Battlefield Lodge No. 61

District: South District

Lodge History:

The Founding and Early Years of Battlefield Lodge No. 714

During the year 1963, members of the Stelco “M” Club discussed the idea of starting a new Masonic lodge in Hamilton. The Stelco “M” Club consisted of approximately 600 members from various area lodges, all of whom were employees of the Steel Company of Canada Ltd. at the time of joining the club.

Not being men of idle talk, a committee was formed consisting of the following brethren:

• W. Bro. Glen Hanson, P.M., Tuscan Lodge No. 551
• W. Bro. Sandy Griffin, P.M., Westmount Lodge No. 671
• W. Bro. Clayton Malchow, P.M., Hamilton Lodge No. 562
• W. Bro. Marty Birhelmer, P.M., St. John’s Lodge No. 40
• Bro. Everett Graham, Tuscan Lodge No. 551
• Bro. Bob Philips, Tuscan Lodge No. 551

The fruits of their labours were realized on June 29, 1964, when Battlefield Lodge was constituted with 60 charter members.

R.W. Bro. Eric W. Nancekivell, P.D.D.G.M. of Hamilton Masonic District “B”, led 39 of the charter members into the lodge. R.W. Bro. Len Hewitt then installed W. Bro. Sanford Griffin as the first Worshipful Master of Battlefield Lodge U.D.

First Officers of Battlefield Lodge U.D.:

• S.W.: W. Bro. Clayton Malchow
• J.W.: W. Bro. Marty Birhelmer
• Secretary: W. Bro. Glen Hanson
• S.D.: Bro. John Giglia
• J.D.: Bro. Jack Pentney
• Treasurer: W. Bro. Harold Prowse
• Chaplain: Bro. Everett Graham

September 21, 1964: Battlefield Lodge U.D. initiated its first candidate, Mr. William Grundy. During our first year under dispensation, the lodge also initiated Mr. Robert Showkenik and accepted the application for affiliation from Bro. Ted Mills, the first member who was not part of the Stelco “M” Club.

Gifts and presentations during the first year included:

• A set of three gavels from R.W. Bro. Jack Piercy, on behalf of W. Bro. Alexander and himself.
• A pair of deacon’s wands and a set of movable jewels from W. Bro. Walker, on behalf of the Goose and Gridiron Club.
• A set of working tools in a beautifully crafted case, made and presented by W. Bro. N. Simms and Bro. C. Robinson.

September 27, 1965: an emergent meeting was held for the consecration of Battlefield Lodge U.D., officiated by M.W. Bro. Treleaven, P.G.M. The lodge was officially designated Battlefield Lodge No. 714 on the register of the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario. W. Bro. T. Marshall donated 17 books to help start our Masonic library.

October 18, 1965: R.W. Bro. F.W. Hyder, D.D.G.M., accompanied by many Grand Lodge Officers, officially installed the officers in their respective chairs. This meeting also marked our first fraternal visit invitation, from T.H. Simpson Lodge, beginning a long-standing friendship.

November 15, 1965: Bro. Jack Pentney led a delegation from the Stelco “M” Club and presented the official seal of Battlefield Lodge No. 714 G.R.C. Bro. Norm Buist, on behalf of his wife Lylie and himself, presented a beautiful altar copy of the V.O.T.S.L. Bro. Everett Graham and his wife Marguerite presented three Bible markers for the respective degrees. The By-Laws of Battlefield Lodge No. 714 G.R.C. were presented by R.W. Bro. Piercy, passed, and adopted.

January 17, 1966: W. Bro. Clayton Malchow was installed as W.M., with W. Bro. G.E. Oswald as installing master. W. Bro. Sandy Griffin’s dedication and efforts were acknowledged with a token of appreciation. In 1966, congratulations were extended to R.W. Bro. E. Heal, a charter member of Battlefield Lodge, on becoming D.D.G.M. of District “B”. Wardrope Lodge No. 555 presented a Union Jack flag to Battlefield Lodge, in recognition of many years of service.

January 16, 1967: W. Bro. Glen Hanson installed W. Bro. Marty Birhelmer as Worshipful Master.

January 15, 1968: due to a severe snowstorm, the regular meeting and installation were rescheduled to January 29. W. Bro. Sandy Griffin installed Bro. John Giglia as Worshipful Master. During the summer call-off, three charter members passed to the Grand Lodge Above: W. Bros. G. Hanson (Secretary), T. Marshall, and H. Springer. V.W. Bro. Sandy Griffin, newly appointed Grand D. of C., stepped in to serve as secretary. The Masonic Hall on James St. N. was destroyed by fire, resulting in the loss of furniture and regalia for many lodges.

April 6, 1970: Battlefield hosted a meeting with the other two third-Monday lodges: Doric and Brant.

October 19, 1970: R.W. Bro. Fred Scott led a large Royal Arch Mason delegation to raise Bro. Tom Irvine to the Third Degree.

January 18, 1971: W. Bro. Marty Birhelmer conducted the installation of Bro. Howard Mulheisen as Master. J.W. Bro. Ted Mills presented two Warden’s columns in memory of Bro. Gordon Grey.

January 15, 1973: W. Bro. Howard Mulheisen installed Bro. Ted Mills, the first Worshipful Master who was not a charter member.

April 26, 1973: W. Bro. Mills led a delegation to Trafalgar Lodge No. 712 in Oakville, initiating the annual spring and fall exchange visits.

January 21, 1974: W. Bro. Marty Birhelmer, serving again as installing master, installed Bro. Don Cottingham. Bro. Everett Graham, retiring as Chaplain, received a traveling case for his 10 years of faithful service, during which he missed no meetings. Bro. Norm Buist underwent hip replacements, becoming Battlefield’s “first bionic W.M.”

September 16, 1974: the Six Nations Indian Degree Team from Scotland Lodge performed in full regalia, providing a colorful and memorable evening. Visitors included R.W. Bro. Anfield, Past District Grand Master of Zambia, and W. Bro. Shavak Madon of Trafalgar Lodge No. 712.

January 20, 1975: Bro. Roy Henderson was installed as Master, since Bro. Norm Buist had requested to remain S.W. for health reasons. W. Bro. Jim Lorrie of Union Lodge acted as installing master.

February 24, 1975: W. Bro. Henderson welcomed the newly formed “Ulster Canadian Square Club,” led by W. Bro. Rankin Boyd. Mr. Rod Beattie and Mr. Alex Cree were initiated.

September 15, 1975: celebrating the lodge’s 10th anniversary, V.W. Bro. Sandy Griffin, with his original officers, passed Bro. A. Harkness to the Second Degree. W. Bro. Jack Pentney gave a talk on the lodge’s founding and progress.

October 20, 1975: the W.M. thanked Bro. George Thomson and his committee for organizing the 10th anniversary celebration. The W.M. announced plans to hold a Ladies’ Night annually and welcomed Trafalgar Lodge on their fraternal visit.

June 21, 1976: a Family Night was held. Ladies were entertained in the banquet room during the meeting, then welcomed into the lodge room. W. Bro. Jack Pentney gave a talk on the duties of officers, and W. Bro. Norm Buist delivered the final charge in the First Degree. Refreshments and entertainment followed.

December 20, 1976: Bro. Jim Lomax, known as Hamilton’s Santa Claus, submitted a letter outlining future charitable plans and requested assistance.

March 21, 1977: Bro. David Turner returned from a serious heart attack and was invested as J.W. The Hamilton Firefighter’s Degree Team, led by W. Bro. Cassidy and including Bro. Len Saltmarsh, Fire Chief, initiated Mr. Glen Guy Peace.

May 16, 1977: W. Bro. Marty Birhelmer led a degree team of junior officers and young members in an excellent First Degree.

March 20, 1978: the lodge passed a motion to move elections and installations ahead by two months to avoid winter weather like that of January 1978.

September 18, 1978: it was reported that by-law changes were approved by Grand Lodge, and Project H.E.L.P. was underway. Bro. Jim White, on behalf of the W.M. of Avoniel Lodge No. 774, Belfast, Northern Ireland, presented a new setting maul.

December 18, 1978: W. Bro. Harold Prowse installed Bro. David Turner as Master — the lodge’s only December installation.

April 16, 1979: W. Bro. Turner congratulated Bro. Bill Wright, the lodge’s chairman for G.L. Project H.E.L.P.

September 17, 1979: Trafalgar Lodge No. 712 paid its annual visit. R.W. Bro. Herb Schroeder, P.M. of Trafalgar and current D.D.G.M. for District “A,” was in attendance.

November 19, 1979: W. Bro. Marty Birhelmer installed Bro. Bill Maynard as the W.M. This was the first time our installation was held in November. Another first, which proved very popular, was the early supper at 6:30 p.m.

February 18, 1980: On this, the official visit of our D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. Victor Lepp, it was an extra pleasure for W. Bro. Maynard to welcome W. Bro. Marv Waterman and 18 of his brethren from Irondiquoit Lodge No. 301. This proved to be the first step toward establishing annual fraternal visits between Irondiquoit and Battlefield.

September 15, 1980: This was the annual step-up night for the officers, and Bro. David Patterson led the work of the evening. It was then his pleasure to welcome R.W. Bro. Roy S. Henderson, the new D.D.G.M. for Hamilton District “B” and Battlefield Lodge’s first D.D.G.M.

November 17, 1980: Bro. David Patterson was installed as W.M. by W. Bro. Norm Boles and P.M.s of Battlefield and other lodges in the three districts, with an impressive 169 brethren present. W. Bro. George Thomson reported on a very enjoyable visit to Irondiquoit Lodge No. 301, Dunkirk, N.Y., which included the presentation of a Canadian flag. Thanks were extended by the lodge to W. Bro. Thomson for his efforts in arranging this first annual fraternal visit. A very enjoyable time was held downstairs in our banquet hall, as for the first time it was permissible to serve alcoholic refreshments on special occasions.

February 16, 1981: Battlefield Lodge took great pleasure and pride in welcoming the D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. Roy S. Henderson, into his mother lodge on his official visit.

April 27, 1981: W. Bro. Patterson and his officers arranged a special family night with 125 in attendance. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the 18th-century degree portrayed by a group of Masons from the Guelph area in period costume.

June 13, 1981: The first official fraternal visit of Irondiquoit Lodge No. 301, Dunkirk, N.Y., was headed by W. Bro. Fred Hudson. Among the visitors were R.W. Bro. Paul Cave, I.P.D.D.G.M., and R.W. Bro. Raymond Ogden, I.P.G. Sect. of the G.L. of N.Y. After the degree work, there was a presentation of the American flag to Battlefield Lodge, and W. Bro. Maynard presented a maple leaf to adorn the Canadian flag previously given to Irondiquoit Lodge. Bro. Robert McCutcheon, Chaplain of Battlefield Lodge, led a very sincere and moving dedication of the American flag into service in Battlefield Lodge. Thanks to the efforts of W. Bro. George Thomson and his wife Barbara, everyone enjoyed a great social evening with entertainment provided by the “world famous Clawhammers.”

September 21, 1981: W. Bro. Patterson, on behalf of the lodge, presented V.W. Bro. Harold Prowse with the regalia of a Grand Steward—his appointment for having served as District Secretary to R.W. Bro. Roy S. Henderson.

November 16, 1981: S.W. Bro. Alex Cree informed the lodge that a benefit dance to aid the Roy family would be held in Dofasco Hall on January 30, 1982. W. Bro. George Thomson assumed the chair and proceeded with the installation of Bro. Alex Cree as W.M., and the investiture of the officers for 1982. W. Bro. Bill Kane presented a family Masonic Bible to W. Bro. Cree on behalf of his aunt and uncle, Bro. and Mrs. Robert McCutcheon.

December 7, 1981: W. Bro. Alex Cree expressed his great pleasure that his first meeting as W.M. should be such a historic occasion for Battlefield Lodge. M.W. Bro. Eric W. Nancekivell, P.G.M., R.W. Bro. Clark Brooks, D.D.G.M., and many past and present G.L. officers were in attendance for the presentation of the William Mercer Wilson Medal to our own Bro. Everett Graham. R.W. Bro. Norman E. Bryne gave a talk on the W.M.W. Medal and how it was awarded, which was very fitting as Norm’s dad had also been a recipient of the honour.

February 18, 1982: R.W. Bro. Clark Brooks made his official visit to Battlefield and was very complimentary on our Lisa Roy project. This project was so successful that after paying approximately $4,000 in medical bills for Lisa, the remaining $4,000 was used to start the “Battlefield Lodge Special Benevolent Fund” for future benevolent work in our community.

April 19, 1982: W. Bro. Ted Mills assumed the Chair of King Solomon for the initiation of his son Rod.

May 17, 1982: W. Bro. Charlie Crawford assumed the chair for the raising of his son Carl to the third degree.

14th June 1982
W. Bro. Cree led a delegation of Battlefield brethren on our first bi-annual visit to Irondiquoit Lodge No. 301, Dunkirk, N.Y. A very enjoyable weekend was highlighted by the presentation of a traveling gavel and base by W. Bros. George Thomson and Marv Waterman, to whom all credit is due for this fraternal relationship.

July 1982
Battlefield Lodge was recognized in the Grand Lodge proceedings when R.W. Bro. Rod Conner used our Lisa Roy project as an example of Masonry in action.

9th November 1982
A card and flowers were sent to Lisa and Lee Ann Roy to mark the one-year milestone of Lisa’s bone marrow transplant, which still appears to have cured her of leukemia.

28th March 1983
The regular meeting on the 21st was cancelled due to inclement weather. Bro. Rod Mills was the candidate this evening to be raised to the Third Degree. W. Bro. Hugh Mills from Wellington Lodge No. 64, brother of W. Bro. Ted Mills and uncle of the candidate, was warmly received. W. Bro. Ted Mills assumed the gavel and proceeded to conduct the degree, at the conclusion of which he presented his son with a Masonic ring.

11th June 1983
W. Bro. Rai Mellikow welcomed our American brethren from Irondiquoit Lodge No. 301 on their bi-annual visit to Battlefield. W. Bro. Marv Waterman was then elected to be the “dummy” candidate for the exemplification of the First Degree. This was enjoyed by all, and many remarks were passed regarding W. Bro. Waterman’s talent as a dummy candidate. Bro. Ev Graham then presented W. Bro. Waterman with his own copy of the V.O.T.S.L.

20th June 1983
It was reported with deep regret that R.W. Bro. E. Heal had passed to the Grand Lodge Above. W. Bro. Colin Williams led a delegation of his officers and brethren from Doric Lodge No. 382 on a social visit, as they meet on the same night as Battlefield. R.W. Bro. Rod Conner, member of the Board of General Purposes, accepted an invitation as guest speaker and provided a most informative and enjoyable question and answer period.

19th September 1983
W. Bro. John McFeeters was invited by W. Bro. Mellikow to assume the chair for the work of the evening. Although he was a charter member of Battlefield Lodge as a M.M., W. Bro. McFeeters had never before occupied the chair in Battlefield Lodge.

21st November 1983
W. Bro. Sam White, P.M. of Avoniel Lodge No. 774, Belfast, N.I., was warmly received into Lodge, having traveled over for the installation of his son, Bro. S.J. White. Before closing, W. Bro. S.J. White received congratulatory telegrams from his mother lodge and from R.W. Bro. Wilson of the Grand Lodge of Ireland.

8th September 1984
Battlefield’s 2nd Annual Golf Tournament was held at Southbrook G. & C. Club in good weather. Thirty-eight golfers took part and were joined in the evening by their wives and guests for a very enjoyable social evening. W. Bro. Conrad Wray from Evans Lodge No. 304, Angola, N.Y., traveled a long way to provide a target for a drive by W. Bro. Alex Cree. Congratulations were extended to Bro. Jim McDowell and his committee for an excellent day.

22nd October 1984
The annual P.M.’s meeting was held in the Stoney Creek Temple. At this meeting, future plans, ways to improve attendance, and the operation of our Special Benevolent Fund were discussed. Our Master-Elect, Bro. Bill Wright, was examined by W. Bro. A. Cree, W. Bro. S.J. White, and V.W. Bro. H. Prowse.

19th November 1984
W. Bro. Bill Stanfield, a P.M. of Ionic Lodge No. 549 and a frequent visitor to Battlefield, was introduced into Lodge by Bro. Billy Wright, Master-Elect, to run the installation. W. Bro. Wright thanked all who attended, with special mention to W. Bro. Sam White, who had again made the trip from Belfast, Northern Ireland.

21st January 1985
W. Bro. Wright regretfully reported the passing to the Grand Lodge Above of our Chaplain, Bro. Bob McCutcheon, that morning. Grand Lodge had also instructed that the Lodge charter be draped during the month of February in honour of M.W. Bro. Ewar G. Dixon, who passed away on 22nd December 1984.

18th March 1985
W. Bro. Wright, on behalf of W. Bro. Alex Cree, presented to Bro. Ev Graham a Chaplain’s pin to be passed on to succeeding Chaplains of Battlefield Lodge. W. Bro. Cree had first presented this pin to his uncle, Bro. Bob McCutcheon, on the night of W. Bro. Cree’s installation, and it had been worn by Bro. McCutcheon until his recent passing to the G.L.A. Bro. Andrew Dalrymple presented the Lodge with a beautiful handmade wooden square and was appropriately thanked.

27th May 1985
After Lodge was closed, W. Bro. Wright welcomed into the Lodge members of the well-known group “The Clawhammers.” Included in this fine group of Masons were W. Bros. Bill Wright and Jim White, Bro. D. McNiece of Battlefield Lodge, W. Bro. Bill Standfield of Ionic Lodge, and Bros. Bobby Cameron and John Hall of Westmount Lodge. Also in the group were Ian Wright, Ian White, and Kevin Jarret. The Clawhammers then presented to the Lodge a beautiful Director of Ceremonies wand in memory of Bro. Bob McCutcheon, our Chaplain and the manager of The Clawhammers since their inception in 1981. This was received on behalf of the Lodge by W. Bro. Bill Wright and Bro. McCutcheon’s nephew, W. Bro. Alex Cree, who made fitting remarks in tribute to a fine man and Mason.

17th June 1985
J.W. Bro. John McCutcheon reported that our brethren from Irondiquoit/Dunkirk Lodge and their ladies thoroughly enjoyed their visit with us on 7th June. The Ulster Canadian Square Club joined us again to raise Bros. Hugh and Billy Mills to the Third Degree. A beautiful handmade Square and Compasses for Lodge display was then presented to the Lodge by Silver Creek Lodge, U.S.A.

21st November 1985
Master-elect, Bro. Jim McArthur, introduced the Installing Board led by W. Bro. Dave Paterson. Bro. Jim McArthur was duly installed in the Chair of King Solomon by W. Bro. Bernie Walters.

16th December 1985
W. Bro. Alex Cree read a letter from McMaster University Medical Centre thanking the Lodge for their generous donation to the Children’s Cancer and Leukemia Research. This was a project by our Special Benevolent Fund to purchase past medical research papers, and we were assisted by the Ulster Canadian Square Club and the Board of Relief in raising the $1,200. W. Bro. McArthur then had the great personal pleasure of initiating and obligating his two sons into Freemasonry as members of Battlefield Lodge.

20th January 1986
J.W. Bro. Syd Wright reported that plans for the Spring Fling, Golf and Dance, and Ladies’ Night were well in hand. W. Bro. Alex Cree reported on a dinner meeting sponsored by the B.L.S.B.F. on 5th April 1986. Guest speakers were Dr. Ronnie Barr and Mrs. Michelle Stockwell, R.N.

17th February 1986
Notice of motion by W. Bro. Charlie Crawford to bestow honorary membership on W. Bro. Jack Pentney and Bro. Ev Graham for their dedicated service to Battlefield Lodge.

15th September 1986
A thank-you card was received from Mrs. Grace Mellikow for the Isofocus-Electro-Thoresis machine donated to the McMaster University Children’s Cancer Clinic in memory of Raimond Mellikow. Bro. J.W. reported on the success of our annual golf tournament. A degree team from St. John Chapter, R.A.M., was welcomed into Lodge to do the work of the evening.

25th May 1987
Bro. S.W. regretfully reported the passing of Bro. Jim Lomax’s son, Ryan, after a lengthy battle with leukemia. Acting D. of C., Bro. Ev Graham, introduced R.W. Bro. Roy Henderson, leading a team of P.M.s of Battlefield Lodge to do the work of the evening. W. Bro. Ray Mellikow thanked the Battlefield Lodge Special Benevolent Fund for the donation of the Isofocus-Electro-Thoresis machine to McMaster in memory of his son Raimond.

15th June 1987
A letter was received from R.W. Bro. Carter Smith of Irondiquoit Lodge, thanking the Lodge for the honour of being made a Life Member. W. Bro. Jim White then introduced W. Bro. Bill Brimer, the W.M. of Ionic Lodge No. 549, and a delegation of his brethren in what is hoped to be the start of annual fraternal visits.

19th October 1988
Bro. David Lyell, J.W., reported that both the Golf Tournament and the Ladies’ Night had been very successful and thanked the brethren for their support. W. Bro. Cree gave a very informative lecture on the past 600 years in Masonry.

21st November 1988
Acting D. of C., Bro. Rod Mills, introduced a delegation of visitors headed by R.W. Bro. Harry Marquardt, P.D.D.G.M. of Dunkirk, N.Y. Bro. Rod Mills then introduced the Installing Board headed by W. Bro. Ray Mellikow. A highlight of the evening was the presentation to W. Bro. Rod Mills of a 100-year-old Master’s Apron, which had belonged to his great-grandfather, by his father, W. Bro. Ted Mills.

15th May 1989
W. Bro. Cree reported that Battlefield Lodge had so far donated $700 to the “Nip Drugs in the Bud” project, which was a very poor response from the brethren. W. Bro. Jim McArthur introduced his brother, Bro. Edward McArthur, who brought fraternal greetings from his Mother Lodge, No. 39 Kilsyth, Scotland. R.W. Bro. Norman E. Bryne, member of the Board of G.L., explained how he met our candidate and came to see him initiated.

18th September 1989
A hearty vote of thanks was extended to W. Bros. Thomson, Paterson, and their committee for an excellent Golf Day and Dance. It was reported that Battlefield Lodge had once again topped the donations for the Masters and Wardens Association “Walk for Charity.” W. Bro. Alex Cree, Acting D. of C., introduced W. Bro. Pat Barrett, W.M. of Moffat Lodge No. 399, and several members—this being the Mother Lodge of our newest Grand Steward, V.W. Bro. Ted Mills. The D. of C. then introduced R.W. Bro. Norman E. Bryne, Deputy G.M., and R.W. Bro. Keith Cozier, D.D.G.M. of the G.L. of Canada in the Province of Ontario. R.W. Bro. Bryne then invested Ted with his G.L. Regalia with fitting remarks, which were answered by Ted.

16th September 1989
A request for assistance was received from the family of Miss Sharlene Nye, a young deaf/mute woman seeking to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher to the deaf and mute. This was adopted as a project by the Lodge. W. Bro. Syd Wright assumed the chair and conducted the election of the officers for 1990. As this was also Step-Up Night, Bro. David Lyell led the officers in performing a Third Degree on Bro. Terry Thomas.

20th November 1989
A thank-you card was received from Mrs. Nye for the assistance given by the Lodge to her daughter, Sharlene. Acting D. of C., Bro. David Lyell, introduced his Installing Board led by W. Bro. Alex Cree. W. Bro. Bill Kane, on behalf of W. Bro. Cree, made an inspiring address while presenting a Masonic Family Bible to W. Bro. David Lyell, followed by W. Bro. Cree presenting gifts from the W.M.’s wife and family.

18th December 1989
W. Bro. Alex Cree reported that not only was Lisa Roy now considered cured from leukemia, but she was recently married. W. Bro. George Thomson noted that it was 25 years since Westmount Lodge sponsored Battlefield Lodge. W. Bro. Paul Reeve then presented the W.M. with the Masters and Wardens Association’s plaque, awarded each year to the leading Lodge in the fundraising Walk-a-thon—for the second consecutive year.

28th May 1990
Bro. Ev Graham reported on the good progress of Miss Sharlene Nye and displayed some photographs. R.W. Bro. Roy Henderson gave a report on the recent visit of the Ulster Canadian Square Club to Northern Ireland. V.W. Bro. Bernie Walters gave a very interesting slide show presentation on the Grand Lodge of England in the banquet room.

17th September 1990
The W.M. spoke about the poor support for the Lodge Golf Tournament and the upcoming 25th Anniversary Night, urging the brethren to become more involved. W. Bro. George Thomson discussed plans for the anniversary celebration. The W.M. then presented 25-Year Anniversary Pins to the four charter members present: R.W. Bro. Ralph Hurst, V.W. Bro. Harold Prowse, W. Bro. Marty Birhelmer, and Bro. Ev Graham. R.W. Bro. Hurst and V.W. Bro. Prowse spoke about the formation of Battlefield Lodge from the Stelco “M” Club.

19th November 1990
A letter was received from Westmount Lodge No. 671, thanking Battlefield Lodge for its support in forming the new daylight lodge, Centennial Daylight Lodge No. 679 A.F. & A.M. R.W. Bro. Herb Schroeder presented W. Bro. Lyell with a book on the history of Gnoll Lodge No. 5057 in Neath, Wales, U.K. W. Bro. Thomson then introduced V.W. Bro. Prowse and his Installing Board. R.W. Bro. Joe Whitfield thanked the Lodge for the very enjoyable evening he and his wife experienced at our 25th Anniversary Dance. W. Bro. Cree presented W. Bro. Lyell with his P.M.’s jewel and a bound copy of his year’s summonses, continuing a tradition initiated by W. Bro. David Turner.

18th March 1991
Acting D. of C. W. Bro. Cree introduced W. Bro. Minoo Koorshed and the brethren of Trafalgar Lodge No. 712 for their annual fraternal visit. As per tradition, the Trafalgar brethren initiated our candidate, Mr. Robert Woodard, into Masonry.

27th May 1991
Acting D. of C. W. Bro. Cree introduced W. Bro. Brian Carruthers, who led the degree team from the Ulster Canadian Square Club. The team included Bro. Rod Beattie, Club President and father of our candidate. The W.M. then introduced V.W. Bro. Leslie Levitt, our guest speaker, along with Bro. Harry Fletcher from Lodge No. 591 I.C. in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

21st October 1991
W. Bro. David Lyell conducted the election of officers for 1992. W. Bro. David Turner then assumed the chair to initiate his son, Mr. Bill Turner, into Masonry.

20th April 1992
W. Bro. Cree read thank-you cards from the mother of Sharlene Nye and from the mother of three blind boys who had received Braille watches from the B.L.S.B.F. D. of C. W. Bro. David Lyell introduced W. Bro. George King and his officers from Trafalgar Lodge No. 712 on their annual visit. The Trafalgar brethren then passed Bro. Bob McKeag to the Second Degree in excellent form and were warmly congratulated by the brethren of Battlefield Lodge.

15th June 1992
It was reported that W. Bro. Bill Maynard had passed to the Grand Lodge Above. Many members of Battlefield Lodge attended the Masonic service in his memory. D. of C. W. Bro. David Lyell introduced W. Bro. Billy Wright, who led the degree team from the Ulster Canadian Square Club to initiate his son-in-law, Mr. Stewart Alexander.

16th November 1992
Bro. Hugh Mills, M.E., introduced W. Bro. David Lyell and his Installing Board, which included Bro. Ev Graham, holder of the William Mercer Wilson Medal, who served as Tyler for the Board. Bro. Bill “Buffer” Mills proudly presented his son with his Master’s apron and case—only to jokingly reclaim them until the formal investiture. W. Bro. Lyell then conducted the installation and investiture of the officers for 1993. W. Bro. Cree presented W. Bro. Walter Mills, Hugh’s brother, with his Past Master’s Jewel. W. Bro. Mills thanked all present and acknowledged our American brethren from Irondiquoit/Dunkirk Lodge, expressing appreciation for their journey to attend. R.W. Bro. Roy Henderson then expressed Battlefield Lodge’s deep gratitude to V.W. Bro. Harold Prowse for his 28 years of dedicated service as Treasurer, and extended best wishes to him and Isobel for a happy and healthy retirement up north.

21st December 1992
It was moved and seconded by W. Bros. Cree and Paterson that V.W. Bro. Harold Prowse be bestowed with Life Membership in Battlefield Lodge for his 28 years of outstanding service. Bro. William Turner was raised to the Third Degree and congratulated by R.W. Bro. Brian Schweitzer, D.D.G.M. W. Bro. Billy Stanfield informed the brethren that on 19th January 1993, W. Bro. Alex Cree would be installed as the First Principal of Hamilton Chapter R.A.M. No. 175 G.R.C.

15th March 1993
D. of C. W. Bro. George Thomson introduced the Ulster Canadian Square Club degree team, led by W. Bro. Tommy Kinnear and Bro. Rod Beattie, the Club President. W. Bro. Kinnear assumed the chair and initiated Mr. Robert G. McKeag into Masonry. R.W. Bro. Roy Henderson then presented V.W. Bro. Harold Prowse with his Life Membership Certificate, offering praise for his 28 years as Treasurer. V.W. Bro. Prowse expressed heartfelt thanks and pride at being made an Honorary Life Member.

15 November 1993
Acting D. of C., Bro. Rod Mills, introduced his father, V. W. Bro. Ted Mills, and his installing board. V. W. Bro. Mills then had the pleasure of installing his son and investing the officers for 1994. Rod’s uncle, W. Bro. Hugh Mills, presented the W.M. with a watch fob that had belonged to his great-grandfather.

21 March 1994
Moved and seconded by W. Bros. James McArthur and David Paterson that the regular meeting night be changed from the 3rd to the 4th Monday, with the exception of December, effective September 1994. Acting D. of C., W. Bro. Ray Mellikow, introduced W. Bro. Keith Gregg and the brethren of Trafalgar Lodge No. 712 on their fraternal visit. The Trafalgar brethren assumed the chairs and initiated Mr. Lawrence Smith. This marked the 20th year of these fraternal visits. R. W. Bro. Herb Schroeder, on behalf of Trafalgar Lodge, presented a beautiful inlaid wooden mosaic pavement. W. Bro. Mills thanked the brethren of Trafalgar and R. W. Bros. Schroeder and Wright.

26 September 1994 — Step-Up Night
R. W. Bro. Ralph Hurst acted as W.M. Acting D. of C., R. W. Bro. Roy Henderson, introduced W. Bro. John McGrath and the Dofasco Degree Team, who conducted the evening’s work. R. W. Bro. Henderson then presented, for the first time, R. W. Bro. James McArthur as D.D.G.M. for Hamilton Masonic District “B” for 1994–1995. The Dofasco team raised Bro. Bob Carlin to the sublime degree of a Master Mason, receiving a hearty round of applause for their excellent work.

28 November 1994 — 101 Present
Bro. D. of C. introduced V. W. Bro. Harold Prowse, heading the installing board, and then presented R. W. Bro. James McArthur, D.D.G.M., and other Grand Lodge officers. R. W. Bro. Ralph Hurst was installed as W.M. of Battlefield Lodge No. 714, of which he was a Charter Member in 1964. V. W. Bro. Ted Mills presented his son Rod with a bar for his P.M.’s jewel and copies of his year’s summonses, compliments of W. Bro. David Turner.

25 September 1995 — 28 Present, Step-Up Night
Bro. Bob Woodard, S.W., conducted the evening’s work. W. Bro. Cree reported that Miss Sharlene Nye was pursuing her Master’s degree and continued to receive support from the S.B.F. He also reported that the Board of Relief was again selling the Entertainment Book as a fundraiser. Acting D. of C., W. Bro. Rod Mills, presented R. W. Bro. Paul Reeve, D.D.G.M., on an unofficial visit, accompanied by V. W. Bro. David Paterson, Grand Steward. R. W. Bro. James McArthur presented V. W. Bro. Paterson with his Grand Lodge regalia and thanked him for his service as District Secretary. V. W. Bro. Bill Cowell presented V. W. Bro. Paterson with a G.S.’s lapel pin and token gifts to him and R. W. Bro. McArthur.

25 March 1996
W. Bro. Cree read a letter of thanks from the “Kids Help Phone Hotline” fundraising committee. He also announced tickets were available for Ionic Lodge’s appreciation night for W. Bro. Billy Stanfield. W. Bro. Bob Showkenik gave an enlightening talk on the duties of the Deacons.

22 April 1996
V. W. Bro. Paterson reported on his visit with W. Bro. Jack Pentney, 87 years old, who expressed thanks for his 25-Year P.M.’s pin and sent greetings and congratulations to W. Bro. Marty Birhelmer on his similar achievement. Dave presented a $500 cheque to the Lodge from W. Bro. Pentney. Mr. Andy McIntosh was initiated and congratulated by the W.M. and the D.D.G.M., who was on a fraternal visit. W. Bro. Alex Cree gave an eloquent presentation of the Masonic achievements of W. Bro. Marty Birhelmer and presented him with his 25-Year A. P.M.’s pin. Brethren from St. John’s No. 40 joined in congratulating a very deserving Mason.

27 May 1996
W. Bro. Cree reported that young leukemia victim Angie Edwards was again in remission and celebrated her 13th birthday at home—her first in years out of hospital. Acting D. of C., R. W. Bro. Roy Henderson, introduced W. Bro. Pat Selnes and brethren from Trafalgar Lodge No. 712 on their annual visit. With no degree work scheduled, R. W. Bro. Ralph Hurst delivered a very interesting and humorous talk on Masonry in New York State and Ontario during the War of 1812.

23 September 1996
Work conducted by Bro. Bob McKeag, S.W., with other officers advancing one chair. W. Bro. Cree reported that Sharlene Nye had completed her Master’s degree. The support fund was closed and the balance donated to the Board of Relief. Acting D. of C., R. W. Bro. Roy Henderson, introduced a delegation of 12 brethren from Dunkirk/Irondiquoit Lodge No. 301, New York State, led by W. Bro. Mark O’Dell. The traveling gavel, which had remained with Battlefield Lodge for 6–7 years, was presented to W. Bro. O’Dell with hopes of future exchanges.

25 November 1996
Acting D. of C., W. Bro. Bob McKeag, introduced R. W. Bro. Roy Henderson heading an impressive installing board of area P.M.’s. He then presented R. W. Bro. Don Wilson, accompanied by other Grand Lodge officers. Bro. Bob McKeag received his Master’s apron from his father, Bro. R. G. McKeag, prior to the installation and investiture of the officers for the ensuing year. R. W. Bro. James McArthur presented W. Bro. Bob Woodard with his P.M.’s jewel, which had belonged to W. Bro. Norm Buist.

7 November 1997
The passing of our highly esteemed brother, Everett Graham, holder of the William Mercer Wilson Medal, was received with great sadness. Acting D. of C., Bro. Stewart Alexander, Master-elect, introduced W. Bro. Billy Wright, his Installing Master, and the installing board. He presented R. W. Bro. Bev Alexander, D.D.G.M. of Hamilton District “B”, accompanied by Grand Lodge officers. W. Bro. Wright conducted the installation of officers for 1998. R. W. Bro. Roy Henderson presented W. Bro. William R. McKeag with his Past Master’s jewel, certificate, and a bound copy of his year’s summonses, courtesy of W. Bro. David Turner.

25 February 1998
75 Brethren Present — D.D.G.M.’s Official Visit
W. Bro. Alex Cree reported on the Kid’s Hotline Bowl-a-Thon, which raised a total of $23,000—of which $2,647 came from the brethren of Battlefield, Ionic, and Wardrope Lodges. A letter of thanks was read from the Roscovitch family. W. Bro. Cree also reported on the B.L.S.B.F. and the Board of Relief Annual BBQ.
W. Bro. Rod Mills, D. of C., introduced W. Bro. Ian Pirie and a delegation of officers and brethren from Composite Lodge No. 667, serving as the accompanying lodge.
The D. of C. then presented R. W. Bro. Bev Alexander, D.D.G.M. of Hamilton District ‘A’, on his official visit, accompanied by Grand Lodge officers.
Bro. James Matchett was presented with a Silver Jubilee pin in recognition of 50 years as a Mason, the presentation made by his friend and brother, Jack Crane.
The Lodge was called off to permit Mrs. Margueritte Graham and Mrs. Karen Minaji, widow and daughter of Bro. Everett Graham, to present a plaque bearing his W.M.W. medal in his memory.

27 April 1998
W. Bro. Rod Mills, D. of C., introduced W. Bro. Wayne Smith, I.P.M., and a large delegation from Trafalgar Lodge No. 712 on their 25th annual visit to Battlefield Lodge. W. Bro. Smith and his brethren performed the work of the evening: the initiation of Mr. Steven Dall, with the obligation delivered by W. Bro. Stewart Alexander.
V. W. Bro. Billy Stanfield announced that W. Bro. Alex Cree had been appointed Grand Steward of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Canada in the Province of Ontario.

22 February 1999
69 Brethren Present — D.D.G.M.’s Official Visit
W. Bro. Alex Cree reported that the Kid’s Help Hotline Bowl-a-Thon had raised over $24,000, with $4,648 coming from Battlefield, Ionic, Wardrope, and St. Andrew’s Lodges.
W. Bro. Bob McKeag was reported to be undergoing a second hip replacement, and R. W. Bro. Ralph Hurst was in poor health.
W. Bro. Alf Arsenault, W.M. of Union Lodge No. 7 (the accompanying lodge), was introduced along with a delegation of his officers and brethren.
R. W. Bro. Ed Standish, D.D.G.M. of District “B,” was presented on his official visit, accompanied by R. W. Bro. Ed Ramsbottom, D.D.G.M. of District “A.”
Bros. Steven Dall and Alan Campbell proved themselves in the Third Degree and were congratulated by the W.M. and D.D.G.M., then presented with their Masonic Bibles by the Lodge Chaplain, W. Bro. Dave Lyell.
Bro. Bill Kirk received his 25-year Mason’s pin.
W. Bro. Bob Showkenik gave a presentation on Masonry, the Knights Templar, and Rosslyn Castle in Scotland.

22 November 1999 — Installation Night
Acting D. of C., Bro. Bob McKeag Sr., introduced his son and installing master, W. Bro. Bob McKeag Jr., and his installing board.
The Lodge was called off to permit the Master-elect’s wife, daughter, and two grandchildren to present him with his own gavel.
W. Bro. McKeag then proceeded with the ceremony of installation and investiture of the W.M. and officers for the year 2000.
V. W. Bro. David Paterson presented W. Bro. Bill Imrie with his Past Master’s jewel and certificate.
W. Bro. Alex Cree thanked the brethren for their generous donation to the trust fund set up for his grandchildren following the tragic murder of their mother by their father.

27 March 2000
The S.W. reported the passing of Bro. Maurice Kipp.
W. Bro. Rod Mills, D. of C., introduced W. Bro. Phil Skivington, W.M. of Trafalgar Lodge No. 712, leading a large delegation on their annual fraternal visit to Battlefield Lodge.
The visiting brethren conducted the initiation of Mr. Stewart Cameron, with the obligation given by W. Bro. Bob McKeag.
The candidate’s grandfather, Bro. John Cameron, was invited to offer congratulations to his grandson and new Brother.
W. Bro. McKeag thanked Trafalgar Lodge for their donation to the trust fund on behalf of W. Bro. Alex Cree, who was absent due to commitments with his grandsons.

26 February 2001
R. W. Bro. Roy Henderson was presented with his 25-Year Past Master’s pin and warmly applauded by all brethren present.

28 May 2001
R. W. Bro. Bob Kerr was welcomed again on an unofficial visit.
W. Bro. Ray Croft was also welcomed, and the Lodge was informed that he had been approved for appointment as Grand Standard Bearer of the Grand Lodge of England, with investiture scheduled for September. Sincere congratulations were extended.
Although there was no degree work, W. Bro. Stewart Alexander assumed the Chair and conducted an open forum to discuss and solicit suggestions on how to improve the Lodge’s serious issues of poor attendance and apparent lack of interest.