Dorchester Lodge No. 4 • History

More Than Two Centuries of Masonic Continuity

Dorchester Lodge No. 4 is among the oldest Masonic lodges in Québec, with origins dating back to 1792 in St. John’s, Lower Canada. Its history is one of endurance, adaptation, and fidelity to the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.

About the Lodge Members

A Living Legacy in Québec Masonry

From its eighteenth-century beginnings in St. John’s to its present home on the South Shore, Dorchester Lodge No. 4 has remained a steady part of the Masonic tradition in Québec. Across changing jurisdictions, relocations, and the loss of early records, the Lodge has preserved its identity and continued its work from one generation to the next.

Historical overview

This page highlights key moments in the history of Dorchester Lodge No. 4 and its enduring place within the Masonic tradition of Québec.

If you have verified public historical information related to Dorchester Lodge No. 4, please contact the Secretary: [email protected]

Why history matters

A lodge is not measured only by its age, but by its constancy — by the generations of Brethren who preserved its light.

Dorchester’s history reflects continuity, resilience, and a long-standing commitment to the principles of Freemasonry in Québec.
Historical note: Some of the Lodge’s earliest records were lost in the great fire of St. John’s in 1876. For that reason, the historical account presented here reflects preserved records, established tradition, and recognized milestones in the life of the Lodge.

Selected Historical Milestones

The following dates offer a concise overview of Dorchester Lodge No. 4 and its continued place in Québec Masonry.

1792
Formal establishment in St. John’s Dorchester Lodge was formally established in St. John’s, Lower Canada, marking the beginning of a history that would extend across more than two centuries.
1816
Visible presence in the community Members of the Lodge took part with Masonic honours in the laying of the cornerstone of St. James Episcopal Church in St. John’s, reflecting the Lodge’s place in the civic and ceremonial life of the community.
1843–1846
Revival and reorganization After a period of dormancy, Dorchester was revived and formally reorganized, ensuring the continuation of its work into a new era.
1859
Dorchester Lodge No. 4 Through the administrative evolution of Masonry in Canada, the Lodge ultimately continued under the designation by which it is known today: Dorchester Lodge No. 4.
1876
The great fire of St. John’s A devastating fire destroyed the Masonic Hall and with it many of the Lodge’s early records, relics, and historical possessions. What was lost in archives, however, was preserved in memory, tradition, and continuity.
1892
Centennial celebration Dorchester Lodge solemnly marked its centenary, affirming its age, continuity, and standing within the wider Craft.
1915
A permanent home acquired The Lodge purchased its own building, marking an important period of stability and growth in its history.
1938
Relocation after government acquisition When the Lodge building was taken over by the government, the Brethren were required to relocate and continue their work elsewhere.
2018
Return to the South Shore Dorchester Lodge established its home at the J. C. Almela Masonic Temple in Greenfield Park, where it continues its work in the present day.
Today
Continuing the work More than two centuries after its founding, Dorchester Lodge No. 4 remains committed to fellowship, moral improvement, and the enduring principles of Freemasonry.
Historical continuity: The history of Dorchester Lodge No. 4 reflects continuity, resilience, and a long-standing commitment to the principles of Freemasonry in Québec.

Continuity and Record

The history of Dorchester Lodge No. 4 is carried not only in dates and places, but in the continuity of its work, the fidelity of its members, and the traditions preserved across generations.

Historical continuity

Across changes in jurisdiction, location, and circumstance, the Lodge has remained a living part of Québec Masonry and has continued its labour from one generation to the next.

The Lodge today

Dorchester Lodge No. 4 continues to honour its heritage while carrying forward the work of Freemasonry in a spirit of fellowship, dignity, and service.

Help Preserve the Story

If you have verified historical information or commemorative material related to Dorchester Lodge No. 4, please contact the Secretary for review and proper inclusion.

Contact the Lodge Email the Secretary