Royal Arch Chapter

Combermere Chapter meets at the Kelvin Club on the 2nd Tuesday in June, October and December.

About Combermere Chapter No. 752

Combermere Chapter No. 752 is proud to work under the English Constitution as part of the Supreme Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of England. As a continuation of the journey in Pure Antient Masonry, the Royal Arch is considered the completion of the Craft degrees, offering deeper insight into the spiritual and philosophical teachings of Freemasonry.

Our Chapter provides Master Masons with the opportunity to advance through the beautiful and meaningful Ceremony of Exaltation. Here, companions explore the rediscovery of lost wisdom, symbolically completing the narrative begun in Craft Masonry.

Named in honour of the 2nd Viscount Combermere and sharing its origins with our associated Lodge, Combermere Chapter continues a rich tradition dating back to the 19th century. We meet regularly to uphold the values of fellowship, learning, and reflection within the Royal Arch.

All qualified brethren are warmly invited to join us as we deepen our understanding of the Craft and strengthen the bonds of Masonic companionship.

Combermere Chapter is the only English Constitution Chapter meeting in Australia.

Combermere Chapter No. 752 – A Glimpse into Its Early Years

An early glimpse into the life of Combermere Chapter No. 752, English Constitution, appears in The Argus on Saturday, 27 August 1887. The short report covers the Chapter’s annual convocation held two nights earlier, on Thursday evening, at the Freemasons’ Hall in Collins Street, Melbourne.

The meeting was well attended, with all three Principals present and in their chairs:

  • R.J.W. Cartwright, who also led the ceremony of installation

  • Dr. Annand

  • T. Haydon

Several other officers and members were there, along with visitors from other Chapters — a reminder that Masonic fellowship extended across different groups even then.

The installation ceremony was conducted by M.E. Comp. Cartwright, who placed the new Principals in office as follows:

  • Dr. Annand as First Principal (M.E.Z.)

  • Thos. Haydon as Haggai (H.)

  • J.F. Wane as Joshua (J.)

Also noted was the re-election of Dr. Willmott, P.Z., as Scribe Ezra (S.E.), a key role in keeping the Chapter’s records in order.

While the report is brief and cuts off mid-list, it gives us a snapshot of an active and organised Chapter just a few decades after Freemasonry gained strength in Victoria. The names mentioned — including several doctors — suggest that members came from respected and professional backgrounds, reflecting the character of Freemasonry at the time.