British Templars. Lily Lodge No. 77 (New Perth, P.E.I.)

The Lily Lodge No. 77 of the British Templars, was active in New Perth, Prince Edward Island, in the 1860s and 1870s with a membership of approximately 160. The Lily Lodge appears to have been affiliated with the Worthy Grand Lodge of Prince Edward Island as some of its members served as officers in the Grand Lodge also. The Lily Lodge was open to men and women, with men serving as Chief and women as Vice. There was an element of secrecy involved in the organization as the members were expected not to divulge lodge business to outsiders. Members of the Lodge had to agree to bide by regulations regarding their personal conduct, such as the consumption of alcohol and the use of coarse language. Failure to comply might result in the payment of a fine or expulsion from the group (depending upon the seriousness of the offence). Members were also required to keep watch over the sick, a duty organized by a committee on the care of the sick. Social events were also an element of the lodge program, which included readings and debates.