Mar. 5 „ Henry Haigh Gentleman »i • • • • ,, 12 „ John Wm. Johnson . . Acting Adjutant 2nd W. Y. Yeo. Cav'T- )> ■ • April 2 „ Matthias Smith Dyer )) . . • . IJ )> 1} James Eranklin Solicitor . . j> . . • . May 7 „ William Sutcliffe . . Wine Merchant . . _ )) April 18 „ Henry Chas. Greame Gentleman Liverpool . . )« ft }) Hugh Beck . . Brewer Halifax . . Oct. 1 „ Alfred Lof tua Coml. Traveller . . Knaresborough . . Dec. 26 „ Denton Whiteley , . Manufacturer Stainland . . Sept. 16, 1850 William Chas. Stead Clerk Halifax Mar. 17, 1851 Edward Leyland Manufacturer )> »> - »j ?i Joseph Richardson . . Dyer >> . . • . April 14 „ John Eeid . . Book Keeper Cripplegate, Halifax Feb. 2, 1852 Thomas Smith »» >> _ • • Square Ed., „ Mar. 29 „ *Swallow Leyland Worsted Spinner . . Halifax . . 1} )I M Thomas Harrison . . Surgeon . . J) • . • . June 28 „ Chas. Ed. Parkinson Merchant . . Bradford .. Dec. 12 „ J. H, Warneford, M.A. Clerk in HolyOrders Salterhebble Jan. 23, 1833 Edwin Taylor Painter Halifax . . April 18 „ Thomas Duncan Woollen Draper , . >j . . . . July 18 „ HISTORY or PEOBITY LODGE. 303 Name. Occupation. Thomas Dickson George Jackson . John B. Thornber . William Stott Benjamin Wild *Charles Musgrave . *William Smith, Jr. . «William Paley, M.B. *Jas. Pearson Ambler *C. J. Buckley Henry Cawthron *Thomas Fawthrop . John Fisher . . Bamsden Biley Frederick Eoper Edward AspinaU George Haigh . William Horn Edward Thos. Monk G. W. Stephenson . Michael John Holroyd Joshua Thos. Horton Joseph Henry Ogden *James Fisher William Keith Jonas Deamley Taylor John Stott . , Francis E. Sowerby. Charles Emmet Frederick Smith *Isaac Booth . . *James Daniel Gates . Henry George Davy T. H. C. Scratcherd . John D. Hutchinson Antoine M. Bulureaux *James Hope, M.A. . William Tasker *John Watson Joseph Shoesmith . Geo. Fredk. Smeeton Alfred Wilson Accountant Tailor . . Clerk Woollen Manufact^' Coml. Traveller Vicar of Halifax Coml. Traveller Physician . . Solicitor Commission Agent Chemist Surgeon . . Bank Manager Engraver . . Ironmonger Stone Merchant Gentleman Civil Engineer Silk Spinner Civil Engineer Spirit Merchant Gentleman Wool Stapler Banker Pawnbroker Accountant Engraver . . Publisher . . Residence. Initiated. Halifax Greetland . Halifax Lightclifife Halifax Solicitor . . Wire Manufacturer Surveyor . . Architect . . Wine and Spirit Merchant Card Maker Prof, of Languages Clerk in HolyOrders Patent Agent School Master Auctioneer Ironmonger Auctioneer Southowram Halifax »» Brighouse Halifax Howroyde, Barkisiand Halifax Leeds Halifax The Bowers, Barkisland Halifax Leeds Halifax Copley Halifax Aug. 29, „ 15 Sept. 12 Oct. 17 Dec. '12 Oct. 10 Sept. 12 „ 9 Mar. 13, Feb. 13 » 26, >) >> Oct. 22 Feb. 18, April 24 Nov. II Feb. 2, July 6 Feb. 2, 1853 14, 1854 1855 1856 1857 1858 1859 Nov. 7 „ Dec. 5 „ April 30, 1860 >, >i >> »> >> >> Oct. 14, 1861 Nov. 11 „ Jan. 13, 1862 Feb. 2 . Mar. 3 April 14 ,, July 7 „ Aug. 4 „ Dec. 1, 1863 Mar. 3 ,, April 27 „ June 29 ,, >' >> )) Nov. 23 ,, 304 HISTOBY OP PHOBITY LODGE. Kame. *John Edwin Gates . . Benjamin W. Shaw Benjamin W. Jackson Henry Gaukroger . . James Obery Fielding *Wm. Walsh Cusworth Joseph Walton Wallis *Edwin Moore Thomas Crowther . Adam 0. Foster *Cyrus Brook . . Benjamin Musgrave Bryan Dale, M.A. . *Eobert J. Stansfield *John Sykes . . Eustace Wigzell Eobert D. Kendall . ^Joseph Hall . . Henry Jas. Franklin George Wheelwright Francis Crossley Charlton Barber Ed. M. Wavell, Jr, Frederick Walker *John Richardson *Francis W. Crossley Horace M. Smith Joseph A. Synott Thomas Crossley John Crossley, Jr. George Appleyard Charles F. Kirkby William Nowell H. B. Hall, D.C.L. Charles Abercrombie Frederick Crossley William Dewhirst ♦Charles Denham Edward John !Rudd Edward Snepp Saml. Green Webster Joseph Gaukroger . . George Henry Wavell Eobert Crone Wilford Eobert S. Town Occupation. Architect . . Manufacturer Architect . . Card Maker Drysalter . , Surgeon Oilcloth Manufactr. Surgeon . . Solicitor . , Spinner Carpet Manufactu' Independ*- Minister Capt. Scots Greys Wool Stapler Engineer . . Chemist Clerk in HolyOrders Solicitor . . Commission Agent Carpet Manufactu' Card Maker Solicitor . . Engineer . . Drysalter . . Solicitor . . Doctor of Medicine Drysalter . , Wool Stapler Worsted Manuf act"" Cloth „ Surgeon . . Clerk in HolyOrders Manufacturer Dyer Worsted Spinner . Stone Merchant . Clerk in HolyOrders Brewer Card Maker Law Student Clerk in HolyOrders Manufacturer Besidence. Halifax Stainland . . Halifax J? • • Sowerby Bridge Halifax Sowerby Bridge Halifax Luddenden Halifax Sowerby . , Halifax Sowerby Bridge Halifax Lambeth Halifax Southowram Halifax Sowerby '. Halifax Bridge Leeds Halifax Wainstalls Leeds Halifax )» • Brighouse . EUand »j • Halifax Tasmania . Halifax Lindley, Huddersfi'^- Skircoat, Halifax . . Initiated. Nov. 23, Mar. 21, April 18 May 16 June 13 „ 18 Sept. 12 Nov. 7 >> )> May 8, Sept. 4 Oct. 30 Feb. 26, )j »» April 26 jj ji May 28 Sept. 9, Oct. 9 Nov. 11 Feb. 3, Jan. 6 Mar. 2 April 6 Feb. 3 Oct. 1 May 4 Aug. 31 Nov. 26 „ 30 Dec. 28 Feb. 22, 1869 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 305 Name. Occupation. Residence. Initiated. Benjamin Town Clerk in HolyOrders Pellon, Halifax . . Peb. 22, 1869 *Jame8 Menziea Drysalter , . Halifax )> >> >> Charles W. Waithman Merchant . . ,f • • • . Mar. 22 „ Joseph Wells Woollen Manufact'- Luddenden May 24 „ Thomas P. Marriott Tobacconist Halifax . . (> >> M William Dyer Chemist . . jj . . »l 11 fl »Jas. Herbert Crossley Cotton Spinner . . Sowerby Bridge . . Aug. 16 „ *John Ingham Merchant . . Halifax June 1 „ Charles Hy. Walker Woollen Manufacf^- Lin d ley, Huddersfi^- Sept. 20 „ Geo. Adam Battinson Wool Comber Halifax Oct. 18 „ *John Sykes . . Cotton Spinner . . Lindley, Huddersfi^- Nov. 15 „ John Waterhouse . . Wool Stapler Halifax . . Dec. 13 ,, Thomas Pearson Silk Mercer >j ■ • . .- Jan. 17, 1870 William Binns Wire Manufacturer >» • • • • >> >< II ♦Arthur Woodhouse . . Hotel Proprietor . . )i • ' • ■ Mar. 14 „ S. Waterhouse, M.P. Gentleman It • • • • II II l» Frederick Highley . . Asst. Overseer It • • May 9 „ Henry E. Waghorn. . Traveller . . »> • • • • June 13 „ Isaac P. Lumb Carpet Manufactu'- jt • ■ • ■ Jan. 2, 1871 •Thomas J. Wailker . . Printer 79 • • • ' June 30 „ Wesley Clegg Broker )> • • • • Jan. 30 „ Benjamin C. Rawson Solicitor . . )> • • • • April 3 „ Charles J. Plint Coml. Traveller . . It • • • • )i 1) i> Jacob Morton, f.r.s.a. Wesleyan Minister II • ■ • • May 1 „ Alexander Suter Solicitor IT • • • • Sept. 25 „ WiUiam Gaukroger . . Wool Stapler II • • • • Oct. 23 „ Thomas Eggleston . . Manufacturer II • • II >» )» *Wm. James Laidler. . Solicitor . . it ■ ■ • * Jan. 22, 1872 *J.Mc.C.Mc. Williams Surgeon . . II • ■ • • II 1) II *Wm. James Button . . Governor of Work- house IJ • • • • Feb. 19 „ •George Buckley, Jr. Architect . . II • • • • Mar. 25 „ Arthur H. Edwards . . Gentleman t) • • • > II II II Prederick G. Mc.Crea Manufacturer II • • • • II II II •James Wm. Davis , . Dyer Greetland . . April 22 „ *W. H. D. Horsfali . . Surveyor . . Halifax II II l> •Charles T. Clarkson. . Chief Constable . . II • • • * Nov. 9 ,, •Taylor Wheelhouse . . Tanner Brighouse . . II 11 II •John Marshall Dyer Sowerby Bridge . , Feb. 10, 1873 Andrew Jiikes Surgeon . . Halifax . . )l II II Eeginald J. P. Nixon Cashier it • • • * April 7 ,, George Scarbrough , . Manufacturer 1) • • • * a II II John Leach . . Cashier if • ■ • ■ July 7 „ J. Priestley Birtwistlc Accountant )) • • • • Aug. 4 „ •Joseph NichoU Contractor it ■ • • • II 11 11 02 306 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. Name. Occupation. Residence. Initiated. * James Turner Eiley. . Grocer Halifax . . Aug. 4, 1873 Eichard E. Nicholson Ironmonger }} • • • Sept. 1 „ Charles H. Leeming Solicitor . . > J • • • Nov. 3 „ Sydney Thomas Steele Surgeon Todmorden Dec, 1 „ William T. B. Allen Gentleman Leicester , . Mar. 2, 1874 Georffe Haigh Accountant Halifax ., 30 „ Charles Benj. Orossley Cotton Spinner . . Sowerby Bridge . April 27 „ John Wm. Thomas . . Fire-Brick Manu- facturer StoUrbridge June 22 „ George Davis Silversmith Halifax . . July 27 „ Isaac Hemingway . . Stone Merchant . . North owr am Aug. 24 „ *Frederick Wliiteley . Hatter Halifax . . Feb. 15, 1875 Daniel Plucker Cuml. Traveller . . Hudderefield June 14 „ Joseph Collins Wine Merchant . . Halifax Feb. 7, 1876 Francis Fleming Card Maker )j > • ■ April 3 „ Arthur Wood Wool Stapler )» • ■ • " '* }; Joseph Sager Verger 7> • • • ., 28 „ *William Wood . . Cambridge Oct. 30 „ Israel Parkinson, 5.^. Clerk in HolyOrders Illing-worth Nov. 27 „ William H addon Worsted Spinner . . Halifax Feb. 27, 1877 William Berry Coal Merchant )) • Mar. 26 „ John Hartley Boiler Maker ji July 23 „ Frederick W. Smith Dyer 77 * Mar. 18, 1878 Josh. S. Mc. Knight .. Contractor . . fi , Nov. 4 „ *Gharles Pole . , Chief Constable . . )1 • Dec. 9 „ *Jonas Crabtree Manufacturer " )} jj *Herbert Crossley Consulting Chemist M • fJ If M Harry Bickard School Master }} • Feb. 3, 1879 John Edward Jones . . Clerk in HolyOrders >» • Mar. 31 „ Fred Buckley Spirit Merchant . . l» Sept. 29 „ Henry Sutcliffe Wool Stapler J> • Oct. 27 ,, John Crossley Iron Founder }9 • " ' tr )) *Anthime CamiUe Poir^ Prof, of Languages }} ■ Nov. 24 „ Herbert W. Barclay Clerk in HolyOrders f } ■ Feb. 23, 1880 Isaac Webster ^ . . Spirit Merchant , . }1 ■ Mar. 22 „ J as. Alkin Paskin . . Civil Engineer jy. • April 19 „ Matthew G. Dobson . . Manager . . j> • May 24 „ *Alf red Arnold, J.P... Barrister-at-Law . . 1 J ■ April 19 „ Chas. Comber Arnold f> M • • M • June 21 „ *John Dewhirst Manufacturer EUand . July 19 „ *Thomas Speight Coach Builder Halifax Oct. 13 „ Walter Wright Card Manufacturer 7f • Aug. 16 „ George Samuel Smith Independ*- Minister )> • • Dec. 13 „ Frederick M. King , . Clothier . . 11 ■ • Aug. 8, 1881 Jas. Albert Fleming, . Farmer Buenos Ayr< 58 Sept. 5 „ HrSTORY OF PROBITY lODGfE. 307 Name. Occupation. Residence. Initiated. J. K. D. Mackenaie , . Electrician London May 1, 1882 B. F. P. Horton India Eubber Merc*- Halifax , . Sept. 25 ,, William Cash Bank Accountant . . )) • t • Feb. 19, 1883 Eiley Patchett Wire Manufacturer 17 • • *' M yt }t Henry F. Benwell . . Clerk in HolyOrders York Mar. 19 ,, Walter Emmott Electrician Halifax . . April 16 ,, James Henry Sykes. . Organist . . II • • • it If )i Charles Middleton , . School Master II • • • Sept. 10 ,, *OecilC. Conor Major 33rd Eegt. . . II • • • Oct. 15 ,, Louis P. Foster Solicitor . . )i • I • Mar. 10, 1884 William Dobson Manager . . 11 April 7 „ iFrederio Smith Wire Manufacturer 1) . . July - 7 „ George Henry Smith )i )) II . • Sept. 1 „ Edwin Naylor Brewer Warley . . Nov. 3 „ Priestley Leech Surgeon . . Halifax . . July 27, 1885 Alfred Binns . , Wire Manufacturer II ■ ■ * ■ Aug. 24 „ *John Eiley Farrar . . Solicitor , . II • • Nov. 13 „ Eohert Moffat Kerr . . ), ■ • • . II • • • * Dec. 21 „ Samuel A. Farrar . . Dyer II • • • • Jan. 11, 1886 J. H. G. Davis II • • • • Greetland . . II ♦Thomas P. Perks . . Solicitor , . HaHfax . . Tom Frusher Dyer Bradford . . Feb. 15 ]', George Archer Clerk in HolyOrders Halifax , . II *WiUiam Watson . . Agent Leeds Mar. 15 „ George Patchell, Tr. Bank Clerk Halifax . . Eichard HorsfaU, J.P. Architect . . >) . i April 12 „ Eichard E. HorsfaU. . JJ ■ ■ ■ • it * ■ ■ ' C " James Duff . . Accountant }) • ■ • > Jt It it Aug. 9 „ Oct. 11 „ William Geo. White Surveyor of Taxes it > ■ Alexander Scott Silk Mercer It ■ • ■ ■ Feb. 7 „ *J. F. Milner . . Corn Miller EUand . . " ' >> W. Joshua Whiteley Spirit Merchant , . Halifax . . 3 ) it )> April 4 „ E. W. Evans, ll.b., b.a. Solicitor . . i '' George W. Baxter . . Clerk to Tax Come"- II • ■ * ■ May 2, 1887 30 >. Charles J. Foster . . Manufacturer Skipton Brooke Eowley Iron Merchant Halifax . , Jt "" )> Dec. 26 ,, Samuel Goodman Surgeon . . Feb. 6. 1888 Frederick E. Thomas Oil Merchant Bradford .. .&. ^^ *Hf ■ J A \J \J ^J William Ackroyd . . Consulting Chemist Halifax . . M >J )> Walter Broadhead . . Wool Stapler )> • ■ • ■ 27 .. James Booth, J.P. . . Manufacturer ff • ■ • • John Wm. Smithies. . Ji • t EUand . . 26 Joseph Shoesmith . . Farmer Skircoat . . i» *" )» John Hy. Murgatroyd Silk Manufacturer Halifax . . tt tt It *Paul Bellitaay Designer . . ,M » • It J' tt April 23 „ 308 HISTOET OP PROBITY LODGE. Name. Occupation. Residence. Initiated. *John Moodie . . Samuel Utley George Holdswortb. . . R. H. Singleton *W. H. Garland, IfiM.^ae. Bank Manager . . Civil Engineer Bobbin Maker Timber Merchant. . Organist . . Halifax . . ,, ■ ■ • . ,, ■ ■ • . )j • • April 23, 1888 July 23 „ Aug. 20 .„ Dec. 17 „ The By-Laws of 1767. General Eegulations and Xaws to be observed in the Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons constituted at the Eose and Crown, and now held at the Old Cock in Halifax in the County of York. Section let. Concerning the disposition of the Lodge and Contributions for its support. 1st. The 2iid Wednesday in every month, shall he the day appointed for the Brethren to hold a Lodge of Obligation for the receiving of visiting Brothers. — And the 4th Wednesday in each month shall be held a Master's Lodge for the Honour and advantage of the Craft. 2nd. That a Master for the year ensuing shall be nominated and elected on the first Lodge night in June of every year. 3rd. In the choice of a Master, regard shall be had to his Qualifications only for that Ofiice, and not to his Seniority, or time of his standing in the Society. 4th. The same shall be observed in regard to the Wardens and other Officers, which other Officers shall consist (viz.) of a Secretary, a Treasurer, Sen. abd Jun. Deacons, and a Steward, whose Offices are hereafter explained. 5th. The New Master shall be invested by the former Master with the Badges belonging to his office, and being then in the Chair he shall nominate his, Wardens and other Officers and invest them in the like manner with the Ensigns of their Office, delivering what he thinks proper to them by way of charge before they be admitted to act. 310 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 6th. The Master is to govern the Lodge in a regular manner, keeping Good Order, Peace, and Harmony ; he is also to be the Guardian of the Lodge. 7tli. The Wardens are to watch over the Lodge, and to take special Care that it be well secured and all the Brethren be in proper Order before it be set to work. 8th. The Secretary is to keep 2 registers, (viz.) one to set down the Minutes and Transactions of each Lodge Night, and the Names and Surnames, Age and Profession of the Candidates; the other to set down the Penalties and other Monies put into the Fund. He is also to send the Circular Letters to each of the Members at every meeting, or when the Master has occasion to call a Lodge upon Extraordinary Business. 9th. The Treasurer is to keep faithfully aU the Money in- trusted to him, or have deposited into a Box with three different Keys and Locks, to be severally kept by the Master, the Treasurer and Secretary. 10th. The Senior Deacon is to carry Messages to and from the Master to the Senior Warden, or as he is otherwise ap- pointed, and BO also the Junior Deacon to and from the Senior Warden to the Junior, or as elsewhere required. 11th. The Steward is to assist the Wardens in getting things necessary for the Lodge before it be set to work. He is also to collect all the Penalties and other Monies and deliver them to the Treasurer. He is further required to call for the Bill of the Expenses a little before the Lodge is closed, and present it to the Master, that it may be discharged at the closing of the same. 12th. There is also to be a Tyler appointed out of the Brotherhood to stand at the Door of the Lodge, with a naked Sword in his Hand, for the Security of the same ; and to give Notice to the Lodge when any visiting Brother shall desire admittance ; he is also to refuse admittance in Lodge hours to any Brother he thinks disguised with Liquor, until he has acquainted the Master therewith. He is also to attend the HISTOEY OF PROBITY LODGE. 311 Master, or in his absence the Deputy Master, twice a Week to receive his Orders, and he is to have One Shilling every Lodge Night for his trouble. 13th. Every Member is to contribute Thirty Shillings a year towards the Ordinary Expenses of the Lodge and Charitable TJses, which is to be paid in the following manner : Fifteen ShUlings on St. John Le Baptiste Day and 1 5/^ on St. John the Evangelist's Day. 14th. If any Member neglects paying his said Contribution on the Day appointed for the same, such neglecting Member must without Remission, except 20 miles from the Place, pay 6*- Extraordinary for each Lodge Night he neglects paying it, and if it be defer'd 6 Months it will be deemed by the Society a voluntary Withdrawing his Name from the List, and excluding himself from the Benefits of the Lodge in which Case, he must pay 15 Shillings before he can be re-admitted besides 12^- Lodge Night until the next General Payment. 15tL The old Master's Account must.be fairly stated and laid before the Society at the Expiration of his Office, and on the surrend'ring of his Charge w"'' shall then be examined by the Members present and signed by the new Master, and witnessed by his Wardens ; in that manner the same shall be deem'd a regular passing of his Accounts and be to him and his Officers a plenary Discharge. Seotiok 2nd. Concerning Order and Discipline. 1 St. The Master if present or his Wardens in his absence shall regularly open the Lodge of Obligation at 6 o'clock in the Winter and 7 in the Summer, and close it at Ten with their Songs of the Craft ; or if all these should be absent the last Master is to do it, and during Lodge Hours shall promote the 312 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. Business of the Craft, in such a manner that there may be one Examination at least be gone through on every Lodge Night; if the Person in the Chair neglects the same he shall forfeit One Shilling, to be paid immediately to the Box. 2nd. Every Member is to instruct himself in the Business of the Craft, in such a manner that he may be able to go through every Examination, and be the better fitted for any Of&ce when- ever he may be chosen. 3rd. Unless Order and Decency be preserved in all Societies a Dissolution naturajly. follows ; to prevent which in this place upon the first Stroke of the Master's MaUet there shall be a strict silence kept in the Lodge, which if any Brother shall presume to break, without Leave from the Chair, he shall pay 3d- immediately to the Box. 4th. Every Brother, whether Member or Visitor, that has anything to say or oflfer which requires the attention of the Lodge, especially in all Propositions and Debates, shall give Notice of the same by giving a knock upon the table, and then ask leave to speak ; when the same is granted him, he is to stand up, keeping himself to Order and signify what he has to say, addressing himself to the Chair, and no Brother is to pre- sume to speak or interrupt the Speaking Brother during his Discourse, upon the Penalty of being severely reprimanded by the Master, but when he sits down then another may ask Leave to Speak. 5th. If there should happen at any Time to be an equal number of Votes when any Question is put, that Side on which the Master shall Vote is to be accounted the Majority. 6th. As Morality and good Precepts are two principal Points taught in Masonry, no Brother is to introduce in this Society either Lewd or indecent Songs, on any Pretence whatsoever, nor such as ridicule either Religious Persons or Things. If any- thing of this kind be ever attempted, the Master shall directly call to order to put an end to it, and assign an equal Penalty to the Offence. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 313 7tli. No Brother is to use Light or indecent Language and Behaviour in this Lodge, neither is he to curse or swear, under the Penalty of One Shilling, to be paid immediately to the Box . by the offending Brother, and he shall also suffer a Eeproof from the Master. 8th. No Brother is to enter the Lodge disguised with Liquor, and if any Member is inclinable to take so much as may affect his Eeason, and thereby behave indecently in the Lodge, he shall suffer a severe Eeproof from the Master the first time, and to be excluded the next. 9th. No Member of this Society is to cause or promote Scandal towards a Brother or Brethren, and if he be known to speak disrespectfully of the Craft he shall be called upon by the Master in full Lodge to answer what is alleged against him. If the fact be prov'd, he shall be excluded in form, and shall not be re-admitted until he gives full Satisfaction to the Lodge. If a Yisitor, he shall not thenceforward be received into the Lodge. 10th. No Visitor shall be admitted into this Lodge unless he makes ample Satisfaction. Section 3rd. Concerning the By-Laws of the Lodge. Ifit. No Member is to propose a Person to be made a Mason in this Lodge unless he be well acquainted with his Character and Conduct. 2nd. No Person is to be a Mason in this Lodge who has not first been propos'd on a Lodge Night, and a Satisfactory Account given of him to the Lodge ; he may then be voted a Candidate for Masonry by the majority of tlie Members present, and the - next Lodge Night to be balloted for, upon which, if two nega- tives do not appear against him, he shall receive Institution on that Lodge Night, or when appointed. P2 3L4: HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 3rd. If the Person proposed be agreeable to the above Article the Master may call a Lodge Extraordinary for his Election and immediate admission, provided he defray the Expenses of that Night, besides the Ordinary Gifts for the Charity, etc. 4th. The Ordinary Gifts for Charity and other necessary Expenses are £1 lis. 6d. and also 2s. 6d. to the Tyler, to be paid by every new Brother on the Night of his Admission. 5th. If any Brother be known to have made any Person a Mason against the Eules and Laws of Masonry, or to cause him so to' be done, he shall be excluded for ever from the Lodge, and sudi a making be deem'd clandestine, and no Person made in such a manner or in no regular constituted Lodge shall be admitted unless he make an ample submission and pay such a Fee as the majority of the Members present shall judge necessary for his admission into this Society. 6th. Every Brother that has received the Prentice's or any other Degree and is desirous to advance himself shall ask of the Lodge on a Lodge Night, and shall be balloted as at the Making, which may be done by holding up of Hands ; and if any Brother shall oppose his Advancement he shall upon that Case only expose the Eeason of his Opposition. 7th. No Brother shall be advanced in this Lodge before he be first well-instructed in the Work of the Degree or Degrees he is in already. 8th. No Brother made in another Lodge and desirous of becoming a Member of this shall propose himself, but it is to be done by a Member, and seconded by another of the Lodge when he is withdrawn, after which he must visit the Lodge two Lodge Nights in Order that the Brethren may have an opportunity of becoming acquainted with his Person and Qualifications. He may then be balloted for on any succeeding Lodge Night, and if two negatives do not appear against him he shall be admitted a Member. He must at the time of his Admission and subscribing the Laws pay half a Guinea to the Box, besides One Shilling every Lodge Night till the next General Payment. HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 315 9tli. No Member shall absent himself from the Lodge for three Nights successively, under the Penalty of 2/6 to the Fund, and on Eefusal of paying such Penalty to be excluded from the Society, except he give Satisfactory Reasons to the Society for his so absenting himself. 10th. If any Member shall pay so little Eespect to the Lodge as not to give his attendance before half an hour past 6 o'clock in the Winter (viz.), from the 2nd Wednesday in April to the 2nd Wednesday in October, he shall be subject to pay what Penalty the Master shall chuse to inflict, not to exceed 6d., to be paid immediately to the Fund for ev'ry such neglect. 11th. Every Member shall attend the Lodge on St. John the Baptist and St John the Evangelist, at 10 o'clock in the Morning, tinder the Penalty of half-a-crown, to be paid immediately to the Fund by the neglecting Member, unless he be 20 milee from the place or upon indispensahle business. 12th. The whole body of these Laws shall be read every Quarter, and also when any Person is made a Brother, which shall be order'd to be done by the Master in the Chair under the Penalty of 1/- for such neglect. 1 3th. If any Member shall refuse to comply with the Statutes end Orders of this Lodge he shall thereby exclude himself from the Benefits of the Society, and if any visiting Brother shall refuse to comply with such of the General Laws as relate to Visitors, after he is made acquainted with the import of them, it shall be deem'd a Contempt of the Lodge, and thenceforward he shall not be admitted therein. 14th. No alteration shall be made in any of these Laws that has not been first proposed on a Lodge Night and then approved of by the Majority of the Members present. 16th. Every Brother who proposes a Candidate for Masonry shall at the time so proposing deposit 5s., and if he is not accepted by the Majority of the Members then present the same 316 HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGE. shall be return' d, but if after accepted he voluntarily refuses being made a Mason the Money so deposited shall be appro- priated to the benefit of the Lodge. 16th. Every Brother made a Mason in another Lodge and desirous of taking a Degree or Degrees in this, shall for such, pay 10/6 if he does not then become a Member of this Lodge. We subscrib'd, being Members of the Lodge of St. John's the Baptist, but assembl'd for the present in the Regular and Constituted Lodge (No. 97) at the Old Cock Inn, in the Town of Halifax, do promise to observe the Laws, Orders and Begulations in this Book contain'd. (Sere follow Signatures of Members. J Extract feom the Halifax Journal, JtJLT 29th, 1809. On Monday, the 17th inst. a Masonic Procession took place in opening a New Lodge at Heptonstall, in this parish. Prohity, No. 61, Halifax — Presiding Lodge; Prince Frederick, No. 549 — ^Resident Lodge ; accompanied by the Lodges of Burnley, Haworth, and Keighley. The Lodge was opened in due form, and at 12 o'clock. The Procession moved from the Stag's Head to the Church, where the service was read by the Eev. Mr. Butter, of Littleborough, who afterwards delivered an excellent discourse from Deut. X. and 12 9. The church was completely filled with persons of all classes, who observed the strictest decorum, and shewed by their countenances the reverence of their hearts. In the afternoon, after dinner, the brethren contributed each according to his ability, making a handsome sum of money for the purpose of Charity. The E.W.M. of No. 61 then gave a most impressive charge to the Fraternity, and at an early hour the Lodge was closed agreeable to accustomed form. EXTBAOT FEOM THE HAirPAX JoUBNAL, OOT. 28th, 1809. Celebration of Jubilee of George III. Amongst other benevolent acts of a public nature, in honour of the day, we must not omit to state that the Society of Free and Accepted Masons in the town and neighbourhood of Halifax, exclusive of their other benefactions, have presented the very handsome donation of £42 10b. to the Treasurer of the Halifax General Dispensary, in aid of that excellent and truly useful institution. Bro. James Inglis, M.D, The Lodge of Probity, Halifax, Yorkshire, has recently sus- tained a severe loss in tlie death of one of its Past Masters, Bro. James Inglis, M.D. He was also P.S.G.W. of the Province of "West Yorkshire. His death occurred at the residence of his Mother-in-Law (Mrs. Jeremiah Eawson), at Green Eoyd, Halifax, on Sunday, 9th of March, and his remains were committed to their final testing place in the burial ground of Trinity Church, Halifax, on Monday, the I7th. The Brethren of the Lodge assembled to pay their last tribute of respect at the grave of our deceased brother, the procession being accompanied by the E.W. Bro. Charles Lee, D.P.G.M. of West Yorkshire, who subsequently addressed to the Brethren a high and deserved eulogium of the character of our departed brother. — From Freemasons^ Quarterly/ Review, April, 1861. Bro. John Sutcliffb. At Halifax, Yorkshire, on the 18th July last, in the 78th year of his age, Bro. John Sutcliffe, Senior Past Master of the Lodge of Probity, No. 73, in that town. The position which the deceased Brother held in the Province of "West Yorkshire, as an accomplished and venerated Mason, forbids that this record of bis decease should be unaccompanied by some observations of his interesting career. Bro. Sutcliffe was born in Midgley, in the Parish of Halifax. He was initiated into Masonry in the Lodge of Probity (then No. 61) on the 4th August, 1808, and raised to the sublime degree on the 30th November following. He subsequently became exalted to the higher degree of Arch Masonry. In the year 1813 (1815 ?) he was deputed, with two other Brethren, to attend the proceedings in London which terminated in the Union of the two Fraternities, and in the Constitution of the present United Grand Lodge of England. In the discharge of the duties of that important mission, he became the medium through which the revised system of Craft Masonry was communicated to the Brethren of the Lodges in the neighbourhood where he resided ; and from that period he has never ceased to be regarded as a standard authority in these truly interesting matters. He was not less qualified by ajCuteness of ability and enlarged kindness of disposition, than by the distinguished order of his experience for imparting instruction and encouragement in the sublime principles of the Order, nor wiU the recollection be lost tni the present generation of Brethren shall, like himself, have passed away, of the willingness and zeal with which he embraced every opportunity of promoting a correct system of working, and of furthering a legitimate knowledge of Masonry among his Brethren. Soon after his return fi'om London, and when the benefits of 320 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. his instruction had been experienced, the high estimation in which his conduct was held by the Brethren led to the presenta- tion of an elegant Past Master's Jewel, bearing the inscription — "a mark of esteem from the Lodge of Probity, No. 84, to Brother John Sutclifife, April 6th, 1815." The subsequent history of this venerable Lodge affords abundant proof of the extent to which its prosperity is due to - his disinterested zeal and perseverance. Por six years prior to 1829 the Lodge remained in practical abeyance; its meetings were all but discontinued, and its members dwindled down to a number scarcely sufficient for the proper discharge of its affairs and ceremonies. A new era then dawned, and the spirit of Masonry again animated its members. At this period our lamented Brother exerted himself with the greatest devotion, and ere long he had the satisfaction of seeing its regular meetings resumed under his able presidency as W.M.; an increase of new members attended this happy resuscitation, and to the present time the number has gradually increased, with no further check to its progress than those of a temporary character, which are natural incidents experienced more or less by every Lodge. Since the year 1830 our late Brother occupied the responsible position of W. M. of his Lodge on different occasions for a period extending over five years. It fell to his lot to discharge the duties of that office in 1838, when the centenary of the Lodge's existence w£is celebrated. The Provincial Grand Lodge, and other Lodges in the Province, took part in the jubilee with which the interesting event was honoured. A few years then elapsed and the Lodge stUl flourished. A large accession of new members gave additional proof that the spirit of Masonry was diffusing itself in the Province, and that, with respect to this Lodge in particular, the lapse of one hundred years since its original constitution was no unworthy testimony of its usefulness and respectability. In the six years ending December 1847, not less than seventy new members were initiated, and during the whole of that period his regular HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE. 321 attendance and frequent discharge of one or other of the offices in the Lodge, gave amplest testimony that the duties of Past Master were not to be disregarded, and here again Bro. Sutcliffe won for himself the highest admiration and respect of the Brethren. In the transactions of the Lodge for 1846 it is recorded — "that the Brethren wishful to mark in some degree their "grateful sense of Bro. Sutclifie's labours in the cause of "Freemasonry, and especially, with the Lodge of Probity, pre- " sented him with a beautiful silver mug embossed and lined "with gold, on which was engraved the following inscription: " ' Presented to John Sutcliffe, Past Master, by the brethren of "the Lodge of Probity, No. 73, as a small token of their regard " for his Moral and Masonic worth. " on behalf of the Lodge, James Inglis, MD., W.M. "John Prest, Sec'y-'" After making some reference to his mechanical and inventive genius, the notice proceeds. — Notwithstanding his comparative obscurity, however, as a scientific individual, his position as a Mason wiU continue to be regarded as in the highest degree worthy of imitation and esteem ; nor wiU the vacancy which his death has occasioned in the Province of West Yorkshire be speedily, if ever again, supplied by one who possessed so ex- tensive and correct knowledge of the working departments of Craft Masonry. For the last three years of his life his energies had become seriously impaired by paralysis. Though disqualified, however, from any active exertion of a physical description, he was able to enjoy the society and visits of his Brethren ; nor until within a few weeks of his death was he prevented from receiving the visits of junior members of the Lodge, to whom he communicated instruction with equal willingness and delight, and with a facility and correctness aU but equal to that which distinguished the teaching of his former days. His strength gradually de- creased, and at length his career was peacefully closed upon earth, to be continued, we hope, "in the Grand Lodge above, where the world's Great Architect lives and reigns for evermore." Q2 322 HISTORY OF PROBITY LODGE, No direct wish was expressed by himself on the subject, but the brethren of his bereaved Lodge assembled, and with the approbation of his afflicted friends, to pay their last sad tribute of respect at his grave. Other Lodges, in the Province were invited to be present. Several were so represented, and amongst the - number to mourn over their loss was Bro. Charles Lee, D.P.G.M., from Leeds, whose kindness and sympathy on all such occasions are so eminently calculated to afPord consolation and encouragement to his sorrowing friends and brethren.^ From Freemasons^ Quarterly Eevieto, September 1851. appenDijc jf . List of Worshipful Masters of the Lodge of Probity. A.D. 1738 So Date John Senior Sutcliff Shipley 1762 1763 1764 1765 1766 1767 1768 1769 1770 1771 1772 1773 1774 1775 1776 1777 1778 1779 1780 1781 1782 1783 1784 1785 1786 1787 1788 1789 1790 1791 1792 1793 William Newby WiUiam Gream William Norris William Appleyard Elkanah Hoyle Elkanah Hoyle John Hardcastle Samuel Lord WiUiam Simpson Joseph Benson Joseph Benson William Newby William Newby WiUiam Newby John Cartwright John t^artwright Samuel Lord Samuel Lord Samuel Lord John Cartwright John Cartwright _ Chas. Geo, Plowman John Cartwright John Woodworth Thomas Boothroyd John Cartwright John Cartwright John Cartwright Joseph Mason Joseph Mason Joseph Mason Thomas Holden A.D. 1794 1795 1796 1797 1798 1799 1800 1801 1802 1803 1804 1805 1806 1807 1808 1809 1810 1811 1812 1813 1814 1815 1816 1817 1818 1819 1820 1821 1822 1823 1824 1825 1826 1827 1828 1829 1830 1831 Thomas Holden Charles Chambers Thomas Holden William Whitaker Stephen Brown Thomas Kighley Thomas Scholes Samuel Lord Joseph Mason Joseph Mason Samuel Lord Samuel Lord Joshua Jones Joshua Jones Thos. Toud June 2S!nd. Date of Election changed John Thompson, M.I). Charles Whiteley John SutclifFe John Sutcliffe John SutcUffe John Holdsworth John Sutcliffe Joshua Jones Date of Election of W.M, cbanged to December, Benjamin Smith William Bates Joshua Jones Joshua Jones William Bates Joshua Jones Charles Whiteley John Holdsworth John Holdsworth John Holdsworth John Holdsworth John Holdsworth John Holdsworth John Sutcliffe John Sutcliffe 324 HISTORY OF PKOBIIT LODGE. A.D. A.D. 1832 John Sutcliff 1861 John Fisher 1833 "^^'illiam Barker 1862 Thomas Perkinton 1834 William Barker 1863 William Stott 1835 G. E. Browne 1864 Isaac Booth 1836 G. E. Browne 1865 George Jackson 1837 John Sutcliffe 1866 Charles Emmet 1838 John Sutcliffe 1867 John Stott 1839 John Bagnold 1868 T. H. C. Scratcherd 1840 Joseph M. Kirk 1869 Benj. W. Jackson 1841 WiUiam Walsh 1870 William Tasker 1842 James Thornber 1871 Eev. James Hope, M.A. 1843 Joseph Simpson 1872 Henry Gaukfoger 1844 Joseph Simpson 1873 E. Minson Wavell, Jun. 1845 George Atkinson 1874 Frederick Walker 1846 James Inglis, M.B. 1875 James Menzies 1847 Benj. Wm. Holro^d 1876 Joseph Gaukroger 1848 Lawrence Bramley, M.D. 1877 George Battinson 1849 John Prest 1878 William Gaukroger 1850 ■Hodgson Lewis 1879 Hy. Ed. Waghorn 1851 Eichard Carter 1880 George Scarbrough 1852 Courtney Kenny Clarke 1881 John Leach 1853 Thomas Eobertshaw 1882 George Buckley, Jnn. 1854 James Franklin 1883 Frederick Whiteley 1855 William Smith 1884 Alfred Arnold, J.P. 1856 Eichard Carter 1885 James William Davia 1857 Hy. Edwards, D.L., J.F. 1886 John WilUam Ba,lme 1858 Matthias -Smith 1887 Cecil C. Conor 1859 -WUliam Elliott 1888 Francis Fleming 1860 WiUiam Eothwell , List of Officers of the Lodge of Pegbity IN its ]50th YEAR, 1888, Francis Fleming Herbert Crosbley William Cash E. W. Evans, £.A., LL.B. James W. Davis, P.M. Walter Weight Fred. Buckley B. F. P. HORTON E. Patchett . . Charles Pole . . Walter Emmott J. H. Sykes . . Alfred Binns . . W. DOBSON G. H. Smith .. E. M. Xehr . . J. H. G. Davis George Patchett James Duff . . William G. White Alexander Scott G. W. Baxter Joseph Sagae . , Worshipful Master Senior Warden Junior Warden Chaplain Treasurer Secretary Senior Deacon Junior Deacon Inner Guard Almoner Director of Ceremonies Organist Assistant Secretary \ Lod^e Stewards Senior Steward Stewards. Tyler. ^DDetttium. |HE writer has frequently expressed his regret that a portion of the written records of the Lodge of Probity had been lost, and the transactions which took place between the years 1822 and 1848 had to be obtained from different sources, to connect the story of the Lodge's history. Since the work was eompiledj and in fact in the press, a bundle was found amongst some old documents, the property of an old Past Master of the Lodge. This valuable discovery proved to be an " Abstract of the Minutes," commencing January 1822 and ending 1851, and was written and signed by Bro. Eichard Carter, who it will be remembered occupied the Chair of the Lodge in the years 1851 and 1856. This Abstract of Minutes has enabled the list of Worshipful Masters to be complete. It has also been the means of making the list of Members of the Lodge more correct. With the exception of these additions there are not many incidents which are of particular note. The death and resignation of several Brethren is noted. One record is somewhat curious — Bro. John Bagnold, who was installed Worshipful Master in 1839, HISTORY OP PROBITY LODGfE, 327 had during the year of his office to be "re-initiated in consequence of his not having been properly prepared in his former initiation, June 14th, 1833." It is stated that Bro. Jno. Sutcliflfe (No. 517), re-joined the Lodge 29th Sept., 1829, and that for some time the " Lodge was nearly^ in abeyance," It is a great pleasure to hare to record this last sentence, as there existed considerable doubt fn the minds of some Brethren as to the consecutive existence of the Lodge, notwithstanding that it had been clearly shewn when the Centenary "Warrant was obtained that the returns had been properly made and acknowledged by Grand Lodge. There is a note to the effect that July 30th, 1838— "The Lodge No. 73 celebrated the Centenary of the Lodge." March 13th, 1838. The "Lodge night" was altered to Friday, and on April 13th, 1838 to 2nd Monday. How long this fixture was continued is not shewn; but on March 13th, 1844, it is noted that the " Lodge night was altered from "Wednesday to Monday on or before Full Moon." This latter fixture has continued in force up to the present time. There is nothing further to record with the excep- tion of various revisions of the By-Laws, and the 328 HTSTORY OF PROBITY LODGE, alterations of initiation and joining fees. The last revision, in 1848, duly received the signature and approval of the Eight Hon. the Earl of Mexborough, Prov. Grand Master. The author takes this opportunity to add to the list of Halifax Lodges which had been omitted, the St. John's Lodge, No. 1736, which received its Warrant of Dispensation February 6th, 1878. List of Lodges in the Province oe West Torkshiee. (Compiled from JBro. John Lane's "Masonic Records") (C) Lodges that have obtained the Centenary Jewel. (A) Lodges warranted by the " Antients." No. of Lodge. Name of Lodge. Present place of meeting. Wtere formed. Date of Warrant. Sate of Erasure. 61 Probity . . (C) Halifax HaUfax . . Aug. 1, 1738 .. fA) (Sheffield Sept. 23, 1772 about 1788 11 Jan. 21, 1761 ,1 1765 Ship ;! ;; U) Harewood Bridge 1762 „ 1783 Ship Sheffield Dec. 1762 shortly after Talbot Leeds . . Mar. 28, 1754 1776 101 Bt. John . . Stootport, Cheshire (A) Saddleworth . . Jan. 13, 1775 Talbot Leeds . . Jan. 8, 1762 Feb. 1786 Moriah •;; ■:■; sii Sheffield Oct. 14, 1772 about 1777 Black BuU.. Settle . . June 7, 1774 .1 1776 139 Britannia . . (C) Sheffield . . Sheffield Apl. 19, 1766 Druidieal . . (York Grand Lodge) Rotherham Deo. 22, 1778 no date of erasure H^lfMoon.. , Otley . . Aug. 16, 1762 1769 Cock .. (A) Barnsley April 1, 1777 about 1779 149 Peace Meltham . . (A) Dewsbury Mar. 28, 1804 154 tTnanimity . . (C) Wakefield .. Wakefield Feb. 15, 1766 Cumberland Militia .. .. (A) met at Halifax (1812) .. 1838 P.G.Lodge of York, .. (A) Sheffield Sept. 6, 1781 no records Chester&Lancashire after 1781 Bacchus . . Halifax . . Aug. 18, 1769 1783 208 Three Grand Principles (C) Dewsbury London Nov. 21, 1772 Amity (transferred to Steeton-in-Craven) London Oct. 18, 1767 March 1828 242 St. George . . (C) Doncaster . . Doncaster July 11, 1780 258 Amphibious Heckmondwike Stonehouse, Devon. Cockermouth, June 15, 1787 264 Nelson of the Nile.. Batley July 5, 1788 , Cumberland Duke of York (transferred to Bingley) Keighley . . Doncaster Aug. 23 „ Dec. 1822 265 Royal Yorkshire (C) Keighley 11 II 11 Albion Skipton . . 1, 11 1789 April 1798 '275 Harmony . . Huddersfield Halifax . . Nov. 6 n Friendly . . (transferred to Bamsley) London . . Feb. 6, 1790 1832 Loyal and Prudent Leeds . . 1791 1832 Phoenix (transferred to Eotherham) East Retford , . Mar. 21, 1792 Sept. 1838 286 Samaritan , . Bacup, Lancashire Keighley July 4 11 Philanthropic * ■ Skipton . . 11 11 11 Dec. 1861 Three Graces (transferred to Haworth) Bamoldswick- in-Craven Sept 25 11 1, 1822 289 Fidelity . . Leeds Leeds . . Sept. 24 .1 290 Huddersfield Huddersfield Huddersfield . . Jan. 1, 1793 296 Royal Brunswick . . Sheffield . . Sheffield July 8 11 302 Hope Bradford . . Bradford Mar. 29, 1794 304 Philanthropic Leeds Leeds . . Aug. 21 11 306 Alfred Leeds Leeds . . Apl. 27, 1796 307 Prince Frederick . , (Loyal Halifax) Hebden Biidge . . Halifax . . Jan. 28, 1796 E2 330 HISTORY OP PROBirsr LODGE. No. of Lodge. Name of Lodge. Present place of xneeting. Where formed. Date of Warrant. Date of Erasure. 308 Prince George Eastwood . . Haworth Feb. 18, 1796 Allman's , . > ■ ■ • Almondbury . . M 9, 1799 1832 337 Candour Upper Mm . , Delph .. „ 12, 1812 380 Integrity . . Morley Biighouse „ 26, 1825 387 Airedale .. Shipley Baildon . . Mar. 12, 1827 401 Eoyal Forest Slaidbum .. Slaidbum Apl. 22, 1829 St. Albans . . , , , , Leeds . . Aug. 8, 1822 1833 408 Three Graces Haworth . . Haworth Aug. 24, 1831 439 Scientific . . Bingley Bingley Sept. 27, 1836 448 St. James . . Halifax .. Thornton Mar. 17, 1838 4S8 Aire and Calder . . Qoole Goole . . Mar. 26, 1839 Savile « . . . • ■ • . • Leeds .. Apl. 10 „ Dec. 1851 Friendly . . . . Bamsley Oct. 1, 1842 It II 495 Wakefield . . Wakefield .. Wakefield War. 1, 1844 521 Truth Huddersfield Huddersfield . . Dec. 3, 1845 600 Harmony . . Bradford . . Bradford Feb. 4, 1852 603 Zetland Cleckheaton Cleckheaton . . July 17 .. 652 Holme Valley Hohnfirth .. Holmfirth June 7, 1856 750 Friendship . . Cleckheaton Cleckheaton . . June 2, 1858 810 Craven Skipton Skipton.. Feb. 14, 1860 827 St. John's . . Dewsbury . . Dewsbury July 21 II 837 De Grey and Bipon Ripon Ripon .'. Oct. 9 II 904 Phoenix Rotherham., Rotherham Jan. 6, 1862 910 St. Oswald . . Pontefract . . Pontetract Feb. 14, 1. 971 Trafelgar .. Batley Batley .. June 1, 1863 974 Fentalpha . , Bradford . . Bradford June 16 II lOOJ Harrogate and Claro Harrogate . . Harrogate Feb. 10, 1864 1018 Shakespeare Bradford . . Bradford May 12 n 1019 Sincerity . . Wakefield .. Wakefield II II II 1034 Eccleshill .. EcoleshiU ,. Eccleshill Sept. 23 II 1042 Excelsior . . Leeds Leeds . . Dec. 3 II 1102 Mirfield . . Mirfield . . Mirfield Mar. 22, 1866 1108 Royal Wharfdale . . OUey Otley .-. Apl. 18 II 1211 Goderich . . Leeds' Leeds . . Jan. 26, 1868 1214 Scarhorough Batley Batley .. Feb. 8 II 1221 Defence Leeds Leeds .. Apl. 25 II 1231 Savile EUand EUand .. Aug. 29 II 1239 Wentworth ^. Sheffield . . Sheffield Oct. 28 II 1283 Ryhum Sowerby Bridge . . Sowerby Bridge Sept. 7, 1869 1301 Brighonse . . Brighouse . . *. . Brighouse Feb. 1, 1870 1302 De Warren HaUfax . . Halifa,x . . II II II 1311 Zetland . . Leeds Leeds .. Apl. 26 11 1462 Wharncliffe Penistone . . Penistone Oct. 17, 1873 1613 Friendly . . Bamsley . . Barnsley Aug. 24, 1874 1514 Thornhill .. tiadley Lindley,. n M II 1522 Olicana Hkley Ilkley .. Deo. 18 II 1642 LegioUum . , Castleford .. CasUeford Apl. 16,1875 1545 BaUdon Baildon Baildon . , May 13 i, 1645 Colne Valley Slaithwaite.. Slaithwaite . , Oct. 3, 1876 1648 Prince of Wales . . Bradford . . Bradford Oct. 16 11 1736 St. John's . • HaHfax Halifax . . Feb. 6, 1878 1779 Ivanhoe Sheffield .. Sheffield Aug. 20 II 1783 Albert Edward . . Huddersfield Huddersfield . . Oct. 8 1, 2035 Beaumont , . Kirkburton Kirkburton Feb. 16, 1884 2069 Prudence . . Leeds Leeds , , Oct. 16 ,1 2091 Castleburg . . Settle Settle . . Mar. 14, 1886 2259 St. Nicholas Thome Thome . . 1888 2261 2263 Armitage . . , . St. Leonard's Milnsbridge Sheffield . . Milnsbridge . , Sheffield II II 2268 Hallamshire Sheffield .. Sheffield II INDEX. PAGE Acts of Parliament referring to Freemasons , . ■. 101 All Souls' Church, Foundation Stone of 235 r Bacchus Lodge 69, 71, 79 Bantury, Thomas, Certificate of 50 Bath Tavern, Meeting at 94 Beresford, Lord George 97, 179, 181 Broadfoot, Philip 148, 166, 184, 202 By-Laws, Eeference to 34, 44, 51, 62, 65, 86, 225 Carnarvon, Marquis of 16 Centenary Warrant 265 Centenary of the Lodge 222 Crauford, Earl of : 16 Deacons, Appointment of 41, 61, 85 Defence of Country, Contributions for 100 De Warren Lodge 259 Duckworth, William 232 Edwards, Sir Henry, Bart. . .-t 225, 243, 246, 261, 263 Fees, Alterations of 84 Funeral Observances. .66, 57, 92, 96, 98, 108, 111, 228, 232, 263 Grand Lodge, Letters to 67 Grand Master, Addresses to 169, 179, 192, 215 Gream, WUUam 38, 39, 41, 43 „ F.R.S 42 Greenwood, John 246 332 INDEX. PAGE Halifax, its Trade and BurroundingS 9 „ Parish Church Organ 45 ,, General Dispensary 139 ,, Infirmary 261 „ Gaol, Prisoners in 141, 144 Harmony, Lodge of (Huddersfield) .. 86, 119, 143, 150, 221 „ „ (Eochdale) 87 ,, ,, (HasUngden) 185 Haslingden, Candidates from 87 Heptonstall, Meeting at 128 EUlhouse, John 59 Horton, William, P.G.M. of West Yorkshire 18 Huddersfield, Candidates from 82 Inner Guard 152, 153 IngHs, James,- Jf.D 223, 229, 318 Jubilee Celebrations 136, 222, 267 Keighley, Candidates from 83 Knight Templars 88, 155 Lodge, Dissensions in 58 „ Funds, Appropriation of 64 Lord, Samuel Ill Loyal Halifax Lodge 96, 117 Masonic HaU, Foundation Stone of 249 „ „ First Meeting in 256 ,, ,, Consecration of 257 Meetings, Changes in date of 99, 327 ,, Extraordinary Lodge 39 Naylor, Letter from Dr 206 „ Sermon by Dr 222 INDEX. 333 m ' PAOB Officers, Election of 113 ,, List of, in 1888 325 Old Cock, Meetings at 53, 110, 119, 248 Organ, Halifax Parish Church 45 Passing the Chair 1 14, 116, 229 Past Masters' Jewels 89 Perkinton, Thomas 246, 247 Poole, Wilkinson 78, 91, 108 Presentation of Masonic Stick to Bro. Broadfoot . . . , 148, 152 „ P.M. Jewel to Bro. Sutcliffe 151 „ Silver Cup „ 321 ,, Masonic Apron to Bro. Mason 154 ,, Silver Vases to Bro. Chas. Lee 224 „ Portrait to Bro. Perkinton 246 ,, Centenary Jewel to Bro. Crossley 266 Prince Frederick Lodge 117, 228 Prince George Lodge 183, 229 -Processions, Masonic 131, 222, 236, 239, 250, 260, 268 Promulgation, Lodge of 147, 156 Provincial Grand Master, Appointment of . . 19, 201, 216, 261 ,, ,, „ Besignation of 213 „ „ Officers , . 217, 220, 223, 227, 230, 232, 244, 246, 247, 260, 262, 263, 267 „ Grand Lodge, Eeferences to . . 17, 80, 89, 99, 102, 121, 189, 231 Probity Lodge, Formation of 16, 23 „ ,, Different Numbers of 26 ,, ,, Warrant of 27,51 ,, ,, First record of Meetings of 30 ,, ,, Auditing Accounts of 43 ,, ,, First mention of name of 94 Beconciliation, Lodge of 145 Becords, Curious 65,75 Bibbons for Lodge 49 334 INDEX. PAGE Eipon, Visit of Marquis of 247, 258 Bochdale, Brethren from 87 Eooke, Edward, P.G.M. of West Yorkshire 19 Rose and Crown, Meetings at 30, 54 Eoyal Arch, Eeference to Degree of 47, 48, 114, 155, 225 Bules for guidance of Tyler 179 Senior, John, Foiinder of the Lodge 29, 35, 63, 81 Shipley, Sutcliff 57 Sowerby Bridge Town Hall, Laying stone of 239 Spencer, Samuel, G.S 26, 52 St. John the Baptist, Lodge of 63 „ „ Festival of >. 40,77,113,116 St. John the Evangelist, Festival of 35, 78, 1 13, 145 St. John's Lodge 327 St. James's Lodge 243, 248, 257 St. Augustine's Church, Laying stone of 260 SutcUffe, John 116, 136, 142, 151, 161, 223, 224, 228, 319 Treasurer (John Hillhouse) 59 Tyler, Fees to 89, 103 „ Appointment of 33,78,113,147,177,244 ,, Bules for guidance of 179 „ Grave 244 Unanimity Lodge (Wakefield) 56, 101 Union Cross Inn, Meetings at , 84, 95, 1 10 Warrant of the Lodge 27, 5 1 Whiteley, Charles 105, 112, 146, 168, 191, 217, 220 Worshipful Masters, List of 323 Yorkshire, Province of West 17, 189 ,, ,, ,, List of Lodges in 329 ,, Provincial Grand Master of West 40 York, Dean of. Sermon by 273 il. 0. FECK AND SOK, FBINTERS, MABKET FLACE, EriX.