Masonic Hall

Statement of Significance

• The place has historic value for its association with the development of the town and district in the 1930s. • The place has social value for the members of the Harvey Lodge and other community groups who use the hall.

Physical Description

The Masonic Hall is a combination of numerous additions. The original section is the timber framed central section with fibro cladding. Brick additions either side of the original hall have been constructed. The front section of the Hall is of brick construction to the lower section and rendered upper section. The main roof form is gabled with weatherboard gable details. An additional gable projects out over an hexagonal bay with timbered detailing. A further hexagonal bay projects from the corner of the building with similar gable detail and the foundation stone incorporated into the elevation, commemorating the dedication of the Hall in 1934. The original central section has become obscured due to a further single storey brick addition extending half way up the original elevation. The brick addition that had previously been built to the rear of the original section has since been extended and now presents as a continuous brick addition with two window openings. The roof form is a gable roof. The original small paned windows in the front section have been replaced with larger panes of glass. The roof is clad in short sheet corrugated metal sheeting.

History

The earliest record of the Harvey Lodge appears in the procedures of the Grand Lodge of WA report ending 22 January 1914. During the quarter, the Board received a petition for a new Lodge at Harvey. The land was donated by HG Palmer. On the 29 October 1914, Harvey Lodge No 96 was consecrated. The gathering was one of the largest ever seen outside the Metropolitan area and representatives from the South West attended. The Lodge met on the Wednesday after the full moon to enable members to journey home by horseback, buggy or train in moonlight. In 1919 the meeting night was changed to the Wednesday before the full moon, and this arrangement stood until 1932. The Lodge was originally illuminated by wick lamps but in November 1920 a gas light plant was purchased for £20. In June 1920 it was decided to build a supper room, at a cost not exceeding £100. A Perth architect, PW Harrison, designed a new temple and construction commenced under his supervision in January 1934. The contract for £586 was awarded to JJ Johnston, a Harvey builder. On 16 May 1934, an unveiling of a memorial tablet and consecration took place. The original Lodge room became the supper room and could accommodate a large gathering.

Integrity/Authenticity

Low/ Moderate

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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