North Bay Nipissing Lodge No 420 GRC

nt event marked the union of two historic lodges: Nipissing Lodge No. 420 G.R.C., led at the time by W. Bruce Burns, and North Bay Lodge No. 617 G.R.C., led at the time by W. Tim Wright. Founding and Early Years: Nipissing Lodge No. 420 G.R.C. Nipissing Lodge No. 420 was instituted on November 29, 1887, with its Charter being granted on July 18, 1888. The lodge's founding was closely intertwined with the early development of North Bay, a burgeoning town established due to railway expansion. Prominent early members included John Ferguson, the town's founder, and other key figures such as Rev. Silas Huntington, the first Worshipful Master, alongside pioneers who significantly contributed to the community's growth. The lodge quickly became an integral part of the social fabric, promoting charitable causes and upholding Masonic principles. The lodge held its final meeting and closed in harmony on May 27, 2024, at 9:28 PM. Founding and Early Years: North Bay Lodge No. 617 G.R.C. North Bay Lodge No. 617 was founded in August 1922. The first Worshipful Master was J. Jago. The lodge was established as an offshoot of Nipissing Lodge No. 420, which sponsored its dispensation to hold meetings on Friday nights for Masons working out of town during the week. As circumstances changed, the need for Friday night meetings diminished, leading to a bylaw amendment to meet on the first Wednesday of each month. The lodge became known for its active community service and steadfast commitment to Masonic values. In October 2023, North Bay Lodge No. 617 celebrated its "Silver to Gold" centennial, marking 100 years of Freemasonry. The lodge held its final meeting and closed in harmony on May 8, 2024. Significant Milestones
Throughout their histories, both Nipissing Lodge No. 420 and North Bay Lodge No. 617 laboured together and achieved numerous milestones, including membership growth, successful completion of various Masonic degrees, and numerous charitable initiatives. Both lodges were instrumental in promoting Masonic education and fostering a sense of brotherhood among their members. Amalgamation Process
In 2024, a significant event in the history of both lodges was the decision to amalgamate. This decision was driven by a desire to strengthen the Masonic experience and presence in North Bay, and to ensure the continued vitality and growth of the fraternity in the region. The process was initiated with careful planning and collaboration between the members of both lodges. The initial discussions and planning stages were meticulously documented and communicated to all members, ensuring transparency and inclusivity. The amalgamation was subject to a formal voting process. On April 19, 2024, the ballots were inspected, and the results were sent to the Grand Secretary. By May 3, 2024, Grand Lodge had given their final approval for the amalgamation. The Amalgamation Ceremony
At 3 PM on June 1, 2024, Nipissing Lodge was opened one final time for the purpose of conducting the ceremony for amalgamation by M.W. Hogeboom, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario, accompanied by a collection of Grand Lodge Officers. A ballot was passed unanimously to confirm the officers of the new lodge, as identified in the Joint Amalgamation Report. This event marked the official union of Nipissing Lodge No. 420 and North Bay Lodge No. 617. Installation of Officers
Following the amalgamation ceremony, the first master of North Bay Nipissing Lodge No. 420 was installed and his team of officers invested for the new lodge’s inaugural year. The installation, supervised by M.W. Hogeboom, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario, and his entourage of Grand Lodge Officers, was conducted by R.W. Raymond Meadows, with W. Brown becoming the first Worshipful Master of the newly amalgamated lodge. Celebratory Banquet
The amalgamation was celebrated with a banquet at the Best Western on Lakeshore Drive. The event featured a social hour, a three-course plated meal, and musical entertainment. The Grand Master, M.W. Hogeboom, was the guest speaker for the evening, highlighting the significance of the amalgamation and the bright future ahead for the lodge. Current Standing and Future Aspirations
Today, North Bay Nipissing Lodge No. 420 stands as a testament to the enduring values of Freemasonry. The lodge continues to promote fellowship, personal growth, and charity. With the amalgamation, the lodge is better positioned to attract new members, enhance its charitable activities, and contribute to the Masonic legacy in North Bay. The history of North Bay Nipissing Lodge No. 420 is a story of resilience, unity, and a shared commitment to the principles of Freemasonry. As the lodge moves forward, it remains dedicated to its mission of fostering brotherhood and making a positive impact on the community. List of the First Officers of North Bay Nipissing Lodge:
W. Brown, Worshipful Master
W. Bruce Burns, I.P.M. Jason Brock, S.W. Michel Duchesne, J.W. R.W. Jacques C. Lacourse, Treasurer
W. James McCutcheon, Secretary
W. Bruce McCulloch, Chaplin
Bro. Jeremy Kirk, S.D. Ryan Rogers, J.D. Christian Morin, S.S. Steven Germon, J.S. Stephen Kirk, I.G. William Pickett, Tyler
W. Timothy Lacelle, Organist
W. Robert Pronovost, Historian