Chapter 8

Water-works and a tribute to Br. Waldie.

The opening of the new water works at Acreknowe was held in April 1882 and deputations from Lodge nos.32, 104, 216, 262, together with brethren from 111 marched behind the Saxhorn Band through Buccleuch Street, Wilton, High Street, Howegate, Loan, and adjourned to the Station Hotel.

A tribute was paid to the late Br. Waldie who had held office continuously for 56 years, having been a Mason for 58 years. He attended Hawick Moor, never missing a Common Riding for 71 years. He was buried with full Masonic honours.

In March 1890, a candidate who could not sign his own name was admitted, Grand Secretary wrote “It is the burden duty of every Lodge to be satisfied with the candidate before admission and his Grand Lodge Diploma must bear his own signature and be able to sign the attendance book”. It was proposed to withhold his diploma. However he must have learned to write his own name as a letter was received from Sunderland stating that the brother had signed his diploma in their presence and was handed his certificates.

In July 1890 a snuffbox was presented to the Lodge and an invitation received to attend a Burns supper at Jedburgh.