The interesting ceremony of laying the corner stone of the Odd Fellows’ Hall took place yesterday. The members of the Order met at the Lodge Room, corner of Fort and Wharf streets, at 1:30 p.m., and about an hour later marched in procession order, preceded by Professor Haynes’ band, to the site of the building. The procession was in the following order:
On the arrival of the procession in the vicinity of the site of the structure, the members halted and opened to the right and left, so as to allow the principal officers to pass through. The officiating officers then took their places on a raised platform, erected contiguous to the north-east angle of the building and near where the corner stone was to be laid. A large number of spectators, many of whom were ladies, had previously secured seats eligibly [sic] located for witnessing the ceremony. The proceedings were opened by the President of the Odd Fellows Union briefly inviting the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the Province, C. Gowen, to lay the stone. The Grand Master replied as follows: -
My brethren, we have assembled on this occasion [sic] to perform an interesting and important ceremony; one which we trust will have its proper influence upon your hearts and minds. The spot on which we stand has been selected upon which to erect a Temple to be consecrated to the great principles of our Order; and we are here to-day to inaugurate the enterprise by laying the first foundation or corner stone in the structure with the solemn ceremonies befitting such an occasion. The work so auspiciously begun can be consummated only by persevering efforts and patient industry; and we should enter upon it with a determination to carry it forward to completion until its cap-stone shall be brought with rejoicings, and the edifice shall present beauty, symmetry and proportion every way adapted to the uses and purposes for which it is designed. Before proceeding to the immediate duties of the occasion, it is right and proper that we invoke the Divine blessing, without which no good work can succeed. Our Grand Chaplain must now address the Throne of Grace.
The Grand Master then gave three raps with his gavel, thus calling the assemblage to order.
The Grand Chaplain, Bro. T.J. Partridge, then invoked the Almighty to command His blessings to rest upon the work; to honor with His approving smile and prosper it to its final accomplishment. After the brethren had responded the Grand Secretary, Bro. J.D. Robinson, read the following record to be deposited in the stone with a list of the documents, coin, etc., placed therein.
This building, intended for the use of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Victoria, the corner-stone of which is laid this 28th day of April, A.D., 1877 [sic]{this is believed to be a typographical error, and should read 1879}, in the 41st year of the reign of Our Most Gracious Sovereign Lady, Queen Victoria, and in the 61st year of the establishment of the Order on the American continent, Lord Lorne being Governor-General of Canada, A.N. Richards, Lieut.-Governor of British Columbia, and the following gentlemen forming the Government of the Province:
The three lodges mentioned, viz., Victoria No. 1, Columbia No. 2 and Dominion No. 4 formed an association called the “Odd Fellows’ Union,” by electing five delegates from each lodge for the purpose of incorporating under the laws of the Province, to acquire land and erect buildings. The Delegates are as follows:
{From Victoria Lodge No. 1.}
{From Columbia Lodge No. 2.}
{From Dominion Lodge No. 4.}
These Delegrates elected the following officers:
The Odd Fellows’ Union had plans prepared for the present building by John Teague, Esq., Architect, and tenders called for its erection, and on the 30th day of December, 1878, the contract was awarded to Messrs. Hayward & Jenkinson of this city, who are to complete the work by the 31st October, 1879.
The corner-stone is this day laid by Charles Gowen, Esq., the Grand Master of the Right Worthy Grand Lodge of British Columbia, in accordance with the laws and usuages [sic] of the Order.
The following, in addition to this short description of the work, are deposited in the stone, viz:
He then handed the documents to the Grand Treasurer, Bro. H. Waller, who placed them in a copper box in a cavity in the stone. The Grand Master, accompanied by the Grand Warden, Grand Conductor, Grand Chaplain and Grand Treasurer, descended to the stone which was then accurately fitted to its place. The Grand Master then took a vessel containing water from the Grand Warden and sprinkled the water three times on the stone, saying: - “In the name of Friendship as pure as this water, I lay this corner stone, and as it here forms the basis of this edifice, binding together in harmony and consistency the component parts of its superstructure, so may true Friendship ever constitute the foundation of our social fabric and unite the family of man in one fraternal brotherhood.” The brethren responded, “So may it be,” and the Grand Master then received from the Grand Chaplain a wreath of beautiful flowers which he strewed over the stone as a symbol of love. Then taking from the Grand Conductor a silver cup containing wheat he strewed the latter on the stone saying, “I lay this stone, trusting that Truth may prevail over error and that its good seeds sown in our hearts may bring forth its peaceful fruits in our lives.” He then struck the stone three times with his gavel and declared it laid in Benevolence and Charity. The Architect of the structure, John Teague, Esq., thereupon presented the Grand Master with a silver trowel, saying:
Most Worthy Grand Master:- On behalf of the Odd Fellows’ Union of this city I have the honor of presenting you with this trowel for the purpose of laying the corner stone of this edifice. I trust the good work so auspiciously commenced may, with God’s will, be carried on to a successful completion. Most Worthy Sir, the necessary preparations are all made and now await your directions.
The Grand Master having spread mortar on the stone with the trowel, said: “As this cement binds together the stones of the wall so may the cement of brotherly affection bind us together during all the days of our lives here below; and so may the cement of Divine Love in our Father’s own time unite us as living stones in the Temple above, the “house not made with hands eternal in the heavens.” The Deputy Grand Master having declared the stone duly laid according to regular and ancient form, and the building to rise upon it devoted to the principles and work of Odd Fellowship, the Grand Master called upon the Grand Chaplain to address the Throne of Grace. This having been done the Grand Master addressed the brethren assembled exhorting them to carry to completion the work so auspiciously commenced. An appropriate oration was then delivered by brother R. Beaven which was received with fervent bursts of applause. The Grand Chaplain thereupon pronounced the benediction and the procession re-formed and returned to the lodge-room.
The contractors for the erection of the building are Messrs. Hayward and Jenkinson and the specifications call for the completion of the hall by October 30th next. The procession was under the direction of Bro. M.J. Goode, Grand Marshal, assisted by Deputy Marshals Bros. Henry Smith, F. Page, G.H. Maynard and R. Jenkinson. It is estimated that upwards 350 members of the Order participated in the ceremony which was conducted without a marring incident.
The ceremony, yesterday, was witnessed by very many, both old and young, while on the platform were clergymen representing all the Protestant denominations in this city.
The exercises were opened by the band of “C” battery playing the 100th Psalm, after which Rev. E. D. McLaren read a portion of scripture and the Rev. D. McRae, Moderator of the Presbytery, offered up prayer. The following historical statement was then read by the secretary Wm. Whyte, Esq.:
The congregation of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church was formed under the pastorate of Rev. Thomas Summerville, on the 5th September, 1866. Public worship was conducted for some time in the hall on Broughton street, and, in July, 1867, the initial steps were taken towards the building of a church, the colonial committee of the Church of Scotland promising a grant of 1,500 (pounds) sterling towards that object. The site was chosen and plans prepared, which resulted in the building of the present church at a cost of $11, 081, the site included. Mr. Tiedeman was the architect, and Messrs, Hayward & Jenkins, the builders, and the building was certainly at the time far in advance of any existing church edifices in the province in point of architectural beauty and adaptability as a place of worship. The foundation stone of the church was laid by the Free Masons on the 20th August, 1868, and the usual deposits placed in the stone, interesting speeches being delivered on the occasion. Dr. Powell, as Master of the Scotch Lodge, laid the stone and received the gift of a silver trowel to be used on the occasion. The building was completed and dedicated on the 4th of April, 1869, the Rev. Dr. Lindsley, of Portland, and Mr. Aitken, of the First Presbyterian Church in this city, assisting thereat. In 1870 the Rev. Thomas Summerville was succeeded by the Rev. S. McGregor, who labored faithfully for eleven years against the tide of depression, which might well have led him to seek for a more promising field. In 1881 he resigned his charge and returned to Scotland, where he still labours as minister of the parish of Appin. Mr. McGregor was succeeded by the Rev. R. Stephen, who entered upon the pastorate in 1881 and resigned in 1886. In 1887 the congregation determined to unite with the Presbyterian Church in Canada, and having obtained the consent of the Colonial Committee of the Church of Scotland, they applied to the Presbyterian of Columbia at the meeting in November, in Victoria, to be received, requesting at the same time that the necessary steps be taken towards moderating in the call to a minister. On December 8th a unanimous call was given to the Rev. P. McF. MacLeod, which was accepted by him, and on the 7th of March, or just a year ago today, Mr. McLeod was inducted into the pastoral charge of the congregation. This year first year of the present pastorate has proved an eventful one in the history of the congregation, and the record of the year’s work is attached to this statement. The Pastor and Building Committee desire to record their thankfulness to Almighty God for the mercies bestowed upon them in the past and earnestly trust that the erection of this new building may bind the hearts of the people together and lead to new consecration in the service of the Lord.
This statement, together with a copy of each of the city dailies, and the leading Presbyterian journals of the Dominion and a few current coins was then placed beneath the cornerstone. Rev. Mr. MacLeod then presented to the Hon. John Robson the silver trowel which had been presented to the building committee by the architect, Mr. Trimen. It had been the unanimous with of the committee that the honourable gentleman should perform the ceremony of laying the corner stone, he having taken such a deep interest in the work of erecting a new church. The stone having been lowered into position the Hon. John Robson declared the corner stone laid in the following words:-
“Our architect has pronounced this cornerstone well and truly laid, and we hope to see erected upon it for the worship of Almighty God an edifice alike creditable to Presbyterianism and the city. The Great Architect of the universe has declared well and truly laid in Zion the Chief Corner Stone, upon which it is hoped those worshipping in this earthly temple we are about to raise will erect a spiritual temple which shall endure when these bricks shall have crumbled back to their native dust.”
An appropriate hymn was then sung and Rev. Macleod offered up prayer. A short congratulatory address was made by the Rev. Scoullar, of New Westminster, who dwelt upon the fact that exactly one year ago to the very day the Presbytery had met to induct the Rev. Macleod into the pastorate of St. Andrew’s, and so greatly had the work prospered under him it was now found necessary to provide increased accommodation. The Rev. D. Fraser followed and was gratified at the substantial growth which had been made during the past year in all parts of the Presbyterian work in the province.
The Venerable Archdeacon Scriven was the next speaker, and related an incident of a Church of England Bishop who, on being asked by a Presbyterian minister to contribute towards the erection of a new “Kirk,” objected that it was hardly the thing for a bishop of the established Church to do, but was willing to give 5 (pounds) towards the expense of pulling down the old building. In was not necessary for him, the speaker was glad to say, to use any such equivocation in doing his part on such an occasion as the present, for no matter how much the Churches differed in their methods of doing good, all were aiming at the same result.
The Right Rev. Bishop Cridge, in a short address, congratulated Rev. Mr. Macleod and his congregation on the step which they had taken, and said that incidents like the present showed how false was the oft-repeated assertion that all churches would sooner or later be turned into lecture halls. The Rev. Mr. Starr was to have been the next to address the gathering, but having been called away, was excused by the Rev. Mr. Mcleod, who also stated that Rev. Mr. Wadman, who was present, has not sufficiently recovered to make a public address.
The Rev. Mr. Rugg make a few remarks and was followed by Mayor Grant, who pointed out that such undertakings as these were evidence of the material prosperity of the city and an indication at the same time that the spiritual side of life was not neglected.
The Rev. Mr. Macleod then made a few closing remarks, dwelling particularly on the happiness which he had experienced during his first year as pastor of St. Andrew’s, and fervently prayed that the same kindly feeling one towards another might continue.
The doxology was then sung and the Rev. Mr. McRae pronounced the benediction. The interesting proceedings were brought to an end by the band playing the National Anthem.
Precisely at 2 p.m. the Band of H.M.S. Topaze was met by the Congregation Emanu-El and Germania Sing Verein opposite their rooms on Yates street; they proceeded to the Star and Garter Hotel where they were joined by the Hebrew Benevolent[,] French Benevolent, and St. Andrew’s Societies, and then marched to the Masonic Hall on Langley street, where they received the members of the Victoria and Vancouver Lodges. The procession then formed two deep in the following order and marched to the spot where the ceremony was to take place on Cormorant street, headed by the Band which played some excellent marches in their usual masterly style.
The names of the officers of both Lodges, in their perfect order of {word unreadable}, will appear hereafter.
Each of the Societies was characterized by its peculiar badges – the Masons, in particular, presenting a most imposing appearance. We should, however, state that their numbers were strengthened by the addition of a god many who belonged, as well, to the other Societies present.
The procession extended over several hundred feet of ground, and was followed by a host of citizens. The site of the projected synagogue was reached about 3 o’clock. Two platforms had been erected, and the corner stones were in the slings, ready to be lowered. The fraternity of Masons were placed around the northern corner, while the members of the congregation and the other societies arranged themselves at the southern corner. A large platform with seats had been provided for the accommodation of the ladies, who attended in great force.
Mr. Malowanski then proceeded to read in the Hebrew Tongue the CXXVII-Psalm, which being concluded, the Germania Sing Verein, led by Mr. St. Clair, chanted some sacred music in a sweet and pleasing manner. Mr. S. Hoffman, in a few preliminary remarks, stated that he had been chosen by the Congregation Emanu-El to address them on this occasion. [“]We are assembled here on an occasion which will form an era in the history of the Jews of this island. We are here on an occasion that should make every true religious heart throb with joy and satisfaction. We are here to lay the foundation of the first Synagogue in Her Majesty’s dominions on this side of the Pacific. Should we not rejoice to behold an edifice dedicated to God, in this far Northern clime? Yes; we should rejoice with all our hearts at the erection of either a church, chapel, or temple. Does it, perhaps, matter, with what form or ceremonies we praise our Maker? Are, perchance, the prayers of Catholic or Protestant less acceptable to the Lord than those of the Israelites, or other religious denominations? I believe not. But I do believe that a most essential part in religion exists in the trueness, goodness, and uprightness of every man’s heart. I am glad both of my assertions manifest themselves so plainly here to-day. For, as I look around me, I behold adherents to every creed, to witness the erection of another edifice wherein the name of the Almighty will be hallowed and sanctified. I therefore repeat again, we should hail with joy the erection of buildings devoted to prayer. Prayer is the basis of morality, education, and welfare of a great nation. Who would have thought that, in the short space of five years, we should have a temple erected where then the aborigines were the lords of the domain? Who would have dreamt that in this isolated part of the globe, where, ere now, the foot of white men had hardly trod, there should spring up a comparatively large city, studded with magnificent edifices, and inhabited by a large concourse of intelligent people? Who would not have ridiculed the idea that were, ere now, nought but the hunter’s step and wild beasts’ roar ever disturbed the wilderness, should, at this early day, be erected a synagogue by the scattered tribes of Israel? With feelings amounting almost to envy have we beheld the erection in this city of churches of almost every denomination extant; but what could we, a handful of people, do to gain a similar edifice? It is easy to remember the advent of the first Israelite. Nevertheless, scattered as our race are all over the world, and limited in numbers, as we generally are, compared to our Gentile brethren, I am proud to say, that since we first made our appearance, on by one, we have each and all striven manfully to uphold that religion which has been handed down to us by our forefathers.
My friends and brethren: In the spectacle before us, how many endearing recollections do not crowd themselves upon our memory. It will remind some of us of the land that gave us birth. Early days, when side by side, with good, kind, pious old parents, we walked hand in hand to our temples, there to pay homage to our maker. It will remind us of those happy days when cares and troubles were unknown to our unsophisticated mind. When with gladdened hearts we skipped playfully to our Sabbath schools, there to receive the wholesome and well-meant doctrines of our venerable teachers. Though our past life may have been a very rugged one – though pangs and dismay may have shot through our hearts – though dismal clouds may often have obscured the rays of our happiness, circumstances may have bid us thus to leave relatives, friends, and home behind us to wander forth to a strange land, and there to gain the wherewithal of life; yet, as I behold this scene before me, hope shines more serenely bright, and soft eyed Mercy sheds a glistening tear – a tear of joy and love. My friends and brethren: These may not be the only thoughts that occupy our attention this day. When we look back into the history of our nation we find there ample room for reflection. I will, however, refrain from entering into details, inasmuch as I fear to tire your patience. I need, however, but mention that from the time of our deliverance from slavery in Egypt, the Jews have successively, under the iron rod of the Romans, Greeks – in fact all other formidable nations, been trampled upon and coerced. Through the dark ages, how poignant and deep their sorrows! A poor, forsaken, scattered atd [sic] persecuted race. Even in modern ages, the time has not long passed by when their rights were denied to them, and they had to submit meekly to the scorns, scoffs and contumelies of their fellow creatures. But how different is it now! The rays of justice and rue feelings of humanity have at last entered into the benighted and bigoted souls of our persecutors. Our chains are thrown aside – our rights restored – and in almost every country we enjoy with our fellow citizens the same rights, the same blessings, and the same laws. Religious liberty – the doctrine inculcated by the Almighty Himself – is spreading its benign influence over every land on the face of the globe, and the Jews of to-day, I am proud to say, stand second to no other sect.
My friends: I did not intend occupying much of your time. Before I conclude there is, however, one essential thing which I would most particularly impress upon the minds of my fellow-members: it is the good doctrine of union and harmony. If peace and harmony be your guiding star, let it be the motto inscribed in the heart of every member of this organization, and God will shower His blessings upon you. King David with all his glory, with all his greatness and might, was forbidden, by prophecy, to build a temple, because of his numerous wars and struggles with other nations, and the prophecy was left to be fulfilled by his son Solomon. As this stone which we are about to lay will be the foundation upon which this structure will rest, so let peace and harmony be the foundation stone of your hearts, without which your structure will crumble into dust, your cherished hopes disappointed, your plans frustrated.
In conclusion, I would fervently pray to God that he may support us in our undertakings – that he may infuse a feeling of peace and harmony in the hearts of my brethren, and that this temple may become a bright gem among the glorious constellation of churches in this our adopted country.
We regret we have not space to give the remainder of the speeches in full.[”] – [REF.]
Mr. J.P. Davies followed and spoke with fervency and fluency. He concluded his remarks by pointing out the good objects of the various societies and thanking them for their attendance there. In addressing himself to the fraternity of Masons, he observed that it was now 2675 years since the Temple of Solomon was built and the present was the first instance since then of the ancient order of Masons or any other fraternity taking part in laying the foundation stone of a Jewish edifice. Dr. Boscowitz gave a most spirited and eloquent address in the German language.
When the various speeches were ended the following formula were observed:
List of subscribers to lot – deposited by A. Simson. Constitution of Chebra Bikur Cholim Ukedusha – by John Malowanski.
List of members of Germania Sing Verein and French Benevolent Society – by Mr. Koshland.
The Constitution of the Congregation, together with the BRITISH COLONIST of yesterday, and its contemporaries and coins – by Mr. D. Shirpser.
List of subscribers to the Synagogue and its officers and members – by Mr. Vaenberg.
The Stone was thereupon laid in due form by Mr. Malowanski: the Sing Verein rendering the magnificent sacred melody, “This if the day of our Lord,” with fine effect.
After the conclusion of the Hebrew ceremonies the principal architect addressed the Worshipful Master, saying – “Right Worshipful Master; with the blessing of Almighty God we desire to erect a building here to the honor and glory of His Holy name. Plans have been prepared which I submit for your approval and on behalf of the Congregation Emanu El request that you will be pleased to lay the corner stone.
The R.W.M. replied to the following pu_port [word unreadable]: Brother Principal Architect – On behalf of the Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Freemasons in Victoria, I beg to express the honor we feel in being invited to take part in any ceremony having a holy useful, or benevolent design and more particularly in aiding in the erection of a Temple to be dedicated to the glory of God and His Holy name. I shall have much pleasure in laying the corner stone of this Temple with all the ancient honors of the order.
The Germania Sing Verein then sung an ode and the Band played “Hail Masonry.”
After this the Chaplain delivered a prayer in the form usually observed on similar occasions. The R.W.M. then called upon the Principal Architect to deposit the scroll and by-laws of the Lodges in the stone, which was accordingly done, and a copy of the scroll read by the Principal Architect, which was as follows:
Victoria Lodge, No. 1085, held under the United Grand Lodge of England, of which Thomas Dundas, Earl of Zetland, is Grand Master; and Vancouver Lodge, No. 421, held under the Grand Lodge of Scotland, of which the Duke of Athol is Grand Master.
The names of the officers and members of each Lodge will be found in a copy of the By-laws. The Lodges having met, formed themselves, into one Lodge, and the following officers performed the labors of the day:
The proper tools were then applied to the stone by the Senior and Junior Wardens, and the Deputy Past-Masters, under the direction of the P. Architect. After which the Right Worshipful Master put the usual questions to the officers. If the Stone was “plumb,” “level,” and “square.” Upon receiving a reply in the affirmative, he said: “Nothing then remains for me but to set the Stone” – on which three wraps were given on the Stone with the “gavel,” and he then said: -
“May this Building be conducted, and carried on successfully until its completion, according to the plans, in peace, harmony, and brotherly love.”
The Band, hereupon, played the National anthem, in which the Sing Verein joined.
The Corn of nourishment, Wine of refreshment, and Oil of joy, in succession were passed to the R.W.M., who poured the same upon the stone.
Grand honours being accorded to each in the usual form.
The R.W.M., delivering the exhortation in the form prescribed by the Masonic Ritual. An Ode was then sung by the Sing Verein, after which a prayer was read by the Chaplain, and sacred music performed by the band concluded the ceremonies.
Mr. K. Gambitz hereupon stepped forward, and in a few pertinent remarks presented the neat little silver Trowel used in laying the stone to the R.W.M., on behalf of the congregation Emanu-El. The R.W.M., R. Burnaby, Esq., accepted the presentation in a few well delivered and appropriate remarks.
The Trowel which was manufactured by Mr. E. Watson of this city, bore the following inscription: -
“Presented by the Congregation Emanu-El, of Victoria, to the R.W.M. Robert Burnaby, of Victoria Lodge 1085, F.&A.M., at the laying of the Corner Stone of their Synagogue, June 1st, 5623 (1863).”
The Band again struck up the National Anthem, and at its termination the procession re formed, and returned to town, where the various societies were escorted to their respective assembly rooms by the members of the congregation.
The greatest decorum was observed by the spectators throughout the entire proceedings, and not a single incident occurred to mar the harmony which prevailed.
Thus terminated an eventful day in the history of the Jews in Vancouver Island and it must ever be a source of infinite gratification to that body, that the ceremonies of this day, partaking as they did of an exclusively denominational character, were participated in by all classes of our community, with a hearty good will and brotherly feeling, evidencing in acts more powerful than words, the high estimation in which they are held by their fellow townsmen of the city of Victoria.
Masonic Fraternity Content – Victoria, British Columbia
“Men, women and children here assembled, be it known to you that we are true and lawful free and accepted masons, faithful to the laws of our country, honoring the Queen and loving God, the Great Architect of the Universe. We have among us concealed from all other persons secrets which cannot be communicated except in accordance with the customs and manners of our ancient and honorable society. But these secrets are lawful and honorable and intended to benefit those to whom they are entrusted. No person can be admitted into our order unless they be of lawful age and reported as good men and true. Great and eminent men have in all ages been promoters of the craft and joined in our assemblies, and monarchs have not thought it derogatory to their dignity to exchange the sceptre for the trowel on many occasions. Unless our order were good and our calling honorable we should not have existed for so many centuries, nor should we have been honored with the patronage of so many illustrious men in all ages who have ever been ready to promote our interests and defend us from all adversaries. We are assembled here to-day to lay the corner-stone of this edifice to be erected and dedicated to the Most High, and as the Tabernacle was the forerunner of the glorious temple erected to the Most High by King Solomon, so may this building be small – insignificant in comparison to those which may in the future be erected in the Province and dedicated to His Most Holy Name.
The Architect, Bro. John Teague, then presented the plans, which were approved by the Grand Master with the following observation:
“Bro. Teague, finding the plans which you have prepared for this New Masonic Hall are in accordance with the rules and regulations of our venerable society and perceiving that the building will be an ornament to this city and a credit to your skill as a craftsman, I have much pleasure in expressing my approval of the designs and for your guidance I place them in your charge again, having full confidence in your integrity and skill to complete the building with satisfaction to the brethren who have entrusted the work to your care.”
Bro. Teague, on behalf of the fraternity, then presented the Grand Master with a handsome solid silver trowel, the workmanship of Mr. H. Rudolph of this city, which the Grand Master accepted in fitting terms. A solemn and impressive prayer was then offered by the V.W. Grand Chaplain, Rev. H.H. Mogg. The Grand Secretary then read the inscription on the scroll as follows:
“By the favor of Almighty God, the Great Architect of the Universe, on the 22nd day of April, Anno Domini, 1878, and of the era of Freemasonry, Anno Lucis, 5878, and in the year of the reign of Her Most Gracious Majesty Queen Victoria, His Royal Highness Albert Edward Prince of Wales being Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England, Sir Michael Shaw Stewart, Bart, Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, His Excellency the Earl of Dufferin, K.G., K.C.B., being Governor-General of the Dominion of Canada, the Honorable Albert Norton Richards, Lieutenant-Governor of the Province of British Columbia, most Worshipful Eli Harrison, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of British Columbia,
Eli Harrison, jr., M.E., 1st P.Z. Columbia R.A. Chapter No. 120; Thomas Robert Mitchell, W.M. Victoria-Columbia Lodge No. 1; Robert Burns McMicking, W.M. Vancouver-Quadra Lodge No. 2 – Committee of arrangements.
Eli Harrison, Thomas Trounce, Eli Harrison, jr. – Trustees.
The Grand Treasurer then deposited a casket in the cavity of the stone containing the following articles:
A prayer was then offered by the Grand Chaplain, and the grand honors were given three times. A collection was then made among the brethren and deposited upon the stone to be applied for the benefit of the needy. The band struck up “Rule Britannis,” and the procession reformed and returned to the Lodge-room. The building when completed will be both a credit and an ornament to the city and the work in connection therewith will be performed by the following contractors: Mr. Wrait, masonry; Mr. J. Bennett, carpentering; Messrs. Mitchell and Lettice, painting and glazing; Mr. D. Heal, plumbing and gasfitting. Work will be continued on the structure forthwith.
St. Andrew's Cathedral
October 7, 1890, p. 2
Sunday, October 5th , is destined to be marked with red letters in the ecclesiastical history of the province of British Columbia, and the diocese of Vancouver in particular. It must also be an occasion to greatly delight the heart of the renerable Bishop Lootens, the oldest minister of any denomination on this Island, he having crossed the straits to the Island in an Indian canoe, close on forty years ago. For some years he was the Bishop of Idaho, a rresponsible position which his health prevented him from retaining. He then retired and has since resided here. Bishop Lootens was the first missionary to sail up the Fraser river. He recalls the time when, in addition to the Hudson’s Bay fort, there was nothing but a few log houses here and there, no two being together. The natural beauties of the place he describes as having been at that time must be delightful, its appearance proving the truth of the old saying that “beauty unadorned is adorned most.” Monseigneur Demers was the first Bishop of Vancouver , being succeeded by Bishop Seighers, Bishop Bondel then again Bishop Seighers who came here with full archiepiscopal power. Bishop Lemmens being consecrated in 1888, fifth Bishop of Vancouver Island and Alaska. This diocese is so extensive a one and so difficult to reach that its limits cannot be covered in much less than a year. Monseigneur has not yet been farther than Sitks, which is comparatively easy of access, but he proposes ere long to pay a pastoral visit to its most remote points. Despite the unpromising weather that has prevented that has prevailed for some days, which has created the gravest apprehensions, Sunday morning opened most auspiciously, the genial sun , bright and almost cloudless skies, ushering in the day whose proceedings are expected to have such an influence upon the religious future of the Pacific coast. The skeleton of the building had been carefully, indeed elegantly, decorated, under the direction of the Young Men’s Institute, flags, evcrgreens and different kinds of bunting hiding the rough unfinished walls and as much as possible of the material and appliances that it had been necessary to leave on the ground. Even the derrick, by whose aid the foundation stone was to be lowered into position, was shrouded with decorations. Near the place where the stone was to be laid at the corner of Blanchard and View Street, had been ?cared & commodious platform on which were placed “”pri??lieu” for the bishops and scats for the attending clergy, among whom, in addition to Bishop Lootens and Lemmens, were Rev. Fathers Van Nevel, of Cowichan; Donekle, of Kuper island; Sobry of Nanaimo; Haynen, of Clayquot, Nicholaye and Duran. An organ, together with a large number of seats, had been conveniently disposed for the choir and visitors, whose numbers, representing all phases of religious belief, were very large, and made use of every available point of vantage to be spectators of what was going on. The members of the Young Men’s Institute having taken up their positions on the platform, each one wearing a handsome badge, and the band of “C” Battery being also in waiting, the Bishops and their attendants, clerical and lay, came along from the present church, up View street to the platform, the altar boys bearing lighted candles, and the bishops and clergymen being attired in attractive vestments, Bishop Lootens, the officiating prelate, being fully vested and carrying his crosier in his left hand. The charcter of the service has been already described, suffice to say that is was impressive alike upon the Protestants and the Catholics. The singing was remarkably fine and well rendered, many of the pieces having been set to music and harmonized by Bishop Lootens.
The following address which was delivered by Bishop Lemmens after the stone had been placed in position and declared, to have been truly laid in the name of the Father and of the son and of the Holy Ghost: - It is indeed gratifying, my dear friends, to see the great interest taken in our work, and is evidenced by so large a gathering of our fellow citizens on this auspicious occasion : and I feel deeply grateful to you all for having come in such numbers to witness the the laying of the cornerstone of our new cathedral. The fact that the interesting ceremony is being performed by the prelate, who honors us with his presence, cannot but be deemed a most gratifying circumstance, when it is known, that the Rt. Rev. Bishop Lootens is the pioneer missionary of the province. It is he who opened the list of the clergy of Vancouver Island, he being the first priest that was ever ordained for this diocese. His lordship is the oldest clergyman of any denomination, in point of residence, in this country. It is now 38 years ago when His Lordship first arrived here, in an Indian canoe, from the American continent. After several years of missionary labor, Father Lootens was called to higher duties in other parts : but evidently his heart remained with his land of adoption, for he has at last returned to us to spend the remainder of his valued life amid the scenes that recalled all the labors of his youth and early priesthood. And it must be joy to his heart to be enabled, this day, to link the past and the future by inaugurating the erection of a new cathedral in which future generations are to worship. For s??? is, as you are all well aware, the purpose to which the projected edifice is to be dedicated.
For the honor and glory of Almighty God, for the advancement of Christian piety, for the Holy Mother Church, and for the dignity of our ancient Catholic name, we are here erecting a cathedral that might be worthy of our increasing numbers, intelligence and prosperity as a religious community, and I hope, worthy also as a public architectural monument of the present and prospective greatness of this privileged city of Victoria. The ultimate success of the undertaking is no longer doubtful, in view of the very liberal subscriptions that have already been secured : and I feel it my duty on this occasion to publicly express my gratitude and admiration for the cheerful and generous responses which I have received from every side and beyond every expectation. Since last Sunday, when I announced the names of subscribers were to be deposited into the corner stone, subscriptions have come in the amount of $12,990. So that I cannot call to mind a single person whose heart, in responding to my appeal, could be considered smaller than his income. Yes, my friends, this material structure, in its beautiful proportions, is springing up from the internal faith and worship of a devoted faithful people as public evidence that faith is still found on earth. They evidently understand that it is to be accounted an honour to be capable of furthering a work calculated to be the honor of God. For although the Almighty has no need of men’s offerings, although he is infinitely richer in power and glory, whether men adore or do not adore, yet he has put it in his power to please Him by promoting the outward manifestation of His glory and the honor of his worship. And this object is no way more directly attained than by the work in which we are engaged, the erection of an edifice that is to be set apart for the service of the Almighty, and destined to be what the Scripture itself denominates, the “house of God.”
We require not to be told that God is not confined within the walls of a temple, or that the whole universe is the only appropriate temple for its Creator, single every part of it reflects back evidences of His glory. His power and His goodness. We all know this ; but we know also that He Himself commanded His chosen people, as soon as they had settled down peaceably in the promised land, to erect unto Him a temple according to His own divine plan. As long as the knowledge of the true God was restricted to one nation, this was the only temple on earth consecrated to his service. But now that God’s kingdom is diffused throughout all civilized nations, it is necessary that in all portions of the earth there be places sacred to his worship. The sanctity of the temple is but the order of a means to an end. The temple has reference to sanctuary, the sanctuary to the altar, the altar to the sacrafice that is offered upon it, viz : the sacrafice of Jesus Christ, who is at once the High priest and victim, restoring to God the supreme homage of which original and actual sin had deprived him. Christ, Our Lord and Redeemer, is the chief cornerstone in all the plans of God. Without him, says St. John, nothing was made of all the things that were made. And through an act of condescension which must forever remain a mystery of unparalleled love, having made himself like unto us, He has enabled us, if we follow His guidance, to become like unto Him, to become ourselves living stones in the construction of that everlasting temple which is not made by human hands, I mean that heavenly Jerusalem, described by the evangelist, in which we are to be gathered with angels and saints around the throne of god, adoring Him with everlasting love, in the enjoyment of perfect and neverending happiness.”
The cornerstone is a ponderous block of granite, weighing about five and a half tons. Its dimensions are 5x5x3 feet, one corner of the stone in the shape known as the “bishop’s mitre.” It is from Keefer’s quarry, Burrard Inlet. On the Blanchard street side is carved the words St. Andrew’s Cathedral, erected A.D. 1890: under Rt. Rev. Bishop Lemmens. At the top is a square excavation to hold a copper receptacle for manuscripts bearing the names of the Pope, Her Majesty the Queen, and the Governor General, a list of subscribers’ names and the amount subscribed up to the present date, specimens of the coinage of the Dominion, and copies of The Colonist and Times, containing an account of the proceedings.