The Formation of Ottawa Chapter No. 222
The meeting to consider the formation of a new Chapter of Royal Arch Masons was held in the Board Room of the Masonic Temple, 111 Metcalfe Street, on the evening of March 29, 1920.
V. Ex. Comp. McKee advised that on a recent visit to Ottawa by M. Ex. Comp. Ponton, this Illustrious Companion drew attention to the great growth in numerical strength of the Craft Lodges in Ottawa and vicinity, and suggested that the time had come for a second Chapter should be established in the Capital City. He felt that the friendly rivalry which would ensue between the two Chapters could serve to strengthen and widen the interest of Capitular Masonry.
After some discussion, it was moved and carried unanimously “... that this meeting of Royal Arch Masons approve the formation of a new Chapter of Royal Arch Masons in the City of Ottawa.”
Thereupon a petition for warrant to hold the proposed Chapter was circulated and signed by thirty Companions. This petition was duly recommended by Carleton Chapter No. 16 and a dispensation authorizing the signatories to meet as a Chapter, under the name of Ottawa Chapter, was issued by the Grand Z bearing the date the 28 July, 1920. The new Chapter was instituted at a meeting held in the Masonic Temple, Ottawa, on 14 October, 1920, with some 42 members of Carleton Chapter, and 26 members from other visiting chapters in attendance.
The ceremony of instituting the Chapter was then proceeded with, and the previously chosen officers were then placed in their respective chairs.
At the Convocation of Grand Chapter held in London, Ontario, on 23 February 1921, an application for a Warrant of Constitution was duly considered and granted. It is dated 23 February 1921, and bears the number 222. The Chapter was consecrated and dedicated on 27 October 1921 before a large attendance of members and visitors.
(The preceding was taken from Historical Sketch of Ottawa Chapter No. 222, prepared for the 75th anniversary celebrations in 1996.)
