Book on freemasons launched
An historical account of the Ruahine Lodge No. 80 Woodville was launched as Bush Brothers at a function held at the Woodville Racecourse on May 5.
It was written by Paula McCool with graphic design by Jackie Taylor.
Mayor Tracey Collis was present for the occasion and spoke about the Tararua District.
“The history of the Lodge is also a history of the district,” Noel Galloway, former Master Ruahine Lodge said.
“Woodville was a great service town for government departments, namely Railways, Electricity Department, Forest Service, Post and Telegraph, Borough Council, County Council, five dairy factories plus other associated industries. All of these have gone.
“Bruce Hutton was keen to get this history put down and knew Paula McCool was an accomplished author.
“We talked about it and things started to move. The book gives an insight into freemasonry,” he said.
“Writing a history like this, you get the feeling you were actually in the town in 1886,” writer Paula McCool said.
“It brings it so totally alive. Both reading and writing puts you on the spot as a participant. There were lots of adventures, many I couldn’t put in the book unfortunately. I think its a shame that many clubs and societies like the Lodge have gone. These organisations bind us together as human beings, helping build character. It’s a shame that many people now spend their time watching TV or playing on their iPads, of which I’m guilty,” she said.