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Scotia Lodge #11
Scotia Lodge #11 Westville was instituted March 9, 1871, by Grand Master James Mitchell. Charter members were Thomas Johnson, Sr., Thomas Johnson, Jr. (first Noble Grand), Kenneth J. MacKenzie (first Vice-Grand), John McElvie and John Duff. Eight others joined by card and four by initiation.
In May 1873, a mine explosion claimed six members, and on January 25, 1920, fire consumed the IOOF Hall, also destroying books before November 19, 1897. (The United Church parking lot is now on that site.), Then on January 17, 1924, a dedication ceremonies were held for a new structure, whose cornerstone had been laid in November 1923.
On January 19, 1899, Scotia Lodge met in a regular session when an address was given by one of the first members of the Scotia Lodge, Brother John Dryden. At that time Scotia Lodge had the second largest membership in the jurisdiction of the Lower Provinces of British North America. Presentation of the Veterans’ Jewel, and combination Past Grand and Past Chief Patriarchs collar, which was also made.
The Canton Dryden #2 was started April 15, 1909, named after the late John Dryden, a prominent member of the Scotia Lodge. The Ladies’ Auxiliary of the Canton Dryden was started on April 2, 1949, by Lady Ruth Gage.
Both the First and Second world wars created great hardships on the Scotia Lodge, with many members volunteering their services in the armed forces of Canada.
Due to high cost of operation, Scotia Lodge #11; Cushing Encampment #10; Crystal Foundation Rebekah #11; and Canton Dryden #2.
After fire destroyed the Odd
Fellows Hall on what is now the United Church parking lot,
the Scotia Lodge No. 11 I.O.O.F. laid the cornerstone for
this building in November of 1923.