Lodge Allan Stuart No 416

Lodge Allan Stuart 416 has been closely associated with the history of Geurie and District for 97 years, having derived its name from one of the very early members. Lodge Allan Stuart 416 is named in memory of Allan Albert Stuart who was born at “Allandale”, Geurie, on 15th March, 1882, where he spent his early years. This Property was 11kms west of Geurie. While still a young man, he purchased a property called “Mayfield”, located between Tomingley and Peak Hill. He joined Masonry at Peak Hill in 1912, becoming a member of Lodge Jersey 204, now no longer functioning. In 1915, he enlisted and served in the 54th Battalion AIF, attaining the rank of Sergeant. He was killed in action at Polygon Woods in Belgium on 26th September 1917.

In 1921, a group of Masons who resided in Geurie and District, and who were principally Members of Lodge Macquarie in Dubbo and Lodge Wellesley in Wellington, met and decided, for convenience sake (mainly due to distance involved), to form a Lodge in Geurie. This may seem a little strange today with the two towns being so close by car, but when one considers that the chief mode of transport in those days were horses, sulky and the occasional train, one can understand the desire to reduce travel times.

At the meeting, many were in favour of forming a Lodge, however, considerable discussion took place and it was decided unanimously to apply to the United Grand Lodge of NSW for a Charter for this new Lodge at Geurie and for it to be known as Lodge Allan Stuart in memory of the deceased brother of the two surviving brothers, Walter and Ernest Stuart who were signatories on the original application.

In May 1976, the original building was showing many defects and after much discussion it was decided to demolish and rebuild then enlarge the rear section as it had deteriorated the most. This building commenced in 1979, utilising the old bricks. With much voluntary labour, it was completed on time and within budget that same year in time for the 1979 Installation. After much discussion, it was decided in 1982 to rebuild the Temple again using the old materials. It remains unchanged today. A testament to the foresight of those Members now seeing what it is, a thriving Masonic Centre.

From Lodge Allan Stuart website.