Description

Freemasons on the Goldfields: Ballarat & District 1853 – 2013

by Dorothy Wickham ISBN 978 1 876478 89 6

240pp, paperback, full colour illustrations, 9 chapters, 6 appendices, comprehensive index, alphabetical list of lodges in central highlands district, with short histories and biographies.

Freemasons on the Goldfields is an intriguing story of men and lodges, secrets, symbols, jealousies, achievements and civic pride. It traces the craft from the early stonemasons and cathedral builders of Europe to the establishments of lodges in Australia and Victoria.

This book shows how the growth of freemasonry in Ballarat reflected the rapid expansion in welfare and services, the growth of commerce, the interest and support for education and the arts, and the beautification of the environment.

Brilliant! Beautifully illustrated throughout! Not just a history of the goldfields masons but much more!

“This book gives all those interested in the history of Australia a rare opportunity to understand a long hidden aspect of our history.”

Dr Val Noone

CONTENTS

CHAPTER ONE

Origins of Freemasonry

CHAPTER TWO

Establishment of Freemasonry in Australia and Victoria

CHAPTER THREE

Freemasonry on the Early Victorian Goldfields

CHAPTER FOUR

Freemasons in Ballarat and District

CHAPTER FIVE

Establishing Charitable Institutions

CHAPTER SIX

Contribution in Civic Affairs

CHAPTER SEVEN

Contribution in Commerce and Public Office

CHAPTER EIGHT

The Twentieth Century: One Hundred Years of Freemasonry

CHAPTER NINE

Conclusion

APPENDICES 1 – 6

1. Glossary

2. Symbolism

3. Myths

4. Lodges: Ballarat and District (Aphabetical Order)

5. Orders of Freemasonry in Victoria

6. Chronology