​Provincial Grand Lodge of North Munster
A Brief History
Wor. Bro. Paul A. Deegan
May 2017
Introduction
This paper was produced at the request of the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master
of North Munster, Dr. Thomas H. Peirce and delivered in May 2017 at the 175th
Anniversary of the creation of the Provincial Grand Lodge of North Munster.
It is a very brief outline of some of the key events that helped to shape the formation
and development of Provincial Grand Lodge (PGL) of North Munster. It is not intended as
an analytical or evaluative study of Freemasonry in North Munster over the last 175
years. It merely puts into context the environment that influenced the growth of
Freemasonry in the Province with a particular focus on the early years.
The outline of this document is as follows:
-
Background
-
The Creation of the Masonic Province of North Munster
-
The First Meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge
-
Original Rules and Regulations of PGL (1850)
-
Fees and Fines imposed by PGL
-
The Establishment of the Masonic Orphan Society
-
The Early Years of the Provincial Grand Lodge of North Munster
-
Some Interesting Events in Provincial Grand Lodge
-
The First Provincial Grand Master of North Munster - Michael Furnell
-
Michael Furnell and the Baal’s Bridge Square
-
The Old Meeting Rooms of the Province of North Munster
-
The Current Masonic Centre and Headquarters of Provincial Grand Lodge
At first glance, this project was perceived as writing a straight forward synopsis of the
existing records and minute books of the Provincial Grand Lodge (PGL). Sadly, the
records and minute books for the crucial inaugurating years of 1842 to 1850 are missing
and the content in the existing surviving official minute books of the early years is
exceptionally sparse. Records of meetings often took not more than half an A4 page in
copperplate hand writing. Very often the only minute of a meeting merely recorded that
the PGL was opened by the PGM (without naming him), the other key officers were
listed and that the meeting was closed in peace, love and harmony.
The language and terminology often used was archaic e.g. in 1852, PGL reported to
Grand Lodge that “during the past sessions, PGL have not exceeded the pro forma
ceremonial requisite for its ordinary meetings.” Also in 1854 it reported that the Union
Lodge 13 changed its meeting place to a respectable Hotel in Limerick.
Key notable events such as the Famine, various political uprisings hardly got a mention.
Various anniversaries such as 100th or 150th were not referred to at all.
However, it is important to point out that in more recent years, the records of meetings
and the business transacted at both the PGL and the Board of General Purposes is
detailed and comprehensive and presented and preserved in a most business like
manner.
My gratitude and appreciation is extended to Rt.W. Bros. G Hugh Milne, Geoffrey G.
Ashton and Cyril R Foster and Ms Rebecca Hayes of Grand Lodge for their most helpful
support and practical guidance in compiling this brief history. This document does not do
justice to the activities and enormous efforts of the dedicated Group of Righteous and
Charitable individuals that have served Freemasonry in General and the Provincial Grand
Lodge of North Munster in particular. A more thorough and complete history of the
Provincial Grand Lodge of North Munster is a subject that truly merits a further in depth
study and deserves greater attention and research. Perhaps an editorial committee
chaired by a Senior Member is an ideal model for such an expansive subject.
Background
Towards the end of the eighteenth century the number of new Lodges being founded
increased dramatically at the same time as the popularity of the Volunteer Movement
expanded. Several Lodges were associated with Volunteer Regiments.
The political influence of the Volunteers combined with the success of the American War
of Independence and the French Revolution created new ideals of democracy in Ireland.
Following the founding of the Society of United Irishmen, several Lodges made public
proclamations in the press about the need for reform of the Constitution. Whilst the vast
majority of Lodges that did this disavowed violence as the means to an end, some were
quite rebellious in their proclamations. Other Lodges, it must be said, publicly
disassociated themselves from their more revolutionary Brethren.
Government pressure was brought to bear on Grand Lodge and notices were sent out
reminding Lodges of the Grand Lodge Law forbidding quarrels of a religious or political
nature to be brought within the doors of the Lodge.
Prior to the uprising in 1798, Freemasonry in Ireland manifested an enthusiasm which
greatly exceeded its popularity in England. In 1797, in Dublin alone there were 50 lodges.
However, by 1834 such was the decline that scarcely eight lodges met in the entire
county of Dublin.
In 1814, the number of Lodges operating in the home countries was: England 647,
Scotland 280 and Ireland 810. However, many of these were held outside of the country
within whose jurisdiction they were comprised. For example, two lodges on the Irish roll
met in England: one in Norwich and the other in Middle Temple in London, a third in
Béziers, France, a fourth in New York and a fifth in Baltimore not to mention those in
other colonies of the British Empire. Military Lodges also accounted for 15% of the total
on the Irish jurisdiction roll. The number of Army Lodges in 1815 was 123.
In 1826, the Papal condemnation ‘Quo Graviora,’ although only the latest of a series of
anti-masonic measures by the Church, was the first to be rigidly enforced by the Irish
clergy. Many Catholic Freemasons were threatened with excommunication, and
subsequently resigned as a result. Daniel O'Connell was one notable member of Antient
Union Lodge 13 that was pressurised by Archbishop Troy of Dublin to resign from
Freemasonry.
Transport around Ireland at the end of the eighteenth century was extremely
challenging. Thanks to Charles Bianconi (an Italian immigrant) came to Ireland in 1802,
and revolutionised public transport in Ireland by establishing a regular horse-drawn
carriage service on various routes from about 1815 onwards. His network of routes
eventually covered most of the country from north to south. Thanks to his system of
transport, rural Ireland became much more accessible which in turn stimulated trade and
even helped reduce the price of many commodities. To give the reader a flavour of the
times, in 1842 the fare on Buchanan’s Limerick to Ennis Coaches was: 9/- (nine shillings)
inside and 4/10½ (four shillings and ten pence half penny) outside.To give the reader a
true sense of value, usuing ‘average earnings’ as a comparative index, the inside fare in
today’s money would be €60 and the outside fare would be €32.
Commerce in Limerick in 1842 was quite different from today’s world. At that time,
everything centred around various markets. The hay and straw markets were held in two
enclosures on Wednesday and Saturday; the wheat market was large, and had sheds all
round its enclosure; the butter market, a spacious and lofty building, was open daily
throughout the year. There were two potato markets, one in the English town, and the
other in the Irish town, where vast quantities were sold daily.
There were also two meat markets, each plentifully supplied with butchers' meat and
poultry; but the supply of fish and vegetables was often deficient. The smaller of these
markets, called the Northumberland Buildings (the location of the first Provincial
Masonic Hall), had attached to it large apartments for public meetings, a bazaar, and
commercial chambers. There were four annual fairs, on Easter-Tuesday, July 4th, Aug.
4th, and Dec. 12th. To the August fair was attached a privilege by virtue of which no
person, for fifteen days after it, can be arrested in the city or liberties on process issuing
out of the Tholsel. (Originally the Tholsel was built as a town hall where taxes were
collected. Later it became a combination of city hall, customs house, court house and
chamber of commerce. After this, in 1750, the building of the Tholsel was used as a City
Jail. This cost the city council a large amount of £1000. The court house in the Tholsel was
the main court at the time. The mayor and two sheriffs took on the key positions of
judges. The court met once a week and had the final word on all matters.)
Limerick Union, an area of some 197 square miles with a population of just over 140,000,
was declared in December 1838. The headquarters of the Limerick Union was in the
workhouse built on Shelbourne Road, Limerick City between 1839 and 1841 at a cost of
nearly £13,000. The first paupers were admitted on 22nd May 1841. It was designed to
hold 1,600 inmates. It superseded the old House of Industry on the North Strand, which
closed down at this time, and later became a barracks. In 1861, the Sisters of Mercy
were introduced into and given charge of the administration of the Union Workhouse.
William Monsell (1812-94), MP for County Limerick from 1847 to 1874, was Chairman of
the Board of Guardians from 1857 to 1882, which lent the Union additional prestige,
both locally and nationally. After the Boards of Guardians were abolished in 1923, the
workhouse on Shelbourne Road became the City Home and Hospital.
Notable World Events in 1842
-
March 9 – Giuseppe Verdi's third opera Nabucco premieres at La Scala in Milan; its success establishes Verdi as one of Italy's foremost operatic composers.
-
March 30 – American physician and pharmacist Crawford Long administers an inhaled aesthetic (diethyl ether) to facilitate a surgical procedure (removal of a neck tumour).
-
April 13 – First Anglo-Afghan War: British victory at the Battle of Jellalabad.
-
August 10 – The Mines Act 1842 becomes law, prohibiting underground work for all women and boys under 10 years old in the United Kingdom.
-
August 29 – The Treaty of Nanking, an unequal treaty between Britain and Qing dynasty China, ends the First Opium War and establishes Hong Kong as a British colony until 1997.
-
American medical student William E. Clarke of Berkshire Medical College becomes the first person to administer an inhaled anaesthetic to facilitate a surgical procedure (dental extraction).
The Creation of the Masonic Province of North Munster
There is considerable evidence that there were Masonic Lodges meeting in Ireland prior
to the eighteenth century, for example the manuscript known as ‘the Trinity Tripos’
dating to the 1680s, and the Baal’s Bridge Square, discovered in Limerick in the early
nineteenth century, dates to the early sixteenth century. There are a number of Masonic
lodges in Ireland that lay claim to have met prior to the formation to the Grand Lodge of
Ireland.
We are all aware that very often things happen slowly in Freemasonry and the creation
of a Province of North Munster was no exception. On January 19th 1824, the Secretary of
Antient Union Lodge (AUL 13) read a letter from the Grand Lodge stating “the District
over which No: 13 presides is the Lodges in this city, the Lodges in Castleconnell and in
Rathkeale.”
On 18th February 1824, it was recorded “…it was resolved that the Secretary (of AUL 13)
be directed to write to the Grand Lodge informing that No: 13 will be willing to take
charge of the Lodges at Ennis, Nenagh and Tipperary in addition to this District already
appointed by Grand Lodge.”
AUL 13 endured a quiet period between 1833 and 1840 when the Lodge only met
occasionally. And it was in 1840 that we first learn of Bro Michael Furnell, a member of
13 who found the Lodge Warrant mouldering in a coal vault. He was made Master of the
Lodge in 1840, was granted a replacement Warrant by Grand Lodge and began to revive
Masonry within both the Lodge and District.
Up until that period in history, Limerick was part of the overall Masonic province of
Munster, under the Provincial Grand Mastership of The Earl of Shannon. On the death of
His Grace in 1841, Grand Lodge decided to split the Province and band Lodges 13 & 271
Limerick together with 107 Kilrush (Co Clare), 49 Charleville (Co Cork), and 208 Nenagh
(Co Tipperary) to form a new Masonic Province to be known as North Munster. Rt
Wor Bro Michael Furnell was selected to be the first Provincial Grand Master of this new
Province.
The Masonic Province of North Munster was eventually officially established on July 11,
1842, and Rt Wor Bro Michael Furnell was invested and went on to be a very successful
Provincial Grand Master.
Over the years, he received many accolades from his Brethren in Limerick, including the
presentation of a massive silver Masonic Pillar of the Corinthian Order surmounted with
a Globe. This gift, from his Brethren in AUL 13 was to mark his service as WM on two
separate years and his new role as Inner Guard (I.G.). Later in his life the Brethren
of Eden Lodge No 73 presented a very fine illuminated address and poem marking some
twenty years of service as Provincial Grand Master.
Prior to 1842 when the Province of North Munster was established the then Province of
Munster also included County Limerick, County Clare, part of County Tipperary and all of
the County of Kerry.
When the Provincial Grand Lodge of North Munster formed in 1842, it was comprised of:
-
Limerick Lodges Antient Union 13 (established 22/11/1732)
-
271 (later to become Eden Lodge 73), swapped on 9 Dec 1843.
-
36* Limerick (Travelled to Barbados and Spike Island, Cork) ceased 02/12/1858.
-
Castleconnell 91, established 01/11/1821
-
Charleville, Emerald Lodge 49, established 12/04/1736 (Dormant in 1865. Resumed work June 1879) and ceased 07/03/1901.
-
Kilrush 107, established 16/11/1840 and ceased 05/07/1856
-
Nenagh, St. James's Lodge 208, established 02/09/1841 and ceased 21 May 1856.
-
Templemore 311, established 07/02/1832. To be cancelled, Jun 1837 if arrears not paid. Revived 07/04/1842. Warrant returned 02/12/1926. Resuscitated 01/03/1945.
-
Rathkeale 305, established 01/08/1822, in lieu of 575. Warrant returned 11/11/1842. Restored 03/04/1856, but not taken out until 4 Jun 1858. Ceased 22/11/1860.
-
Tipperary 296, established 24/06/1758 Cancelled 07/10/1813. Duplicate Warrant 04/04/1816. Ceased 07/02/1832.
Notes:
-
Lodge 36, at one time, met in a house actually on Baal's Bridge.
-
There are only two Lodges in the Irish Constitution working under an original Warrant that is actually endorsed as being transferred from.... Those Lodges are 49 (now in Greystones) and 116 (now in Carlow, but had moved prior to 1842).
This was an expansionary period for the constituent lodges of the Province of North
Munster and the Lodge rooms in Limerick were becoming quite busy. Triune Lodge No
333 was formed in January 1846 by three Members of Antient Union. Bros Samuel
Dickson, William Massy and Henry Massy became foundation Master and Wardens
respectively. Interestingly this Lodge initially did not carry out Initiations, as the large
majority of its Members affiliated from AUL 13. Ormonde Lodge 201 was consecrated on
the 3 April 1846. There were effectively four Lodges in the city at that time.
On the 13 January 1846 Triune Lodge No 333 came into existence in Limerick and would
be followed on the 3rd April 1846 by Ormonde Lodge No 201. On the 2 May 1873 an
Installed Master’s Lodge known as Excelsior Lodge No 268 was founded again from the
membership of Antient Union No 13. This time the foundation officers were Alexander
Stuart, George Moore and Henry Sikes. The name Excelsior was chosen for its Latin root
suggestive of striving “Higher Still”, a good description of the aims of any Installed
8
Masters’ Lodge. On 3 Mar 1848 a new Lodge, No. 55 Tipperary, was added to the
Province of North Munster under the promising auspices of Bro. H. W. Massy, P.D.G.M.
of Rosanna (Henry William Massey was a magistrate and anded propriater in the
townland Rossand near Tipperary Town). It eventually ceased on 16 Jul 1859. Finally, on
the 15th February 1956 Dunboyne Lodge No 60 transferred from Ennis, Co Clare to the
city of Limerick.
Lodge 135 Kilrush was established on 7 Jan 1859, restored, 7 Feb 1867 and ceased 24
Nov 1874.
Although the Masonic Province of North Munster was created in 1842, and could be said
to cover the Mid-West of Ireland, it continues largely unchanged in area to the present
day. However, the same does not apply to the number of its constituent Lodges. As is
commonly the case, some Lodges have closed while on the other hand, new Lodges have
been formed as the populace has changed or moved away.
There are, at present, 6 Lodges, 5 of which now meet in Limerick City which are:
-
Antient Union Lodge 13 (Also referred to as ‘Ancient Union’ and ‘Union Lodge’ in historical records).
-
Eden Lodge 73
-
Ormond Lodge 201
-
Excelsior Lodge 268
-
Triune Lodge 333
-
St. Patrick’s Lodge 333 (meets in Roscrea).
​
The First Meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge
The Induction of the First Provincial Grand Master of the Provincial Grand Lodge of North
Munster took place on July 11, 1842 at Northumberland Buildings located on the corner
of Henry Street and Cecil Street Limerick. This induction took place during an Antient
Union Lodge 13 meeting. A record of this illustrious event has been extracted from the
1842 Quarterly Review as follows:
July 11. -The Antient Union Lodge, No. 13, having fixed the Monday of the Assizes week
for the celebration of the festival of St. John, that favourable opportunity was taken to
install the officers of the Provincial Grand Lodge of North Munster. His Grace the Duke of
Leinster having been pleased to appoint Bro. Furnell, S.P.G.R.C., High Sheriff of the
county, Provincial Grand Master, Bro. Norman, Asist. Dep. Grand Master of the Grand
Lodge of Ireland, and President of the Council of Rites, was deputed to induct Bro. Furnell
to his exalted office, which imposing ceremony he performed with that tact and
propriety so peculiar to him, and he was ably assisted by Bro. Brereton, Representative of
the Grand Master of England, and Representatives from Lodges 13, 49, 60, 107, 208, 271,
9
and 305, being those under the control of the Provincial Grand Lodge, as well as by
distinguished members of Lodges from other provinces of the kingdom.
As soon as the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master was installed, he proceeded to
form the Grand Lodge, when the following Grand Officers were appointed and saluted in
due form: -
-
W. S. Tracy, S.P.G.R.C. P.M. Lodges 13 and 20, D.P.G. Master;
-
Sen. P.G Warden, Hon. J. O'Grady, 13;
-
Theo O'Gorman, W.M. 60;
-
P.G. Treasurer, Watson, P.M. 13;
-
P.G. Sec John Boyse, jun., P.M. 271 and 50;
-
Sen. P.G. Deacon, Sir Richard Franklin, W.M. 271;
-
Jun. P.G. Deacon, Hamo De Massy, P.M. 49;
-
P.G. Director of Ceremonies, J. Dempster, W.M. 208;
-
P.G. Standard-Bearer, J. B. O'Gorman, 107;
-
Pursuivant, William Glover, P.M. 271;
-
P.G. Chaplains, Rev. H. Willis, 13, Rev. J. Elmes, 271, Rev. J. Locke, 13;
-
Inner Guards, R. Gelston, W.M. 13, Russell O'Shaughnessy, P.M. 49, and Thos.
Wallnutt, P.M. 13.
The business of the day having been disposed of, the assembled Brethren, over eighty in
number, adjourned to the banqueting-room of 13, for refreshment.
Original Rules and Regulations of PGL (1850) see Appendix 1
I. That the NORTH MUNSTER PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE do meet the first
Saturday in February, May, August, November, on the 24th of June, and
27th of December, and at all times and places in the district, when specially
summoned by the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master. That it consists
of the R. W. the Provincial Grand Master, the Rt. W. the Deputy Provincial
Grand Master, the Rt. W. the Provincial Grand Wardens, the V. W. the
Provincial Grand Chaplain, the V. W. the Provincial Grand Secretary,
together with the Master and Wardens, for the time being of each regular
Lodge within the Masonic Province, and they shall attend the same when
duly summoned or depute Brethren properly qualified (by being past
Officers of the station they are to represent) to fill their places as proxies, in
default of which they shall incur such penalty as the P. G. Lodge shall
impose.
II. That the Provincial Grand Master shall annually on or before the 27th day of
December nominate the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, and the Provincial
Grand Secretary, And the Provincial Grand Lodge shall elect the Provincial
Grand Wardens, and the Provincial Grand Chaplain, who must be Masters or
Past Masters of the Province, and shall elect from among its Members Brethren
to fill the offices of Sen. and Jun. Provincial Grand Deacons, and Provincial
Grand Pursuivant; and shall also elect three Members, who shall conjointly with
the Provincial Grand Master; Deputy Provincial Grand Master, and Provincial
Grand Secretary, constitute a Board of General Purposes to digest and regulate
all transactions to be submitted to the Provincial Grand Lodge.
III. That correct minutes of all the proceedings of the Provincial Grand Lodge shall
be kept in a proper book, to be produced by the Provincial Grand Master for the
inspection of the Most Worshipful the Grand Master, and the Right Worshipful
the Grand Lodge of Ireland whenever required; and that the transactions of
registry of each Lodge in the district be kept distinctly.
IV. That each Lodge do furnish the Provincial Grand Master with a report and
return of its Officers and Members, specifying their standing previous to
each St. John's day, with a copy of Bye Laws to be registered in the
Provincial Grand Lodge Books, and any Lodge not complying or sending an
incorrect one shall be fined five shillings; and the Master and Wardens, or
their proxies, of any Lodge who shall neglect for one whole year to make
their returns, and attend the Provincial Grand Lodge shall be disqualified
from attending until their returns shall have been made.
V. That the Masters and Wardens, or their proxies, representing Lodges, shall
take their places in the Provincial Grand Lodge with their jewels, which must
be silver, and pendant from blue Collars, (the Provincial Grand Officers
being entitled to wear them of gold,) but all other Members to appear in
white aprons, bordered with sky blue, and no other colour and the
Provincial Grand Master may permit any Master Mason to be present, but
who shall not address the Chair unless by permission, nor in any case be
allowed to vote; and every Master and Warden at his first attendance at
Provincial Grand Lodge, shall stand such examination as the Provincial
Grand Master or his Representative on the throne, shall appoint, and if
found incompetent, shall not be received as a Member of the Provincial
Grand Lodge.
VI. That at the Provincial Grand Lodge Meetings, all matters which concern the
Fraternity in general, particular Lodges or individual Brethren, are to be
maturely considered; where also, all differences which cannot be arranged
privately, are to be decided, and if any Brother thinks himself aggrieved by
the decision, he may appeal to the Right Worshipful the Grand Lodge of
Ireland.
VII. That all Lodges, or Brethren, requiring the interposition of the Provincial
Grand Lodge, do furnish a full statement of the case at least, ten days
previous to the Quarterly Meetings, to admit of the Provincial Grand Master
deciding whether same should be notified in, the summonses.
VIII. That no topic shall be ever introduced of either a political or sectarian
character, which could produce a collision of opinions, and that every
Brother addressing the Chair, shall rise and remain standing, nor shall any
person interrupt him, unless by a special motion to order, or that the
Provincial Grand Master shall call him to order, and no Brother shall speak
more than once on the same subject, unless in explanation, or when called
upon by the Provincial Grand Master, and if guilty of un-masonic
demeanour, shall be punished accordingly.
IX. That no motion for a new law, or for the repeal or alteration of an old one
shall be made, until proposed and seconded in writing, after which, it shall
be committed for the consideration of the next meeting of the Provincial
Grand Lodge, and no anonymous letter, petition or recommendation, by or
from any person, shall be introduced.
X. That all the Lodges of the district are bound to observe the same usages and
customs as sanctioned by the Right Worshipful the Grand Lodge of Ireland,
and any deviation from authorized working is perfectly unwarrantable, and
cannot be justified or overlooked.
XI. That Provincial Grand Officers visiting other Lodges as such, are expected to
do so in costume becoming the dignity of the Provincial Grand Lodge, and to
seriously reflect on the circumspection and example expected from them.
The Establishment of the Masonic Orphan Society
Up until 1850, the giving of charity to orphans was haphazard and very often on a once
off basis as individual needs arose. There was no advance planning, nor were there
specific structures in place within the Province. However, that changed in 1850 when a
PGL Orphan and Benevolent institution was formally established and the officers of
Lodges 13, 73 & 333 constituted the committee.
The rules and regulations were initially established as follows;
1st
- The Society to be called "The Masonic Orphan Society," under the Patronage of
the Right Worshipful the Provincial Grand Master of North Munster.
2nd
- The entire management of the Society to be under the control of a Committee,
who shall meet regularly at the Lodge Room of No.____ in Limerick, on the ___
day of each Month, at the hour of Twelve o'clock, for the transaction of business;
three to form a quorum.
3rd
- The W. M. and Sr. and Jr. Wardens of each Lodge in the District subscribing annually
Two Shillings or upwards for each paying Member on their roll, or Five Pounds or
upwards annually among its Members, or any Brother giving a donation of Three
Pounds in one sum, shall be on the Committee for life; also, the Officers of the P.
G. L. of North Munster for the time being, and such other Brothers as the
Committee may deem proper to elect.
4th
- No Child to be admitted under the care of the Society above the age of Eleven
Years, or to be retained after the age of Fifteen, without the special permission of
the Committee.
5th
- All applications on behalf of Orphans must be made by memorial, according to the
prescribed form, and signed by four Members of subscribing Lodges in the
District, who undertake that the claimant is a proper object, and that no
imposition is attempted.
6th
- Previous to admission of any Child, the following Certificates are required :-
1st
- That the Father of the Child was a registered Master Mason, and died within
the pale of Masonry.
2nd
- The Marriage Certificate of Parents.
3rd
- Certificate of Baptism.
4th
- Certificate of good health, and of not being subject to fits or any organic
disease.
5th
- The approval of a medical man.
7th
-The Committee to have summary power to remove, either temporary or
permanently, any Child who may be incapacitated by mental or bodily defect
from profiting by the advantages afforded by the Society, or whose conduct may
be disapproved of by the Committee.
8th
- That on the admission of a child, the Treasurer shall lodge the sum of Three Pounds in
the Limerick Savings' Bank, to remain there until the child's removal, and then to be
applied in providing it with an outfit of clothes, or as the Committee may think fit,
provided the child shall have conducted itself to their satisfaction while under their
care ; and no child can be admitted unless the funds afford such deposit.
9th
- The Children to be placed under the superintendence of the Parochial Clergy of the
Church in Parishes where there is a Parochial School, or such school as the Committee
shall approve, where they must attend, as soon as they are old enough to receive
instruction -the Bible to be read at school by all the children. They are to attend their
respective places of worship, without religious distinctions, and to be characterised one
day in the week, besides Sunday, by their respective Clergy, at the Parish Church or
Chapel (as the case may be), if they are so required.
10th
- The Children to be left with their mothers, when such are of approved conduct,
until they are of age to receive instruction, and after that, if practicable, without
an infringement of the ninth rule; if not, to be placed with a family of approved
principles and industrious habits.
11th
- All Orphans to be inspected Quarterly, at the houses of the Matrons, by their respective
Superintendents, and that same shall be requested to acquaint the Committee if there is
any cause of complaint.
12th
- Any person desirous of having an Orphan for an Apprentice, must send into the
Committee an application, accompanied by a certificate, signed by the Clergymen
of the Parish and four respectable Householders, vouching for the character and
qualifications of the applicant; and the children shall be apprenticed by triplicate
Indentures, in which one of the Officers of the Society shall be a party.
13th
- A Report of Expenditure, &c., to be produced Quarterly at the Provincial Grand Lodge
Meetings.
14th
- The Committee assembled in Provincial Grand Lodge, where notice of motion has
been made on the preceding Quarterly Meeting of said P. G. L., and notice is given
thereof in the Summonses, to have power to change or modify any of the
foregoing Rules, as occasion may require.
At a District Masonic Meeting held on the 8th day of April, 1850, at the Rooms of the
Eden Lodge, 73, Upper Cecil Street, it was Resolved - That the foregoing Resolutions be
printed, and three copies sent to every Lodge in the District of North Munster; and that they be
fraternally invited to analyse and report on same, at the next Provincial Grand Meeting (to be
held in May), and then move such amendments as they may deem desirable.
By Order,
JOHN BERNAL, P.M. 73., Sec. pro tern.
Fees and Fines imposed by PGL
The following letter was issued by the PG Secretary members of PGL with a view to
increasing the administrative income for the Province. The content speaks for itself – but
of particular interest is the fine for non-attendance in item 5. This was debated at length
when it was also considered to apply a similar fine to WMs and Wardens of subordinate
lodges who failed to attend and did not provide a proxy. However, that fine did not make
it into the final directive.
Provincial Grand Lodge of North Munster
MASONIC HALL,
6 THE CRESCENT,
Limerick
July 8t h 1902
Dear Sir and Brother,
I have been desired to inform you that it has been found necessary to
increase the Revenue of this Provincial Grand Lodge to enable the annual
expenses connected with it to be paid, and towards this end the following
additions to the Bye-Laws have been made by P.G. Lodge and approved of by
the Grand Lodge of Ireland, viz: ‑
N o . 1 That i f the R.W. P ro vi nc ial G rand Mas ter an d R.W. P ro vinc ia l
Deputy G rand Maste r v o luntari ly desi re to c o n tribute eac h £ 1 -
0-0 d. pe r annum, as a F ee o f Ho no ur, t hat it sh o u ld be ac c epted
with thank s.
No. 2 That in addition to the existing fees of honour payable by our
Provincial Grand Officers, viz. £1-1-0d. each for P.G. Wardens,
and 10s.6d. each for P.G. Deacons and P.G. I. Guard, that the
P.G. Treasurer and Secretary pay 10s.0d. each per annum.
No. 3 That Certificates of having held Office in Provincial Grand Lodge be
issued to those entitled to them on payment of 5s.0d. for each
Certificate.
No. 4 That the Dues of Lodges having 40 Subscribing Members and
over that number, be increased from 20s.0d. as at present to
30s.od. each per annum, and those having 30 Subscribing
Members and not exceeding 39 be increased from 20s.0d. to
25s.0d per annum.
No. 5 That a Fine of 5s.0d. be inflicted upon Officers of the Provincial Grand
Lodge who do not attend at least Two Stated Communications in the
year.
15
No. 6 That Fines of 5s.0d. each be inflicted upon Lodges who are not
represented at Provincial Grand Lodge at least twice in the year.
No. 7 That the expenses connected with the Annual Masonic Service be
borne proportionately by the Seven Subordinate Lodges.
Yours fraternally,
JOHN B. BARRINGTON,
Provincial Grand Secretary N.M.
(Note: £1 in 1902 = €142 in 2017, and 5s.0d. = €35)
The Early Years of the Provincial Grand Lodge of North Munster
The 1842 Quarterly Review reported that masonry in the provinces of Ireland was
advancing with unusual strides. North Munster has a shining light' in Brother Furnell ; to
all his compeers we say, "Do thou likewise."
Further extracts also listed:
Aug. 6. — On Friday the Right Worshipful the Provincial Grand Master of North Munster,
M. Furnell, Esq. D.L., High Sheriff, commenced his Provincial tour of duty by inspecting
the books, minutes, and transactions of Lodge 107, Kilrush. The order, regularity, and
Masonic zeal manifested by the proceedings of this young Lodge, not quite two years
established, elicited from the Right Worshipful the P.G. Master the warmest encomiums,
and a minute to that effect, attested by his signature, and by the seal of the P.G. Lodge,
has been placed upon their books. At seven o'clock the P.G. officers were entertained at
dinner, together with the visiting Brethren from Lodges 13, 271, 108, and 242, by the W.
Master and Brethren of 107, and after a rare display of the Feast of reason and flow of
soul, separated in peace, love, and harmony. On Friday next, with a suitable staff of
Grand Officers, the Provincial Grand Master will visit 208, at Nenagh, where no doubt he
will be equally well pleased as with his visit to Kilrush.
Nenagh, Aug. 12.— St. James's Lodge, No. 208, was visited by the Right Worshipful
Provincial Grand Master of Munster, Michael Furnell, Esq., D.L. and High Sheriff, County
Limerick, who was accompanied by the D P.G.M., and the Staff of Officers of the P.G.L.
After opening the Lodge in due form, inspecting the books and minutely investigating all
matters relative to the due working of No. 208, the P.G,M. was pleased to express his
entire approbation, and in testimony thereof, recorded a minute, and affixed his seal on
the books of this young Lodge, scarcely twelve months in operation, after which, by
permission, 208 was opened in the first degree for initiation, and at seven o'clock the
Brethren were entertained at dinner, the W.M. (Dr. Dempster) in the chair, when a very
delightful evening was spent in the greatest harmony.
Charleville, Aug. 20.— The Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, M. Furnell, visited
Emerald Lodge, No. 49, accompanied by the Brethren of Ashhill Towers (Kilmallock),
expressed much satisfaction at the zealous care the Emerald Lodge evinced in the very
perfect preservation of their warrant and records, from the year 1736 to the present.
Aug. 21, Lodge 60. — This most ancient and respectable Lodge, now 107 years in
existence, met to receive the deputation from the Provincial Grand Lodge of North
Munster, headed by a gentleman to whom Masonry owes so much, Bro. Michael Furnell.
On this grand occasion two most estimable Brethren were raised to the sublime degree
of Master Masons, by the Provincial Grand Master, to whose superior merit and
knowledge the arduous duty was willingly conceded.
With Lodge 60, the arduous duty of Provincial Grand Inspectorship concluded, and it will
not be too much to say, that for knowledge, intelligence, add brotherly affection, the
Provincial Grand Master cannot be exceeded, perhaps equalled.
Nov. 30.— A highly respectable and crowded meeting took place at the Freemasons'
Hall, being quarterly day of the North Munster Provincial Grand Lodge ; and we
congratulate the R.W. P.G.M. on the proud array under his banner, of a body devoted to
universal benevolence and brotherly love. We are authorised to state that the
representatives of every Lodge of the district pledged themselves individually and
collectively to countenance, aid and support the Ancient Union Lodge, No. 13, in carrying
out their annual ball at the next assizes, in aid of the Masonic Orphan Institution.
1843 Quarterly Review extracts
In Dublin, Masonic affairs were reported to be but stationary; and have been damped by
misrepresentations, and wanted moral courage to set about effecting a moral change.
But, in the Irish provinces however, Freemasonry was resuming its prerogative,
enlightening the mind and cheering the heart. For example in Cork, the Masonic ball
attracted the ladies of the fair city, and a noble offering was placed in the hands of the
Treasurer of the Female Asylum.
The installation of Lord Carberry was a splendid ceremony, and every confidence is felt
that his lordship will reanimate Freemasonry in South Munster (note: at that time
Province of South Munster was referred to as the Province of Suoyth Munster.) . While in
North Munster his enterprising and spirited Brother, Michael Furnell, continues with
unremitting ardour his brilliant career.
In Limerick, the ball for a similar occasion was eminently successful, and was followed on
the second night after by a ball given by his lady, whom the Craft honoured by attending
in full Masonic costume — ‘Hommage Aux Dames.’
Grand Lodge felt great pleasure in believing that some slight differences of opinion, in
respect to the designation of the Two Grand Lodges in Munster, would be removed —
“as South and North, may they long maintain the integrity of the Order over the whole of
the province!”
Limerick, June 24 — The Masonic body of this city held their annual dinner in the
Freemasons' Hall. The large room was beautifully decorated with flags and various
emblems of the Craft. Michael Furnell, Esq., the R.W. P.G.M. of North Munster, took the
president's chair amidst universal acclaim.
The loyal toasts were first disposed of, and drunk with all the honours, after which the
R.W. President, with suitable introductions, proposed, "The Duke of Leinster, and the
Grand Lodge of Ireland'—" The Memory of our Brother, the Duke of Sussex, late Grand
Master of England," (in solemn silence) — “Lord Frederick FitzClarence, and the Grand
Lodge of Scotland"— Brother Tracy, the D.P.G.M. of North Munster."
Bro. Tracy, in a speech of considerable power, in which he descanted on the sublime
principles inculcated by Masonry, returned thanks, and concluded by proposing—
"The R.W.P.G.M., Michael Furnell, Esq.”
Bro. Furnell rose, and was received with the usual salute by the Brethren assembled. He
observed, among other eloquent remarks, "I have infringed on the usual system of your
Lodge, by thus celebrating this festival in this Grand Lodge of the province; for I study to
establish, as much as possible, the principle that the ancient order of Freemasonry is not
a society limited to the precincts of any lodge-room, but a family whose privileges extend
all over that vast expanse governed by The Grand Master of All; and if kings and nobles
give lustre to our order by their condescension, example, and submission to the Divine
ordinance of Love thy neighbour as thyself; so does the Brother in the humble walk of life
add brightness thereto, by observing that virtue and decorum which alone should be his
qualification to unite with us ; and though we all meet here on the Level as Freemasons
have done for ages, and as good men ever will, yet we do so under the wholesome
restraint of experienced officers, which teaches us to 'part on the Square,' rendering
honour to whom honour is due, and due respect to every Brother according to his station;
for a Masonic Lodge should be a school of morals and manners, and though political and
sectarian strife are excluded from our porch, yet pure religion, strict obedience to our
sovereign and the authorities, peace and good order, are unerring principles."
In August 1862, PGL meetings changed from Wednesday to Saturday and in March of the
following year Henry Westropp became the new PGM.
Some Interesting Events in Provincial Grand Lodge
The only reference to the Irish Famine of the 1840s was made in a report by the PGM
Michael Furnell to Grand Lodge in 1850 which stated “notwithstanding the protracted
and unparalleled calamities which have nearly overwhelmed every other institution, the
Masonic Fold of North Munster holds a respectable and secure position and if much
progress cannot be announced, I am rejoiced to report that no ground has been lost.”
In Feb 1850, a motion was passed “that the practice of strict rotation in filling provincial
offices shall henceforth be discontinued”.
A subject that regularly exercised the Provincial Grand Lodge meetings was the issue of
not making “returns” to Grand Lodge. In Aug 1850, Lodges 60 & 208 were each fined 5/-
(five shillings) for not making the required returns. On regular occasions lodges were
threatened with dissolution for non-compliance with these directives. Another issue that
regularly caused members concern and distress was the refusal of Grand Lodge to grant
leave to install them as PGL Officers because their Past Master’s Certificates were not
taken out.
In 1852, a new lodge No 202 was established in Newcastle. There were 30 members and
the initiation fee was £2-10-0. Also in that year Antient Union Lodge 13 decided to
dissolve their “Club” and as of 1 Nov, they “remodelled it as a purely Masonic Lodge”.
The presentation of ornate gifts was not unusual, in that a very ornate Silver Salver was
also presented to Lord Dunboyne which was reported in the Limerick Chronicle on 28
January 1875.
Annual installation
Banquets throughout the nineteenthcentury were very elaborate affairs with no expense spared. The admission cost for one of these Banquets for Members and Invited Guests 6/- non-dining members 1/-, and uninvited guests £1.
In 1911, a Provincial Grand Tyler was appointed. Bro. Bill Hunson was engaged at 5/- (five shillings) per meeting and 3 month’s notice to be given by either side.
On the 2nd June 1921, at a PGL Meeting attended by 100 members a Memorial Ceremony a plaque was unveiled which was dedicated to the honour of those who served in the Great War. The Concluding Prayer was: “May the heroic sacrifice, dauntless courage, and unswerving fortitude, bring Peace, Happiness and Contentment to all mankind. So mote it be.”
In 1923, damage was caused to Lodge 60 premises in Ennis to the amount of £378. While
a decree was obtained by PGL for £300, an offer of £200 in settlement was made by the
Free State Government.
As stated earlier, there was no reference to the 100th Anniversary of PGL in 1942.
Perhaps that was due to the Second World War and deemed inappropriate to celebrate
at a time of rationing throughout the country.
During the ‘Emergency’ in 1939, a letter was issued by Grand Lodge authorising all
Lodges to alter or suspend all Lodge meetings should circumstances render it desirable.
Lodge 60 Ennis decided to reduce their meetings to quarterly but all other lodges would
discuss the issue with their own members. Authorisation was issued by PGL to all
Worshipful Masters to close their lodges without due form.
Dispensation was also granted to members of PGL of the need to wear morning dress to
PGL meetings. However, extensive debate took place over the necessity of wearing of
white gloves by PGL Officers. Eventually in Oct 1940, it was finally decided that the
practice of wearing white gloves should continue.
The Annual Treasurers Reports were much more basic in those days. In 1940, the report
consisted of:
Cash on Hands £45- 5- 1 Expenditure £18-13-4
Receipts £20-12- 0 Cash on Hand (end) £47- 3-9
£67-17- 1 £67-17-1
The only reference to matters political during the Emergency was a request by the Grand
Lodge of Armenia not to confer degrees on any Armenian without their express
permission.
Subjects that regularly taxed meetings were complaints from members who were
refused leave to be installed as PGL Officers because their Past Master Certificates were
not taken out.
The First Provincial Grand Master of North Munster - Michael Furnell
Amongst the surviving Royal Arch letters from Antient Union is one
dated 22nd September 1842, which includes a reference from
Michael Furnell PGM to the holding of a Lodge meeting, on board
his yacht during the Limerick Regatta in 1842. The Masonic
emblems Square /Compasses proudly flying at his top mast.
Michael Furnell was appointed High Sheriff for County Limerick for
the year 1842. The High Sheriff of Limerick was the British Crown's
judicial representative in County Limerick. The sheriff had judicial,
electoral, ceremonial and administrative functions and executed
High Court Writs. His main responsibilities were the preservation of law and order in the
county. The usual procedure for appointment was that three persons were nominated at
the beginning of each year from the county and the Lord Lieutenant then appointed his
choice as High Sheriff for the remainder of the year.
''Burke's Irish Family Records'' refers to two Furnell brothers coming to Ireland in 1645
and settling in county Limerick. One of them bought Caherelly Castle and over 400 acres
from General Vernon. Successive generations of Michael Furnell lived at Ballyclough and
Caherelly. They had extensive limestone quarries and patents to hold fairs in the locality
and set up a bank in 1804. At the time of Griffith's Valuation, the Furnell estate was
located in the parishes of Caherelly and St Nicholas, barony of Clanwilliam and
Knocknagaul, barony of Pubblebrien.
In the 1870s George Cantillon Furnell of Caherelly Grange owned 1,741 acres in County
Limerick and his uncle Frederick Furnell of Caherelly House owned 124 acres.
Lewis refers to Furnell’s residence as "a neat building in the cottage style" situated near
Longford bridge. The substantial house marked at this location on the first Ordnance
Survey map is named Caherelly Castle. The Ordnance Survey Field Name Book called it
Cahir Elly Castle or Coole House. It was valued at £30 and occupied by Michael Furnell
who held it in fee at the time of Griffith's Valuation. This house may have been known as
Caherelly Grange in the last decades of the 19th century (see ''Burke's Irish Family
Records'').
A plaque records the building of this house in 1800 by William Hannan. Lewis refers to
the residence of Mr Hannan in well planted grounds. The Ordnance Field Name Book
refers to Cahir Elly Cottage as the residence of William Hannan. Marked as Caherelly
Cottage on the first Ordnance Survey map, this house was located close to the ruins of
an old castle. Valued at £12 in the early 1850s and occupied by Michael Furnell who held
it in fee. It later became the home of Michael Furnell's brother Frederick, an army
surgeon.
Michael Furnell and the Baal’s Bridge Square
One of the artefacts in which the Freemasons of North Munster take great pride is the
ancient brass square known as the “Baal's Bridge Square”. This old brass square was
recovered from the foundations of Baal’s Bridge in Limerick when the bridge was being
rebuilt in 1830. It is inscribed “I will strive to live with Love and Care Upon the Level By
the Square” and bears the date, 1507.
This Square is reputed to be one of the earliest Masonic items found in the world.
This ancient Square, carefully treasured by Lodge 13 is recorded as being presented to
Brother Michael Furnell, Provincial Grand Master, by Brother James Pain, (referred to as
the Provincial Grand Architect). In 1871, after Brother Furnell's death, his widow
presented the Square to Lodge 13 in a beautifully decorated frame along with a drawing
of the original bridge. Included in that drawing is a small red square showing the
location of the original Square in the foundations of the north-east corner of the
bridge. The drawing and the frame in which the Square was presented are now on
display in the Centre's Museum. The frame in which the original Square was presented
now contains a replica made from a mould taken from the original.
These replicas were made to commemorate the 160th Anniversary of the founding of the
Provincial Grand Lodge of North Munster in 2002. The proceeds have been going
towards costs of the Masonic Centre which is located just across the road from King
John’s Castle in the old part of Limerick City overlooking the River Shannon a mere 500
metres from where the Square was originally discovered in 1830.
In the Freemasons' Quarterly Review, 1842, p. 288,
Bro. Furnell, under the date of 27th. August, 1842,
printed a short note on this relic of antiquity,
accompanying which is a facsimile sketch. He said
that Bro. Pain, in 1830, had been contractor for rebuilding Baal's Bridge in Limerick, and on taking
down the old structure, he discovered under the
foundation stone at the English town side, this old brass square, much eaten away. In the
facsimile sketch, Bro, Furnell puts the date as 1517, which is a mistake, as the square
bears the date 1507. A heart appears in each angle.
In the book by H. F. Berry, Assistant Keeper of the Irish Records, “The Mariencourt Cup
and Ancient Square.” dated 1905, Bro. Berry records that “Ball's (or Baal's) Bridge is a
beautiful structure, of a single arch, built in 1831, to replace an ancient bridge of the
same name, which consisted of four arches, with a range of houses on its west side. The
date of the erection of this ancient structure has not been ascertained, but possibly the
old square, dated 1507, may have been placed, under the foundation stone in that year.
In any case, Bro. Furnell informs us that the old bridge is mentioned in records of 1558.
The Old Meeting Rooms of the Province of North Munster
In 1840, The Masonic Hall Company Limited rented 27 Thomas Street, Limerick for an
annual rent of £18 per annum. In 1841, they moved to Northumberland Buildings on the
corner of Cecil Street and Henry Street.
In May 1841, it was reported that “Antient Union Lodge 13 also moved to commodious
apartments Northumberland Building in Henry Street to a premises that was known as
The Masonic Hall.” At that time, these apartments were shared with Lodge 271, the only
other Limerick Lodge meeting at the time.
In December 1842, the then PGM suggested that a letter go to 271 recommending that a
door be opened up between both sets of apartments so that the Brethren of each Lodge
would have full use of the entire premises. However, this agreement does not appear to
have survived for long as the Brethren of 13 moved out in 1844 and moved to
accommodation in 97 George Street (later renamed O'Connell Street).
It was around this time that some internal dispute took place within Lodge 271, which
lead to the formation of Eden Lodge 73 on the 9th December 1843 and the subsequent
cancellation of Warrant 271 on the 4th January 1844.
In 1856, PGL renewed its meetings at 39 Thomas Street, Limerick.
In 1872, the new venue for the "Provincial Masonic Hall” was in Glentworth Street,
subsequently the site of the Lyric Theatre and now an apartment block opposite Pery's
Hotel (formerly the Glentworth Hotel).
In 1879, on the 6th November, Provincial Grand Lodge and the other Lodges joined with
Lodge 13 and set up their premises at No.6 The Crescent where they remained until
March 1968 when they moved back to 97 O’Connell Street, Limerick.
At 6 The Crescent, there was also a Lodge room which was used for Provincial meetings
when the room could be enlarged by opening dividing doors into another room. The
premises, known as the “Masonic Club” also had a Snooker room, Reading room, Kitchen,
Dining room and full Bar facilities.
The new premises at 97 O’Connell St. were much smaller consisting of just 2 rooms; an
Assembly or Ante room and a meeting room. So all the furniture of the Lodge rooms at
The Crescent had to be compacted into the new smaller Lodge room, making it one of
the most unique in the country. Having no dining facilities on site meant that Festive
Boards and other special occasions had to be held in local Hotels.
Provincial Grand Lodge remained at 97 O’Connell St. until they moved to their present
premises in Castle Street, King's Island, Limerick in the summer of 2004.
Knappogue Castle - Co. Clare
Knappogue Castle in County Clare has a long association with Freemasonry. Lord
Dunboyne was originally a member of Triune Lodge 333 in Limerick and served as the
Grand Treasurer of Grand Lodge of Ireland. In 1864, Lord Dunboyne joined the Ennis
Master Masons' Lodge 60. It was common practice in those days that meetings were held
in homes rather than dedicated buildings. Knappogue Castle was the venue for many of
these Masonic meetings. Two years later the Lodge changed its name to 'Dunboyne
Lodge No. 60'.
In the summer of 1873, a social function that was held in Knappogue Castle received
widespread coverage in local and national newspapers. Although transportation of the
day was very limited, members came from all parts of the country. Most of the visitors
arrived via the local railway station (Ballycar) and were subsequently ferried to the castle
by a fleet of jaunting cars. Because it was primarily a social occasion most of the
members were accompanied by their wives and family. The total number of visitors
swelled to many hundreds.
While the members held their meeting in the castle, the ladies and other invited guests
perambulated the magnificent gardens which were planted with many rare and exotic
species that had been imported from the colonies.
One of the star novelties of the day was the taking of photographs which was still very
new to Ireland. A photographer from Limerick was at his wits end to cater for all the
requests from individuals, groups and even entire lodges who wanted their photographs
taken in their regalia. This attraction was further complicated by the inclement weather.
With each shower of rain the queues for those 'indoor activities' lengthened.
Eventually all plans for outdoor sports had to be abandoned. The evening concluded with
a ball in the marquee at Knappogue Castle, where guests danced quadrilles and waltzes
to the music of the Clare Militia Band.
The event was reported in the Limerick Chronicle on the 10th July 1873 as follows:
“Yesterday will be long regarded as a
rubrical day in the memory of the
Masonic fraternity, their wives and
families, in the district of North
Munster.
The castle consists of an eleventh￾century fortalice with modern additions,
and the name it bears is confirmatory of
a now established fact that the Celtic
races gave to natural objects the most
descriptive nomenclature. Knappogue
(if our Irish interpreter was not tripping)
means a collection of hillocks closely
clustering together as almost to kiss
each other, hence Knappogue, and no appellation could be closer to nature.
The grounds are thickly but judiciously planted with trees and ornamental shrubs, among
which we noticed some fine specimens of variegated holly, cedars of Lebanon, beech,
mountain ash, oak, but principally larch, which always makes a habitat where its brethren
of the field or glade would require a more luxuriant soil.
On entering the grounds about one o'clock, there were evidence on all sides of
approaching festivity. A large marquee was erected on the lawn, and servants were to be
observed busy in applying the culinary art. The Royal Standard unfurled its folds to a
gentle breeze at a convenient distance - the Jack (red-crossed) - held a coigne of vantage
on the `Clock Tower', and over the main entrance, the banner of the ancient house of
Butler or Fitzwalter, with its lions rampant and scallop shells - remembrances of Holy
Land pilgrimages - was displayed. The croquet lawn was in readiness, and the band of the
Clare Militia discoursed marches, quadrilles, mazurkas and waltzes on the greensward.
When the entire party had assembled, warning was given to Brethren, by the sounding of
a Chinese gong, that the Provincial Grand Lodge was about to transact business. Lord
Dunboyne's library, which is filled with many curious works of art, was fitted up as Lodge
Room. His lordship took his seat on the Throne with the usual Masonic honours. Those
present included Brother Wilson acting as Provincial Grand Secretary; John Hill, SW;
Alexander Rowland, JW; Henry Sikes, SD; Rev Dr Mangan, JD; Rev J. McMahon, Chaplain;
Isaac Banks, IG; Rev W F Seymour Tyler. The nine Lodges represented were 13, 60, 73,
135, 250, 268, 201, 202 and 333.
While the Provincial Grand Lodge were (sic) in sederunt, the ladies availed themselves of
the privilege kindly accorded by Lord Dunboyne of viewing the interior of the castle, the
most curious feature of which is perhaps the spiral staircase which ascends the old `Keep'
from basement to turret, where warders in less happy times than ours kept `watch and
ward' while the mailed Barons held feudal state below.
The shields of the successive descendants of the Butlers hang in the hall and were
inspected with keen curiosity by the guests of the noble owner. Ourselves delighted
chiefly to linger in the portrait and miniature rooms, where, if we remember rightly, we
saw portraits of `Bold Butlers' clothed in steel of the ante-gunpowder epoch, interspersed
with maternal Baronesses robed and enamelled with pearls.
Among modern efforts, the portraits of Lord and Lady Dunboyne are very fine specimens.
Nothing could exceed the courtesy of Lord Dunboyne, his daughter, the Hon. Miss Butler,
and his son, the Hon. Theobald Butler, in their assiduity and attention to their guests,
proving that they thoroughly appreciated the sentiment that in honouring others we
honour ourselves. Lady Dunboyne was evidently an interested spectator of the gay scene
from her window.”
The Current Masonic Centre and Headquarters of PGL
The original structures were built in the 1740s and were used as the coach house and
stables for the old Bishop’s Palace. Title to this site was secured in 1996 and subsequent
to planning permission being received, construction commenced in 1997. The original
structures were extended and renovated and the exterior of the new parts were finished
to match the original stonework as far as possible to be sympathetic with its
surroundings.
One of the many features of the museum located on the ground floor is a reconstructed
portion in similar stonework of the original wall of the coach house and stable used by
the Bishop of Limerick in the 1740's. Some other parts of the original building have also
been retained in the museum area.
The Foundation Stone for the new Masonic Centre was laid on June 10th, 1999 at a
ceremony that was attended by representatives from Government, Local Government
and the Clergy. The Topping Out Ceremony took place on August 21, 2001.
‘Topping-out’ of the new building was a further important milestone in the affairs of the
Masonic Order in Limerick. The facilities include Meeting rooms, a Museum and Library,
and a Function room with catering facilities. Great care was taken in the planning stage
to ensure easy access not only into, but also particularly within, the premises for the less
mobile and wheel-chair bound members of the community.
The project provided local employment during the construction phase and the assistance
of F.Á.S. who included it as part of their Community Training Programme for Limerick is
gratefully acknowledged.
It was February 2003, when Lodge 13 held the first meeting in the new Centre with W
Bro Paschal O'Grady in the Chair. However, it was in July before PGL held its first
meeting in the premises on the occasion of the 'round Ireland tractor drive’. Meeting
rooms on the upper floor were completed, although construction work on the ground
floor and entrance way continued until March 2005.
The North Munster Masonic Centre in Limerick was officially opened by the Minister for
Defence Mr. William O'Dea T.D. at a ceremony which took place on the afternoon of
Friday 23rd September 2005.
He was accompanied by the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Eric N. Waller, and the Provincial
Grand Master, R.W. Bro. Geoffrey G. Ashton at the Entrance where a ribbon was cut. The
formalities continued in the main Lodge Room on the first floor which was then followed
by a conducted tour of the building for all guests.
The new Masonic Centre in Limerick is located in the midst of the tourist and heritage
area of the city, directly across the road from King John’s Castle and beside the former
Bishop's Lady's Palace (now the headquarters of the City's Civic Trust).
In his opening address at the official ceremony, Mr. Geoffrey G. Ashton, Provincial Grand
Master of North Munster clarified that; “Freemasonry is not a secret society, but it is
intensely private. As an institution we are frequently criticised by people who know
nothing about us. While our policy in the past has been a dignified silence, it is on
occasions like this that we take the opportunity to talk publicly about our activities and
good deeds”.
Mr. Ashton went on to say that; “As our first priority in Freemasonry is always to give to
those among our community who are less fortunate than ourselves, for that reason, it is
no surprise that although we are masons, it has taken us 163 years to construct our own
building in this province.
We continuously look forward with hope and desire, for any success in the future will
only exist on what we achieve today. We have in our Masonic Centre a potent
organisation capable of doing great good for the wider community. There will always be
a succession of opportunities for the practice of great deeds and the pursuit of pure and
unselfish aims, the relief of the distressed and needy. To that end, our Masonic Centre is
much more than bricks and mortar, or simply a meeting place. It is like a home - a
catalyst for greater good enhancing unity and cohesion in our society. “
The Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Eric N. Waller in his address to the assembled guests stated
that “It is right and proper that this building is called a Masonic Centre”. He emphasised
that we pride ourselves on being a good community neighbour and it is important to
share our facilities with local community groups.
The total construction costs of the Current Masonic Centre came to a total of just over
€750,000. This was financed partly by earlier investments from the disposal of the long
term lease on No 6 The Crescent in 1968 and bank finance which was subsequently
replaced by finance from the Grand Lodge of Ireland. An initial loan was received from
Grand Lodge over a 15 year term. However, through immense support from the
members, and the leadership of the Provincial Grand Master R.W. G Hugh Milne, the
loan was repaid in full in just over seven years.
The Masonic Centre is the current headquarters of, and is wholly owned by, the
Provincial Grand Lodge of North Munster.
The Centre is open by prior arrangement and visitors are most welcome. Visiting
Brethren of course are always welcome at our meetings, and non-Masons are equally
welcome to visit our premises. We are delighted to explain what Freemasons have to
offer in terms of friendship, integrity and our charitable ethos.