As I've written elsewhere Lodge St George was formed in 1915 with 21 Founding Members. We know who they were from our rolls and minute books.
To celebrate the new lodge, a set of Founders Jewels were struck and presented. We now know all 21 received them.
Up until a few years ago the only surviving jewel was believed to be the 'Deane Jewel' presented originally to Charles Henry Deane, the inaugural Junior Deacon. It has been traditional to present the Deane Jewel to the incoming Junior Deacon each year.
Only a few years ago a second Jewel was found - the 'Morton Jewel' presented to Charles Robert Morton the first Substitute Master (an old Scottish office). This was kindly provided on permanent loan by this family and refurbished and is now presented to the outgoing IPM.
A few weeks ago a third was found - the 'Baxter Jewel' - presented to James Alexander Cadenhead Baxter a 27 year old bone miller from Runcorn who joined with his father Henry Baxter, the manager of the bone mill.
Mike Smith from Sydney found the 'medal' in his newly purchased house in Seven Hills 20 years ago. He's been searching for an owner ever since and a few weeks ago finally found me.
Mike generously donated the jewel back to the lodge and today I've picked it up from Somers and Son in a refurbished state.
Only the medallion part of the jewel survived so I had Glen recreate the Founders bar in 9ct gold to match the medallion and the other jewels. Just goes to show the old timers didn't do things by half. Glen tells me the jewels would be worth about $1,600 each now (for insurance value).
I'm delighted to have it back and returned to its former glory. It will be worn each year by a yet to be determined member of our lodge.
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