The formation of Norwood Lodge, in parallel wih
Outpost Lodge No. 3132 reflects the northwards
development of Johannesburg's residential suburbs
after the South African War. Its premises (of which
ownership is now shared with Bramley and Oaklands
Lodges) were originally built in 1904, but were
subsequently extended and renovated in 1972.
Norwood Lodge can boast many brethren who have
served the Lodge and Craft well, but pride of place
must go to W Bro Arthur Loxley Needham, not only an
outstanding Preceptor in his own Lodge but a great
worker for District Grand Lodge, where he rose to be
Deputy District Grand Master in 1956, which office
he held until his sudden death on 5 May 1964. The
District Grand Master, RW Bro Jack Folly, said in
his tribute at the funeral service:
'What was it that made Arthur Needham one of the
greatest characters we have known? At all times he
did not seek reward or publicity. Whatever reward or
success came his way was through his own merit and
ability. He was a humble fellow, full of kindly
thoughts and helpful acts. He was a man without an
enemy.'
Other initiates of Norwood to attain Grand Rank have
been W Bros A C Jarvis (WM 1944/5), E J Goodwin (WM
1950/1), J J Varrie (WM 1951/2) and F Shearsby (WM
1954/5). Bert Jarvis was the District Grand
Secretary for 15 years; Ernie Goodwin (as mentioned
under Bramley Lodge) was the Secretary for a number
of years of the three lodges meeting at Norwood;
Jack Varrie was very active in the District until
his death, at a comparably young age, in 1968; and
Frank Shearsby, DC and Preceptor of Norwood Lodge
for a number of years, gave strong support to
several lodges, including Oaklands and Woodlands.
Until his death, the Lodge's 'senior' member was W
Bro Coenraad Nelson, WM in 1935/6 and 1940/1, who
was born in 1896.
The Lodge has not had the easiest of times in recent
years but there is currently a renewal of interest
and enthusiasm which is a good sign for the future.
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
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