About Freemasonry

Freemasonry means different things to each of those who join. For some, it’s about making new friends and acquaintances. For others it’s about being able to help deserving causes – making a contribution to family and for society. But for most, it is an enjoyable hobby.

Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest and largest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisation. It teaches self-knowledge through participation in a progression of ceremonies. Members are expected to be of high moral standing and are encouraged to speak openly about Freemasonry.

About Pacific Lodge

Pacific Lodge began on the 13th of June 1860 under dispensation from the Grand Lodge of England. The Lodge was sponsored by Tasmanian Union Lodge (No. 781 E.C.) and met at Bastian's Hotel 'Bird in the Hand' in Argyle Street. The Lodge was No. 1103 on the English register. The Lodge received its warrant on the 28th of March 1861. It held an installation ceremony on the 25th of April, which was attended by members of Tasmanian Union Lodge and Tasmanian Operative Lodge (No. 346 I.C.). In October 1863 Lodges under the English Constitution were re-numbered, making Pacific Lodge number 801 on the English register.

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In October 1871 the Lodge moved to the Freemasons Hall in Collins Street. Lodge members attended the laying of the foundation stone by the Governor Charles Du Cane for the new Lodge in 1873. On the 26th of August the Lodge held its first meeting at the new hall in Murray Street. In 1874 the Lodge petitioned for a new Lodge at Sorrell. A warrant was sent for a Lodge named Pembroke (named after the district). The Lodge at Sorrell never went ahead but the warrant and name ended up being used by Lodge Pembroke (No. 1517 E.C.) who met at Lefroy in the Georgetown District.
 

 

In 1876 Bro. Hammond from Pacific Lodge became the first District Grand Master of the newly formed District Grand lodge of England followed by Bro. Poulett-Harris in 1881. In 1880 the Lodge joined as subscribers to the Lodge of Instruction. In 1887 the Lodge recommended the establishment of a new Lodge at Wynyard named 'Poulett' (No. 2204 E.C) after the District Grand Master. In July 1890 the Lodge held its first meeting under the constitution of the newly formed Grand Lodge of Tasmania becoming No. 5 on the register.

In 1921 Pacific Lodge sponsored a new Lodge, Pacific Lewis (No. 38 T.C). Pacific Lodge had its first meeting in the new Masonic temple in Harrington Street on the 19th of January 1939. During WWII the Lodge continued to send notice papers to members serving in the forces. After the war, the Lodge helped supply food parcels to Britain. On the 16th of October 1997 Pacific Lodge consolidated with Victory Lodge (No. 34 T.C.). The Lodge operated under the name, by-laws and warrant of the Pacific Lodge. All notice papers and correspondence were to be headed the Pacific Lodge No. 5 T.C. incorporating the Victory Lodge (No 34 T.C.). Life members, honorary members and Past Masters of the Victory Lodge were to retain their status. All assets and property of the Victory Lodge became the property of Pacific Lodge.