In the Beginning...
Capilano Lodge was formed by a group of Freemasons who wanted to establish a new Lodge in North Vancouver and practise what was then known as the "American" ritual.
Dispensation Granted
At the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of British Columbia in 1954, the Grand Master issued a dispensation to a group of Brethren who wished to form a new Lodge in North Vancouver.
The Lodge Is Instituted
The ceremony of Institution was performed by RWB Charles Brotherton on January 12, 1955.
On June 23, 1955, following a "glowing" report from the DDGM, Grand Lodge ordered the Warrant of Constitution for Capilano Lodge No. 164 at North Vancouver.
Capilano Lodge Is Constituted
On September 22, 1955, in the Hollyburn Masonic Temple at West Vancouver, the Grand Master constituted Capilano Lodge No. 164.
The Lodge adopted the "American" work for its ritual and took its name from the Capilano area. "Capilano" is an adaptation of a Squamish language word meaning "the people of Kiap," associated with the hereditary chiefly name or title Kiapila'noq.
How Does a New Lodge Begin?
Usually a group of Freemasons with similar interests meet informally to see whether there is sufficient interest and enough Past Masters to meet the Grand Lodge requirements for forming a new Lodge.
For many years there were three Lodges in North Vancouver practising the Canadian ritual: Burrard Lodge, Duke of Connaught Lodge, and Lynn Valley Lodge.
The "American" ritual had not been practised in North Vancouver since Mount Hermon Lodge moved from Moodyville to Vancouver in 1887.
Where the Idea Took Shape
Around 1952 or 1953, several businessmen in Lower Lonsdale began discussing the idea of forming a new Lodge to practise the "American" ritual.
New Method Cleaners
John Petcoff, Proprietor
Member of Burrard Lodge
Keystone Barbers
John Nicoll, Proprietor
Past Master of Keystone Lodge
Vinick's Furniture
Maury Vinick, Proprietor
Member of Vancouver Lodge
Meetings After Closing Time
These Brethren, together with D.W. Mills of Mills Motors, met at New Method Cleaners after the close of business. Both John Nicoll and Maury Vinick came from Lodges which practised the "American" ritual.
Discussions were aided by the pure sparkling water available from the original brass faucet, which now graces the Secretary's desk.
RWB George Small of Mount Hermon Lodge and WB John Bennet of Hollyburn Lodge lent their support. WB George Kelso and several retired Brethren from the Prairies also joined those who signed the Petition to Grand Lodge in 1954.
The First Members of Capilano Lodge
A large group photograph, available in the members' section, shows the Charter Members of the Lodge. Their occupations were many and varied.
WB George Norris was the last surviving member of that original group.
WB John Nicoll presided at the initiation of RWB Ronald Clough, who was the first formal initiate into Capilano Lodge No. 164.
Be Part of Our Continuing Story
If you would like to learn more about Freemasonry and Capilano Lodge, we'd be pleased to hear from you.
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