Freemasons were amongst the first free settlers in the colony of Victoria. Many moved to Ballarat and worked as miners on the goldfields; others worked as publicans, stonemasons, lawyers, and bankers. Freemasons, including Ballarat Reform League Secretary, John Hummfray, were active in agitating for miners' rights and wider democratic reform.
By the early 1850s, various Lodges were established, including the “Victorian Lodge of Instruction”, which was formed on 25 June 1853, only months before the Eureka Stockade. The support of these early Freemasons during this time resulted in constructing some of the finest buildings in Ballarat and establishing various charities and institutions.
In recognition of this important history, the Ballarat Masonic Centre will display some of its earliest records, documents, and photographs dating from 1850s onwards. Tours of the Lodge will also be available during this time.
Saturday 16 November 2024 | 10AM – 1PM
Saturday 30 November 2024 | 10AM – 1PM
Ballarat Masonic Centre, 616 Barkly Street, Golden Point.
FREE EVENT | Bookings essential via: samantha.fabry@freemasonsvic.net.au