Freemasonry in Colonial South Australia: In service to the Charges of the Order and the Empire

Freemasonry is an ancient philosophical initiatory system and fraternal Order, perpetuating moral principles and archetypical wisdom via allegorical symbolism and theatrical rituals. The colony of South Australia, proclaimed in 1836, was heavily influenced by Freemasons who bore pivotal roles in its administration.
This thesis examines the role of Freemasonry in South Australia during the colonial period between 1834 and 1901. The primary analysis will focus on the contradiction that Freemasonry was perpetuating ideals of tolerance and liberty as well as British Imperial ideals within the colony of South Australia.