Lodge No. 467 GRC begins new chapter in Alliston as Tottenham property sold
Posted May 1, 2026
Tottenham Lodge No. 467 GRC, a respected Masonic institution with roots dating back to its Charter in 1904, has announced a significant transition after more than a century in the village of Tottenham.
Originally a "full moon lodge," members gathered on the first Monday following the full moon, a tradition that aided local farmers travelling by moonlight along country roads. The introduction of electricity and street lighting eventually shifted meetings to the first Monday of each month, making commutes easier for members.
The Lodge's first meeting place was situated near the corner of Mill Street and Queen, close to the present-day Royal Bank Plaza. In the early 1950s, Tottenham Lodge acquired a lot on Richmond Street West from the Thompson family. Through the collective effort of buying bonds, members raised funds to construct a new lodge building, which opened its doors in 1953 at 8 Richmond St. West.
Throughout its history, Tottenham Lodge has counted among its membership prominent figures from the Tottenham area, including former town leaders, lawyers, doctors, dentists, business owners, and philanthropists. However, maintaining the aging building became increasingly challenging.
In early 2025, the Lodge decided to place the Richmond Street West property on the market and relocate its Charter, marking the beginning of a new era with meetings held at the Alliston Masonic Building on Victoria Street in Alliston.
This move brings Tottenham Lodge together with Seven Star Lodge of Alliston and Spry Lodge, which previously met in Beeton but relocated after their landlord, RBC, sold the building.
The Alliston Masonic Building now serves as the Masonic Centre for New Tecumseth, hosting three lodges and offering financial relief through shared expenses covered by member dues.
While there is sadness and disappointment at leaving Tottenham, the Lodge’s leadership acknowledges the necessity of the move, especially after revenue from renting the basement to a dance school tenant was lost, making it impossible for membership dues alone to sustain the building.
Despite meeting in Alliston, Tottenham Lodge remains committed to its historical legacy and community involvement in Tottenham.
Among its proudest achievements is the establishment and ongoing sponsorship of the Canadian Red Cross Blood Donors clinic, held monthly at the Tottenham Recreation Centre under the guidance of John Milne and dedicated Lodge members.
Tottenham Lodge vows to continue supporting this clinic and remain active in the community, welcoming new residents interested in Freemasonry.
The Lodge is excited to see the former Richmond Street property transformed into a residential home, wishing the new owners well as they embark on their own journey.
The Master, officers, and all members of Tottenham Lodge No. 467 extend heartfelt thanks to the Tottenham community for the many memorable events and shared history, as they begin this new chapter in Alliston.
Submitted by Ken Pratt