Difference between revisions of "MassachusettsYear1860"

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==== DISTRICT REPORTS ====
 
==== DISTRICT REPORTS ====
  
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''From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XIX, No. 7, May 1860, Page 193:''
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''From Moore's Freemason's Monthly:''
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* ''Vol. XX, No. 5, March 1861, Page 144
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* ''Vol. XX, No. 6, April 1861, Page 170''
  
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Perhaps at no former period were the Lodges, and indeed, the Order generally, in this Commonwealth, in a better, or a more healthy and prosperous condition than they are at the present time. ''Harmony'', which is the great essential of success and the bond of strength, was never more distinguishable throughout the jurisdiction than now. No sound of discord is anywhere heard, and no jarring interests anywhere visible. Petty jealousies and envies, and personal likes and dislikes, and small grumblings and smaller talk, probably do and always will exist in the Lodges, as in every other form of society. This is an evil, annoying in itself, and often productive of mischief, but it is one to which no specific remedy can be applied. The minds of some persons are so constituted that they would be perfectly miserable, if deprived of the privilege of finding fault, of grumbling, of scolding, and in divers other ways making themselves and everybody else around them uncomfortable, if not positively unhappy. Such persons are to be endured as an unavoidable evil, just as we submit to and endure the thousands of other pettish annoyances of life. They will find their way into our Lodges in spite of all that can be done to the contrary, and the only relief is to be found in the hope, that time and the wholesome influences of the principles of the Institution, may work out an improvement in their favor, though it must be conceded that the realization of such a hope is loo improbable to afford much encouragement. Perhaps a more satisfactory source of consolation is the fact, that our Brethren in other jurisdiction's are no belter off in this respect than we are ! The evil is a common one — confined to no particular jurisdiction or section of country, it is not one, however, to cause any serious misgivings or apprehensions. The parties, though they may occasionally succeed in interrupting the ordinary course of business in the Lodge, are generally correctly appreciated, and have, consequently, too little weight to produce any very important results. In making up our estimate of the general condition of the Craft in any particular jurisdiction, we do not therefore take the annoyances of this class of persons into the account, for they are not of sufficient influence to affect its general prosperity, either favorably or otherwise.
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===== DISTRICT 2 =====
  
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There is another disturbing cause which frequently manifests itself in the Lodges, and the consequences of which are sometimes of a more serious nature. This is an unreasonable ambition for office, accompanied by a disposition, on he part of the aspirant, to undervalue the qualifications of others, while he is very sure to overrate his own, in equal ratio. Masonic offices are not to be sought after, like places of political distinction ; nor is the Lodge-room any place for electioneering. The Brother most ambitious for office is usually the least qualified for it, and the least entitled to wear its honors. If a member possesses the requisite talent for office, his Brethren will find it out in due time, and will always be happy to avail themselves of his services. If on the other hand he does not possess the necessary qualifications, he ought not, and cannot, be placed in office without injury to the Lodge. And whether he does or does not possess this talent, is a question not for him to decide, but it is one which must be left, and which every modest and really competent member will insist on leaving, to the judgment of his Brethren. It is one over which he cannot with delicacy or propriety attempt to exercise any control. We lay it down as a general rule—not without its exceptions, for all general rules are subject to that limitation—but as a rule that will verify its own soundness in practice, that the member who seeks office, and resorts to the artifices of the demagogue to secure it, is the least qualified to discharge its duties with credit to himself or for the interest of the Lodge. All such attempts to obtain office should be discouraged in their incipiency, and the aspiring member given to understand that his conduct will not be approved. If the seeking of office were made a disqualification for holding it, the result would be for the benefit of the Lodge.
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''Salem, Dec. 31, 1860.''  
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Still another cause of annoyance, and frequently of disaffection and dissension in the Lodges, is the ''cacoethes loquendi'', or rage for speaking, with which some of the Brethren are alarmingly affected. Forgetting or disregarding the real purposes of the meeting, such members are apparently never more happy than when they can make occasion to render their Brethren wholly miserable, by compelling them to listen for half an hour or more to a speech, the only perceptible aim of which is to glorify the speaker and afford him an opportunity to "air his vocabulary" at the expense of his Brethren. The business of the Lodge is not that of a debating club, nor is the Lodge-room an arena for stump-speaking. The Brethren go there to do the business of Masonry and improve themselves in its ritual, and whoever, from tin itching desire to show himself off in irrelevant and unnecessary talking, diverts them from this purpose, and interrupts the legitimate work of the Lodge, does violence to his solemn duties as a Mason and renders himself an unprofitable member,—one whom his Brethren regret to see enter the hall, and rejoice when he leaves it They tolerate him when present — but nothing more. He commands neither their love nor respect. Discussions are sometimes necessary in the Lodge, but they should take the character of explanations, rather than of debates, and the speakers should always be sententious, clear, and to the purpose. The strength of an argument does not consist in the use of a multiplicity of words. We have seen many a good cause lost "through much talking."
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That our Lodges are not, however, more severely tried in either of the above particulars than those of other jurisdictions, is to be inferred from their present excellent condition, though this is hardly an excuse for any delinquencies that may exist. The present is a time of great prosperity, and consequently of great accessions to our numbers, and it becomes the Lodges, and particularly the elder and better informed members, to see that liberties are not now allowed, nor precedents established, which may hereafter lead their less experienced Brethren into a course of practice inconsistent with the usages, and hazardous to the integrity and interests of the Order.
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''To the M. W. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMLewis Winslow Lewis], Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts. The Second Masonic District, as at present constituted, is composed of ten Lodges, viz:
  
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One of the greatest evils we have heretofore had to contend against in this jurisdiction—namely, want of uniformity in the work and practice in the Lodges—is directly referable to the interference and spurious teachings of mountebanks from other States, in the shape of Masonic lecturers, and vagrant pedlars of worthless Masonic books and other publications, pretending to teach the law and usages of the Institution. The former have been driven out from among us, never, it is hoped, to be again allowed to dishonor our Lodges by their presence or corrupt them by their teachings. The latter class are still found, to some extent, among us, spreading their peculiar doctrines in the Lodges, as they can find opportunity to impose upon the inexperience of the more recently admitted and less informed members. And this is a serious evil, because tending to produce incalculable mischief in the jurisdiction. A large proportion of the controverted cases in our Lodges, and which are almost daily submitted to the proper authorities for adjudication, are traceable to this source.
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* [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Philanthropic Philanthropic], at Marblehead; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=StJohnN St. John's], at Newburyport; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Tyrian Tyrian], at Gloucester;  [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Essex2 Essex], at Salem;  [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=StMark St. Mark's], at Newburyport];  [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MountCarmel Mount Carmel], at Lynn; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Liberty Liberty], at Beverly;
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[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Jordan Jordan], at South Danvers; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Warren Warren], at Amesbury, and [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Ashler Ashler] , at Rockport. I state these in the order of the date of their Charters; the first going back to March 25th, 1760; and the last, having been chartered in 1851. All of them I have visited during my official year — some of them several times. I have also endeavored, in every other practicable way, to inform myself as to their condition and prospects. Not having previously to my appointment any personal knowledge of most of these Lodges, I cannot institute any comparison with former years; but I can most confidently Report, that their present condition is highly prosperous, and such as to give the most encouraging promise for the future. There is no one of them in which entire harmony and good feeling does not prevail; there is no one in which the observances of the Order are not substantially maintained and the work respectably performed, while in some there is a degree of exactness and excellence which, I believe, it would be difficult to find surpassed anywhere.
  
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Without stopping to inquire who is right, it is enough that they do not teach the law or the usages of Masonry as they have been taught in Massachusetts for more than a century and a quarter, nor as they are now defined and taught by our own Grand Lodge. They are not, therefore, admissible as authority in our Lodges. We are satisfied with the Masonry we have — with its ritual, its laws, and its philosophy. It is such as we have inherited from our fathers — from the founders of the Order in this country — and such as we desire to transmit to our posterity. We ask for no change—no improvement,— least of all such improvement as we should be like to get by following the counsels of itinerant lecturers and opiniative exponents of Masonic practice.
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It will be seen by the returns accompanying this Report, that there has not been so many initiations the present year as during the previous one ; but the successful candidates have been of quite as high character as heretofore, and have been sufficiently numerous. I have endeavored to impress upon the Lodges the importance of quality rather than quantity, that, in order to maintain the true standard, they should regard the qualifications, moral, intellectual and social, of the members, rather than the number; and I am happy to be able to say that they have endeavored, and with good success, to practice upon this rule.
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The following extracts from the reports of the District Deputy Grand Masters will give our readers a correct knowledge of the general condition of the Lodges in this jurisdiction at the close of the last year :—
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===== DISTRICT 1 =====
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R. W. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMWCoolidge Wm. D. Coolidge], D. D. G. M.—
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I am roost happy to say that prosperity and harmony prevail in the First Masonic District, and while in the community around us every subject of thought seems to be intensified, it is refreshing to witness the effect of the conservative principles of our Order on the minds of our Brethren, bringing in its train calm thought, common sense, and enlightened judgment to guide their decisions.
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It is a source of gratification to bear my testimony to the prompt liberality of the Brethren in every case of deserving need, from the ample treasuries of our Lodges and the warm hearts of our Brothers; the aged have been comforted, the blind relieved, and the injunctions of " pure and undefiled religion" hare been carried out.
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The effect of the late vote whereby the fees to the Grand Lodge were reduced, will show a great falling off in its revenues, the return of this important District being only four hundred and seventy-one dollars ($471), but the Brethren of this District will be among the first to correot this position, if it be found that the happiness or usefulness of the Grand Lodge is abridged thereby.
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The Lodges in this District are in the enjoyment of ample and commodious Lodge rooms—the one now near completion in Brighton is another evidence of the liberality of the Brethren, and the love they bear to this ancient and honored institution; and the Lodges in the city will soon be in the enjoyment of the ample accommodations of Freemasons' Hall. Truly, "the lines have fallen to us in pleasant places, and we have a goodly heritage," a grateful trust should be the prevailing sentiment of our hearts, that we have been thus guided and blest, inciting in us greater efforts for the promotion of the honor, the usefulness and the happiness of our beloved institution, and developing in each Brother's heart and life, greater fidelity to ourselves, to humanity, and to God.
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And now, Sir, in closing, let me congratulate you, on your retirement from office, on the prosperity and harmony which characterize the Lodges in this jurisdiction. It must be the source of the greatest happiness to you, that at the close of a most efficient administration, you bear with yon the respect and lore of all who have been officially and intimately associated with you.
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===== DISTRICT 2 =====
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Rt. W. Isaac P. Seavey.— 
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From the information I have received, I have no reason to doubt but that at least the usual amount has been done in the way of Charity during the year, and that many a distressed worthy Brother, and many widows and orphans of deceased Brethren, have had new reason to be grateful for our bounty, and to implore the blessing of Heaven upon our ancient institution.
  
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The general condition of nearly all the Lodges throughout the District at the Annual visitation, gave good evidence of the progress made the past year over that of previous ones. Several which had heretofore evinced a great lack of skill, and proper discernment in the discharge of their various duties and responsibilities, have assumed a new and highly gratifying position, by which they are enabled to rightfully execute their duties consonant to the high standard of Masonic rule. Nor is it less observable in the entire District, that each Lodge has (unless a single exception be named) endeavored to preserve, with scrupulous caution, the elevated character of its members, by a close and persevering scrutiny into the merits of each new applicant.
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In conclusion, I have only to say, that so far as regards the District which you have done me the honor to place under ray care, I have seen nothing to indicate any decline in Masonry. On the contrary, everything denotes a healthy vigor and strength, and gives the most cheering assurance of a permanent and enduring prosperity.
  
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The amount of work performed the past year, in its aggregate, is twenty per cent less, in comparison with that of several previous years. This has been, in one sense, beneficial to the Lodges, by giving the Brethren leisure, and enlarged opportunities for improvement in the lectures of the several degrees, which some of them, I am pleased to say, have not failed to appreciate with profit. This has necessarily produced a greater degree of harmony and good fellowship among the Craft, and while such a true and noble effort is kept alive, all discord will be banished from among them.
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All of which is respectfully submitted.
  
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A majority of the Lodges continue the weekly lecture meetings for instruction, which were established about two years since, and they are attended with good success. Their standard in the ritual is a close approximation to the authorized Work of the Grand Lodge.
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLWSutton WM. SUTTON], D.D.G.M., 2nd District.''
  
 
===== DISTRICT 3 =====
 
===== DISTRICT 3 =====
  
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Rt. W. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLWNorth Wm. North].—  
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''To the Most Worshipful Winslow Lewis, M. D., Grand Matter of Masons in Massachusetts —''
  
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=StPaulA St. Paul's] Lodge, Groton''. Last year this Lodge was reported in a prosperous and growing condition. Since my last report a [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=CalebButler new Lodge] has been established at Groton Junction (working under Dispensation). This may have had the effect in some measure to prevent the increase of St. Paul's Lodge — yet those remaining are mostly tried veterans in the cause and will ensure its stability, while the known skill and devotedness of their elected Master and other officers, will be a sufficient guaranty of the correctness of their work.
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''My Dear Sir and Brother'' — At the close of the Masonic year, it becomes my duty to report to you the condition of the several Lodges comprising the Third District, and, as your Deputy, to return an account of my stewardship over this portion of your jurisdiction. I had the honor, a few years since, to visit these Lodges frequently in company with a former District Deputy Grand Master, and I can therefore judge with some correctness of their comparative advancement and improvement.
  
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Corinthian Corinthian] Lodge, Concord.'' This Lodge continues in about the same state as at my last report — but little work having been done for two years past Two have been initiated the last year.
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Peace and tranquility prevail to an unusual degree among the Brethren. The great principle of Brotherly Love and affection seems to pervade their hearts and actuate their motives. I have heard no complaint, either written or by word of mouth, from any of the Lodges, or concerning any member. There has been no discord throughout the District, and it is with great pleasure that I report it to you in a safe, quiet and harmonious condition.
  
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Aurora Aurora] Lodge, Fitchburg'', is still in a thriving condition, and deservedly stands high among the Lodges in the district. This Lodge is moderately increasing its numbers by initiation of that class which will support the honor an i reputation of the institution. Here too they have frequent meetings for lecturing and by this means keep up the standard of work for which they have long had the reputation.
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=StPaulA St. Paul's] Lodge, Groton'', composed of thirty members, is presided over by our W. Br. E. D. Bancroft, who has done so much for Masonry in this and adjoining District. He is eminently qualified to be a teacher of the doctrines and ritual of our Order. He and his officers are technically accurate in performing all their duties. The custom in this Lodge of fully instructing each candidate for advancement in the Lecture of the degree through which he has passed, and of examining him in open Lodge, could be adopted in other Lodges with manifest advantage. I visited this Lodge at its annual meeting. The aged and venerable John Walton, M. D., one of the oldest living graduates of Harvard College, (of the class of 1791, that following that of Ex-Prest. Quincy,) was present, and dined with the Brethren. He was one of the original petitioners for the Charter which was granted in 1791. He has been a Mason for more than sixty/our years. The occasion derived additional interest, from the fact that this sixty-third annual meeting of the Lodge was also the ninetieth birth-day of our aged Brother.
  
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Merrimack Merrimack] Lodge, Haverhill'', continues in its steady course and maintains an honorable position among the Lodges in this section. Its membership is large and composed of many of the most prominent men in the place. Their Hall is large and elegantly furnished, it being one of the best in the State, and their order and decorum in business are worthy of example.
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Corinthian Corinthian] Lodge, Concord'', has fifty-three members. My visit here was made under somewhat adverse circumstances. A State Convention of Teachers was in session in the town, and the Brethren were generally engaged in hospitable acts towards their guests. With the exception of Saint Paul's, this is the smallest Lodge in the District. Some of the Brethren are advanced in life, and some of its members are scattered through the neighboring townB. The Work is in strict conformity with that taught by the Grand Lecturers. It is a fact worthy of note, that the W. Master has been present at every meeting, regular and special, throughout the year. An interesting history of this Lodge has been written and published by Past Master Louis A. Surette, which is full of interest to every Mason in Massachusetts.
  
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[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Pentucket Pentucket] Lodge, Lowell'', has been regularly advancing, and the nnmber of initiates nearly the same every year since the restoration of its charter. It has the largest membership in the district, and present appearances indicate that the number of initiates this year will equal that of past years.
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Aurora Aurora] Lodge, Fitchburg'', with eigbtysix members, is in a most flourishing, condition. The officers are well selected and perform their work with great promptness and exactness. The W. Master seems to inspire the Lodge with zeal and activity. The Brethren have decorated their Hall with an elegant oil portrait of R. W. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLJMarshall Jonas A. Marshall], Past Junior Grand Warden of the Grand
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Lodge, and Past Master of Aurora Lodge, who continues to take the same interest in the welfare of Masonry and of the prosperity of this Lodge that he did in his younger days.
  
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=StMatthew St. Matthew's] Lodge, Andover''. Since particular mention of this Lodge has been made, a new, spacious Hall has been procured, and furnished in a neat and tasteful style, affording excellent accommodations.
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Merrimack Merrimack]'' Lodge, Haverhill, with one hundred and thirteen members, has perhaps made greater advancement than any Lodge in the District. Its Hall is fitted np with elegance, and with the several apartments, evinces remarkable taste; luxurious comfort is combined with architectural beauty and general convenience. The Brethren are zealous, active Masons, the officers able and efficient workmen, and the Lodge is an ornament to the jurisdiction.
  
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Grecian Grecian] Lodge, Lawrence''. The prosperity of this Lodge has equaled that of any in this District. Large accessions have been made yearly, and it now stands second in point of numbers. The work has been good and justly merits approval. Sixteen have been initiated the past year.
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Pentucket Pentucket] Lodge, Lowell'', has one hundred and seventy-seven members upon its roll, and is the largest in the District. Its meetings are very fully attended, and in the number of initiates the past year, it has exceeded any other Lodge. At the time of my annual visit the Hall was full. My predecessor, the R. W. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLWNorth William North], was chosen its Master at the last election of officers. This will be the thirteenth year that he has presided over a Lodge — having been Master in Connecticut and New Hampshire before the adverse days of Masonry. This Lodge is in a highly prosperous state.
  
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=AncientYork Ancient York] Lodge, Lowell'', still merits its high standing. Regular and constant additions are made to its numbers from the highest classes in the community. The present officers are thoroughly skilled in the work, and prompt in the discharge of their duty. One marked feature in the management of this Lodge, and worthy of imitation, is the careful selection of officers, even ol the lowest rank, of such as will fill the chair with honor when in due course they may reach it.
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=StMatthew Saint Matthew's] Lodge, Andover'', with forty-two members, is in a healthy condition. The Brethren have returned to the Hall which they built and owned' previous to the anti-masonic excitement, where so long "The Trowel rested on the half-set stone." The work is accurate and impressive.
  
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=CalebButler Excelsior] Lodge, Groton Junction'', (working under a Dispensation) has commenced its operations under the most favorable circumstances. Located in a thriving village, with every prospect of a large and rapid increase, and having connected with it a large portion of the must estimable business men of the place, who in their own commanding position must exert a favorable influence.  
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Grecian Grecian] Lodge, Lawrence'', has one hundred and seventy-six members, and is the only Lodge in this thriving manufacturing city. I did not find that interest among the members and that improvement which would naturally be expected. The work was well and accurately done. The officers present were well skilled in the ritual; but there has not been that interest taken in the meetings and in the work by the members generally, which there should be in a Lodge situated as this is, with such means and material at its command.
  
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===== DISTRICT 4 =====
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=AncientYork Ancient York] Lodge, Lowell'', has one hundred and thirty-five members. It continues to be in the same prosperous condition which previous reports have described. Its members are principally young active men, who have not let their interest for the Lodge flag for a moment. The work is impressive,— every officer performing his duty promptly and effectively. The Brethren have decorated their Hall with life-size photographs of the Past Masters of the Lodge.
  
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R. W. Levi Rawson.—
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[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=CalebButler Caleb Butler] Lodge, Groton Junction, with forty-six members, chartered and consecrated in March last, is full of the ebullition of youthfulness, and is overflowing with life, zeal and prosperity. I had the pleasure of installing the officers, in presence of a large assembly of both sexes, at their Lodge-room, and afterwards of partaking of a bountiful supper in a neighboring Hall, to which the members and invited guests were escorted by a band of music.
  
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It is perhaps unnecessary for me to particularize the several Lodges, an you were informed by my former report of their then particular state—their present is about the same as then— they have rather improved in their work. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=BlackstoneRiver Blackstone River], [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Montgomery Montgomery] and [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Franklin2 Franklin] Lodges do their work and business of the lodge well; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=SolomonsTemple Solomon's Temple] has improved; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=OliveBranch Olive Branch] is not yet perfect. All express a desire to comply with the instructions of the Grand Lodge, and the ancient customs and usages of the Order. All have been punctual in making their annual returns and paying the Grand Lodge dues, which I have forwarded to the Grand Treasurer.
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Wilder Wilder] Lodge, Leominster'', was chartered and consecrated in June last, and yon had an opportunity then of witnessing its condition. It is established on a sound basis and is in a thriving condition. The Work and Lectures are correct, and the officers are well versed in the ritual. I have granted three Dispensations to confer the degrees in less time than the constitutional requirement—the reasons given therefor being, in my judgment, good and sufficient.
  
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===== DISTRICT 5 =====
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I have countersigned a petition of several Masons — members of Grecian Lodge, Lawrence, — praying for a new Lodge to be established at Methuen. A Dispensation has since been granted them by you to bold a Lodge at that place under the name of ''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=JohnHancock John Hancock] Lodge''. I have not visited it, but I learn that it has been opened under the most favorable auspices.
  
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R. W. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLBWales Bradford L. Wales].—
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Every Lodge in the District is in a most creditable condition. This is an unmistakeable type of the flourishing state of our Order all over the Commonwealth and throughout the country at large.
  
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I regret that other positive requirements have prevented me from discharging the whole duty of the office so exactly as its importance requires. On the faithfulness of the District Deputies, depends, in my judgment, a large share of the real success of the Institution. Not how much work, but how well that work is performed, is the trae and only test of its healthy condition. I have personally visited six of the eight Lodges composing the fifth District, and one by proxy, during the year, and am most happy to report, so far as the work is concerned, without exception, I have found it strictly in conformity with that approved by the Grand Lodge. The Lodges, in regard to their pecuniary matters, are in good condition. Those who have been admitted to the degrees, as far as my information extends, are worthy of the distinguished honor—"men of good report and well recommended."
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The great similarity of work (there being but some slight verbal differences) among the several Lodges, is an evidence of the great labor bestowed upon the ritual and lectures by the various officers.
  
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Permit me, M. W. Grand Master, before resigning my office, to congratulate you upon your brilliant administration as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts. No predecessor of yours in that office has performed the amount of labor which you have. None have, or could have, done it better. None have manifested more sincerely an abiding interest in the prosperity of our ancient institution. No one has retired from that office at the end of his constitutional term, who carries with him the confidence of his Brethren in a greater degree, and no one has deserved it more, in the opinion of your triend socially and fraternally.
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It is highly gratifying thus to be able to assure you of the increase and prosperity of our institution. That improvements can and will be made, there is no question. No such society was ever perfect; but so long as the Lodges remain trne to the principles and constitutions of Masonry, they cannot decline.
  
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===== DISTRICT 6 =====
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You have already announced that it is your intention to retire from the active duties of Masonry at the end of the present year. Your life has been devoted to the interests of our Order, and you will leave the East of the Grand Lodge with the kindest wishes and most affectionate remembrance of all your Brethren.
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<blockquote>
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''Serus in coelum redeas, diuque''<br>
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''Leetas intersis populo Quirini.''
  
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R. W. John A. Dana.—
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I remain, fraternally, your very obedient servant,<br>
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''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMGardner WM. S. GARDNER],
 Lowell, Dec 1, 1860., D.D.G.M. 3d District.''
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It has been my pleasure during the past year to visit all the Lodges in the sixth District, and with one exception, to inspect some part of the work in each.
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I have the satisfaction to report that all are in good condition, and that each has made some progress, in the right direction, during the last year; this is true of some of them in a marked degree.
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The three Lodges which have been constituted during the pant year in this District, have won for themselves much credit for the zeal they have manifested, and the high rank they have taken among the Lodges of this District as good working Lodges.
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Aa the result of my observation, derived from my visits during the year, I am satisfied that all that is wanted to put our Lodges in a high position, is a more frequent recourse to the assistance of the Lecturers of the Grand Lodge.
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This matter has been loo much neglected by the Lodges, not from a failure on their part to appreciate the advantages lobe derived from this source entirely, but in some instances I have no doubt it may be occasioned by the expense which attends the procuring of the attendance and labors of lecturers.
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To remedy in some degree this state of things I would beg leave to suggest, whether it might not be found for the good of our Lodges to make it their duty, that each Lodge appropriate some part of their receipts each year for this purpose, and that the Grand Lodge take some action in this matter. And should any ot our Lodges be unable to incur the expense, that the same be met from the Treasury of the Grand Lodge.
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It is bat justice to you, to acknowledge that the present prosperity our Lodges are now enjoying, is in a very great degree doe to the active interest you have taken in this behalf during your administration.
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===== DISTRICT 7 =====
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Rt. W. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLGTaber George H. Taber].—
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Another year having expired, it again becomes my duty to report to you the state of the Lodges composing the Seventh Masonic District. And I am pleased to inform you that harmony and prosperity prevail. There have been large accessions to our numbers the past year, (120 in the seven chartered Lodges,) but if they prove good men and true, they are heartily welcome within our portals. There is still a lack of uniformity in the work, which I hope will soon be mended, for I think there should be but one standard, and that strictly complied with. There are two Lodges under Dispensation, which have commenced under favorable circumstances, and I trust they will be useful additions to our Order.
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===== DISTRICT 8 =====
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Rt. W. Sylvester Baxter.—
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I have recommended to all the Lodges to be more particular in being represented in the Grand Lodge, as many of those who are entitled to seats in the Grand Lodge, would find it beneficial to attend as often as possible ; at any rate, the Mailer of the Lodge should make it a point to be at the annual meeting.
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I find the Lodges in my District have made great improvement since the visit of the M. W. G. Master to the Lodges; there certainly is more interest and better work. I think the Fraternity greatly indebted to him for the interest he has manifested. May he long live to enjoy the satisfaction that he has bestowed such benefits.
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===== DISTRICT 9 =====
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Rt. W. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLDReynolds Daniel Reynolds].—
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With perhaps owe exception the Lodges comprising the Ninth District are progressing in usefulness and stability, having added by numbers, intelligence and strength, far in advance of former years, which served to render my visits to them peculiarly pleasant.  
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The condition of most of the Masonic Halls have been improved within the last two years, and with marked taste, which renders them peculiarly attractive. In this particular the members of [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Hampden Hampden] Lodge, have contributed and ex pended a large amount, and have just completed a most praiseworthy remodeling of their Hall.
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===== DISTRICT 10 =====
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Rt. W. W. B. C. Pearsons.—
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This has been a year of uninterrupted prosperity with all the Lodges in this District, and a harmonious spirit seems to pervade all classes and degrees of the craft.
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===== DISTRICT 11 =====
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Rt. W. Chas. B. Rogers. -
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There have been one hundred and forty-six initiates in the ten Lodges composing this District, for the year ending September 1st, 1859, and twenty-five rejections, ten of which were in one Lodge. This seems to be a large number, about fifteen per cent, and to some minds would indicate a careful watchfulness in keeping out all unworthy applicants, and to others a careless regard for the best interests of the institution, in allowing so many lo be proposed for admission who were unworthy.
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I find a difference of opinion in regard to this matter, whether it were better for a member of a Lodge to refuse, upon solicitation, to propose a person whom he thinks should not be admitted, or to offer his name for consideration and rejection, thus subjecting him to an additional difficulty, should he ever attempt to gain admission in another locality; in connection with this subject I would remark, that there appears to be so much of a desire to increase some of the Lodges in numbers, as to cause too great a leniency to be used and allowed in passing upon the qualifications of those seeking admission into our Order.
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===== DISTRICT 12 =====
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Rt. W. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLJSheppard John H. Sheppard].—
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It would afford me much pleasure to particularize the traits of excellence in each Lodge committed to my charge, but it might, perhaps, lead to invidious distinctions. The records all were well kept and faithful, and in the returns there was not generally a large proportion of rejections — being only twenty-four in the whole. Negatives, like sharp-edged tools, require delicacy in handling; I am of opinion they should be avoided as much as possible by the caution of each Brother who signs the recommendation of the candidate for the Degrees, for a rejection may sometimes cause a bitter enemy. Yet nothing — neither fear, favor, nor hope of reward should tempt any member of a Lodge to vote for an improper or unworthy applicant.
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It is but just to say a word touching [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Germania Germania] Lodge which I visited twice. Their work and lectures are altogether in the German language, but the eye and ear of any experienced Brother might easily follow and trace the general accuracy which appears. With all the disadvantages of a foreign tongue, they do well. To the members of that Lodge, living far from their native home and beloved relatives, Freemasonry must be of peculiar importance in promoting pleasing intercourse and Brotherly love—and they seem to appreciate it
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* [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=HiramC Hiram] (Copiapo, Chile, 1858)
 
* [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=HiramC Hiram] (Copiapo, Chile, 1858)
 
* [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=SouthernCross Southern Cross] (Valparaiso, Chile, 1858)
 
* [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=SouthernCross Southern Cross] (Valparaiso, Chile, 1858)
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'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1859 Previous (1859)]'''<br>
 
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Revision as of 17:05, 3 August 2013

1860

WINSLOW LEWIS, JR., Grand Master

Jerome Van Crowninshield Smith, Deputy Grand Master
Joel Spalding, Senior Grand Warden
William T. Coolidge, Junior Grand Warden

NOTES

QUARTERLY COMMUNICATIONS

Held at Freemasons' Hall, Boston

  • 03/14: VI-291;
  • 06/13: VI-307;
  • 09/12: VI-320;
  • 12/12: VI-330; (Annual Communication)

03/14 Agenda

  • VI-292: Report of committee on "resolutions expressive of the appreciation in which this Grand Lodge hold the past services of the Trustees of the Temple."
  • VI-303: Correspondence with Paul Revere Lodge regarding jurisdiction.
    • 06/13: VI-308; report read and recommitted for more information.
    • 09/12: VI-327; printed report presented; referred to annual communication.
  • VI-304: Report of committee on the initiation of sojourners.
  • VI-305: Report of Committee on Charity.

06/13 Agenda

  • VI-309: Communication with Lodge of St. Andrew; Grand Lodge vote not to take action with relation to the matter.
  • VI-315: Communication with Hawaiian Lodge regarding aid.
    • 09/12: VI-324; determination that no action to be taken thereof; but on motion $100 was to be contributed.
  • VI-316: Report of Committee on Charity.

09/12 Agenda

  • VI-325: Report of Committee on Charity.
  • VI-326: Report of the Trustees of the Temple.

12/12 Agenda

  • VI-338: Adverse report on paying traveling expenses of delegates to the Grand Lodge.
  • VI-339: Report of Committee on Charity.
  • VI-340: Report of the Committee of Finance.
  • VI-345: Correspondence with the Grand Lodge of Virginia, and reply, following the anticipated separation of the South.
  • VI-347: Election of Rt. Wor. William T. Coolidge as Grand Master (149 ballots); and other Grand Lodge officers.
  • VI-348: Committee on preparations for installation appointed.
  • VI-357: Grand Feast of St. John the Evangelist, celebrated "after the manner of Masons."

Grand Constitutions Amendment Proposals

Grand Master's Address

Lodge By-Law Changes

  • 03/14: VI-302; Fellowship, referred for examination and correction.

Necrologies and Memorials

  • 12/12: Paul Dean, Past Grand Master committee appointed.

Petitions for Charters

  • 03/14: VI-301; Petition for Pilgrim U.D., Harwich South Village, granted, despite certain "irregularities‚"
  • 06/13: VI-309; Petition for Wilder U.D., Leominster, granted with two alterations to by-laws.

Petitions for Dispensation for Lodges

Mentioned in Grand Master's Address, Page VI-353:

Petitions for Restoration of Charter

None.

SPECIAL COMMUNICATIONS

None.

LIST OF LODGES BY DISTRICT: 1860

This district layout is based on the O.P. edition of the Proceedings. However, this publication is riddled with errors, and some adjustment was necessary.
Note: There were 12 Districts in 1860, plus a special area for Chile.

DISTRICT REPORTS

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly:

  • Vol. XX, No. 5, March 1861, Page 144
  • Vol. XX, No. 6, April 1861, Page 170
DISTRICT 2

Salem, Dec. 31, 1860.

To the M. W. Winslow Lewis, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts. The Second Masonic District, as at present constituted, is composed of ten Lodges, viz:

Jordan, at South Danvers; Warren, at Amesbury, and Ashler , at Rockport. I state these in the order of the date of their Charters; the first going back to March 25th, 1760; and the last, having been chartered in 1851. All of them I have visited during my official year — some of them several times. I have also endeavored, in every other practicable way, to inform myself as to their condition and prospects. Not having previously to my appointment any personal knowledge of most of these Lodges, I cannot institute any comparison with former years; but I can most confidently Report, that their present condition is highly prosperous, and such as to give the most encouraging promise for the future. There is no one of them in which entire harmony and good feeling does not prevail; there is no one in which the observances of the Order are not substantially maintained and the work respectably performed, while in some there is a degree of exactness and excellence which, I believe, it would be difficult to find surpassed anywhere.

It will be seen by the returns accompanying this Report, that there has not been so many initiations the present year as during the previous one ; but the successful candidates have been of quite as high character as heretofore, and have been sufficiently numerous. I have endeavored to impress upon the Lodges the importance of quality rather than quantity, that, in order to maintain the true standard, they should regard the qualifications, moral, intellectual and social, of the members, rather than the number; and I am happy to be able to say that they have endeavored, and with good success, to practice upon this rule.

From the information I have received, I have no reason to doubt but that at least the usual amount has been done in the way of Charity during the year, and that many a distressed worthy Brother, and many widows and orphans of deceased Brethren, have had new reason to be grateful for our bounty, and to implore the blessing of Heaven upon our ancient institution.

In conclusion, I have only to say, that so far as regards the District which you have done me the honor to place under ray care, I have seen nothing to indicate any decline in Masonry. On the contrary, everything denotes a healthy vigor and strength, and gives the most cheering assurance of a permanent and enduring prosperity.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

WM. SUTTON, D.D.G.M., 2nd District.

DISTRICT 3

To the Most Worshipful Winslow Lewis, M. D., Grand Matter of Masons in Massachusetts —

My Dear Sir and Brother — At the close of the Masonic year, it becomes my duty to report to you the condition of the several Lodges comprising the Third District, and, as your Deputy, to return an account of my stewardship over this portion of your jurisdiction. I had the honor, a few years since, to visit these Lodges frequently in company with a former District Deputy Grand Master, and I can therefore judge with some correctness of their comparative advancement and improvement.

Peace and tranquility prevail to an unusual degree among the Brethren. The great principle of Brotherly Love and affection seems to pervade their hearts and actuate their motives. I have heard no complaint, either written or by word of mouth, from any of the Lodges, or concerning any member. There has been no discord throughout the District, and it is with great pleasure that I report it to you in a safe, quiet and harmonious condition.

St. Paul's Lodge, Groton, composed of thirty members, is presided over by our W. Br. E. D. Bancroft, who has done so much for Masonry in this and adjoining District. He is eminently qualified to be a teacher of the doctrines and ritual of our Order. He and his officers are technically accurate in performing all their duties. The custom in this Lodge of fully instructing each candidate for advancement in the Lecture of the degree through which he has passed, and of examining him in open Lodge, could be adopted in other Lodges with manifest advantage. I visited this Lodge at its annual meeting. The aged and venerable John Walton, M. D., one of the oldest living graduates of Harvard College, (of the class of 1791, that following that of Ex-Prest. Quincy,) was present, and dined with the Brethren. He was one of the original petitioners for the Charter which was granted in 1791. He has been a Mason for more than sixty/our years. The occasion derived additional interest, from the fact that this sixty-third annual meeting of the Lodge was also the ninetieth birth-day of our aged Brother.

Corinthian Lodge, Concord, has fifty-three members. My visit here was made under somewhat adverse circumstances. A State Convention of Teachers was in session in the town, and the Brethren were generally engaged in hospitable acts towards their guests. With the exception of Saint Paul's, this is the smallest Lodge in the District. Some of the Brethren are advanced in life, and some of its members are scattered through the neighboring townB. The Work is in strict conformity with that taught by the Grand Lecturers. It is a fact worthy of note, that the W. Master has been present at every meeting, regular and special, throughout the year. An interesting history of this Lodge has been written and published by Past Master Louis A. Surette, which is full of interest to every Mason in Massachusetts.

Aurora Lodge, Fitchburg, with eigbtysix members, is in a most flourishing, condition. The officers are well selected and perform their work with great promptness and exactness. The W. Master seems to inspire the Lodge with zeal and activity. The Brethren have decorated their Hall with an elegant oil portrait of R. W. Jonas A. Marshall, Past Junior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge, and Past Master of Aurora Lodge, who continues to take the same interest in the welfare of Masonry and of the prosperity of this Lodge that he did in his younger days.

Merrimack Lodge, Haverhill, with one hundred and thirteen members, has perhaps made greater advancement than any Lodge in the District. Its Hall is fitted np with elegance, and with the several apartments, evinces remarkable taste; luxurious comfort is combined with architectural beauty and general convenience. The Brethren are zealous, active Masons, the officers able and efficient workmen, and the Lodge is an ornament to the jurisdiction.

Pentucket Lodge, Lowell, has one hundred and seventy-seven members upon its roll, and is the largest in the District. Its meetings are very fully attended, and in the number of initiates the past year, it has exceeded any other Lodge. At the time of my annual visit the Hall was full. My predecessor, the R. W. William North, was chosen its Master at the last election of officers. This will be the thirteenth year that he has presided over a Lodge — having been Master in Connecticut and New Hampshire before the adverse days of Masonry. This Lodge is in a highly prosperous state.

Saint Matthew's Lodge, Andover, with forty-two members, is in a healthy condition. The Brethren have returned to the Hall which they built and owned' previous to the anti-masonic excitement, where so long "The Trowel rested on the half-set stone." The work is accurate and impressive.

Grecian Lodge, Lawrence, has one hundred and seventy-six members, and is the only Lodge in this thriving manufacturing city. I did not find that interest among the members and that improvement which would naturally be expected. The work was well and accurately done. The officers present were well skilled in the ritual; but there has not been that interest taken in the meetings and in the work by the members generally, which there should be in a Lodge situated as this is, with such means and material at its command.

Ancient York Lodge, Lowell, has one hundred and thirty-five members. It continues to be in the same prosperous condition which previous reports have described. Its members are principally young active men, who have not let their interest for the Lodge flag for a moment. The work is impressive,— every officer performing his duty promptly and effectively. The Brethren have decorated their Hall with life-size photographs of the Past Masters of the Lodge.

Caleb Butler Lodge, Groton Junction, with forty-six members, chartered and consecrated in March last, is full of the ebullition of youthfulness, and is overflowing with life, zeal and prosperity. I had the pleasure of installing the officers, in presence of a large assembly of both sexes, at their Lodge-room, and afterwards of partaking of a bountiful supper in a neighboring Hall, to which the members and invited guests were escorted by a band of music.

Wilder Lodge, Leominster, was chartered and consecrated in June last, and yon had an opportunity then of witnessing its condition. It is established on a sound basis and is in a thriving condition. The Work and Lectures are correct, and the officers are well versed in the ritual. I have granted three Dispensations to confer the degrees in less time than the constitutional requirement—the reasons given therefor being, in my judgment, good and sufficient.

I have countersigned a petition of several Masons — members of Grecian Lodge, Lawrence, — praying for a new Lodge to be established at Methuen. A Dispensation has since been granted them by you to bold a Lodge at that place under the name of John Hancock Lodge. I have not visited it, but I learn that it has been opened under the most favorable auspices.

Every Lodge in the District is in a most creditable condition. This is an unmistakeable type of the flourishing state of our Order all over the Commonwealth and throughout the country at large.

The great similarity of work (there being but some slight verbal differences) among the several Lodges, is an evidence of the great labor bestowed upon the ritual and lectures by the various officers.

It is highly gratifying thus to be able to assure you of the increase and prosperity of our institution. That improvements can and will be made, there is no question. No such society was ever perfect; but so long as the Lodges remain trne to the principles and constitutions of Masonry, they cannot decline.

You have already announced that it is your intention to retire from the active duties of Masonry at the end of the present year. Your life has been devoted to the interests of our Order, and you will leave the East of the Grand Lodge with the kindest wishes and most affectionate remembrance of all your Brethren.

Serus in coelum redeas, diuque
Leetas intersis populo Quirini.

I remain, fraternally, your very obedient servant,
WM. S. GARDNER,
 Lowell, Dec 1, 1860., D.D.G.M. 3d District.

DISTRICT 1

Benjamin Dean, Boston, District Deputy Grand Master; 12 Lodges

DISTRICT 2

William Sutton, South Danvers, District Deputy Grand Master; 10 Lodges

DISTRICT 3

William Sewall Gardner, Lowell, District Deputy Grand Master; 10 Lodges + 1 U.D.

DISTRICT 4

Daniel W. Taft, Blackstone, District Deputy Grand Master; 7 Lodges + 1 U.D.

DISTRICT 5

Zachariah L. Bicknell, Weymouth, District Deputy Grand Master; 9 Lodges

DISTRICT 6

Jonathan A. Dana, Worcester, District Deputy Grand Master; 9 Lodges

DISTRICT 7

James A. Cook, Taunton, District Deputy Grand Master; 8 Lodges

DISTRICT 8

Sylvanus Baxter, Hyannis, District Deputy Grand Master; 8 Lodges

DISTRICT 9

Daniel Reynolds, Springfield, District Deputy Grand Master; 9 Lodges

DISTRICT 10

W.B.C. Pearsons, Holyoke, District Deputy Grand Master; 8 Lodges + 1 U.D.

DISTRICT 11

Charles B. Rogers, Charlestown, District Deputy Grand Master; 10 Lodges

DISTRICT 12

Sanford M. Hunt, Roxbury, District Deputy Grand Master; 8 Lodges + 2 U.D.

CHILE DISTRICT

Charles T. Ward, Jr., Valparaiso, Special Deputy for Chile; 3 Lodges

Previous (1859)
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Years
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