Sussex Masonic Lodge and Hall

Values

· The place is a fine and intact example of a building in the Inter-War Free Classical style, and is a good example of Masonic architecture
· The place has been in continuous use as the meeting place for the Masons since its construction.
· The place is a landmark in the Queen Street townscape

Physical Description

The Sussex Masonic Lodge is a brick, stone, stucco and iron roofed lodge and associated lodge hall in the Inter-War Free Classical style, located to the front of a starkly open site. The lodge has a hipped iron roof and a tall gable as its central feature. The entrance and the hall are recessed, and the entrance has a pedimented porch carried on pairs of classically derived columns. The masons compass and divider symbol is set above the porch in bas-relief. The footing of the Lodge is in stone and the walls are of stretcher bond brickwork. The eastern elevation has a large rose window with a Star of St David set in its centre, which is made of stucco. There is a canopy over the window, which is bracketed off the wall with consoles. A foundation stone is set below this window.

History

Freemasonry evolved from the early trade guilds of construction workers, in particular those engaged in the construction of places of worship such as cathedrals, churches, temples and monasteries. Often itinerant, such workers were not bound to any one place, and were termed ‘free masons’. The term ‘lodge’ evolves from a masons” tool shed or workshop that was erected on the site of major projects. Lodges were also places where workers would eat and relax, and where disputes could be resolved. Freemasonry developed across Europe from as early as the 14th century, although the original secrets of Freemasonry were most likely trade secrets, an array of ritual and ornament was gradually introduced. Freemasonry in Western Australia dates from the 1840s. On 1 September 1841, a group of prominent Western Australian Freemasons, including Governor John Hutt and Colonial Secretary Peter Brown, sought a charter from the Grand Lodge of England granting them the right to establish a Lodge in Western Australia, based in Perth.

Condition

The place appears to be in good condition.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.