 A committed Freemason , Joseph Terry 's successful local political career stemmed from a philanthropic and active approach to the issues of the citizens of Victorian York , often using his influential status for the benefit of the city 's populace . On 23 June 1887 , just two days after receiving his knighthood in that years Golden Jubilee Honours , Terry led a deputation to present an album of all documented issues encountered by York residents to Buckingham Palace for Queen Victoria 's inspection . In response , " The Queen turned over a few of the leaves to look at the contents , and bowed her acceptance with stately courtesy and affection " . Further philanthropic activity continued into 1893 , when Terry presided over a Japanese bazaar behind the York Art Gallery ( of which he was chair ) where according to The York Herald , he spoke : " It is right to think of our poorer neighbors . If the bazaar is successful , then 1 @,@ 000 waifs and strays would be entertained on Christmas day in the Corn Exchange . " 
