Masonic, silver cup (18.8cm high x 8.6cm wide), hallmarked for Sheffield 1878 by maker 'JEB' (Walker & Hall [John Edward Bingham]) and 'W&H' (Walker & Hall), hand engraved design, one side inscribed 'Presented By/Members Of The/A.&A.S. (Ancient & Accepted Scottish) Rite/To/Malcolm Lawford/Eldest Son Of/Ill. Brother T.S.Graham 33 (rd degree)/June 9th 1880'. Good very fine.

A celebration of the fourth anniversary of the establishment of the Supreme Council 33rd degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite for the Valley of New Zealand was held on Wednesday 9 June 1880 at the Criterion Hotel. One of those on the main table was Illustrious Brother T.S.Graham 30th degree. At one point in the evening a very interesting ceremony took place, when, at the request of the Most Illustrious G.C., Bro Caldwell, Bro J.O.Eva, P.M.W.S. 18th degree, presented to Bro Graham a massive silver cup, bearing a suitable inscription, from the Bretheren of the A. and A.S. rite, who gave it, and setting forth that it was intended for his first born son, and as a mark of the great esteem and consideration in which Bro T.S.Graham was held. In reply Bro Graham rendered a very feeling and appropriate speech.

Thomas Sherlock Graham held the position of Inspector-General for New Zealand under the Scottish Rite and was also the Right Worshipful District Grand Master of Freemasons under the English Constitution.

Malcolm Lawford Graham went on to work for the Defence Department at Oamaru and was on the N.Z. Temporary Staff of 5 Regiment Mounted Rifles. His father was born in Ireland and his mother was born in Australia. Malcolm Graham died in New Zealand in 1958.

With research.