Ritual and regalia

08 July 2016

Museum exhibition and talk sheds light on Freemason rituals

Freemasonry has a long history, sometimes shrouded in mystery and often associated with rituals and practices not widely known and understood.

The Tweed Regional Museum collection includes aprons, cuffs, collars and jewels donated by the families of prominent local Freemasons.

A number of these, together with items associated with the Manchester Unity Independent Order of Oddfellows, and the Order of the Eastern Star, are currently on display as part of the Museum’s continuing series of What’s New exhibitions.

The third display in the What’s New series opened on 5 July and is titled Ritual and Regalia.

“We’re pleased to have had the opportunity to work closely with current and past members of local Masonic Lodges to better understand the history and significance of items in the Museum’s collection,” Museum Director, Judy Kean, said.

“Freemasonry on the Tweed dates back to 1885. Many of the practices have passed down through the generations and remain very much alive for those still involved, but rather mysterious to the rest of us. The associated regalia is understandably significant and precious.”

The Freemasons played an important part in the development of the Tweed, both socially and economically. The Lodges were also important for returning servicemen from both World Wars. Many soldiers found it difficult to return to civilian life; the Masons, along with other organisations, offered a place to build social and business networks and also provided a strong sense of community.

“Worshipful Brother (W. Bro.) Michael Zuschke, a member of Lodge Dawn No. 511, has agreed to give a public talk about the history of Freemasonry on the Tweed, and about some of the important practices observed by members.”

“It’s a rare opportunity to learn more and to ask some of those questions you’ve always wanted to ask,” she said.

When: Wednesday 13 July at 6pm

Where: Tweed Regional Museum Murwillumbah, 2 Queensland Road

The talk is free.

Contact the Museum for more details on (02) 6670 2493 or visit museum.tweed.nsw.gov.au

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Caption: Masonic apron belonging to Harry Lowe (detail). Tweed Regional Museum collection MUS202.64.1