The first meeting of Ivanhoe preceptory was held in the "Freemason's" Hall, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, on Tuesday evening, November 26, 1895. This hall is located in the Royal Bank Building, Main Street. Rt. Em. James B. Nixon, the Special Deputy of the Supreme Grand Master of the Sovereign Great Priory of the Dominion of Canada, assisted by Rt. Em. Hon. Robert Marshall, Provincial Grand Prior of New Brunswick; Rt. Em. Luther B. Archibald, Rt. Em. Thomas V. Cooke and Rt. Em. William B. alley, Past Provincial Grand Prior for Nova Scotia, together with Sir Knights H. B. Fleming, George Achman, George M. Jarvis, Edward Tweedie, J.E. Masters, J.B. Sangster, E. S. White, C. P. Harris, W. A. Metzler, C. U. Hanford and Thomas Reid proceeded to constitute "Ivanhoe" Preceptory of Moncton, New Brunswick. The dispensation from the Sovereign Great Priory of Canada having been read as follows:

Sovereign Great Priory of Canada of the United Religious and Military Orders of the Temple and of St. John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta, Most Em. Will H. Whyte of Montreal, Supreme Grand Master sent greetings:

Whereas a petition has been presented to us by Sir Knights H. B. Fleming, George Achman, Edward Tweedie, J. E. Masters, John B Sangster, Luther B Archibald, T. V. Cooke, W. A. Metzler, C. P. Harris, Hohng L. Harris, Wm. A David, Edward s. White, George R. Sangster, George M Jarvis and others, praying for warrant of constitution or such other authority as it may be competent for us to grant, empowering them to form themselves into a regular Preceptory under the denomination of "Ivanhoe" Preceptory to be held at Moncton in the province of New Brunswick, Dominion of Canada; and the same having been duly and satisfactorily recommended to us. Now know ye, that having taken the same into consideration, we do hereby issue this Our Dispensation, and authorize and empower our said Sir Knights and other regular subscribing members and those who shall hereafter become such and shall be regularly reported to and registered in the books of the Grand Priory to meet in the city of Moncton aforesaid, on the first Monday of every month and proceed as a Regular Preceptory of the Knights Templar to be entitled the "Ivanhoe" Preceptory and to confer the several orders of the Temple and Malta upon such Holy Royal Arch Masons possessing the necessary qualifications as they may think proper, conformably to the Statutes and Regulations of the Great Priory and not otherwise, and to all such other acts as may be lawfully be done by a Preceptory under dispensation. And we do hereby approve the nomination of officers and do hereby appoint the said Sir Knight H. Fleming to be the First Preceptor, Sir Knight George Achman to be Constable, Sir Knight G. M. Jarvis to be Marshall and Rt. Em. Sir knight Luther B Archibald to be Registrar of the said Preceptory and direct that they and their successors be duly elected and appointed shall continue in the said offices until such time as Great Priory shall determine whether a Warrant shall be granted to the said Preceptory under the seal thereof. And, for so doing, this Dispensation shall be their sufficient authority until the next annual assemble of the Great Priory and no longer.

Given under our hands and the seal of the Great priory at the city of London in the said Province of Ontario, Dominion of Canada, this sixteenth day of November, AD 1895, AO 777

(Signed) Daniel Spray, G.V.T.

THE NAME "Ivanhoe" was taken from a book that was written by Sir Walter Scott.

Installation of Officers:

Rt. Em. J. B. Nixon opened a Chapter of the Preceptory and installed Sir Kt. H. B. Fleming as the first Preceptor, George Achman as Constable, George M. Jarvis as Marshall, E. Tweedie as Treasurer, Rt. Em. L. B. Archibald as Registrar.

Applications for degrees were received from the following Royal Arch Masons of Botsford Chapter NO. 39: C. W. Bradley, A. Y. Clarke, F. W. Hall, James Barnes, L. T. Jodrey, F. L. Thompson, F. C. Barker, F. W. Givan, G. b. Willett, E. w. Givan, J. S. Benedict, S. E. Wilson, A. Bishop, R. A. Borden, Jos. Janowyc.

Their applications were received and reported on by a committee, and under authority of the dispensation, a ballot was taken and they were declared elected to receive the degrees conferred by this Preceptory. They were created Knights of the Red Cross. Petitions were received from these members for installation as Knights of the Temple. They were examined and found satisfactory and received the degree of Novice and then were installed and consecrated Knights of the order of the Temple in Canada. They were then installed Knights of Malta.

The following officers were then appointed and installed:

Sir Kt. W. A. Metzler, Captain of the guard.

Sir Kt. J. B. Sangster, 1st Standard Bear.

Sir Kt E. S. White, 2nd Standard Bearer.

Sir Kt. A. Y. Clarke, Almoner.

Sir Kt. W. A. Davies, Sword Bearer.

Sir Kt. F. c. Barker, Organist.

Sir Kt. Jos. Janowyc, Guard.

A Committee was appointed to procure paraphernalia required. A by-laws committee was appointed. Copy was not available. The chapter of the preceptory closed at 2:20 o'clock. Refreshments followed.

Dues for candidates were $15.00. Regular monthly meetings followed. Dues for candidates outside Moncton were $16.00. The Preceptory was very active and received new candidates.

Dispensation was received from the Grand Chancellor to receive application and confer degree on R. A. Masons residing near Amherst.

Rt. Em. L. B. Archibald was appointed on September 7, 1896 to attend a meeting of the Sovereign Great Priory of Canada in London, Ontario.

The minutes of meetings were complete and carefully recorded. Treasurer's books were audited. A bill for printing notices of meetings for the year was $7.50.

Election of officers was held in December 1896. The Charter was received in January 1897. A donation of $5.00 was made to the Masonic Children's Hospital in Toronto. The Tyler was paid $8.00 for the year. The bill for notices, correspondence and envelopes for 13 months was $9.30. The annual rent for the hall was $24.00. The installation of officers was held in January 1897.

The following is the report of the Registrar given January 4, 1897:

Sir Knights:

In compliance with the by-law no. 0 of this Preceptory, I beg to submit for your information, a statement of its affairs from its inception in November 1895 to date.

During this period, thirteen regular meetings and four emergent assemblies have been held with an average attendance of seventeen members. At these assemblies 19 Red Cross, 19 Knight Templar and 22 Malta Degrees were conferred. There were 10 affiliations from the Saint John Encampment. 2 from Union De Molay Preceptory No. 11, Saint John. No suspensions or demissions have taken place and it is with thankfulness that we record that our ranks have not been broken by death. The total membership December 31, 1896 is resident 26, non-resident 7, total 33

Financial statement: Receipts to date

For degrees $298.00

Dues 74.50

Total $372.50

The disbursements to date as per vouchers $342.03, leaving a credit balance of $30.47 + uncollected dues $17.00, assets to date $47.47, exclusive of paraphernalia, furniture, etc. which is valued at $218.25 and which is insured. All diplomas due have been received from the Grand Chancellor. The Registrar's books are fully entered up to date and ready to be transferred to his successor.

(signed) L. B. Archibald

Registrar

A complete record of paraphernalia was kept, with the value of each item. It is evident that the business of the Preceptory was conducted in a most efficient manner. The members were most enthusiastic. The attendance was all that could be expected. The amount they paid for annual dues is not available at this time to the writer. Dues were usually paid in amounts of 25c a meeting for several meetings of the year for a total of $65.00 in 1897. The ritual, I think, must have been much shorter than it is now (1978) since they conferred three degrees in one evening. They held frequent rehearsals of degree work. The records of the minutes of meetings were excellent.

Their furnishings were quite complete and consisted of: 2 large banners, 2 mantles, one helmet, shield and breast plate, 2 green sashes, one marble block and cubes, one lamb, dove and cock, one brown robe, 1 black robe, 12 candle sticks, one tunic, 1 skull and cross bones, one velvet case for triangle, one pair spurs, 3 table covers, one cup and salver, one cushion, one pair sandals, one seal, one knights stone and ring, 1 cup of memory, one Malta star, one Preceptor's star, 2 crosses, one Red Cross, chains, one bridge, 7 banner rods and stands, 5 Malta banners, 2 Malta tables, one triangular table, one hat and scrip, one set of officers books. The total cost was $218.25.

Notices were printed by the Colchester "Sun", Truro N.S. – 500 notices for $5.00 and 100 copies of by-laws for $6.00.

They helped the sick members of the Preceptory, financially when necessary. The annual assembly of the Sovereign Great Priory of Canada was held in Montreal on August 19, 1897. Ivanhoe Preceptory was represented by Rt. Em. L. B. Archibald, Eminent Kt. H. B. Fleming, Sir Kt. F. W. Givan and Sir Knight A.B. Tait. Apparently, improvements were made in the ritual as a result of this meeting since it is recorded that copies of the new ritual were ordered in September 1897.

An interesting communication was read from Ascolon Commandery No. 59 of Pittsburgh, inviting the Sir Knights of Ivanhoe to participate in their proposed pilgrim age to the Holy Land on February 5, 1897.this was filed. The election of officers was held annually in December.

A committee was appointed to act with the other Masonic bodies (Keith Lodge and Botsford Chapter) to procure a picture of our deceased Sir Kt. J. L. Harris. Apparently Ivanhoe Preceptory paid rent to Keith Lodge # 23 F. & A. M. for the use of the hall since on March 7, 1898 $23.00 paid to Keith Lodge # 23 F & A M. Raised to $25.00 November 1900.

Ivanhoe Preceptory held an emergent meeting on March 18, 1898, called in accordance with Sec. 4 of by-laws in commemoration of the death and martyrdom of our Illustrious Grand Master, Jacques DeMolay on the 18th day of March 1313, after which, the registrar records "we drank his memory in solemn form" Em. Kt. Achman read a historical lecture touching on the death of our Illustrious Master. A copy of this lecture is not available.

Ivanhoe Preceptory appointed a committee in May 1898 to act with the other Masonic bodies in purchasing a picture of Sir Kt. J. L. Harris, drawn in crayon, by artist Miles of Saint John.

A communication was received form the Eminent Preceptor of Amherst, stating he did not approve of Ivanhoe Preceptory accepting candidates for a fee smaller than that of the Amherst Preceptory. He thought it was an inducement to get members from Amherst. The matter was settled to the satisfaction of the Eminent Preceptor of Amherst. The details of the settlement are not recorded.

Dues were paid to the Great Priory at this time (August 1896). The amount is not recorded. The Provincial Grand Prior made visits to Ivanhoe.

It is recorded that on September 5, 1898, a committee was appointed to look after the interests of Ivanhoe Preceptory during the completion of our hall. A new Masonic Hall was being built.

The total membership on January 2, 1899 was 38, of whom 27 were residents of the city and 11 non-residents.

There is an interesting note designating that the financing of Preceptory matters was rather difficult at times. A Mr. Abbot had installed doors for the Preceptory at a cost of $25.00 and that he would take payment for them in payments of $5.00 a year.

Lockers were installed at a cost of $50.00. An order for payment of this bill to be drawn on the Merchants Bank of Halifax.

The Preceptory had the usual occasional suspension of members for non-payment of dues. They also had the usual troubles regarding Knights in arrears of payment of dues. ($81.75 January 2 1900). The annual payment of dues by the Preceptory to the Grand Priory was $32.00, apparently about 50c per knight. The Times Printing Company now printed notices of meeting. The rental of the hall in November 1899 was set at $50.00 per year.

In July 1900, a motion was passed that the Preceptory recesses until the first Monday in September. The Supreme Grand Master in 1900 Most Em. Kt. J. V. Ellis. Thirty-five badges were ordered in June 1901. All Sir Knights previous to this date did not use them. In the fall of 1901, the attendance at Ivanhoe seemed to dwindle. At one meeting only four members were present, the Preceptor, Constable, Registrar and Guard. This must have been because it was harvest time. The attendance was back to normal in December. In January 1902, the amount due for dues was $116.50 and the names of members in arrears were read. They were having their troubles in this regard. Suspensions were being discussed. A letter was sent to all members who were over two years in arrears, stating that said members show cause at the next regular meeting why they should not be suspended. Two such members were suspended. Some Knights of Ivanhoe visited the Preceptory in Saint John. Members from Saint John visited Ivanhoe.

A controversy apparently arose again regarding accepting members from the Amherst area. No settlement recorded to date, April 1902. The meeting night was changed to the 4th Monday of the month on December 1, 1902. Refreshments were served on special occasions such as installation of officers and visits from distinguished Sir Knights, etc.

The night of the meeting was changed to the second Wednesday on March 7, 1904. The granting of demits was becoming quite common at this time. The rent to Keith lodge # 23 F & A M were changed to $30.00 in March 1904. Applications for membership were received from Royal Arch Masons of Chatham and Newcastle, eleven on April 6, 1904. They continued.

About this time there were discussions regarding receiving candidates from Sussex. It seems that hey had been applying to the Saint John Preceptory and Ivanhoe Preceptory disagreed. Sir Knight J. E. Masters of Moncton was made Grand Prior of New Brunswick on October 2, 1905. A letter was received from the Potenate of Luxor Temple asking for the name of the Preceptory and that it was the intention of Luxor Temple to donate a small sum of money to the different preceptories for charitable purposes. Ten dollars was later received.

In 1906, the end of the year for Ivanhoe Preceptory was April 30, causing a change in date of installation of officers and annual reports. In December 1906 the initiation fee was raised to $25.00 from $20.00.

In May 1907 Ivanhoe Preceptory donated $10.00 to Keith lodge # 23 F & A M. to be used to furnish the Masonic Ward in the hospital. That, of course, is the old hospital at St. George and King Streets. There were changes in the ritual in November 1907. Ivanhoe in conjunction with Keith Lodge # 23 F & A M. and Botsford Chapter agreed to purchase a lantern for projecting slides. The cost was $30.00 to the Preceptory.

Ivanhoe Preceptory was invited to attend an assembly of Malta to be held at Amherst. It was moved, seconded and passed that as many of the Sir Knights as possible would attend. Payments for dues are coming in larger amounts at this time (1909). Twenty-five mantles at $2.50 and two at $4.25 were purchased. Em. Kt. George Achman was honored by the Preceptory for the valuable service he had rendered by having his dues remitted.

The Registrar was authorized to draw at 30 days on Sir Knights in arrears of dues for more than 2 years.

The preceptory was informed that the Grand Priory would be held at Truro, Nova Scotia in August 1909. A large attendance was expected, with a parade expected. A report of the sick was given at each meeting beginning in January 1909. Cash on hand April 20, 1909 was $485.03.

It was recommended by the audit committee that all monies received by the registrar be paid over by him to the treasurer the day following each meeting and deposited in the Band of New Brunswick Savings Department to the credit of the Preceptory and that all cheques be signed by the Preceptor and Treasurer in office. This recommendation was adopted by the Preceptory. A roll call of members was being called at each assembly. The names of all Sir Knights present were recorded. The minutes of assemblies were signed by the Presiding Preceptor as well as the Registrar. Some Assemblies were held in the afternoon during some winter months, some assemblies were held in the afternoon and evening of the same day when the preceptory had many degrees to confer.

The Charter was draped on the occasion of the death of King Edward VII, a dedicated Mason, in 1910. He was a brother Knight.

Extensive repairs were made to the Masonic Hall in 1910. Meetings of the Grand Priory were held annually. Most Em. Kt. L. B. Archibald was Supreme Grand Master of the Great Priory in 1910.

A committee was appointed in 1910 to work in conjunction with the Blue Lodge and Chapter to assist Campbellton Lodge. The sum of $100.00 was voted for this purpose. Four Knights of Ivanhoe Preceptory are living in Campbellton.

The audit committee reported $691.21 on hand on October 12, 1910, with $400.00 outstanding in dues.

The following is a quote from the minutes of December 14, 1910: "The Em. Preceptor stated that in other Preceptories, it was the usual custom on Christmas Day, to meet informally and bring toasts to all Sir Knights and Templar bodies and that he proposed doing the same on Monday the 26th from 1500 to 1600 o'clock and hoped that all Sir Knights who could possibly come, would do so." These meetings were continued.

The meeting was a success according to a report of the same. The Preceptory were extremely faithful in looking after their sick, even to the extent of helping them financially. Applications were received from Shediac companions. This was a prosperous time for the Preceptory.

Ivanhoe Preceptory accepted an invitation from Beausejour Preceptory No. 57 of Amherst to attend their assembly on February 27, 1910 when the Order of Malta would be conferred. V. Em. Kt. H. B. Fleming was installed as Provincial Grand Prior of New Brunswick on October 9, 1912

A very prominent Mason, Worshipful. Brother John H. McAfee was duly installed and consecrated in June 1914.

A communication was read from the Sovereign Great Priory of Canada asking that two photograph copies be taken of the Charter of Ivanhoe Preceptory, one to be sent to the Grand Chancellor, the other to be kept in some vault or place to preserve it from fire. The Preceptory complied.

A meeting of the Preceptory was held on Christmas Day 1912 at 5:30 o'clock as required by Statute. An assembly was not held in February 1913 since there was no light or gas.

A preceptor's collar and jewel was purchased in May 1913. A jewel was present to V. Em. Kt. H. B. Fleming, Past Provincial Grand Prior – presented on behalf of Sir Knights and friends. A picture of Most Ex. Kt. W. P. Kyrie was ordered to be framed and placed in the lodge room. The Provincial Grand Prior paid annual visits. Meetings of the Great Priory were held annually.

Twelve mantles and 100 presentation badges were purchased in May 914. A collection of $100.00 per member was approved for the Patriotic Fund December 1914 – war days. The preceptory voted that $50.00 be sent to the Patriotic Fund. The rent for the hall was raised to $35.50 in March 1915. New by-laws were accepted in April 1915.

Beginning June 1915 the Preceptory reported the time of the opening and closing of assemblies on the 12 hours basis – a change from the 24-hour clock.

The preceptory was busy conferring degrees but there were many demits issued. The number of Knights is not reported. The night of meetings was changed to the second Monday in December 1915. It was agreed that Christmas boxes be sent to the Sir Knights who were "at the front" – meaning in the trenches or line of battle.

The Christmas assembly was increasing in popularity. There was a good attendance of Sir Knights, prominent guests were present, greetings by telegrams were received from other Preceptories and greeting cards were received.

In January 1916 it was proposed that the Preceptory give each candidate a white robe without any extra charge but there was some controversy with the Provincial Grand Prior on this matter.

On January 1916 it was moved, seconded and carried that an insertion be made in the notices for our next meeting, that delinquents would be dealt with. At the next meeting it was resolved that all Sir Knights over two years in arrears, by summoned to appear at the next regular assembly to show cause why they should not be suspended. The names were read at the next assembly ad declared suspended. Six paid in full and seven other members were given 30 days.

Refreshments were now being served regularly after each meeting. New forms for notices were procured.

They are quite similar to the form used at the present except they had one page and did not list the names of officers and committees. Past Provincial Grand prior George B. Willett and Em. Knight George Achman were made Honorary Members in April 1916.

It was reported on April 12, 1916 that Sir Kt. Frank E. Lockhart had been killed at the front and condolences were sent to his family.

Em. Kt. J. E. Masters was made an Honorary Member May 19, 1916 but declined the honor and said he wished to remain an active member.

A photograph of the late Sir Kt. Frank E. Lockhart was enlarged, framed and hung in the preceptory since he was the first Sir Knight to sacrifice his life for his country. Reading material was sent to the soldiers in England. The expenses were paid for by the Presiding Preceptor to attend the Great Priory. It was held in Hamilton, Ontario.

The notices were changed to two pages on September 11, 1916 and now added an historical Masonic account of each applicant. There were ten in one notice. Then they reverted to one page.

An attendance book was purchased in October 1916 – the first one. Christmas boxes were again sent to the Sir Knights at the front.

New statues were issued in November 1916. Copies are not available. Also copies of the by-laws are not available for this date.

Ivanhoe Preceptory conferred a degree at the District Meeting. The Preceptory voted $8.50 for supplies for the Masonic Ward of the hospital. A two-page notice was continued again, beginning in May 1917. It contained an honor roll of Sir Knights engaged in the war and those Sir Knights killed in action and a reminder regarding dues. A copy is attached? The dues to the Great Priory were $105.00, cost per member is not recorded and there is no record of the number of member in the Preceptory at this date.

A piano was purchased for the use of the different Masonic orders of the city. Ivanhoe's share was $75.00. One hundred dollars was voted to pay the expenses of a representative to attend the Great Priory to be held in Winnipeg.

It is recorded that Sir Knight Geo. P. D. Fenwick was killed in action in France on October 30, 1917. Ivanhoe Preceptory purchased three one hundred-dollar Victory Bonds.

The regular meeting of the assembly was changed to the second Wednesday on March 11, 1918. Lunches were being continued after meetings. The Preceptory donated $50.00 to the Red Triangle Fund of the YMCA in May 1918.

The registrar was empowered to make drafts on all Sir Knights who are one year and over in arrears of dues.

A service was held at the Temple Church, Fleet St., London, England, arranged by the Great priory of the United Religious and Military Order of the Temple and of St. John of Jerusalem, to give thanks for the end of the war and the delivery of Jerusalem. Sir Kts. Mclelland and W. J. Simpson represented the Great Priory of Canada. They were officers in the Army. The Duke of Connaught, Grand Master of the Order, attended. They assembled in the same hall in which members of our order attended before embarking on the expedition to the Holy Land to liberate the Holy Sepulchre from the Saracens. Preceptories of all parts of the United Kingdom were represented.

The Preceptory donated $25.00 to the Red Shield drive, to assist the war effort. The attendance was dwindling at this time. Sir Knights E. R. Evans and Stanley E. Colbourn, having returned from the War, were welcomed back to the Preceptory. Five one hundred dollars Victory Bonds were purchased in March 1920. Judging from the amounts of money received by the Registrar, the dues must have been $5.00. A social evening with the ladies was held on November 1, 1920. Applications were being received regularly and sometimes a special assembly would be called to catch up on the conferring of orders. The attendance was also improving. Instead of having a roll call of the Sir Knights, a roll of the Officers was called now. Twenty-five dollars was donated to the Salvation Army.

The Supreme Grand Master of Canada visited the Preceptory May 23, 1921. His name is not recorded.

It was moved, seconded and carried that the Preceptory purchase 13 swords and belts for the use of Sir Knights and that the Sir Knights be permitted to purchase same. A strong box was purchased for the safe keeping of stars and other articles.

At an assembly on October 12, 1921, Ivanhoe Preceptory went on record to be in favor of purchasing the property, called the MacKenzie property, at the corner of Queen and Alma Streets and that the Preceptory loan the amount of $1,000.00 towards the purchase. Although it is not recorded, the other Masonic bodies must have been involved.

The Masonic Temple Limited was formed and the cheque for $1,000.00 paid to same.

The sections of the statutes dealing with members in arrears of dues, was now published, in every notice of meeting.

On March 27, 1922, Past Preceptor's jewels were presented to Rt. Em. Knight George Ackman, Rt. Em. Knight T. R. Campbell, V. Em. Kt. D. w. Kyle, Em. Knight O. B. Dobson, Em. Kt. K. Willett. Visitors spoke highly of the quality of the work of the Preceptory in conferring orders.

A wreath was placed at the soldiers' monument beginning November 1922. Applications for membership were now coming from Campbellton – 12 at one meeting.

The laying of the cornerstone for the new building is mentioned in the minutes of October 23, 1923. Past Preceptors jewels were now present annually. A grant of $100.00 was sent to the Protestant Orphans home. In January 1924 the audit committee reported $42.55 on hand and made the following recommendations: 1. That a cashbook be purchased to show all receipts and disbursements. That applications forms show the amount deposited with the application. That the new ledger be posted once up to date. Several Sir Knights' dues were cancelled because of their long record as a member. These recommendations were carried out.

The regulation requiring a six months period after exaltation before making application to the Preceptory was cancelled. (June 1924).

The Sir Knights of Campbellton made a request to form a new Preceptory. Ivanhoe Preceptory went on record that the Sir Knights would not place any obstacle in the way and wish them success. (June 1924). Trinity Preceptory was instituted on October 25, 1924. Some Sir Knights from Ivanhoe preceptory journeyed to Campbellton for the institution of Trinity Preceptory. Demits were issued to the members of Ivanhoe Preceptory who resided in the Campbellton area.

Meetings of Ivanhoe preceptory continued to be cancelled during July and August. The annual visits by the Grand Master took place as well as the occasional visit of the Chancellor of the Sovereign Great Priory of Canada. A delegate from Ivanhoe Preceptory attended the annual meetings of the Great Priory. On some of these visits some suggestions were made regarding the ritual and the paraphernalia.

The first meeting of Ivanhoe Preceptory in the new Masonic Temple on Queen Street was held on September 10, 1924. Eighteen Sir Knights were present. Some grand officers attended this meeting. A Church Parade also was held. The Preceptory later appointed on Sir Knight to serve on the Hall Committee of the Masonic Temple Ltd. This committee is to have charge of arranging use of the Temple. A special room is the new temple was arranged for the Preceptory. A frater was appointed to represent the stock held by the Preceptory.

As of January 1, 1925, the initiation fee was raised from $50.00 to $60.00 and the dues raised from $3.00 to $5.00.

A Masonic ball was held in the banquet room on January 21, 1925. Fifteen dollars was the charge for the use of the room. A profit of $8.10 was reported. The Christmas ceremony has been observed every year but now there was an increased interest in it and other Masonic brethren were invited. It was held at 12 noon.

The Presiding Preceptor addressed the meeting; toasts were given to the King, the Sovereign Great Priory of Canada. The Supreme Grand Master, the Great Priory Officers and the Provincial Grand Prior followed by the Marshall's toast. Telegrams of Christmas greetings were exchanged.

A letter was sent to each member of the Preceptory asking him to contribute $10.0 per year for a period of five years, to pay for the balance of the $15,000.00 due to the contractor on the Temple building. Such a letter was also sent to the other Masonic bodies. The directors of the Masonic Temple LTD requested it.

The amount paid for rent is not recorded but the minutes recorded $125.00 paid to the Masonic Temple Limited on September 9, 1925, one year after the assembly in the new Temple.

Em. Kt. W. J. Weir represented Ivanhoe Preceptory at the meeting of the Sovereign Great Priory in Victoria, BC on August 3rd and 4th, 1925. He reported that many Sir Knights and their ladies were present. He also reported a Church service, a parade that was composed of 50,000 men with bands. A banquet followed. There were 1,200 present. Drill competitions were held.

Western Gate Preceptory No. 30 of Victoria presented the travelling Beauseant to Bethlehem Commandery No. 19 of Seattle. A choir of 1,000 voices and bands of 500 musicians accompanied this ceremony.

A play was presented with a choir of 2,500 voices. There were 30,000 people in the audience. In sightseeing, he saw an enormous jeweled cross on the roof of the Olympic Hotel, the head quarters of the Grand Master, valued at over $150,000.00. He reported a Church parade, a meeting of the Sovereign Great Priory, a reception given by the Grand Master in the Empress Hotel and an entertainment in the Crystal Gardens. All an inspiration to any Knight.

It became quite a common occurrence that assemblies of the preceptory were called off for an hour for refreshments and then resume the conferring of orders. The Registrar was now paid a salary of $100.00 a year. There were usually about an average of 14 Sir Knights in attendance.

It is recorded on May 11, 1927 that Ivanhoe Preceptory is in favor of forming a Provincial Grand priory.

On December 14, 1927 a history committee, consisting of Em. Kts. Ackman and Weir, was appointed. Sir Kt. J. R. Nichols was granted a life membership certificate on April 11, 1925. A committee of three was appointed to work in conjunction with the other Masonic bodies for the purpose of holding a bazaar as a money-raising venture. The audit committee reported $59.86 on hand on May 9, 1928. A communication is recorded, received June 13, 1928 from the provincial Grand Prior regarding a provincial field day.

Nineteen Sir Knights were suspended on June 13, 1928 for non-payment of dues. The depression is just around the corner. The Preceptory has been receiving many petitions for membership but some demits.

Em. Kt. T. R. Campbell was made an honorary life member on December 12, 1928. The Christmas Day Observance began at 3 p.m. this year and subsequent years. The by-laws were amended in June 1929. A committee was appointed to obtain the names of all Fraters in good standing for the purpose of having their names inserted in a copy of the by-laws. Official receipt cards, standard in Canada, were ordered.

An amendment to the statutes to the effect that a Presiding Preceptor shall not remain in office for more than two years unless by special dispensation from the Supreme Grand Master. Rt. Em. Kt. W. J. Weir was Provincial Grand Prior in 929. Sir Kt. George P. Williams and Sir Kt. W. A. Davies were made life members on February 20, 1930. Eight Sir Knights were suspended for N.P.D. Sir Kt. R.A. Snowball was made a life member on June 11, 1930 and Sir Kt. A. B. Stockall who had been a member of the Preceptory for 21 years. A communication was read from the Supreme Grand Master requesting that some action be taken regarding a history of the Preceptory.

Rt. Em. Kt. George Ackman received his 50-year jewel October 8, 1930. Having been a Knight Templar for over 50 years.

Representatives of the Preceptory were appointed to meet with representatives of other organizations for the purpose of taking such steps as may be advisable to provide supervised playgrounds for the children of the city.

The rent paid by the Preceptory was reduced from$500 to $360 in December 1930 – depression years. The committee on the history of the Preceptory reported progress.

Invitations were sent by Ivanhoe Preceptory to other Preceptories in the province to meet with Ivanhoe in June 1931. Sir Kt. H.S. Thomson was made a life member in December 1931. The audit committee reported $769.50 outstanding in dues. The balances on hand $119.26.

The Moncton Playground Committee sent a petition to the City Council asking for financial help. Most Em. Kt. W.W. Williamson of Montreal, Supreme Grand Master of the Great Priory of Canada, visited the Preceptory on March 55, 1932. There was few application for membership being received at this time. A copy of the history of the Knights Templar was received from the Deputy GrandMaster. It is not available. The minutes of assemblies are not recorded for the assemblies held between January 10, 1934 and December 18, 1935. Assemblies apparently were held, since notices were sent out and copies are in the minute book. There were two candidates during this period. On February 12, 1936, the installation fee was reduced from $60.00 to $50.00.

The Preceptory was in difficulties financially, due to arrears in dues. The Preceptory could not pay all the rent. The depression was taking its toll. The Preceptory asked that the rent be reduced and asked the Temple Board to reduce expenses in order to place our institution in a better financial condition.

The Provincial Grand Prior requested that the sum of $10.00 out of the installation fee of every member admitted be sent to the Grand Chancellor. Em. Kt. W.M. Sinclair, was granted a life membership on May 13, 1936. They applied for this. The Presiding Preceptor and his officers were now installed in the month of May. A committee was again appointed to produce a history of the Preceptory. They presented a brief, but it is not recorded. It was sent to the Deputy GrandMaster.

On September 1, 1936 the rental was raised to $20.00 a month. There were no orders conferred, for the period May 1936 to February 1938. One was conferred for the year 1938-39. The dues to the Priory were 75c per member.

Motion pictures of the meetings of the Sovereign Great Priory for the years 1926 to 1937 were shown. Monthly messages were being received from the Sovereign Great Priory of Canada regarding changes in the ritual of the Order of the Red Cross.

The fire occurred April 16, 1940. It appeared to originate in or near the furnace and spread to the upper rooms and roof. The amount of insurance was $49,000.00, which was considered sufficient to cover the repairs. The damage to the paraphernalia of Ivanhoe Preceptory was $885.43 and was covered by insurance. The charter was damaged but repaired. The newspaper report is appended to the minutes. The Preceptory then met in the Orange Hall at the corner of St. George and Archibald streets.

The Preceptory paid the amount outstanding for rent on June 12, 1940. A meeting of the Sovereign Great Priory was not held in 194. The Second World War stated in 1939.

The Preceptory loaned the Moncton Masonic Temple limited the sum of $400.00 for a period of 5 years, the money to be used for rebuilding. An exchange visit with the Preceptory of Fredericton was held.

Many prominent Sir Knights visited the Preceptory during these years, including yearly visits by the Provincial Grand prior and the occasional visit by the Supreme Grand Master, but candidates are still missing. The Christmas assembly met each year. Many demits were issued.

Em. Kt. Peter Davidson affiliated from Cape Britain Preceptory No. 43 in November 1940.

The Sunnyside tearoom was occasionally used for refreshments while they awaited repairs on the Masonic Temple. These were rather sad days, due to the bad news that we were receiving regarding the war.

The preceptory was asked by the Masonic Temple LTD for a loan but was unable to comply. One meeting was held in the Knights of Pythias Hall. The Preceptory resumed assemblies in the Masonic Temple in December 1940. Rent charges were $20.00 a month.

In November 1941 the Preceptory conferred an order again. More applications followed. Revisions were made in the ritual in May 1942. On June 16, 1942, the amount of cash on hand was $44.84. The Preceptory was holding a note for $400.00 on the Masonic Temple for a loan. $1,127.65 was outstanding in dues, some arrears as far back as 1932. Letter were written to such Sir Knights living out of town and a committee was appointed to contact those living in town. The attendance was improving at this time. There were 64 members recorded. New equipment was needed but the Sir Knights decided the finances of the Preceptory would not allow the purchase at this time.

The use of an organ is first recorded on the Christmas Day Observance 1942. Thirty-four members and guests were present.

A collection was taken to the amount of $12.00 and sent to the Salvation Army who were most helpful serving the soldiers. Life membership was conferred on Sir Kt. F.W.S. Colpitts on March 1, 1943, Em. Kt. B.E. Wilson was appointed to represent the Preceptory at a Shrine Council meeting in Alabama.

The interest in the Christmas Observance was increasing at this time. An Em. Kt. Or some other prominent person addressed the assembly along with music and the usual toasts and greetings, followed by refreshments. Two Fraters were appointed to represent Ivanhoe Preceptory on the Moncton Masonic Limited.

The second fire in the Masonic Temple occurred on February 17, 1944 at 7:45 a.m. It seems to have started in the kitchen or boiler room. Most of the damage was in the offices on the first floor. Water was used on the second floor, ruining the newly purchased carpet in the lodge room. The building was well covered by insurance. The Preceptory returned its meetings to the Orange Hall again for one meeting and then returned to the Masonic Temple, Queen Street again.

The ladies of the Eastern Star began serving lunches and meals to the Fraters for special occasions, such as the visit of a prominent officer of the Order.

An emergent assembly of the Preceptory was held on November 30, 1944 for a very special occasion. The Preceptory was favored by a visit of the Sovereign Grand Master, Ross L. Dobbin. Fr. H.M. Yelland accompanied him. Others present were the Deputy Grand Master, James S. Hoyt, Provincial Grand Prior of Nova Scotia, Em. Kt. G. E. Lingley, Presiding Preceptor of Beausejour Preceptory, Amherst, the Presiding Preceptor of St. John DeMolay, Em. Kt. W.T. Allan. After a dinner, they adjourned to the lodge room where five candidates were consecrated Knights of the Order of the Temple, the work being carried out by Em. Kt. W. R. Rodd. The officers of the Preceptory were highly complimented by Grand Master Dobbin. The degree work was followed by an address by the Grand Master. This was followed by remarks from the other visitors. The Grand Master presented the Presiding Preceptor, J.H. McAfee, with an alarm clock, the product of a firm in Peterborough, Ont., where he resided. In August 1944 the Great Priory voted $4000.00 to go towards the war effort of the Red Cross. This was donated through the local preceptories according to heir membership. Ivanhoe's proportion was $34.20.

A Victory Bond for the sum of $500.00 was purchased.

The election and installation of officers is continuing annually with a Past Preceptor's jewel being presented annually. In September 1945 all the officers of the Preceptory were appointed as Sick and Visiting Committee.

Invitations were sent to Keith Lodge No. 23 F &AM, Tweedie Lodge No. 41 F &AM AND Botsford Chapter No. 7 RAM to attend the Christmas Observance held in December 1945. (Twenty-five from Ivanhoe attended.)

Steps were now being taken to form a Masonic Library.

During the year 1945-46 the Order of Malta was conferred on 5 candidates, also one candidate from Amherst. There were no demits. This is an indication that the Preceptory was progressing at this time. The Fraters thought that some new paraphernalia should be purchased but on investigating, found that the finances would not allow it at this time.

The ritual was changed at this time, November 1946. A Field Day held in Saint John on May 7, 1947. Fraters from Ivanhoe put on work of the Order of Consecration. Em. Kts W.R. Rodd and John McAfee were very prominent in conferring degrees for many years. Beginning in May 1947 the Registrar was paid $50.00 per year. Em. Kt. H.A. Clark was made an honorary member on May 14, 1947. The Preceptory was very active during these years. They have been favored with 4 or 5 visits a year from prominent Fraters for many years.

Eight new mantles were purchased. Twenty-five dollars was donated to the Library Board. Twenty-five dollars was donated to the "Fund for the Starving Children of Europe". Two members were suspended since they owed $85.00 in dues. It is recorded that $160.25 was paid to the Knights Templar Orphans Fund in June 1948. The Audit Committee reported in June 19448 that the amo9unt of dues in arrears hand been reduced from $1,240.00 to $245.0000 during the year. The Registrar reported there were 99 members, 4 of these being life members. During the year the Preceptory donated $50.00 to the Protestant Orphanage. The balance on hand was $1,063.79. The Preceptory held a Dominion of Canada Bond to the value of $500.00. The honorarium to the Registrar was raised to $100.00 per year. The Preceptory advanced $200.00 to the Presiding Preceptor for the purpose of defraying expenses to the Sovereign Great Priory, of which $115.00 was returned. This was now done every year. The Preceptory voted $20.00 to the widow of a deceased Frater, because she was in destitute circumstances. A visiting Frater, from Saint John donated $20.00 for this purpose. More regalia was purchased ($62.37). An organist was appointed in 1948. A piano was being used.

An appeal for assistance for Brother C. O. MacInnis went out. In answer Most Em. Kt. Porter sent a cheque for $250.00 from the Orphans Fund.

The Supreme Grand Master, B. S. Bailey, paid an official visit to Ivanhoe on May 11, 1949 and the Provincial Grand Prior, Rt. Em. Kt. Claude J. MacDonald, who installed the officers.

There were 109 members enrolled on May 31, 1949. Em. Kt. W.R. Rodd was elected Provincial Grand Prior in 1949. One dozen mantles, a robe and a cap for the Chaplain, were purchased in January 1949. A special assembly was held on April 9, 1950 to celebrate our Easter Observance. This consisted of an address of welcome, an address by Very Worshipful. J.H. Freestone, a solo and hymns by all assembled. It became an annual assembly.

There were usually about 20 members present at regular assemblies during these years. Ivanhoe contributed $90.15 to the Orphanage Fund in the fiscal year 1949-50, also $61.65 to the New Brunswick Orphanage. Ivanhoe voted $25.00to the Manitoba Flood Relief Fund.

On June 4, 1950 the Rt. Em. Kt. Shepherdson, Provincial Prior of Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island and Em. Kt. Shipley of Beausejour Preceptory, Amherst, visited Ivanhoe. The musical selections suggested by the Supreme Grand Master for degree work were adopted and 48 copies of these were ordered on February 14, 1951. Several Fraters ordered caps on March 14, 1951. Apparently they had not been warned previous to this. The Supreme Grand Master, John H. Eydt, made his official visit on May 21, 1951. A pageant was presented on this occasion. Em. Kt. Elmer L. Steeves was elected Provincial Grand Prior for the year 1951-52. It was voted by the Preceptory that the fiscal years end on April 30th in lieu of May 31st.

A roll call of the members was made on January 9, 1952 when out of a membership of 135; there was a response from 77. Twelve Fraters and their wives planned to attend the Sovereign Great Priory to be held in Banff, Alberta.

A letter was received from the Grand Chancellor that Ivanhoe contribute to the Knights Templar Welfare Fund at the rate of $5.00 for every newly initiated candidate. A set of phonograph records used in the conferring of degrees was ordered.

Ivanhoe was progressing very favorably at this time. The Preceptory was receiving many candidates, the degrees were conferred in an exemplary manner and the Preceptory received inspiration from visits by prominent Fraters. The Masonic Library was being enlarged also. The Preceptory was represented at all meetings of the Sovereign Great Priory. Ivanhoe was one of the three strongest Preceptories of the province. There were 64 Preceptories in Canada at this time, with a total of 12,207 members. The district meeting was held in Fredericton in 1952 with Ivanhoe assisting. Approximately 24 Fraters from Ivanhoe attended. One hundred and twenty-five Fraters attended from all preceptories. This was the first provincial meeting. At this meeting the Order of Novice and Order of Consecration were conferred on 30 candidates. A Frater from Calais, Maine attended.

In January 1953 the amount outstanding for dues in arrears more than one year was $110.00 – 95.00 for one year in arrears – an outstanding improvement. Cash on hand was $638.92, plus a bond for $500.00. The Preceptory was progressing in an admirable manner at this time. The committees were all very active, the attendance at assemblies was increasing (40 at one regular assembly) and the membership was increasing (usually 8 or 10) applications at regular assemblies. Special Christmas and Easter Observances are being continued, and Ivanhoe received many visitors. Degrees were conferred with dignity.

The seventieth annual assembly of the Sovereign Great Priory of Canada was held in Moncton on August 22-25, 1953. A Church Parade to Victoria Park on Sunday, where a wreath was laid, followed by a service in Wesley Memorial Church and a reception in the banquet room of the Brunswick Hotel. Business meetings were held on the 24th and 25th with a banquet for Sir knights and their Ladies in the Legion Hall. The Treasurer for Ivanhoe Preceptory reported a surplus. Em. Kt. Elmer Steeves was chairman of the Assembly. The acting Grand Master was Rt. Em. Kt. F. G. Mann. Sir Kt. Robert Day was general secretary.

In September 1954, Em. Ivanhoe presented Kt. Harley Clark with a Jewel of Malta. The Preceptory held a regular assembly in the Masonic Temple in Newcastle on October 2, 1954 when Rt. Em. Kt. W. R. Rodd, KCT, conferred the Order of Malta on three candidates, followed by a banquet.

The meeting was well attended. On October 113th V. Em. Kt. MacAfee conferred the Order of Novice on Four candidates Rt. Em. Kt. E. L. Steeves conferred the Order of Installation o some candidates. The regular Christmas Observance was held on December 25, 1954. The collection was donated to the Saint John Orphans Home. A revision of the by-laws was completed in March 954.

On January 12, 1955 Presiding Preceptor Murdock MacLean conferred the order of the Red Cross. On February 2, the Illustrious Order of the Red Cross was conferred by Em. Kt. Murdock MacLean, PP, and his officers, with lectures by V. Em. Peter Davidson and V. Em. Kt. Harry Livingstone. The use of robes added color and prestige to this ceremony. Thirty-three Fraters were present at the March assembly. V. Em. Kt. Livingstone conferred the Order of Novice at the April assembly. Rt. Em. Kt. E.L. Steeves then conferred the Order of Installation. The regular Easter Observance was held. On May 11, 1955, Em. Kt. Albert Horseman conferred the Order of Consecration on four candidates. On May 31st the membership was 155. Em. Kt. A. E. Horsemen conferred the Order of Consecration in June.

In September 1954 it is recorded that the Fraters collected $263.75 for the New Brunswick Protestant Orphans Home. Ivanhoe Preceptory sent a gift to Sir Kt. Charles MacInnes who was a patient in the D.V.A. Hospital in Saint John.

Em. Kt. Murdock MacLean conferred the Illustrious Order of the Read Cross on five companions. Em. Kt. J. A. McAfee presented the revised by-laws to the Preceptory on September 14, 1955. A grant was sent to Sir Kt. Karl Drew who had suffered the loss by fire of all household property. The presiding Preceptor which conferred the Order of St. Paul on five companions of the Order of the Red Cross. The Order of St. John was conferred by Em. Kt. W.J. Weir who was at the special assembly in Amherst. Rt. Worshipful Brother A S. Robinson presented to the Preceptory, jewels and badges of the late Capt. Masters. The Presiding Preceptory Welch conferred the Order of "Novice of the Temple". The installation ceremony followed under the direction of V. Em. Kt. E. L. Steeves. In December 1955 nine visitors from Beausejour Preceptory, Amherst, were present. On this night the Supreme Grand Master of the Sovereign Great Priory of Canada, M. Em. Kt. Perry S. Cochrane paid an official visit to the Preceptory. On this occasion Em. Kt. Horseman conferred the Order of Consecration on three installed knights. The special Christmas Observance was held on December 25 followed by refreshments. The offering was sent to the N.B. Protestant Orphans Home.

A "York Night" was held in December 1955, this was a joint meeting with Botsford Chapter. It was moved, seconded and carried that election of officers be held in April. The Preceptory has been continuing the practice of placing a wreath on the local cenotaph on Remembrance Days.

The Illustrious Order of the Red Cross was conferred under the direction of the Preceptor, Em. Kt. MacLean. Five copies of the report of the Grand Historian were received. Jewish and Persian banner were purchased. The Presiding Preceptor Welsh conducted the ceremonies of the Order of Malta and the Order of Knights of St. John.

The Easter Observance was held in the Masonic Temple, which was attended by members of all branches of the Masonic order with families and friends. (68). The offering was donated to the N. B. Protestant Home. The program included opening prayer, hymns, and Apostles creed in unison, an address by Dr. D. F. Hoddinott and a selection by the Lloyd Quartette. On April 11, 1956 the report of the Audit Committee showed a net balance of $727.66. The Provincial Grand Prior, Rt. Em. Kt. W. R. Rodd, KCT, paid an official visit. In May 9, 1956 Em. Kt. Welsh conducted the Solemn and Sacred Order of Consecration on four candidates. The new officers were installed on May 9, 1956. The illustrious Order of the Red Cross was conducted by, Em. Kt. Murdock MacLean, on one companion. On October 10, 1956 Em. Kt. MacLean conducted the Illustrious Order of the Red Cross on one companion. Em. Kt. Welsh conferred the Order of St. John on two companions. At a special meeting V. Em. Kt. H. J. Livingstone conferred the Order of Novice on two Companions from Moncton, six from Woodstock, N. B. this was an anniversary meeting of Ivanhoe.

The order of Knight of the Temple was conferred by officers of the Fredericton Preceptory, under the direction of Em. Kt. K T. Wilson. Sir Kt. C. J. MacInnis was made an honorary member on December 2, 1956. The regular Christmas observance was held in 1956 with Dr. F. E. Archibald as guest speaker. Sixty persons attended.

On January 9, 1957 Em. Kt. R. J. Coy was installed Presiding Preceptory. The auditor's report on January 18, 1957 showed a net balance of $493.67. The Most Em. Kt. Perry S. Cochrane paid an official visit on May 13, 1957. The 50-year jewel was presented to Rt. Em. W. R. Rodd, KCT on March 13, 1957. Em. Kt. Murdock MacLean exemplified the Order of the Red Cross on one companion. Thirty-eight Fraters in attendance. The Provincial Grand Prior, Rt. Em. Kt. Harry Livingstone paid an official visit on April 10, 1957. A life membership certificate was presented to Em. Kt. A. E. Horsemen. The usual Easter Observance was held this year. REV. DR. J. J. ALEXANDER gave the address. Another York night was held. Some Fraters made a canvas for the Orphanage. On September 18, 1957, a minute's silence was observed in memory of the late V. Em. Kt. J. H. McAfee. The order of KCT was conferred on Sir Kt. John E. Collings, Em. Kt. H. L. Adamson was presented a life certificate. Em. Kt. Adamson conferred the Order of the Red Cross on Five Companions. Presiding Preceptor R. J. Coy conferred the Order of Saint John. Rt. Em. Kt. Harry Livingstone conferred the Order of Novice, V. Em. Kt. John Welsh the Order of Installation and Em. Kt. Coy the Order of Consecration on five companions.

Six Fraters were suspended for N.P.D. the Christmas Observance was held in 1957 when REV. DR. J. J. ALEXANDER delivered the message. The Auditors report on January 7 1958 showed a net balance of $720.02.

The regular Easter Observance was held in 1958 with the guest speaker Rev. M. A. MacMillan, who spoke on the Resurrection. This was followed by a luncheon. The Illustrious Order of the Red Cross was conferred on one companion with Em. Kt. Weir as Sovereign Master. A cheque for 50.00 was issued to the N.B. Protestant Orphans Home. A field day was held in Woodstock, N.B. in May 1958 when Rt. Em conferred the Order of Consecration on 12 candidates. Kt. W. R. Rodd, KCT. The Grand Master Most Em. Kt. Lorne A. Johnson paid an official visit on September 25, 1958.

The Order of the Red Cross was conferred on Four Companions, with Em. Kt. Murdock MacLean as Sovereign Master. At the next meeting six companions received the Order of the Red Cross with Em. Kt. MacLean as Sovereign Master. The Order of St. Paul was conferred by Em. Kt. Coy and the Order of Malta by Em. Kt. Dickie, on eleven companions. The Order of Installation was conferred on six companions. The Christmas Observance was held in 1958 with Dr. F. E. Archibald as guest speaker and the Choir of Saint John‘s United Church in attendance. The report of the audit committee showed a net balance of $657.58 for 1958.

Rt. Em. Kt. Perley Wright, the Provincial Grand Prior, paid an official visit on January 14, 1959. The Order of Consecration was conferred on five candidates at this time.

At the Easter Service in 1959, Rev. A. J. Langley gave the address. On May 13, 1959 Fraters from Beausejour Preceptory, Amherst, N.S., visited Ivanhoe when the Order of Novice was conferred on three companions from Amherst and two from Moncton, followed by the Installation ceremony. Ivanhoe visited Beausejour on May 25 1959 and conferred degrees. The Order of the Red Cross was conferred on one companion with Em. Kt. E. E. Lewis as sovereign Master. On November 21, 1959 the Order of Malta and Saint John and Installation were conferred on three companions of Saint John DeMolay Preceptory and five companions of Beausejour Preceptory. The regular Christmas Observance was held in 1959 with Mountain View choir in attendance. Rev. Brook delivered the address on "Signs and Symbols". The net bank balance on December 31, 1959 was $522.23.

Right Em. Kt. Perley Wright, Provincial Grand Prior, installed the officers for 1960. The Order of the Red Cross was conferred on five companions with Em. Kt. M. MacLean as Sovereign Master. At the Easter Observance, the choir of Saint James Anglican Church was welcomed with their rector, Rev. H. G. Smith, who delivered the address. The Grand Master Most Em. Kt. J. W. Carson paid an official visit accompanied by seven Fraters from Saint John.

The Order of Saint Paul and Malta were conferred on three companions. The Orders of the Temple were given by Ivanhoe in Amherst on May 28, 1960. The Fraters collected $319.75 for the N.B. PROTESTANT Orphans Home. The Order of the Red Cross was conferred with Em. Kt. MacLean as Sovereign Master, followed by the Order of Malta on two companions.

The Christmas Observance was held with the choir of Saint James Anglican Church furnishing the music and Rev. Canon Ernest McCordick delivery of the address. There was the usual collection. The Provincial Grand Prior, Right Em. Kt. Dr. D. A. Somerville, installed the officers for 1961. Em. Kt. Percy Gilbert was presented a Life Membership Certificate. The Order of Red Cross was conferred on two companions with Em. Kt. Murdock MacLean as Sovereign Master. Ivanhoe conferred the Order of Malta in Beausejour and Ivanhoe conferred the Order of Consecration in Prince Edward Preceptory, Charlottetown PEI. The Easter Observance was held with music by the Saint Andrews Presbyterian Choir and the address by Rev. L. E. Blaikie. The order of Novice was conferred on five companions by Right Em. Kt. H. J. Livingstone. The Order of Installation was then conferred with Em. Kt. E. E. Lewis presiding. On this occasion many visitor from Beausejour Preceptory were present. The Grand Chancellor reported 15.933 membership. Prince Edward Preceptory conferred the Order of the Red Cross in Ivanhoe on October 7, 1961. The Provincial Grand Prior, Right Em. Kt. Dr. D. A. Somerville, paid an official visit to Ivanhoe on October 11, 19661, when the Order of Saint Paul and Malta were conferred on four companions.

The Preceptory assisted a worth knight in obtaining artificial limbs. The regular Christmas Observance was held in 1961 with Rev. Lowell Bock, President of the Seventh Day Adventist Conference, as speaker and music by a Masonic quartette. Three members were suspended for N.P.D.

Right Em. Kt. Dr. D. A. Somerville installed the officers for 1962 on February 12. The audit committee reported on hand $382.60 as of December 3. 1961. A grant of $25.00 was sent to the Masonic Library. A monthly payment of $60.00 was voted to a worthy and needy Sir Knight. A gift of 10 wooden swords was received from Beausejour Preceptory. A silent tribute was paid to Very Em. Kt. A. E. Horseman on his passing. A Templar Advancement Committee was appointed to induce new members. The Christmas Observance was restricted to Master Masons only at this observance. Refreshments were served. The guest speaker was Rev. P. B. Chisholm, Pasteur of Humphrey Memorial Church. As of January 2, 1963 the bank balance was $276.74.

RIGHT Em. Kt. A. P. Trecartin, Provincial Grand Prior, installed the officers for 1963. Three Sir Knights were suspended for N.P.D. A degree team was appointed in January 1963. The Order of the Red Cross was conferred on six companions with Em. Kt. Murdock MacLean as Sovereign Master. The Supreme Grand Master Most Em. Kt. Gordeon Shaffer of Vancouver, BC paid an official visit on March 29, 1963. The Easter Service was cancelled for one year.

The Grand Master presented a 50-year jewel to Very Em. Kt. Peter Davidson and a life membership certificate to Right Em. Kt. W. R. Rodd, KCT. On March 30, 1963 a supper was served in the banquet hall – present were 26 Sir Knights from Charlottetown who conferred the Order of Malta on Five companions of Moncton. These companions later received the remaining orders. The Preceptory observed two minutes of silence in mourning for Sir Kts. W. R. Gilker and Lorne Hamilton.

The sum of $206.98 was collected for the N.B. Protestant Orphans Home. An increase of $10.00 a month for rent became effective October 1, 1963. The Sovereign Great Priory has been held every year. This year W. R. Rodd attended. The Order of the Red Cross was conferred on one companion with Em. Kt. Murdock MacLean as Sovereign Master. Sir Kt. John Lingley was Prince Chancellor, Sir Kt. James Welsh Prince Master of the Palace. Very Em. Kt. R. J. Coy, Excellent High Priest, Em. Kt. L. G. Donald, asst. High Priest, Sir Kt. B. E. MacPherson, Master of Infantry. Right Em. Kt. W. R. Rodd, KCT, Master of Dispatches. This was the new degree team. Right Em. Kt. A. P. Trecartin paid an official visit on November 13, 1963. The sum of $500.00 was realized from a bond, of which $300.00 were invested in new bonds. Sir Kt. Joseph Wood died on October 22, 1963. The Order of the Temple was conferred by the Saint John DeMolay Preceptory on five Saint John companions and two Moncton Companions.

This was followed by the Installation Ceremony by Right Em. Kt. Elmer Steeves. On December 11, 1963, the dues were increased to $6.00. The Order of Consecration was conferred by Very em. Kt. R. J. Coy on one companion. The Christmas Observance was held with thirty present. Refreshments were served on this occasion. The net bank balance on December 31, 1963 was $432.09. Three Sir Knights were suspended for N.P.D. Right Em. Kt. A. P. Trecartin installed the Officers for 1964. The sum of $240.00 had been donated to the General Welfare and Orphans Fund of the Sovereign Great Priory in 1962. Mourning for Sir kts. Donald Eagles and Em. Kt. Percy Gilbert was observed. Very Em. Kt. R. J. Coy was elected Provincial Grand Prior. The Order of the Red Cross was conferred on four companions with Em. Kt. John Lingley as Sovereign Master. The companions later received the remaining orders. Em. Kt. John Lingley attended the Great priory at Calgary, Alta., as well as Right Em. Kt. R. J. Coy and Right Em. Kt. W. R. Rodd, KCT. A period of mourning was held for Em. Kt. E. E. Lewis. The Christmas Observance, this year, was open to Master Masons and their families, with guest speaker Rev. T. Elgar Roberts of the First United Baptist Church and a quartette from this Church Choir.

Right Em. R. J. Coy, Provincial Grand Prior, installed the officers for 1965. The order of the Red Cross was conferred on two companions with Em. Kt. B. E. MacPherson as Sovereign Master. They were made Companions of the Order of Saint Paul with Em. Kt. L. G. Donald as Em. Prior.

The remaining orders were conferred later. The Supreme Grand master, Most Em. Kt. F. C. Ackert, of Galt, Ont., paid an official visit on May 12. 1965. On this occasion the Order of Consecration was conferred by Right Em. Kt. R. J. Coy with Em. Kt. Murdock MacLean as Chaplain. Prior to the opening of the general assembly, a banquet was held to honor the visitor. The proper ceremony was held in memory of Em. Kt. T. A. Robinson who died August 6, 1965. Changes were made in the ritual in the opening and closing and the Order of the Red Cross.

The officers for the year 1966 were installed by Right Em. Kt. R. J. Coy, P.G.P., assisted by Very Em. Kt. John Lingley, Right Em. Kt. W. R. Rodd, KCT, Very Em. Kt. Peter Davidson and Right Em. Kt. Elmer Steeves. The Order of the Red Cross was conferred on eight companions with Very Em. Kt. John Lingley as Sovereign Master. These companions later received the remaining orders. Sir Kt. Alex Cross died on March 18, 1966. A grant of $25.00 was sent to the Moncton Masonic Library Board. The Order of the Red Cross was conferred on two companions with Em. Kt. W. N. Croft as Sovereign Master. Right Em. H. E. Irving paid an official visit on October 12, 1966. Sir Kt. Joseph Steeves passed away on September 25, 1966. Ten candidates were received as Novices on November 9, 1966. They later received the remaining orders.

Right Em. Kt. W. R. Rodd, KCT, installed the officers for 1967, assisted by Em. Kt. B. E. MacPherson, Very Em. Kt. Peter Davidson and Very Em. Kt. John Lingley followed by a paper read by Right Em. Kt. W. R. Rodd, DCT on Knights Templarism. The Preceptory observed a minute's silence for Sir Kt. W. V. Spencer on April 14, 1967. Ivanhoe conferred orders on candidates of Beausejour Preceptory on June 10, 1967.

Sir Kts. L. Reedy, J. Graham, K. H. MacKenzie and K. Robert Kidney received certificates from the Sovereign Great Priory of Canada. Nine candidates were received on September 13, 1967. On this date a minute's silence was observed as a tribute to Right Em. Kt. Kennedy newly elected Deputy Grand Master, who passed to the celestial lodge above. Right Em. Kt. W. R. Rodd, DCT, attended the Annual Assembly of the Sovereign Great Priory where he received a 50-year jewel. Two more candidates received this year (1967). One minute's silence was observed for Sir Kt. G. W. Bowman who passed away on November 3, 1967. Sir Kt. E. H. Ritcey passed away. Three more candidates were received.

Right Em. Kt. R. J. Coy conducted the Installation of the Officers for 1968. Eight candidates were received. Ivanhoe conferred the Order of Consecration on five candidates from Beausejour Preceptory. On June 12, 1968 the Treasurer reported that there was not enough money in the bank to pay all the bills.

He was ordered to defer paying the bills. Later $200.0 was borrowed from a bank. Then an assessment of $5.00 per member was assessed. Very Em. Kt. John Lingley conferred the Order of the Red Cross, assisted by other officers. The Christmas Observance was being held annually. On December 1, 1968 the initiation fee was raised to $65.00 and annual dues to $8.00.

Thirteen candidates were received in 1969. The officers for 1969 were installed by Right Em. Kt. R. J. Coy, assisted by other officers. A reception was held on January 8, 1969. To celebrate the one hundredth birthday of Very Em. Kt. Peter Davidson. Right Em. Kt. H. J. Livingston, as Sovereign Master, conferred the Order of the Red Cross on October 8, 1969, assisted by other officers. Very Em. Kt. Frank C. Bean, Grand Constable of the Sovereign Great Priory of Canada, visited Ivanhoe on November 12, 1969. The election of officers for the year 1970 was deferred due to a small attendance.

The officers for the year 1970 were installed by Right Em. Kt. R. J. Coy assisted by other officers.

The records for this period of time are rather sketchy. At this time Right Em. Kt. W. R. Rodd was very active in Ivanhoe doing orders. A 50-year jewel was present to Very Em. Kt. Peter Davidson. Right Em. Kt. R. J. Coy took an active part in the order work.

A field day was held in Fredericton in 1968. It appears that at this time the Preceptory was very low in finances, since the Treasurer paid some of the bills from his own pocket. A special assessment was made on members. No auditor's reports are available for this time but there was a deficit. It seems that the initiation fee was $65.00 and the yearly dues $8.00 it is recorded that there was 16 Fraters in attendance on February 10, 1971.

A cheque of $100.00 was sent to the Sovereign Great Priory as a donation to the Knights Templar Orphans Fund. A motion was passed on June 9, 1971 to have the by-laws revised. The Sovereign Great Priory is to be held in Moncton in 1981.

Very Em. Kt. Peter Davidson died in October 1971.

A field day was held in Woodstock, N.B., on November 13, 1971. Right Em. Kt R. J. Coy was appointed to the Grand Council of the Sovereign Great Priory of Canada in September 1972. Ivanhoe presented him a Past Provincial Prior's Jewel on November 8, 1972

During the year, 1972 five candidates received the respective orders of the preceptory. There were 157 members enrolled. The average attendance was 15. The auditor's reported $1,708.75 on hand on December 31, 1972.

The Fredericton Preceptory was host to the Grand Commandery of Maine on April 11, 1973. The conferring of orders took place, according to the Grand Commandeers ritual. An emergent assembly was held in Chatham, N.B. on May 26, 1973 for the purpose of conferring the orders on five candidates. On June 13, 1973 a motion was passed for the Preceptory to proceed with the formation of degree teams, each team designated to confer a specified order. The Christmas Observance was held as usual but at 3 P.M. the offering amounted to $89.00, which was donated to the N.B. Protestant Orphanage. The attendance was 132.

Right Em. Kt. Elmer Steeves died in February 1974. On April 6, 1974 a field day was held in Saint Stephen when the order of Malta was conferred by the Fredericton Preceptory on 25 candidates, 8 from Ivanhoe. The orders were conferred as follows: Novice by Ivanhoe, Installation by Saint Stephen, Consecration by Saint John. This is the first occasion that it is recorded that hats were presented to the candidates. There were 125 Fraters in attendance. A new ballot box was used November 1974.

Sir Kt. Warnock Price, John Johnston and O. G. McAuley were made honorary members in March 1975. The year 975 was a highly successful one. Degrees were conferred at every meeting except December. The Preceptory was in good condition financially and the degree work was of a high order. A regular meeting was held in Chatham in November.

The Christmas observance was held on Sunday, December 14 at 3 P.M. The dues were raised from $8.00 to $10.00 in December 1975.

The following Fraters were made honorary members in January 1976: Em. Kt. H. H. Trimble, Sir Kts. William Bringham and Charles Allum. A regular meeting was held in Chatham on May 1, 1976 where the following orders were conferred: Order of Novice, Order of Installation and Order of Consecration. There were 34 present. The year 1976 was another very successful one. A highlight of the year was a visit paid to Ivanhoe Preceptory by the Supreme Grand Master of the Sovereign Great Priory of Canada, Most Eminent Knight Richard Vernon Weir on Oct 9, 1976. Visitors were present on this occasion from Halifax, New Glasgow, Saint Stephen, Saint John, Fredericton and other Maritime areas.