Chapter 13

Outbreak of the First World War.

With the outbreak of the First World War in 1914, the festival of St John was abandoned owing to the crisis. A souvenir ticket was printed and sold for 2/6, proceeds going to charity. A directive from Grand Lodge stated, “in order to preserve the peace and harmony of the Craft, Brethren of German, Austrian, Hungarian, Turkish nationality by birth, should not attend any Lodge until peace is declared”

A great number of soldiers were billeted at Stobs Camp a well as church halls and other buildings. The Lodge was advised that the premises might be commandeered for use as billets. Whether or not it was, or to what extent, is unclear. A letter was received from 424 offering the use of 424 premises but no reference is made as to whether their offer was taken up, although meetings continued to be held. It would appear that the military occupied the Lodge Hall, but it is uncertain where and how meetings were held.

The military relinquished the use of the hall in 1915, and an offer of £20 in settlement of damage caused by the soldiers was accepted. A large number of soldiers were made members of the Lodge and a number of visitors were received.

Honorary Life membership was conferred on Captain James Kennedy DCM, MC. Throughout the war years the Lodge continued to carry on the festival of St Andrew, although some events, soirees etc were cancelled.

Some brethren were initiated and left for France the same night. A number of members were wounded, a great number lost close relatives, and some paid the supreme sacrifice.

A Lodge of sorrow in memory of the brethren of the Lodge who died for their Country in the Great War was held, and 300 members and visiting members assembled in St Johns Parish church (now a department store in Oliver Crescent) to remember Major William Beattie (whose sword is used by the Tyler to this day), Captain Robert Maxwell, Lieutenant W. Barrie, Sergeant G. Scott, Privates James Rae, George Henderson, Adam Howieson, and Sapper Ron Cameron.