Edenvale, in the 'fifties', was a fast growing
suburb of Johannesburg and a strong demand arose for
a 'local' lodge, leading eventually to over 40
brethren expressing interest. After some debate it
was decided to 'go English', and the new lodge was
sponsored by Phoenix Lodge, and met initially at the
latter's premises at Modderfontein. In 1968 the
Lodge started its own Building Fund, hoping to find
suitable premises in Edenvale, but in the event it
remained at Modderfontein until 1975, when it moved
to Norwood 'temporarily', and eventually 'finally',
by acquiring a quarter share in the Norwood complex.
The Lodge's secretary for 25 years, Peter Wakely-Clements,
describes Edenvale as a 'family lodge', with (in
1987) 34 members who were blood relations and a
further 10, relations by marriage. Perhaps this led
to greater involvement of the ladies, who attended
the festive board after the 100th meeting and have
been increasingly involved with the Lodge's
'outside' activities.
Sadly, in 1970, a Lodge member lost both hands in a
work accident, an event which touched at the hearts
and pockets of his Lodge brethren, and drew prompt
support from District charity and other Lodges. The
final outcome was the establishment of the Edenvale
Lodge Disaster Fund, which has since helped in
several cases where Transvaal masons and their
dependents have suffered through tragic
circumstances.
Exsequi Lodge meets at Park
Lane in Johannesburg, South Africa on the fourth Monday of
February (Election Meeting), April (Installation Meeting),
June, August, October and November. Exsequi is a Freemasons
Dining Lodge and masonic guests are most welcome.
Freemasonry a web site for and about Freemasons - South African
Lodges
