Masonic hall officially closes

The official closing of the Woy Woy Masonic Hall took place on June 14.

The closure of the hall follows its purchase for more than $1 million by the Schwartz Family Company.

The day was significant in the history of the Peninsula, according to Albert Josephson Royal Arch Chapter first principal Mr Les Walker.

The temple at Railway St, Woy Woy, was the first and oldest Scottish Royal Arch Temple to be built in Australia, he said.

"The final meeting of the Albert Josephson Royal Arch Chapter No.119 at the Woy Woy Masonic Temple closed as it started at on the 10 March 1926, with a mixed gathering which included a direct descendant of Alfred Josephson, the Foundation First Principal.

"There have been many members of the lodge who played an integral part in the history of the Peninsula."

The Lodge Hall has been a prominent landmark on the Peninsula for more than 80 years being the first double story building in Woy Woy.

The building became two stories due to a requirement of the Erina Shire Council to provide a community facility in the form of a hall as part of the temple.

"The wish of the council enabled the hall to become the central meeting place of the town by hosting dances, weddings, birthdays, anniversary parties, public meetings and elections, along with hosting all Masonic degrees," Mr Walker said.

"Prior to the building of the Masonic Hall, The Brisbane Water Royal Arch Chapter No.586 as it was known then, met at the Presbyterian Church hall which was located on the site of the current Bayview Hotel.

"The Chapter began to grow, so the members looked for a new place to meet.

"The land on which the Masonic temple eventuated at Railway St, Woy Woy, was donated by Ms Elizabeth Couch, the wife of Frederick Couch, a Mason and prominent resident of the day."

Mr Walker said that, after much fund-raising, a building seemed far off.

He said it was Glenrock (Koolewong) resident Alfred Josephson who ultimately provided a loan for the building.

"The loan expired on his death in 1930," said Mr Walker.

"Lodge Albert Josephson Royal Arch Chapter no.119 will continue to meet at Point Claire as a day Chapter."

Press release, 19 Jun 2008 Les Walker, Albert Josephson Royal Arch Chapter