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(SMALL, JAMES ATKINS 1840-1906)
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== SMALL, JAMES ATKINS 1840-1906 ==
 
== SMALL, JAMES ATKINS 1840-1906 ==
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* MM 1874, WM 1887, 1888, [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=KingHiram King Hiram's]
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* ''DDGM, '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAProvincetown28_1883-1910 Provincetown 28]''', 1896, 1897''
  
 
''From Proceedings, Page 1906-48:''
 
''From Proceedings, Page 1906-48:''
  
W. James A. Small, Past Master of [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=KingHiram King Hiram's] Lodge, of Provincetown, clied at his home in that town April 24, 1906. He was District Deputy Grand Master of the [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAProvincetown28_1883-1910 Twenty-eighth Masonic District] in the years 1896 and 1897, and was at the time of his death a member of this Grand Lodge, as proxy for his Lodge. He was a true Freemason, who tried to live daily in accordance with the letter and spirit of Freemasonry.
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W. James A. Small, Past Master of [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=KingHiram King Hiram's] Lodge, of Provincetown, died at his home in that town April 24, 1906. He was District Deputy Grand Master of the [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAProvincetown28_1883-1910 Twenty-eighth Masonic District] in the years 1896 and 1897, and was at the time of his death a member of this Grand Lodge, as proxy for his Lodge. He was a true Freemason, who tried to live daily in accordance with the letter and spirit of Freemasonry.
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''From New England Craftsman, Vol. I, No. 8, June 1906, Page 290:''
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Brother James Atkins Small died at his home, Provincetown, Mass, April 24.
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Always prominent in the political affairs of Provincetown, Mr. Small served many terms upon the Board of Selectmen, and always took a part in the business and social affairs of his town, but perhaps he is better known about the Cape district through his being superintendent of the Province lands.
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To preserve the shifting Cape sands and fertilize them with beach grass and shrub growth was one of Mr. Small's life motives,  and his appointment to direct such a movement came upon the establishment of the office of superintendent by the Harbor    and Land Commission several years ago.
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The deceased was a prominent Odd Fellow and a high Mason, and was identified with several fraternal and Benevolent orders.
  
 
== SMART, MARK J. 1815-1848 ==
 
== SMART, MARK J. 1815-1848 ==

Revision as of 21:28, 23 March 2015

Contents

SALTER, WILLIAM T. H. 1870-1929

From Proceedings, Page 1929-213:

Brother Salter was born in St. John, New Brunswick, November 5, 1870, and died in Milton November 2, 1929. He was graduated from the Methodist College in his native city and later came to Massachusetts and engaged in business here. At the time of his death he was Treasurer of the Trimount Manufacturing Company, a Trustee of the Dorchester Savings Bank, and a Director of the Trimount Co-operative Bank.

Brother Salter was a zealous and devoted member of our Craft. He joined Union Lodge, of Dorchester, in 1908 and affiliated with Dorchester Lodge in 1914. He was a Charter Member of Milton Lodge in 1923, retaining his membership in all three Lodges. He was a member of the several bodies in both the York and Scottish Rites. His active interest, however, was in Lodge Masonry. He was Worshipful Master of Dorchester Lodge in 1922 and served for a year in Grand Lodge as Junior Grand Steward in 1923. At the time of his death he was nearing the end of his first year of service as District Deputy Grand Master for the Roxbury Fourth Masonic District.

Biother Salter was deeply and sincerely religious, and conscientious to a very high degree in everything to which he set his hand. He was one who loved his fellow men and never tired in spending himself in their service. His sympathy went out abundantly to all who needed it, whether their need was material or spiritual. All who knew him respected him and those who came to know him well soon learned to love him. His accidental death cut him off in the midst of his usefulness while there seemed to be much left for him to do, and affiicted a large circle of friends and associates with a great sense of personal loss.

SANBORN, EASTMAN 1800-1859

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XIX, No. 4, February 1860, Page 127:

Andover, Dec. 26, 1859.

Br. Moore—

Sir, — The following Resolutions were adopted by St. Matthew's Lodge, of this place, and ordered to be drawn up and forwarded to the Freemasons' Magazine, Boston, for insertion :—

At a special communication of St. Matthew's Lodge, Thursday, Dec. 22d, the following resolutions were adopted :—

  • Whereas, an all-wise Providence has seen fit in his wisdom to remove from our midst our much esteemed and worthy Brother D. Eastman Sanborn, and, whereas, a proper respect to his memory deserves a suitable expression of feeling from this Lodge, .
  • Resolved, That while we bow with submission to the decree of an all-wise Providence which called him hence, and sincerely and deeply deplore his loss, as that of a warm-hearted friend and true and faithful Brother we have the consolation, that the loss to us is gain to him, who has gone to join that celestial Lodge above, where the Supreme Architect of the Universe presides.
  • Resolved, That we tender to the widow and relatives of our deceased Brother our warmest sympathy, and every service that may tend to alleviate them in their sorrow, or comfort them in their affliction.
  • Resolved, That the furniture of the Lodge be draped in mourning for the space of thirty days, as a mark of respect to our deceased Brother.
  • Resolved, That the Secretary enter these resolutions upon the records of the Lodge, forward a copy to the family of the df ceased, and a copy to the Freemasons' Magazine, Boston, for publication.

M. Sands, Secretary.

SANFORD, WALTER BRAMHALL 1863-1942

From Proceedings, Page 1942-171:

Brother Sanford was born in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, on August 22, 1863, and died there on August 12, 1942.

After graduation at the Great Barrington High School, he entered Williams College and was graduated from that institution in 1885. After teaching school for a few years, he took up the study of law and was admitted to the bar in July, 1892. In 1893 he was appointed Justice of the District Court of Southern Berkshire and continued in that capacity until his retirement in September, 1941. Throughout his active life, he served in the affairs of his town and county with zeal and ability.

He was raised in Cincinnatus Lodge of Great Barrington on July l, 1898, and served as Master in 1902 and 1903. In Grand Lodge he served as District Deputy Grand Master of the 16th District in 1919 and 1920, by appointment of Most Worshipfuls Leon M. Abbott and Arthur D. Prince.

He was a member of all the collateral bodies and was an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, 33d Degree.

Funeral services were held at the First Congregational Church, Great Barrington) on August 15, 1942, and the very large attendance of Masonic and other friends showed the high esteem in which he was held.

A life of worthwhile service is now but a memory to a host of friends.

SARTELLE, EDWARD J. 1857-1912

Brother Sartelle was born May 9, 1857, in Pepperell, Mass., and died at his residence in Worcester, Sept. 15, 1912. He received his early education in the public schools of Townsend, and at the Lawrence Academy in Groton. After completing his college course at Harvard in 1889, he taught school for five years, being for a part of the time principal of the Pepperell and Lawrence High Schools. At one time he was superintendent of schools in Townsend. He was connected with the State Mutual Life Assurance Company from 1887 to 1908, resigning the latter year. September 2, 1887, he married Miss Lilla M. Larkin, who, with one daughter, survives him.

Brother Sartelle received the Masonic degrees in St. Paul Lodge, of Ayer, in 1878, and was its Master in 1883 and 1884. He was District Deputy Grand Master of District No. 11 in 1900 and 1901. He received the Capitular degrees in Thomas Chapter, of Fitchburg, in 1880; demitted to Worcester Chapter in 1893, and was its M.E. High Priest in 1896 and 1897, after which he served as its Secretary for five years. He served as R. Ex. Deputy Grand High Priest of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Massachusetts in 1904. He joined Hiram Council, of Worcester, in 1894, and was its Thrice Illustrious Master in 1897 and 1898. He received the orders of Knighthood in Worcester Commandery, K.T., in 1894, and was its Eminent Commander in 1905. He received the degrees of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite in the Bodies of that Rite in Worcester and in Massachusetts Consistory in 1895, and served as the first officer of Worcester Lodge of Perfection, 1903-1905; of Goddard Council, Princes of Jerusalem, in 1907, and of Lawrence Chapter, Rose Croix, in 1905-1907. He was elected to receive the Thirty- third and last Degree in 1906, but on account of his continued illness was not able to receive it.

Brother Sartelle was highly respected wherever known; deeply interested in public affairs; conscientious and faithful in all his service and zealous in the interests of the Masonic Fraternity.

SAWTELL, EBENEZER, 1798-1866

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXVI, No. 7, May 1867, Page 221:

Pepperell, April 18, 1867.

Brother Ebenezer Sawtell died in Groton, Mass., Dec. 28, 1866, aged sixty-eight years. How rapidly we are passing on the track of time to that state in which death has no power over the immortal soul! Br. Sawtell was true to the Masonic Flag during the fiery ordeal of anti-masonry, and held different offices in St. Paul's Lodge up to W.M. He was a companion K.A.M., and was exalted in St. John's Royal Arch Chapter, Windsor, Vt. His remains were buried with the honors of Masonry, Caleb Butler's Lodge at Groton Junction uniting with St. Paul's at Groton Centre. W.S. Grand Lccturer, E. D. Bancroft, rehearsed the funeral service at the grave in a solemn and impressive manner, to a large collection of brethren, relatives, and friends. Only six brethren remain on the stage who witnessed the terrible persecution against Masons and our holy Institution from 1827 to 1841, and we shall soon "bite the dust," to have our work tried by Him who created all things. -B.

SAWYER, FRANK H. 1868-1910

From Proceedings, Page 1910-179:

Worshipful Frank H. Sawyer, Master of Merrimack Lodge of Haverhill, was thrown out of his carriage and killed Sept. 24, 1910. He was a well-known business man in. Haverhill and was universally respected. He was a zealous Brother, courteous and faithful in presiding over his Lodge, and deeply int€erested in promoting and exemplifying the principles of Freemasonry.

SAWYER, SAMUEL L. 1845-1910

From Proceedings, Page 1910-33:

SAMUEL L. SAWYER was born in Boxford, Mass., June 20, 1845. He attended the common schools of his native town and, when a young man, removed to Danvers, Mass., where he resided over forty years.

Brother Sawyer - a wholesale flour merchant - always took great interest in the affairs of the town, county and State, and held various offices therein. He represented Danvers in the Legislature of 1891 and 1892, and was a member of the Senate in 1893 and 1894. He was a constant attendant at the Congregational Church, Danvers, in which he held the office of Deacon. He was president of the Essex County Association for several years.

Brother Sawyer received the degrees in Mosaic Lodge in 187l-1872, and was its Worshipful Master in 1879 and 1880. He was District Deputy Grand Master of the Eighth Masonic District in 1895 and 1896. Exalted in Holton Royal Arch Chapter May 14, 1873, he became Excellent High Priest of that Chapter in 1887. He received the Templar Orders in Winslow Lewis Commandery, of Salem, in 1891. He died in Danvers Feb. 18, 1910.

Brother Sawyer was earnest and painstaking in every cause he espoused, and has left a worthy record as a citizen and Brother - true and trusted in all the relations of life.

SCHARMANN, FELIX HANS 1889-1946

From Proceedings, Page 1946-294:

Brother Scharmann was born in Adams, Massachusetts on April 6, 1889, and died suddenly in Pasadena, California, on September 12, 1946, while on a vacation trip.

Soon after graduation at the local schools in Adams, he entered the employ of a printing company where he learned that trade. About the year 1928, he removed to Pittsfield and became associated with the Eagle Printing and Binding Company, of which he was the first vice-president at the time of his death.

He was raised in Berkshire Lodge of Adams on April 17, 1911, and served as Worshipful Master in 1916 and 1917. He served as District Deputy Grand Master for the Fifteenth Masonic District in 1940 and 1941, by appointment of Most Worshipful Grand Masters Joseph Earl Perry and Albert A. Schaefer.

His entire Masonic life was devoted to active and able service to the Craft; ever ready to answer any call with interest, thoroughness and dispatch. He took a particularly keen interest in the Service Department of the Grand Lodge and rendered invaluable aid to his Brethren.

The untimely death of Felix Scharmann was a great shock to his host of friends, but he has left a record for service that will keep his memory ever green in the hearts of his Brethren.

SEAGRAVE, ORVILLE 1837-1886

From Proceedings, Page 1886-60:

The busy messenger has again invaded our consecrated temple, and taken from us one "of good report" among his Brethren, and "duly qualified" for living and dying, — not one just entering upon the stage of manhood's activities, nor yet crowned with the quiet of advanced age, but one in the prime of life, active, industrious, worthy, who, in the home, in the circles of business, in various humane interests, and in the church, was exerting his strength, intelligence, and love for the welfare of his fellow-men and in obedience — as he believed — to his heavenly Father's will.

R.W. Bro. Orville B. Seagrave was born in Uxbridge, Mass., Oct. 26, 1837. His early education was in the public schools of that town. He entered Phillips Academy, Andover, Mass., in 1856; graduated in 1859, and, in the latter year, entered Brown University, Providence, R.I., whence he graduated in 1863. He was soon after appointed Paymaster in the U.S. Navy, and served until 1866. Having left the naval service, he went West; taught school there a few years, and was married in 1868. He became a member of the firm of Raymer, Seagrave & Co., in 1874, and later was a partner with his brother in the banking business, under the firm name of Seagrave Brothers. His wife and three children survive him.

Our lamented Brother was initiated into the mysteries of Free Masonry in Solomon's Temple Lodge, Uxbridge, November 25, 1863; was passed to the degree of Fellow Craft and raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason, November 27, 1863. He was. Junior Warden of Solomon's Temple Lodge from October, 1875 to October, 1876; Senior Warden from October, 1876 to October, 1878, and Worshipful Master from October, 1878 to October, 1880. He was appointed District Deputy Grand Master, 19th Masonic District, Dec. 27th, 1883, December 27th, 1884, and December 29th, 1885. He died in office, February 26th, 1886.

In the various duties and relations, of life, Brother Seagrave won the respect and affection of his associates. True, kind and loving as husband, father, son and brother; honest and faithful in business affairs; generous and sympathizing toward the needy and sorrowful; loyal to his country, and devoted to the church, he proved himself faithful to all obligations. He was brave to endure, and zealous in every cause he espoused; of recognized business integrity and unquestionable honor.

Unto his family and relatives, unto the Lodges under his care, and especially to that of which he was a member, we would express our fraternal sympathy, trusting that their present loss is. his present gain, — the battle on earth having been ended with a victory of "a well-grounded hope and a well-spent life."

Fraternally submitted,
OLIVER A ROBERTS,
DANA J. FLANDERS,
DANIEL W. TAFT,
Committee.

From Proceedings, Page 1886-135:

R.W. Orville B. Seagrave was born in Uxbridge, Mass., October 26, 1837, and died at his residence in that town February 26, 1886, aged 48 years.

He received the Symbolic Degrees of Masonry in Solomon's Temple Lodge, Uxbridge, in 1863; was Junior Warden of the Lodge for the year ending October, 1876; Senior Warden, 1877-78, and Wor. Master 1879-80. He was commissioned D.D.G.M. of the Nineteenth Masonic District December, 1883, '84, '85, leaving his term of. office the present year incomplete.

In respect to his memory I have refrained from appointing a successor, the remaining duties of the office having been attended to by R.W. Irving B. Sayles, under a special warrant of authority.

The eulogy, pronounced by his fellow-citizens and Brethren, is that an industrious, zealous, honored citizen, an upright man, and a consistent, devoted Mason, beloved by all, has been gathered into that land where our fathers have gone before us. As a D.D.G.M. I found Brother Seagrave to be an earnest, conscientious officer; .courteous and attentive to the Craft within his District, zealous in the performance of his Masonic duties, anxious to act the pleasure of the Grand Master, and promulgate his wishes and advice. So far as my observations have extended he held a position of high respect among the Brethren. In the decease of Brother Seagrave the Fraternity has lost a Brother worthy of his high calling, his Lodge a good counselor, his family a true and loving member, the community an honest and upright citizen.

SEAVEY, ISAAC P. d. 1862

From Proceedings, Page VI-444:

Resolved. That the G. Lodge have heard with deep sorrow of the death of our late highly esteemed Brother I. P. Seavey, who has filled with great acceptance the responsible offices of Gd. Lecturer and Dis. Dep. Gd. Master in this jurisdiction.

Resolved. That in the death of Bro. Seavey the Masonic Fraternity have lost a useful member whose zealous labors have largely contributed to the promotion of its interests in this commonwealth.

Resolved. That the Gd. Lodge in token of its appreciation of the character and services of Bro. Seavey, place upon its record their resolutions as an abiding testimonial, and direct that a copy of-the same be forwarded to the family of the deceased.—and be published in the Freemasons' Magazine.

SHANKLAND, ROBERT 1829-1857

No record; this information is clearly for the elder Robert Shankland, but his card indicates that he died 12/14/1857.

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XVII, No. 3, January 1858, Page 91:

Brother Moore, — Yesterday, acting under a Dispensation which the Grand Master was kind enough to grant for the purpose, Norfolk Union Lodge buried Brother Robert Shankland, with the Masonic honors. His age was twenty-eight years. Between forty and fifty Brethren, clothed with white aprons and gloves, appeared in the procession, viz. : — Twentyfive members of Norfolk Union Lodge, some twelve or fourteen from Rising Star Lodge, and six or seven from Paul Revere Lodge. Among the Brethren present, there were seven whose respective ages were more than three score years and ten — two more than four score, and only fifteen, out of fortyfive, whose ages were less than fifty years ! — and these fifteen— all of them — have been made Masons within five years! The procession commanded the highest respect of the large concourse of persons present, as it was entitled to do. I do not ask whether it was the fifteen young men, or the thirty venerable Brethren with their grey hairs, who gave dignity to the occasion. It ought to have been neither, but the fact that three generations of respectable men, from twentytwo to eighty four years of age, in a snow ttorm, were not ashamed

" To Aprons put on,
To make themselves one,
With a free and accepted Mason."

This it was that gave respectability and dignity to the solemn ceremonies. And I have spoken of the old and young in this connection from no disrespect to either. In Freemasonry all stand upon a common level. The old and young — religion, politics, countr)', profession — all, all are alike, — none has the preference over the other, — and any other principle avowed or acted upon, is, masonically, high treason. Still, I venerate old age ; and I am happy to say, that I never had, or for a moment entertained, any other sentiment than profound respect for the aged. On no subject am I more sensitive than when I hear the young speak with disrespect of their seniors, because of their frosted locks, — and this arises not from the fact that I am daily walking in that direction ; but the sentiment was instilled into me in my early infancy. I can't remember the time, so remote in the past, that I did not hold in profound veneration, the " old men" of the day. And how much reason have we, as Masons, to respect and venerate our older Brethren ! The character of our Institution to-day, as always, is estimated, outside of its walls at least, by the charac ter of its " old men." They were our pillar of strength in the day of our greatest trial ; and had it not been for such venerable Brethren as Russell, Harris, Abbot, Soley, and others of like age and character, the condition of our Institution to-day might have presented a very different aspect fmm that in which we now behold it. But I did not intend to write an essay on old or ynung men, but simply to record the rare and gratifying fact, evidenced on the occasion of the funeral of our lamented Brother, that we have still living among us here, where anti-masonry run riot, so large a number of old and venerable Brethren, actively engaged in their Masonic duties.

Truly and fraternally yours, *.

SHATTUCK, DANIEL 1802-1850

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. IX, No. 11, September 1850, Page351:

Died at Groton, July 21, 1850. Capt. Daniel Shattuck, aged 48. Brother Shattuck was made a Mason in the year 1825. During the anti-masonic excitement, which immediately succeeded that period, he remained a steadfast, consistent and faithful supporter of the Fraternity, of which he had become a member. As a Mason he was a strict adherent to the true principles of the Order, holding fast Brotherly-love, relief and truth, having faith in the prospect of a better life hereafter, a lively hope of its attainment, and exercising charity towards all mankind. He has been repeatedly elected by the Brotherhood to the highest office in their gift, and he was at the time of his decease Master of St. Paul's Lodge, at Groton. In this as well as in other offices, which he successively held, he was diligent in business, wise in command, able to instruct and diffuse light

In civil life Capt. Shattuck had the respect and confidence of his fellow- townsmen. He was often elected to the highest municipal offices, and in 1838 he was chosen a Representative in the General Court. He was frequently appointed to administer the estates of deceased persons, and guardian of the persons and property of orphans.

In emergencies, which required exertion, strength and promptitude, he was always an efficient operator. Deliberate in purpose, prompt in application, fearless of danger, his aid was ever present, where duty called.

In his social capacity he was no less the favorite of his .Companions, than in his civil, military, or Masonic character. Intelligence and cheerfulness distinguished his intercourse with his friends. To accommodate and oblige his neighbors, relieve the distressed and succor the needy, were his constant prac¬ tices. And finally, that, without which no human character is complete, may be truly said of him, he was "the noblest work of God," "an honest man."

SHAW, ROBERT G. d. 1853

From Proceedings, Page V-457; this text also appears in Moore's Freemason's Monthly Magazine, Vol. XII, No. 10, August 1853, p. 319:

Whereas the Grand Master has this evening announced to this Grand Lodge the death of Bro Robt G. Shaw, for a long time a most distinguished member of the Masonic family, it is most fit that some memorial of our loss and of our gratitude should be preserved.

Robt. G. Shaw early became a member of St, John's Lodge in Boston and was, for a long time, accustomed to attend its meetings and its duties. As he gained standing and influence in society at large, his services to the Masonic family were given rather without than within, its Lodges. His example of unquestioned integrity, unsullied honor, untiring industry, extensive and most judicious charity — each guided and applied to the most worthy objects, by the action of an acute intellect, and each consecrated to the glory of God, and the welfare of man, by high and pure Christian feeling — in themselves reflected back upon this society a strength and lustre beyond all value and price. We cannot but feel that he was an ornament and strength to us, of unspeakable importance.

In the hour of our great calamity, when we were nearly beaten to the dust by the prejudice and malice of our enemies, he performed for us a service which hardly any other man could have done; because in hardly any other man could we have placed such implicit confidence.

Now, when it has pleased God to take from us, in quick succession, Brethren like White and Dickson, and Shaw, we can still in this time of grief, look up with humble gratitude and thank him that the services of such men were given us for so long a period: — when assailed by unjust reproach, we can still point to the memories of such men as sufficient, and more than sufficient, to redeem and consecrate our principles. They knew the character of our fraternity, and were able to appreciate its teachings. They followed and were led by them in life, and are now, we humbly trust, withdrawn from the darkness of mortality into the lasting brightness of perfect light.

We, therefore, the members of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, acting in the name of the Masonic Family of the State, beg leave with the most profound gratitude for his services, to offer to the family of our late Bro. Robt. G. Shaw, our heartfelt condolence on their great Loss.

SHELDON, WILLIAM HENRY 1869-1941

From Proceedings, Page 1941-166:

Right Worshipful Brother Sheldon was born in North Adams, January 7, 1869, and died at Framingham Hospital, Framingham, April 11, 1941.

His early life was spent in North Adams and in Bennington, Vermont. In 1888 he removed to West Somewille, and until his retirement in 1911, was engaged in the retail boot and shoe business, being with A. Shuman & Co. of Boston for the last twelve years. Upon his retirement, he removed to Hopkinton and remained there until his death.

He was raised in John Warren Lodge May 12, 1915, and served as Worshipful Master in 1926 and 1927. In 1938 he was elected an Honorary Member of North Star Lodge of Ashland. He served as District Deputy Grand Master of the (Natick) 23d District in 1934 and 1935, by appointment of Most Worshipful Curtis Chipman and Most Worshipful Claude L. Allen.

He was also a member of Mt. Lebanon Chapter, R.A.M., Milford Council, R.& S.M., Milford Commandery, K.T., and of the Scottish Rite Bodies of Boston. Brother Sheldon took an active interest in civic and church affairs in Hopkinton. He served on the Board of Selectmen, was a Trustee of the Public Library, a Trustee of the Savings Bank and was Chairman of the building committee for the Congregational Church completed late in 1940.

Both Freemasonry and the town of Hopkinton have lost a valued friend and worker. Of pleasing personality and sound judgment, his life should be an inspiration to those left behind to mourn his passing.

SHERMAN, EDGAR JAY 1834-1914

415px-Edgar_J._Sherman.png

From Proceedings, Page 1914-147:

JUDGE EDGAR JAY SHERMAN was born in Weathersfield, Vt., Nov. 28, 1834, and died at his home in Windsor, Vt., June 9, 1914.

Brother Sherman was a descendant of Edmund Sherman who settled in Watertown in 1632. He was educated in the schools of his native town and at Wesleyan Seminary in Springfield, Vt. He taught schools in Springfield and also for four years at Harwich, Cape Cod. Though not a graduate of Dartmouth College - which he very much regretted - that institution conferred upon him the Honorary Degree of Master of Arts in 1884. He studied law in Lawrence, Mass., was admitted to the bar in 1858 and became clerk of the police court.

Brother Sherman enlisted as a private in the Civil War and was in the army under General Banks. He was promoted to be Captain and for gallant service was raised to the rank of Major.

After his return he served for three years in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, and later as Attorney-General of the Commonwealth. In 1887 he was appointed a Justice of the Superior Court, and occupied that position until Oct. 4, 1911, when he resigned. For forty-three yeam he was in various public offices.

Brother Sherman was not only equipped with a rare acquaintance with the Statutes, but was possessed of an unusual insight into human nature. He won permanent fame by his wisdom and courage, and by his knowledge and administration of law. He was highly respected and beloved by the bar which appeared before him. He leaves an untarnished record and the memory of a busy, useful and successful life.

Brother Sherman received the Masonic degrees in Grecian Lodge of Lawrence in 1860, but his active public life prevented his accepting official duties in the Lodge. Your Grand Master has been invited to be an honorary pallbearer at the funeral to-morrow.

Wikipedia page

SHERMAN, JAMES T. 1849-1916

R.W. James T. Sherman, M.D. was born in Newport, R.I., in 1849, and died in Newport, R.I., June 6, 1916, while visiting a friend in that city. R.W. Brother Sherman was educated in the public school of his native city and was graduated from the New York Homœopathic College in 1869. A few years later he settled in Dorchester, associating himself with Dr. James Lee, on Adams Street, Meeting House Hill. For more than forty years he followed his profession in that locality.

R.W. Brother Sherman received the Masonic Degrees in Union Lodge, Dorchester, in 1880 and 1881 and became a member thereof February 8, 1881. He held various offices in the Lodge and served as Master in 1891. He was District Deputy Grand Master of the Fourth Masonic District in 1895 and 1896. He was also a member of Dorchester Royal Arch Chapter, Boston Council Royal and Select Masters, Boston Commandery, Knights Templars, and Massachusetts Consistory Sublime Princes of the Royal Secret. In 1896 he was one of the representatives of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, commissioned by M.W. Edwin B. Holmes, to participate in the solemn ceremonies of the consecration of the Freemasons' Palace in Budapest, Hungary.

R.W. Brother Sherman was a zealous Freemason, active and studious. He was greatly interested in the welfare of the Fraternity and was a firm friend of the Masonic Home. He is survived by a widow and two married daughters.

"One by one we miss the faces
Of the friends we once possessed;
One by one their names are graven,
'Ceased to labor!' 'Home!' 'At Rest!'"

SHINN, EDWARD LEROY 1877-1939

From Proceedings, Page 1939-70:

Edward Leroy Shinn was born in Lynn April 5, 1877, and died at the Cambridge Hospital February 4,1939.

Right Worshipful Brother Shinn was educated in the Lynn schools and at Lombard College, Galesburg, Illinois, from which he was graduated in 1896. He was Assistant Sales Manager for the New England Coal and Coke Company, having been connected with that concern for twenty-eight years. During the Spanish war he was a major in the ambulance corps.

Brother Shinn became a member of Hiram Lodge in 1919. He was a Charter member of Russell Lodge in 1924 and served it as Master in 1926-7. He served as District Deputy Grand Master for the Somerville Sixth Masonic District in 1929 and 1930, by appointment by Most Worshipful Herbert W. Dean. He was the Representative of the Grand Lodge of Rio de Janeiro at the time of his death.

Brother Shinn was always kindly and courteous and quietly efficient in all he undertook. In his death the Fraternity loses a much loved member whose loss will long be felt.

SHIPMAN, JOHN E. 1832-1913

From Proceedings, Page 1913-36:

JOHN EDWARD SHIPMAN was born in Chester, Conn., Dec. 17, 1832, and died at his residence in Springfield, Jan. 27, 1913. After attending the public schools of his native town, at the age of seventeen years he began an apprenticeship in the printing business at Hartford, Conn. He pursued this calling for fifty-six years. In 1849 the duty of an apprenticeship in a printing office was various and long. When Brother Shipman, at seventeen years of age, started to care for himself in Hartford, he was paid twenty-five dollars a year and his board and clothes. His day's work consisted of getting up with the sun; going to the office, sweeping out, and shoveling away the snow if there was any; then he went to breakfast. When this was over he would return to the shop and work an old-fashioned Ruggles press all day long. In those days, power to work the printing presses came from strong arms which turned the crank from hour to hour.

In 1862 he enlisted in the Sixteenth Regiment of Connecticut Volunteer Infantry and served till the close of the Rebellion, being mustered out July 1, 1865. In 1866 he found work with the firm of Miller, Allen & Twing, in Springfield, where he remained till 1871, when he went into business on his own account. He retired in May, 1909.

Brother Shipman received the Masonic Degrees in Roswell Lee Lodge of Springfield in 1866. He was its Worshipful Master in 1871 and 1872, and was District Deputy Grand Master of the Tenth Masonic District in 1875 and 1876. He was also Thrice Illustrious Master of Springfield Council in 1880, 1881, and 1882; was Prelate of Springfield Commandery, K.T., in 1881-1883 and 1887-1889; was Chaplain for several years of Roswell Lee Lodge and of Morning Star R.A. Chapter.

Brother Shipman, for forty years, was a zealous, efficient Freemason. December 17, 1907, on the evening of his seventy-fifth birthday, employers and employees visited him and presented him with a Masonic ring, in appreciation of his long devotion and love for the Masonic Fraternity. He was familiarly called by the Brethren in Springfield "Uncle John" - a phrase implying the intimacy which existed among them, and the appreciation of the Springfield Brethren of the pleasing disposition and Masonic fidelity of Brother Shipman.

SHRIGLEY, WINFIELD S. 1849-1913

From Proceedings, Page 1913-38:

WOR. WINFIELD SCOTT SHRIGLEY was born in the State of Maryland, son of Enoch and Martha (Marlowe) Shrigley, and passed away on Feb. 3, 1913, at his residence, No. 432 Marlboro Street, Boston, in the sixty-fourth year of his age.

When a young man, having completed his studies of dentistry, he went to South America and at Valparaiso, Chile, he practiced his profession for thirty years. IIe retired in about the year 1902; came to Boston and made this city his home. In 1864 he served one hundred days in the Ohio National Guards, of Volunteer Infantry.

Dr. Shrigley received the degrees in Freemasonry in Aconcagua Lodge, of Valparaiso, the third degree being conferred, April 11, 1872. He was Master of that Lodge for several years. He received. the Capitular Degree in King Cyrus Royal Arch Chapter at Valparaiso, Chile, in 1874.

Having settled in Boston, he received the Orders of the Temple in DeMolay Commandery K.T., June 24, 1908. Brother Shrigley represented Bethesda Lodge, of Valparaiso, in the Grand Lodge, during his entire residence in Boston. He was greatly interested in our Lodges in Chile and held most intimate relations with R.W. Brother Urquhart, D.D. Grand Master. Brother Shrigley was a zealous and painstaking Freemason, and our Brethren in Chile have lost one of their most helpful companions.

Brother Shrigley is survived by his widow, two sons and a daughter. The eldest son, Alfred R. Shrigley, an attorney in Boston, is a member of the The Lodge of Eleusis.

SILVA, JOHN PETER 1872-1947

From Proceedings, Page 1947-249:

Brother Silva was born in Provincetown, Massachusetts, on August 24, 1872, and died at his home in that town on June 5, 1947. His active business life was in the fish and restaurant business in Provincetown.

He was raised in King Hiram's Lodge on April 14, 1913, and served that Lodge as Master in 1920 and 1921. He served as Junior Grand Steward in 1938, and as District Deputy Grand Master of the Provincetown 32nd District in 1944, by appointment of Most Worshipful Arthur W. Coolidge. Ill health prevented his service for a second year.

In the Capitular Rite he served as High Priest of Joseph Warren Chapter, R.A.M., and as District Deputy Grand High Priest for the 12th Capitular District.

Brother Silva was keenly interested in the Masonic Home and the comfort of the guests. His regular and frequent gift of a barrel of fresh fish was greatly anticipated and appreciated by them.

Until failure in health, John Silva took an active interest in anything Masonic, and his adherence to the principles of Freemasonry in his every day life could well be a pattern for all to follow. We shall all miss him and his generous, kindly spirit.

SIZER, WILLIAM 1746-1826

SKINNER, HENRY C. 1824-1916

From Proceedings, Page 1916-16:

R.W. Henry C. Skinner was born in Plainfield, Vt., November 14, 1824, and died in Milford, January 10, 1916, aged 92 years. Old age is given as the cause of his death. At the age of twenty-two years he settled in Milford where he has since resided. He represented Milford in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in 1872 and 1873, and was Chief of the Board of Fire Engineers in Milford for many years. He was very active in the affairs of the town.

Brother Skinner received the Masonic degrees in Montgomery Lodge, of Milford, in 1859 and became a member thereof August 16, 1859. He was its Master in 1862 and 1863; District Deputy Grand Master of District No. 4 in 1865 and 1866, and of District 12 in 1867 and 1868. He was a zealous Freemason for fifty-six years.

He was a member of Mt. Lebanon Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, of Milford, and was its Secretary for thirty-seven years. He was knighted in Milford Commandery, Knights Templars, December 18, 1862; was admitted to membership at the same conclave, and was elected an honorary life member February 26, 1912.

SLACK, CHARLES WESLEY 1825-1885

From Proceedings, Page 1885-72:

Charles Wesley Slack was born on Garland street, then known as Garland's lane, Boston, February 21, 1825, and was in the sixty-first year of his age at the time of his decease, which took place at his residence, on Columbus avenue, April 11, 1885, after a short illness.

He graduated from the Eliot School, and was the recipient of a Franklin medal. He then learned the typographic art with the Boston Journal. On leaving that office he engaged in the job-printing business, and subsequently served as editor and publisher of The Commonwealth, — a weekly newspaper, which, under his management, became a recognized power in all reform movements.

He was twice President of the Mechanic Apprentices' Library Association, and. his administration of the affairs of the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association was characterized by great ability. He was a lover of the fine arts, and early became a member of the Boston Art Club. In 1852 he served as assistant clerk of the Massachusetts Senate, and in 1855 he represented old Ward 11 in the Legislature, receiving an election as speaker pro tempore. He was again a member in 1861,. and in this year was appointed assistant cashier of the Boston Custom-House, holding the position for three years.

He was a member of the Board of Aldermen in 1866 and 1867, and was chairman of the Board during the latter year. In May, 1867, he succeeded Bro. Wm. H. McCartney, as collector of internal revenue for the third Massachusetts district. This office he held continuously to the time of his death, and his administration of its affairs was characterized by great ability, promptness, and zeal.

Bro. Slack was made a Mason in Massachusetts Lodge. He was initiated October 17, passed December 17, 1859, raised January 16, 1860, and admitted a member February 20, 1860. He was Senior Deacon of the Lodge in 1861, Junior Warden in 1862, and Senior Warden in 1863-64. In 1865-66 he served the Lodge as Master, and on May 25, 1877, he was made an Honorary Member.

In 1881 he was appointed Senior Grand Deacon of the Grand Lodge, and served during three years. In December, 1884, he was appointed Corresponding Grand Secretary, which position he held at the time of his death. He was a remarkably youthful man in his feelings - and appearance, — cordial, sympathetic, zealous, and partisan to the last degree ; one who upon entering a room made his presence felt, as a breezy, cheerful, genial man. His energies were freely expended in whatever came to his hand. He formed a part of the nucleus of the old Free-Soil party, the influence of which will be felt through all time.

No more fitting tribute to his memory could have been offered than the large audience, gathered from every walk in life, which attended his funeral services.

Respectfully submitted,,br> HERBERT L. BURRELL,
CHARLES HARRIS,
FRANCIS CHILDS,
Committee.

SLOCOMB, PLINY 1791-1891

From History of the Town of Sutton, 1878; Page 385:

"Pliny Slocomb was one of the assessors of this town. He was a Freemason, belonged to the Sutton Lyceum and was skillful in debate. He was an artist, an ornamental painter, and one of the fastest workmen to be found. His sleighs, chairs, cradles, settees, etc., were much sought after for their fanciful ornamentation. One of his sons too was an artist, and painted a panorama, with which he traveled. Mr. Slocomb gave some attention to fruit growing, and made choice wines, on which he realized handsome profits. His second wife survives him. Her mother, Mrs. Corson, is also living, and the oldest person in town, being nearly ninety-five, and quite active and intelligent."

SMALL, JAMES ATKINS 1840-1906

From Proceedings, Page 1906-48:

W. James A. Small, Past Master of King Hiram's Lodge, of Provincetown, died at his home in that town April 24, 1906. He was District Deputy Grand Master of the Twenty-eighth Masonic District in the years 1896 and 1897, and was at the time of his death a member of this Grand Lodge, as proxy for his Lodge. He was a true Freemason, who tried to live daily in accordance with the letter and spirit of Freemasonry.

From New England Craftsman, Vol. I, No. 8, June 1906, Page 290:

Brother James Atkins Small died at his home, Provincetown, Mass, April 24.

Always prominent in the political affairs of Provincetown, Mr. Small served many terms upon the Board of Selectmen, and always took a part in the business and social affairs of his town, but perhaps he is better known about the Cape district through his being superintendent of the Province lands.

To preserve the shifting Cape sands and fertilize them with beach grass and shrub growth was one of Mr. Small's life motives, and his appointment to direct such a movement came upon the establishment of the office of superintendent by the Harbor and Land Commission several years ago.

The deceased was a prominent Odd Fellow and a high Mason, and was identified with several fraternal and Benevolent orders.

SMART, MARK J. 1815-1848

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. VII, No. 7, May 1848, p. 221:

  • MM before 1846

At a special meeting of the members of Pentucket Lodge, convened in Masons' Hall in Lowell, Mass., on Sunday afternoon, Feb. 27th, 1848, the following preamble and resolutions were unanimously adopted:

  • Whereas it hath pleased our Heavenly Father, the Supreme Architect of the Universe, to call from this earth to his celestial home above, our worthy Brother, Mask J. Smart, be it therefore
  • Resolved, That the members of Pentucket Lodge bear testimony to the great moral worth of their deceased Brother, whose unblemished life, as a man, a Mason and a Christian, richly entitles his memory to this respectful notice from us.
  • Resolved, That we deeply sympathize with oar departed Brother's afflicted widow and family in their bereavement, and sincerely offer to them the sympathies of those who were united with him, whom they have lost, in the in¬ dissoluble bonds of Masonic Brotherhood.
  • Resolved, That a copy of this preamble and the accompanying resolutions be furnished the afflicted family of our deceased Brother, and placed on the Records of our Lodge, and that they be published in the Freemasons' Magazine, at Boston.

Attest, Colburn Blood, Jr., Sec.

SMITH, ALFRED ELMER 1873-1944

From Proceedings, Page 1944-24:

Brother Smith was born at Nantucket on August 23, 1873, and died at his residence in the same town on January 16, 1944, after a lingering illness.

After graduation at the local schools, he was employed in the Pacific National Bank for a short time, during his spare hours studying to become a plumber. He entered that trade as a partner in the firm of Deacon and Smith and later engaged in the business on his own account, until 1940.

He always took a keen interest in civic afflirs and served the town in many of its offices. For the three years prior to his death he was superintendent of water-works. From 1927 to 1935 he served as Postmaster.

He was raised in Union Lodge of Nantucket on October 19, 1908, and served as Master in 1913 and 1914. He was District Deputy Grand Master of the Thirty-first District in 1927 and 1928, by appointment of Most Worshipful Frank L. Simpson.

He was also a member of Sea Royal Arch Chapter and of the Knights Templar.

Masonic burial services were conducted in the Masonic Temple at Nantucket by Union Lodge on January 18, 1944.

A well beloved citizen and Mason has joined the Celestial Lodge above, but the influence of his life will be long felt in Nantucket.

"And once again
Passeth a soul from this our earthly ken,
Where deed remain 'till time shall be no more."

SMITH, FRED S. 1870-1932

From Proceedings, Page 1932-206:

Brother Smith was born in North Andover, May 6, 1870, and died there November 2,1932.

He was educated in the schools of his native town, Phillips Andover Academy, Harvard University, and the Harvard Medical School. He practiced medicine successfully for the rest of his life in the town of his birth. He served as a member of the North Andover School Board for over twenty-five years and was its chairman at the time of his death.

He became a member of Cochichewick Lodge in 1898 and served as its Master in 1905 and 1906. He was bistrict Deputy Grand Master for the Eleventh Masonic District in 1916 and 1917 by appointment of Most Worshipful Melvin M. Johnson and Most Worshipful Leon M. Abbott.

Brother Smith held a high place in his profession and in the esteem of his fellow townsmen, whom he seryed faithfully and well, and was a support and an ornament of our Fraternity. His passing is a loss to us all.

SMITH, HENRY P. 1866-1935

From Proceedings, Page 1935-17:

Right Worshipful Brother Smith was born in Marshfield December 29, 1866, and died in Wellesley January 7, l935.

Brother Smith was educated in the Marshfield schools. At an early age he entered the flour and grain business, and spent his whole active life in that occupation, rising to prominence in it. He was a past president of the Grain and Flour Exchange. He was prominent in the affairs of Wellesley, being a trustee of the Babson Institute, director and vice-president of the Wellesley Co-operative Bank, and active in the affairs of the First Congregational Church.

Brother Smith took his Masonic degrees in King David Lodge, of Taunton, in 1891. He dimitted in 1900. He became a Charter member of Wellesley Lodge in 1913 and served as its Master in 1915. He was Distict Deputy Grand Master for the Fifth Masonic District in 1924 and 1925 by appointment by Most Worshipful Dudley H. Ferrell. At the time of his death he was Junior Warden of Mount Olivet Chapter of Rose Croix.

Brother Smith's sudden death removes from our circle a loved and honored associate who is greatly missed.

SMITH, ISAAC d. 1852

Note: Grand Lodge white card does not bear the date of degrees or age, and records the death date as 1851.

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XII, No. 4, February 1853, Page 125:

At a regular communication of Star in the East Lodge, of Free and Accepted Masons, held at Masonic Hall, New Bedford, Jan. 3d, A. L. 5853, the following resolutions were unanimously adopted:—

Whereas, it hath pleased Almighty God, in his wisdom, to remove by death our aged and beloved Br., Rev. Isaac Smith, therefore be it

Resolved, That this Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons deeply regret the loss they have sustained in the death of Father Smith, one who has long been associated in the work of Masonic benevolence and charity, and one from whose labors and example we can gather rich lessons of wisdom.

Resolved, That by the death of Br. Smith, we, as Masons, have lost an old and esteemed member; one with whom we have taken council together, always with great delight and instruction, and, "as members of this community, we have been called to lay in the grave an honest Christian and upright man.

Resolved, That we will, in memory and reverence of Br. Smith, wear the usual badges of mourning for thirty days.

Resolved, That the foregoing preamble and resolutions be entered on the records of this Lodge, and that the Secretary furnish the family of our deceased Brother with a copy. Also, that he forward a copy to Br. Chas. W. Moore, for publication in the Freemasons' Monthly Magazine. - Amos Chase, Jr., Sec.

SMITH, JAMES C. 1867-1937

From Proceedings, Page 1937-125:

Brother Smith was born in Beverly, March 11, 1867, and died in Leominster July 26, 1937.

Brother Smith's family removed to Malden when he was a small boy, but he went to Leominster at the age of fifteen and spent the remainder of his life there. Starting in life in the grocery business, he became later truant officer in the Leominster schools and afterward for twenty years military instructor.

In 1907 he entered the Leominster Post Office as a clerk and rose through the ranks to the position of Postmaster, which he held from 1926 to 1935.

He served in the Spanish-American War as a first lieutenant in the 6th Massachusetts Infantry, and was discharged from the militia in 1909 with the rank of lieutenant-colonel.

Brother Smith was Raised in Wilder Lodge June 30, 1891, and was its Master in 1899 and 1900, He was installed District Deputy Grand Master for the Fitchburg Thirteenth Masonic District December 27, 1936. He was a member of Leominster Royal Arch Chapter and Jerusalem Commandery, Knights Templar, of Fitchburg.

Right Worshipful Brother Smith's life was a very full and useful one. Serving in many places, he won commendation in all. His death makes a sad gap in our official family.

SMITH, JONATHAN 1842-1930

JonathanSmith_Trinity1901.jpg

  • MM 1865, Altemont #26, Peterborough, NH
  • WM 1887-1889, Trinity

From Memoirs of Judiciary and the Bar, Vol. III, by Conrad Reno, 1901:

JONATHAN SMITH, of Clinton, Worcester County, Mass., is a son of John and Susan (Stearns) Smith, and was born October 21, 1842, on the old homestead of his great-grandfather, William Smith, in Peterboro, N. H. William Smith was one of the pioneers of Peterboro and a man of strong character and rugged intellect. He was a member of the first Provincial Congress of New Hampshire, which met at Exeter in 1775), and one of the patriotic men who pledged their private property to aid the Colonial cause.

Jonathan Smith, son of William, the pioneer, and grandfather of the present Jonathan, remained on the homestead and passed his active life as a farmer, dying at the age of eighty years. He also was a man of marked character, earnest and active in all affairs relating to the public good, and earned the highest confidence of the community. He was selectman many years, and long a deacon in the Unitarian church. A Federalist and later a Whig, he represented the town in the Legislature nine years. His son John was, like himself, a farmer who lived on the homestead until his death at the age of seventy-eight years. His wife was Susan, daughter of John Stearns, and was born at Waltham, Mass. She lived to the age of sixty years. John Smith reflected credit upon his ancestry in all the walks of life; he was selectman a number of years, was a representative to the General Court, and for forty years served as deacon in the Unitarian church. Of the six children of John and Susan Smith, four are living: John, Jonathan, Caroline and Jeremiah.

Jonathan Smith remained at the family home in Peterboro until he was eighteen years of age, when he went to Keene, N. H., to learn the printing trade. In the summer of the same year (1861), when the first guns of the Civil war were still echoing in the South, he enlisted in the 6th New Hampshire Infantry, went to the front and loyally served his country until in 1863, when he was discharged on account of disability caused by sickness. In the following year he re-enlisted in the 1st New Hampshire Cavalry in which he served to the close of the war.

Returning home Mr. Smith determined to obtain further education and entered the NewHampton Institution, where he prepared for college. He was graduated from Dartmouth in 1871, following which he taught for a time in the Lancaster Academy and subsequently edited the Coos Republican. Resolved to adopt the profession of law, he began study in Manchester, and in 1875 was admitted to the bar. He practiced in that place until 1878, when he removed to Clinton, where he is now the oldest practicing lawyer.

Mr. Smith was married December 13, 1876, to Tirzah, daughter of Levi and Hannah (Drake) Dow, a native of New Hampton, N. II. She died in 1881, leaving one daughter, Susan D. He married, second, in 1886, Elizabeth C. Stearns.

In his profession Mr. Smith has achieved a large measure of success and has been called by his fellow-citizens to fill responsible positions. He served three years as city solicitor in Manchester and occupied the same office two years in Clinton. In 1882 he was appointed special justice of the Second District Court, which office he still holds. He is a consistent and loyal Republican and has ever been willing as a ready speaker and a fluent writer to uphold his political principles. In 1886 he was elected to the State Legislature in which he served one term. He wrote and published a valuable history of the old Trinity Lodge of Masons, in Clinton, which was organized in 1778 and became extinct in 1832. He wrote, also, a series of biographical sketches of the members of G. A. R. Post No. 64, in Clinton, of which he is adjutant, and has other historical publications in view. He has written and delivered a number of orations on public occasions, which have always been listened to with pleasure. Mr. Smith stands high in the Masonic order, having been past master of Trinity Lodge, past high priest of Clinton Chapter, past grand king of the Grand Chapter of Massachusetts, and president of the Twenty-five Associates.

He has been a member of the Clinton Historical Society since it was founded and is president of the Unitarian Society. He has been for many years president of the Worcester Conference of the Unitarian churches.

The personal character of Mr. Smith is marked by a high sense of professional and business honor and integrity, purity in public and domestic life, and unfailing courtesy towards his fellows. He possesses a large fund of general information and is thoroughly equipped professionally.

SMITH, JOSHUA BOWEN 1813-1879

JoshuaBSmith.png

From the biography on Blackpast.org:

Joshua Bowen Smith, caterer, abolitionist, and state senator, was born in Coatesville, Pennsylvania in 1813. Details regarding his childhood remain obscure. However, it is known that he was educated in the public school system of Pennsylvania with the assistance of a wealthy Quaker.

In 1836 Smith traveled to Boston and worked as a headwaiter at the Mount Washington House. After catering for prominent black Boston abolitionist families for several years he started his own catering establishment. Over the 25 years that followed he accumulated considerable wealth catering for numerous Boston abolitionist organizations and Union soldiers during the Civil War. In the process he was introduced to and befriended many notable abolitionists, including William Lloyd Garrison, George Luther Stearns, Robert Gould Shaw, Theodore Parker, and Charles Sumner.

Throughout his life Smith fought vigorously for the abolitionist cause. Along with Lewis Hayden he publicly denounced the 1850 Fugitive Slave Act, which made it a federal crime to assist run-away slaves or impede the process of their re-apprehension. Furthermore he aided fugitive slaves by employing them as caterers in his business. Among those he assisted were the famous couple, Ellen and William Craft. Additionally, through entertainments at Harvard College he amassed large sums, which enabled him to extravagantly cater for a host of anti-slavery events. A few of these events include meetings of the Massachusetts Female Anti-Slavery Society, the Twentieth Anniversary of the Liberator, (January 24, 1851) and the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation (September 22, 1862 and January 1, 1863).

Toward the end of his catering career Smith encountered financial hardship and eventual bankruptcy. On July 26, 1861 Smith presented a bill of $40,378 to Governor John Andrew for services rendered over a ninety-three day period to the 12th Massachusetts Regiment of Volunteers. Governor Andrew however, refused to pay the bill, stating that the state legislature had failed to appropriate the funds with which he could legally pay it. Curiously, all other catering bills were paid for by Governor Andrew in advance of later reimbursement by the state legislature.

Although Smith eventually did receive a nominal portion of his fee, he filed suit on May 24, 1879 against the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for the unpaid balance of $16,617.20. However, his unsuccessful suit only served to mount up additional debt through legal expenses.

Smith participated in numerous social and political activities over the course of his life, including representing Cambridge in the state legislature from 1873 to 1874. During his time in the legislature he served as the chairman of the Committee on Foreign Relations. Additionally, Smith was the first African American member (October, 1867) of the Saint Andrew’s Lodge of Freemasons of Massachusetts, where he served as the junior warden of the Adelphi Lodge of South Boston.

Joshua Bowen Smith died on July 5, 1879 in Boston, Massachusetts following a prolonged illness.

SMITH, ROLFE W. 1879-1931

From Proceedings, Page 1931-23:

R.W. Brother Smith was born in Leominster January 9, 1879, and died there February 13, 1931. He was educated in the Leominster High School and Dartmouth College from which he was graduated in 1901. Returning to Leominster, he beeame associated with his father in the business of the Richardson Piano Case Co., succeeding his father as Treasruer on his father's death. He became one of the most successful business men in that part of the state, holding many important positions as President or Director of business and financial corporations.

Brother Smith was Raised in Wilder Lodge May 6, 1902 and was elected Junior Warden in 1903, Senior Warden in 1904, and Master in 1905, a very unusual advancement for one so new to the Craft. He was District Deputy Grand Master for the Thirteenth Masonic District in 1921 and 1922 by appointment of M.W. Arthur D. Prince. He was a member of Leominster R. A. Chapter and of Jerusalem Commandery of Fitchburg.

Brother Smith was a man of the highest type as a man and a Mason. His loss is a severe blow to the Fraternity and to the community.

SMITH, SAMUEL 1784-1848

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. VII, No. 5, March 1848, Page 136:

Died, in Pepperell, Mass., Jan. 6th, 1848, Br. Samuel Smith, aged 64 years, a worthy member of St. Paul's Lodge, Groton. Br. Smith had seen a great deal of trial in this world. A number of times he had been burned out, but never cast down. He was an enterprising man, and a distinguished soldier of the Westford and Littleton Rifle Company, in the years of 1814, '15, &c. Soon do the moments of our being wing away the brief season of life. The ashes of a worthy Brother Mason will rest in the narrow house, till the Grand Master shall order them changed to proclaim that "time shall be no longer."

SMITH, WALTER HERBERT 1872-1947

SmithW.jpg

From Proceedings, Page 1947-248:

Brother Smith was born in Topsham, Maine, on March 14, 1872, and died suddenly at his home in Beverly, Massachusetts, on June 5, 1947.

At the age of around twenty, he entered the employ of the Boston & Maine Railroad, retiring in 1944 after serving over fifty years as Paymaster.

He was raised in Essex Lodge of Salem on November 6, 1894, and dimitted on May 1, 1900. He affiliated with Liberty Lodge of Beverly on June 25, 1900, and served as Master in 1906 and 1907. He was an Honorary Member of Constitutional Lodge of Beverly, England, and of Alexandria-Washington Lodge of Alexandria, Virginia, two Lodges that annually exchanged greetings with Liberty Lodge on Washington's Birthday.

In the Grand Lodge he served as Senior Grand Steward in 1909 and 1910, and as District Deputy Grand Master of the Ninth Masonic District in 1913 and 1914, by appointment of Most Worshipful Everett C. Benton and Most Worshipful Melvin M. Johnson. He received the Veteran's Medal awarded by Grand Lodge in 1944.

Brother Smith was also a member of the Scottish Rite Bodies in Salem, and of Massachusetts Consistory.

In the passing of Walter Smith, Masonry in Massachusetts, and particularly in the Ninth Masonic District, has lost one of its most ardent and active workers. No call for service was ever neglected.

Funeral services were held at the Lee & Moody Funeral Home in Beverly on Sunday, June 8, 1947, and the very large attendance of friends and Brothers spoke well of the high esteem in which he was held.

SMITH, WILLIAM A. 1824-1913

WilliamASmith.jpg

From Proceedings, Page 1913-212:

W. BRO. WILLIAM A. SMITH was born in Leicester, March 2, 1824, and died in his home at Worcester, Sept. 25, 1913, aged eighty-nine years and six months. He was a graduate of Harvard, in the class of 1843; Clerk of the first Common Council in Worcester, and the first Master of Montacute Lodge.

Brother Smith received his early education in Leicester Academy, Leicester, Derby Academy, Hingham, and in Harvard College. He studied law with Gov. Emory Washburn, was admitted to the bar, and in 1848 took a position in the office of the Clerk of the Courts for Worcester County. In 1865 he resigned, and from 1866 to 1869 was engaged in manufacturing business. In 1869 he became an agent for the Connecticut Mutual Life Insurance Company.

Brother Smith was District Deputy Grand Master of the Eleventh Masonic District in 1875, and was Past Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of Massachusetts. He received the Thirty-third Degree in Nashua, N. H., in 1864.

SMITH, WILLIAM HENRY LELAND 1824-1889

From Proceedings, Page 1890-13:

WILLIAM HENRY LELAND SMITH was born in Lowell, Vt., Nov. 16, 1824. He worked his way through the common schools, and then entered Dartmouth College, where, in 1845, he received the degree of A.B. He studied law at the Dane Law School of Harvard University, where, in 1848, he received the degree of LL.B.

His Masonic career began in 1850, and on June 10 he was admitted to Mount Lebanon Lodge, of Boston. He was Senior Warden in 1850-51, Worshipful Master from 1852 to 1855 inclusive, and Treasurer from 1856 to 1861. He was exalted in St. Paul's Chapter, of Boston, Sept. 13, 1850; was its High Priest in 1856-57, and Secretary, 1858-59. He was knighted in Boston Commandery, K.T., May 17, 1854, and was for some time its Recorder. In 1888 he was District Deputy Grand Master of the First District. He held the office of Grand King of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Massachusetts in 1858, and was Grand Recorder of the Grand Commandery in 1858, 59, 60.

About 1858, he associated with Samuel Downer in making oil from the Albert coal by distillation. In May, 1862, he went to Corry, Penn., where the celebrated Downer Oil Works were located, and remained there managing that vast enterprise for six years. Corry, from a population of a few hundreds, when he went there, grew to be a city in 1866, and he was elected its first mayor. In 1868 he returned to Boston, and was Treasurer and Director of the Downer Oil Company. He was a man of great executive ability, upright and honest. He began life very poor, but by industry acquired a considerable fortune.

He died Dec. 29, 1889, at his residence in Harrison square, Dorchester, and was buried with Masonic honors by Boston Commandery. He was a devoted and loyal Mason, a good Brother, and those who knew him best can attest that he was a true friend.

SNOW, HENRY ALLEN 1875-1946

From Proceedings, Page 1946-254:

Brother Snow was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on August 29, 1886, and died at the Cape Cod Hospital, Hyannis, on October 3, 1946.

After graduation from the public schools of Cambridge, he removed to Hyannis at the age of twenty and entered the employ of the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad. He served the Company as Station Agent at many points on Cape Cod and was holding that position in Wellfleet at the time of his death.

He was raised in Adams Lodge of Wellfleet on May 3, 1911, and served as Worshipful Master in 1921 and 1922 and as Secretary for the years 1938-1944 inclusive. In Grand Lodge he served as District Deputy Grand Master for the Provincetown 32nd District in 1932 and 1933, by appointment of Most Worshipful Curtis Chipman.

In addition to his Blue Lodge membership, Brother Snow was a member of Joseph Warren Royal Arch Chapter of Provincetown, and of Lafayette Lodge of Perfection, Scottish Rite, in Boston.

In church and civic life, he was an interested and active worker, serving as a Deacon of the First Congregational Church of Wellfeet, and as a member of the Board of Registrars of that Town.

The death of Henry Snow removed one of the most active workers in Freemasonry on Cape Cod, and he will be greatly missed by his host of friends.

SOULE, CHARLES S. 1858-1936

From Proceedings, Page 1936-103:

Brother Soule was born in Rockland May 3, 1858, and died at the home of his son in Waban March 25, 1936.

Brother Soule was one of the oldest living graduates of the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy, and was a practicing chemist during the whole of his active life. He served for a time as Government Sugar Inspector, and afterward for some forty years, was engaged in the production of tanning materials. For the last thirty years of his life he was a resident of New York City.

Brother Soule took his Masonic degrees in Soley Lodge in 1889 and 1890, was its Master in 1899-1900, and District Deputy Grand Master for the Sixth Masonic District in 1902 and 1903, by appointment of Most Worshipful Charles T. Gallagher and Most Worshipful Baalis Sanford. He was Junior Grand Steward in 1905, and Senior Grand Steward in 1906. His departure from the state about that time cut short a very promising Masonic career. During his stay here he earned the high esteem and full confidence ofhis associates and superiors in the Craft.

SOUTHWORTH, CONSTANT 1783-1860

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XIX, No. 12, October 1860, Page 383:

This venerable Brother was buried with Masonic honors at Stoughton, on Sunday, August 19th, by Mount Lebanon Lodge of Boston, officered by W. H. Sampson, W. M., Robert Keith, S. W. p. t., Samuel Jepson, J. W. p. t., and John L. Stevenson, Marshal.

The date of Bro. Southworth's membership is January 1st, 1807, and during the whole of nearly fifty-four years, he has been an active Mason, and has by example been an ornament to the fraternity as well as a support in the dark days of adversity, when the clouds lowered thick and heavy upon us. Owing to a very short notice it was found impracticable to procure the attendance of many members of his own Lodge, but in this the officers were fully compensated by meeting delegations from North Bndgewater, Foxboro and Randolph, which, when united with the members of [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=RisingStar Rising Star Lodge, of Stoughton, who, in the kindest manner possible, tendered the use of their Lodge room, as well as the services of their members, made a procession of about one hundred and twenty-five.

The funeral service was conducted by Rev. Bro. Dennis, in a most appropriate manner, in the Universalist Church; alter which the procession moved to the new Cemetery where the remains were deposited with the honors of Masonry; Rev. Bro. Dennis reading the service in conjunction with the W. M.

SPALDING, THORNDIKE 1871-1910

Bro. Thorndike Spalding, Senior Warden of Mount Olivet Lodge, of Cambridge, and Senator from the Second Middlesex District, died in Cambridge May 4, 1910, at the age of thirty-nine years. He graduated from Harvard College in 1895, and from the Harvard Law School in 1897. His life was crowded with useful activities. He was an able, efficient and conscientious legislator, and an unassuming, zealous and beloved Brother. His sincerity, ability and good nature were highly appreciated by his friends and colleagues, who were united in the warmest esteem and friendship for him. It is with sincere sorrow that we record the death of a Brother so young, so able, so promising.

SPINNEY, WILLIAM 1802-1885

WILLIAM N. SPINNEY, a signer of the Declaration of Freemasons in 1831, was born in Taunton, Mass., in 1802. He received the degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason, in Mount Hope Lodge, Fall River, in 1826; taking membership in King David Lodge, of Taunton, in the same year, and holding therein the positions of Junior and Senior Deacon and Junior and Senior Warden. Bro. Spinney afterwards removed to Lynn, Mass., and affiliated with Mount Carmel Lodge. The Capitular degrees were conferred upon him by Adoniram R.A. Chapter of Taunton (now of New Bedford), in 1827. In that body he was elected to the position of Master of the Vail, 1827-28-29; Captain of the Host, 1830; Principal Sojourner, 1832; Treasurer, 1832, and King, 1836. The Orders of Knighthood were conferred on him by Winslow Lewis Commandery, of Salem, in 1865. In early life Bro. Spinney was engaged in the retail shoe trade in Taunton, and during the anti-Masonic crusade he, in common with his Brethren, fully realized, in the persecutions suffered and in the almost entire ruin of his business, what it cost in those days to be a Mason. Removing to Lynn, he engaged in the boot and shoe business, and was at one time a large and successful manufacturer. He died in Lynn, February, 1885.

SPRAGUE, THOMAS 1822-1872

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXXI, No. 11, September 1872, Page 349:

This estimable brother died at his summer cottage in Hingham Centre on Saturday afternoon, August 17th, at the age of sixty years. He was a member and Past Master of Winslow Lewis Lodge of this city, by the members of which he was held in high and deserved esteem, and by whom his funeral was attended. He was also active in other branches of the Order. He was born in Hingham, but had lived in Boston over thirty years, engaged in active mercantile business. He had served the City, as a member of the Common Council and the Board of Alderman, and also in its fire department The disease of which he died was pneumonia.

SPURR, THOMAS S. 1850-1912

From Proceedings, Page 1912-123:

R.W. THOMAS S. SPURR was born in East Boston, Aug. 18, 1850, and died at his residence in Winchester, Aug. 25, 1912. His father, George W. Spurr, was treasurer of the town of Winchester many years. On his death, Mr. Thomas S. Spurr was elected to fill the office, which he did for twenty years, resigning about a year and a half ago on account of ill health. He was a public accountant of national reputation, being one of the seven certified public accountants in this Commonwealth. He is survived by a widow and one son, Rev. George E. Spurr.

Bro. Thomas S. Spurr received the Masonic degrees in William Parkman Lodge, of Winchester, in 1871-1872, and became a member March 12, 1872. He was Master of that Lodge in 1878 and 1879, and Secretary from Jan. 11, 1887, to Jan. 14, 1902, a period of fifteen years. He was District Deputy Grand Master of the Seventeenth Masonic District in 1882 and the Sixth Masonic District in 1883.

Brother Spurr was also Past High Priest of Woburn Royal Arch Chapter, and Past Commander of St. Bernard Commandery, K.T. Brother Spurr was deeply interested in his profession, active in matters concerning his adopted town, zealous in Masonic affairs, and a Brother of most kindly disposition and exemplary life. The Fraternity sincerely regrets the loss of his personal presence and zealous work.

STACHELHAUS, GUSTAV ADOLF 1877-1947

From Proceedings, Page 1947-192:

Brother Stachelhaus was born in Muelheim, Germany, on July 11, 1877, and died in Lawrence, Massachusetts, on March 23, 1947.

After graduation from the public schools of Lawrence, he entered the tobacco business, in which he remained until he became Deputy Sheriff of Essex County in 1921, a position he held until his death.

He was raised in Grecian Lodge of Lawrence on March 22, 1907, and served as Master of that Lodge in 1917 and 1918. He served as District Deputy Grand Master for the (Lawrence) 11th District in 1938 and 1939, by appointment of Most Worshipful Joseph Earl Perry.

In the collateral bodies he was a member of Mount Sinai Chapter, R. A. M.; Lawrence Council, R. & S. M., serving as Illustrious Master in 1924 and 1925; Bethany Commandery, K. T., serving as Commander in 1927; and formerly a member of the Scottish Rite bodies in Lawrence and of Massachusetts Consistory of Boston.

In his quiet and unobtrusive way, Gus Stachelhaus was ever an earnest and willing worker, not only in Freemasonry, but in all the many activities of his life, social, civic and religious.

Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Hans Sidon, Pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church, on Tuesday, March 25, and the presence of so many of his Brethren, friends and former associates, testified to the high esteem in which he was held. Six of the Past Masters of Grecian Lodge acted as Bearers.

His smiling face will not again be seen among us, but the delightful memories of a useful life will ever linger in the minds of those who served with him.

STEARNS, FRANK K. 1854-1934

From Proceedings, Page 1934-116:

Right Worshipful Brother Stearns was born in Cambridge November 26, 1854, and died in Lowell August l1, 1934.

Brother Stearns' family moved to Lowell while he was an infant. He was educated in the public schools of Lowell and for a short time was on the staff of the Lowell Courier. He then engaged in the laundry business and continued in it until his retirement a few years ago.

He was a very active and public-spirited citizen, serving the city of Lowell in many capacities, including those of Alderman, member of the School Committee, and member of the State Legislature in 1900 and 1901. He was also a trustee of the Lowell General Hospital and af the Central Savings Bank.

Brother Stearns took his Masonic degrees in Kilwinning Lodge in 1888 and was its Master in 1892, 1893, and 1895. He was District Deputy Grand Master for the Eleventh Masonic District in 1898 and 1899, by appointment by M. W. Charles C. Hutchinson.

He was a member and Past High Priest of Mt. Horeb Royal Arch Chapter, a member and Past Illustrious Master of Ahasuerus Council, Royal and Select Masters, a member and Past Commander of Pilgrim Commandery No. 9, K. T. He was a member of the Scottish Rite Bodies in Lowell, over two of which he had presided, and of Massachusetts Consistory. In 1905 he received the Thirty-third Degree and Honorary Membership in the Supreme Council.

For many years Brother Stearns was custodian of the Lowell Masonic apartments and Tyler of all the bodies meeting there. Through the personal contacts thus made with all the Masons of Lowell and many visitors, his Masonic influence was far reaching and of inestimable value. By his death the city of Lowell has lost one of its best known citizens and our Fraternity a loyal, devoted, and most useful member.

STEARNS, GEORGE CUSHMAN 1819-1886

From Proceedings, Page 1886-136:

Wor. George Cushman Stearns, Senior Grand Deacon of this Grand Lodge, died June 13, 1886, at Denver, Colorado, while on his way home from California. His funeral was solemnized at the Unitarian Church, Dedham, by his Brethren of the Lodge of St. Andrew; Wor. and Rev; Fielder Israel, Grand Chaplain, and the Temple Quartette, officiating.

Brother Stearns was made a Mason in Star of Bethlehem Lodge, Chelsea, January 24, 1844; admitted to membership in the Lodge of St. Andrew, June 14, 1844; elected Junior Warden, November, 1876; Senior Warden, 1878, and Master in 1880, which last position he held for four years, with commendable credit to himself and to the entire satisfaction of his Lodge.

He was the son of Charles and Martha Stearns, and was born March 4, 1819. He married Martha Jane Batchelder, of Portsmouth, N.H., March 18, 1841. Brother Stearns was engaged in the Insurance business from early manhood until his death, being associated with his brother, Edward Stearns, for the last twenty years. He was interested in the Mercantile Library Association. for nearly fifty years, and was a member of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company forty years.

As Master of the Lodge of St. Andrew he rendered valuable service to that Body, and presided over its deliberations with marked ability, proving a wise counselor and a zealous worker, with a clear and logical mind. His presence at the meetings was enjoyed by all, and by his absence, a genial, cheerful and social Brother is continually missed - by all those with whom he was so intimately associated.

STEELE, ISAAC A.S. 1840-1913

From Proceedings, Page 1913-74:

ISAAC A. S. STEELE was born in Gloucester, Feb. 2, 1840, and died at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, June 1, 1913.

After attending the public schools of his native town, he learned the trade of sailmaker at the loft of his father, and on the retirement of the latter succeeded to the business, which he continued until 1890, when he disposed of his business and retired.

Brother Steele took great interest in the material and political welfare of his native city, but declined public office during the town form of government. On the inauguration of the city government in 1873, he was a member of the first Common Council and was re-elected in 1875 and 1876. In 1877 and 1878 he represented his ward in the Board of Aldermen and proved himself a leading factor in determining the policy of the city in many directions. He represented the city in the Legislature of Massachusetts for four years - being a member of the House in 1881 and 1882, and of the Senate in 1883 and 1884.

He was a member of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts, and accompanied the Company on its visit to England in 1896. He was elected second lieutenant of the Company in 1907.

Brother Steele received the Masonic Degrees in The Tyrian Lodge in 1865, and served the Lodge as its Master in 1869, 1870, and 1871. He was District Deputy Grand Master of the Ninth Masonic District, 1894 and 1895. He was also a member of William Ferson Royal Arch Chapter, of which he was a Past High Priest, and of Bethlehem Commandery, Knights Templars.

Brother Steele is survived by his wife and two sons, Arthur H. Steele, of Gloucester, and George E. Steele, of Binghamton, N.Y. Our Brother was an earnest, zealous Freemason, who delighted in the association of his Brethren, and has left a memory fragrant with brotherly love and kindness.

STETSON, CALEB 1801-1885

From Proceedings, Page 1885-122:

CALEB STETSON, Braintree, who died in Georgia during the latter part of January, 1885, was born January 6, 1801. From an extended .obituary of the deceased, written by Wor. Bro. Samuel A. Bates, we learn that Bro. Stetson passed his minority in assisting his father in the grocery business. Having attained his majority he commenced the manufacture and sale of boots and shoes. Removing to Boston he continued the business of selling boots, shoes, and leather, which, being conducted with great ability, his firm became one of the largest, houses in that line in the city. He was a man of remarkable business capacity, enjoying the confidence of his fellow-citizens. In 1842 he was elected a Director of the Shoe and Leather Dealers' Bank, of Boston, and became President thereof in 1857, continuing to fill that office for ten years. He was made a Mason in Orphan's Hope Lodge, of East Weymouth, about 1826. He was buried by that Lodge with Masonic ceremonies.

STEVENS, JUSTIN E. 1822-1852

  • MM 1843, Mount Lebanon

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XII, No. 3, January, 1853, p. 94:

In this city, on the morning of the 17th December, Dr. Justin E. Stevens, youngest son of Dr. John Stevens, aged 30.

Dr. Stevens was a graduate of the Military Academy of Vermont, under the charge of Capt. Partridge. He afterwards studied medicine in this city, and received a diploma from Harvard University. On the breaking out of the war with Mexico, he received an appointment as surgeon in the army, and was present at the taking of the city of Mexico. On the establishment of peace, he returned home, bringing with him, like hundreds of others, the seeds of the disease which finally terminated his existence on earth.

He was made a Mason soon after attaining to his majority, and was a member of the Boston Encampment of Knights Templars at the time of his death. He was a young man of great purity of character, and was highly esteemed by all who knew him, for the amiability of his temper and excellent social qualities. His friends will long lament his premature death, as the loss of one to whom they had become endeared through warm, social and fraternal relations. He leaves a young and accomplished wile—an aged father, and brothers and sisters, to embalm his memory in tears of sorrow.

His funeral was attended by his military and Masonic friends, from the residence of his father, on Monday, the 20th. The President elect, Gen. Pierce, to whose regiment the deceased was attached, while in Mexico, was present, and united in paying the usual military honors to his memory.

STODDER, CHARLES WILLIAM 1865-1913

From Proceedings, Page 1914-40:

Dr. Charles William Stodder, son of John W.T. and Ella E. (Potter) Stodder, was born in Boston, April 10, 1965, and died in Marshfield Hills, Dec. 12, 1913. He was educated in the public schools of Boston, and after serving some months as a clerk, he atended Tufts Medical College from which he graduated in 1898. He was a member of the Massachusetts Medical Society, the American Medical Association, the Hatherly Medical Club and the Massachusetts Association of Boards of Health. He practiced his profession in Boston from June, 1898 to May, 1899, when he removed to Marshfield Hills and continued his practice until about six weeks before his death. He was a member of the Marshfield Board of Health twelve years.

Brother Stodder was proposed as a candidate for Masonry in Satuit Lodge of Scituate, May 6, 1903, and during the following months received the degrees, becoming a member of the Lodge Sept. 30, 1903. He was Master of Satuit Lodge in 1907 and 1908, and held the office of District Deputy Grand Master of the Twenty-fifth Masonic District in 1910 and 1911.

As a man, physician, neighbor and Brother, he was beloved by all. Satuit Lodge loses in his death its staunchest supporter. He worked unceasingly for the upbuilding of Freemasonry and for the uplifting of mankind.

STONE, CHARLES A. 1868-1941

From Proceedings, Page 1941-197:

Right Worshipful Brother Stone was born in Boston on June 15, 1868, and died at his home in Methuen on September 2, 1941.

Brother Stone was an engineer in the mills at Lawrence for about twelve years, but for the past forty years was superintendent of the Bay State Building in that city.

He received his Masonic degrees in Grecian Lodge in 1899 and served as Worshipful Master in 1915 and 1915. In Grand Lodge, he served as District Deputy Grand Master of the Eleventh District in 1922 and 1923, by appointmenrs of Most Worshipful Arthur D. Prince and Most Worshipful Dudley H. Ferrell.

Knighted in Bethany Commanderl, K.T., he was for many years Recorder and later Treasurer, which office he held at the time of his death. He was also a member of Lawrence Lodge of Perfection, A.A.S.R.

He always took an active interest in civic affairs and served as Chairman of the Board of Assessors. He was a Deacon in Trinity Congregational Church and was also active in the Rotary Club and the Lawrence Cooperative Bank, of which he was a director.

He is survived by his widow and one son.

We recall our Brother as a man of pleasing personality and high character and gladly pay tribute to his services and his memory.

STOVER, WILLIS W. 1870-1941

From Proceedings, Page 1941-195:

Brother Willis Stover was born in Charlestown, Massachusetts, on March 19, 1870, and died at his home in Everett June 12, 1941.

After graduation from the Boston Latin School, Harvard University and Boston University Law School, he entered the practice of law, which profession he followed throughout his life. He had been Associate Justice of the Charlestown District Court since 1914.

He enlisted as a private in Company A of the 5th Regiment, M.V.M., in 1886 and was active in military affairs from that date. F{e became Captain of his Company during service in the Spanish-American War, commanded the 3d Pioneer Infantry in France during the World War and was Colonel of the 5th Regiment, M.V.M., from 1916 to 1920.

At the time of Brother Stover's passing, he was Vice-President of the Charlestown Five Cents Savings Bank anda Director and Trustee of the Everett National Bank. During his long and useful life he was active in civic, fraternal and military organizations.

Brother Stover was raised in Henry Price Lodge on March 30, 1892, and served as Master in 1902 and 1903. He was also a Charter Member of Galilean Lodge in 1922, dimitting therefrom in 1933. In Grand Lodge, he served as Grand Sword Bearer in 1914, 1915 and 1916, by appointment of Most Worshipful Melvin M. Johnson, and as District Deputy Grand Master of the Third Masonic District in 1920 and 1921, by appointment of Most Worshipful Arthur D. Prince.

He was exalted in the Royal Arch Chapter of the Signet, R.A.M., in Charlestown on December 16, 1897; greeted in Orient Council, R. & S. M., Somerville, June 22, 1899, and knighted in Coeur de Lion Commandery, No. 34, K.T., Charlestown, March 15, 1898. Military funeral services were held at the Grace Episcopal Church, Everett, on Sunday, June 15, and burial was in Woodlawn Cemetery.

He is survived by his widow, Alice Beswick Stover.

Brother Stover always maintained a keen interest in Masonry and was ever ready to serve as far as his active life would permit. His passing is a distinct loss in business, military and fraternal circles and his many friends will miss his genial presence.

STRAIN, DANIEL J. 1846-1925

From Proceedings, Page 1925-204:

R. W. Daniel J. Strain died June 7, 1925. R,.W. Bro. Strain was born in Littleton, New Hampshire, November 17, 1846. His aetive life was passed in thd City of Boston, where he devoted himself to art. His natural talent was developed by careful training including study abroad. At the height of his career he produced work which gave great pleasure to its possessors.

Brother Strain was initiated in Winslow Lewis Lodge March 9, 1877, passed April 13, 1877, and raised May 11, 1877. At that time membership in the Lodge did not, as now, automatically follow raising, but was obtained by separate application which was sometimes delayed. This appears to be the case with Brother Strain as we find his membership in Winslow Lewis Lodge record-ed as of February 22, 1878. He served Winslow Lewis Lodge as its Worshipful Master in 1892 and 1893. He served the Grand Lodge as Junior Grand Steward in 1898, and was District Deputy Grand Master for the First Masonic District in 1902 and 1903, being appointed by M. W. Charles T. Gallagher, and serving one year under him and one year under M.W. Baalis Sanford.

R. W. Bro. Strain was a very familiar figure in Grand Lodge as he held the proxy of Ancient Landmark Lodge, of China, in 1909, 1910, and 1911. He was then appointed proxy for Sinim Lodge, of China, and held that commission from 1912 to the time of his death. He was very attentive to his duties, and will be greatly missed from his accustomed place in the Grand Lodge.

STUDLEY, BENJAMIN 1786-1867

  • MM 1820, Old Colony
  • Petitioner for the return of Charter, 1851

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, vol. XXVI, No. 8, June 1867, Page 249:

Hingham, April 16, 1867.

  • Whereas, it hath pleased God our Heavenly Father to call from labor on earth to the good man's reward in heaven our excellent and beloved brother, Benjamin Studley, therefore, —
  • Resolved, That, in the departure of our venerable brother, at the advanced age of four score years, we recognize the orderly and beautiful operation of that decree of infinite wisdom which consigns dust to dust for the birth of the ready soul into the higher life which awaits us beyond the grave.
  • Resolved, That Old Colony Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, of which our departed brother was a member for almost half a century, therein discharging with great fidelity the several offices he was elected to through a long series of years, desire to place on record their sense of his distinguished worth as a man and a Mason, their high appreciation of his many virtues and his genuine Christian character.
  • Resolved, That, while the old familiar places shall know him no more forever, the memory of our esteemed and estimable brother will long be cherished by his associates as a precious legacy of good example, of high moral influence, holy desire and endeavor, and be to all of us a constant incentive to whatsoever things are pure and lovely and of good report.
  • Resolved, That we deeply sympathize with his family and friends in their bereavement, and that we commend them to the joy of that faith which is the strong assurance that for the Christian to die is gain, and which has no doubt or peradventure that heaven has one angel more when the good man goes hence; to the love of God, and the consolations of his spirit through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Rev. Joshua Young,
E. Waters Burr,
Enos Loring,
Committee.

C. W. S. Seymour, Secretary of Old Colony Lodge.

STURGIS, JOSIAH 1794-1850

JosiahSturgis.jpg

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, vol. IX, No. 10, August 1850, Page 319:

We realize it as a melancholy duty that we are called to discharge, in recording the death of this estimable and zealous Brother. He died in this city, on the 28th June last. On the 26th, we met him at Burlington, Vt. Though in feeble health, he joined the Masonic procession on that day, in his regalia as a Knight Templar, and marched a portion of the route assigned for it. At the table, he was cheerful, and addressed the Brethren in his usual manner. He was a benevolent and faithful Mason, and his memory will long be cherished with affection by his Brethren. The following notice of his decease appeared in the Boston Courier of the 29th June:—

"Capt. Sturgis, commander of the Boston Revenue cutter, long known as a most efficient officer of the revenue service,—an excellent commander,—a thoroughbred sailor,—and a man respected in his calling as always ready to respond to its duties,—died on board the cutter Hamilton, yesterday afternoon, a little after 5 o'clock, in an apopletic fit. Though his death was sudden, it was not unexpected, for he had been ailing for some months past, under affections of the heart, liver and kidneys. He attended the public celebration of the Freemasons, on Wednesday, at Burlington, and returned to this city, on Thursday evening. He was in the street about his customary business yesterday. He passed down State street at half past four in the afternoon, and at a quarter before five went on board his vessel then anchored off Long wharf. While in conversation with his carpenter in the cabin, he was seized with apoplexy, which produced almost instant death. His age was about 56. His body was taken to the Seamen's Bethel, in North Square. His will, which has not yet been opened, gives instruction as to the disposition which is to be made of his remains.

"Capt. Sturgis was born in Boston, and his father was a well known hat manu¬ facturer in Ann-street. He entered the merchant service while quite a youth, and made voyages both around Cape Horn and the Cape of Good Hope to the Indies. After attaining his rank in the Revenue service, he commanded on the New Bedford station, and was afterwards transferred to Boston, where he has been stationed for many years, and has been the most popular officer who ever held command in this district.

"Few individuals were better known to the public than Capt. Sturgis. In the discharge of his duty as commander of the Hamilton, he will long be remembered by the navigators who have been compelled to approach our stormy coast amid the severities of winter, as well as upon other occasions of disaster.

"Capt. Sturgis was a most conscientious and thorough Freemason. He attended the late Masonic celebration of St. John's day at Burlington. On his arrival at Burlington, he met an old acquaintance, a gentleman of property, formerly a Boston ship master, who took him in hand, that he might be relieved from much of the excitement of the occasion. The hand of death at that time was apparently upon him. To the hospitable family of which he was a guest, he admitted that by the averment of his physicians, he was likely to die at any moment.

"He had never before been out of the reach of the sniff of salt water. " He had never been so far inland, and expressed his surprise and admiration of the mountains and the lake—the scenery and the country. He survived the journey back to Boston, but the fatal moment which he apprehended, followed soon afterwards. He had foibles but no faults. He had generosities and capabilities, which were freely exercised during his active life. It must be a good man, and an extraordinary man, who perfectly fills the place of Josiah Sturgis."

He was buried on Sunday afternoon, (30th) with military and civic honors. A large number of his Masonic Brethren attended the funeral, which was numerous and imposing. The sermon was preached by the venerable Brother, Rev. Edward T. Taylor, the "seaman's friend." On hearing of the death of Capt. Sturgis, the Grand Lodge of Vermont, as a token of respect to his memory, clothed their jewels in mourning.

Description of his funeral oration, by Edward T. Taylor, Grand Chaplain; from The Life of Father Taylor, 1904:

No one attracted more attention or was held in higher esteem among the noted figures in Boston prior to 1850 than Captain Josiah Sturgis, of the revenue cutter "Hamilton." Related as he was to prominent famihes of Boston and London, his funeral on June 29, 1850, attended by State and City officials, Military companies, officers of the Army and Navy, members of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company, large bodies of Free and Accepted Masons and Odd Fellows, presented an imposing appearance, and was an occasion to call forth the best powers of Father Taylor.

After a fervent and earnest prayer and the singing of hymn 425 in the Methodist Collection Hymn-book, Father Taylor delivered the following sermon from the second chapter of the Gospel according to Saint John, second verse, — " Our friend Lazarus sleepeth."

"It is not usual with me to preach a funeral sermon to so large a congregation of mourners. In most cases of a large audience the greater part of the spectators are excited by mere curiosity. Here are those authorized to bear steel, believers in peace, yet defenders of the right, the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company, the Masonic Societies, the Odd Fellows, the Defenders of the Just, the Collectors of Customs, the Marine Societies, all interested, all mourners.

"The deceased has not left us to build his monument, except to erect a few stones: he has built his own monument. If I say, He is here, this will not suffice. We know he is here. He is dead; and who takes pleasure in the deadly echo? None! In the days of Robespierre it was resolved that there was no God, and again resolved that death was eternal sleep; but our Lord says of Lazarus, ' Our Lazarus is not dead, but sleepeth.' There might be some men who constitutionally could not believe in the Reanimating. He thanked God that He could do so. Martha believed that Jesus could only restore from disease, but He showed that He was the Resurrection and the Life: 'He that believeth in me shall have everlasting life.'

"There are two lights in which the Saviour appears as important to us, the Death and the Resurrection. It was said in tradition that birds could not fly over the Dead Sea, but that was proved not to be true; but, if there be a discrepancy in the character of God, faith will not assent until the discrepancy be made good. It would not be what the Rev. Mr. Such-an-one might say about it, for they have stirred up more than they have settled; but the Bible would not exhibit any such discrepancy. Who, let me ask, was ever sent to the gallows, the state prison, or the house of correction, by imitating the character of Christ, or by loving Him with all his heart and soul, and his neighbor as himself? God did not make the body: He formed it; but He made an immortal soul. When we speak of a man, we do not mean his coat. In the wear and tear of the body the coat may be torn, the body may be wearied and worn out and require a watch below, and sleepeth not a dishonest sleep, but the rest of a deserving spirit.

"The classic countenance, the quiet beauty of the human form, would seem to say, There is no death. But here before you. Brethren, is the answer, — he sleeps under protection: 'Knock, and it shall be opened unto you.' He has knocked, and entered into his reward. Manly on earth, he has received the diploma of his deeds. The jewel of the heart is bright: it is a jewel not to be speculated with. Lazarus' death was premature. The same death scene had to be gone through with a second time, doubly painful, — a second time the hectic flush, the cough, the winding-sheet, the funeral train. The form before us was prepared : we do not wish to call him back !

"In his will he says, ' I leave the world in peace with all men, and to God I commend my spirit.' Never designedly injuring any one or being injured by design by any one, calmly and composedly he sits down to write the beautiful sentence. In his own beautiful handwriting he leaves this testament to us, signed " Josiah Sturgis," and duly sealed. Turn to Saint John, and we find that he says that 'now. Brethren, we are sons of God'; and, again, 'When He comes He will be with us. ' It signified that the Saviour was with us as a Comforter, and takes it for granted that He will come. The man has gone. The long list of widows and other recipients of his charities will miss him when Thanksgiving and Christmas come round. Odd Fellow? Yes, he was an odd fellow: he kept one hand in his pocket and the other feeling for some object of charity. Farewell, Brother. I shall meet you in the Vale where you have gone to Rest."

Biography in "Heroes of the U.S. Coast Guard"

SWAIN, JOHN H(OWLAND). 1823-1908

From Proceedings, Page 1908-17:

John H. Swain, of North Easton, died at his residence in that town Feb. 23, 1908. He was a member of Paul Dean Lodge in that town, and served as its Master in 1877 and 1878, and was District Deputy Grand Master of District No. 22 in 1884, 1885 and 1886, A zealous and faithful Brother, whose interest in the welfare of our Fraternity never faltered, who lived and died honored and beloved by his Brethren.

SWAIN, OLIVER 1796-1886

From Proceedings, Page 1886-139:

Wor. Oliver Swain was born at Wilmington, Mass., June 25, 1796, and removed soon after, with his father's family, to South Reading, now Wakefield, where he continued to reside until 1817, when, having attained his majority, and being armed with a certificate of his correct habits, good morals, and diligence in business, signed by the clergyman of his parish and the selectmen of the town, he proceeded to New Bedford, Mass., where, during his residence of nearly seventy years, he gave the fullest proof of the truthfulness of that testimonial. His death occurred on Tuesday, October 26, 1886. The Masonic Fraternity, under the direction of Star in the East Lodge, attended his funeral and interred his remains with the formalities of the Order, on Thursday the 28th.

Brother Swain married Amy Russell, daughter of William Russell, Jr. Two children, Mr. Revilo Swain, of San Francisco, and Mrs- Maria Callender, of Buffalo, N.Y., survive him.

Brother Swain was made a Mason in Mount Moriah Lodge at South Reading, W. Bro. Knights, Master, December 24, 1822. He became a Charter member of Star in the East Lodge, established in New Bedford in 1823, and was its Wor. Master in 1827. He was the last surviving Charter member of Star in the East Lodge.

He was one of the forty-four signers to the Declaration of the Free Masons of Boston and vicinity from New Bedford, which was presented to the public December 31, 1831. He was a member of the Common Council of New Bedford in 1848, '49, '50 and '51, and was an Alderman ofthe same city in 1855. About 1820 Brother Swain was commander of the militia in New Bedford, having been commissioned by Gov. John Brooks.

In a note received by me in 1884, from Brother Swain, he says, " I am and have been (ever since the W.M. was pleased to say to me You there stand a just and upright Mason; and I give it you strictly in charge ever to walk and act as such) a full-blooded Mason, day and night." In connection with a written request, made in 1866, upon the forty-fourth anniversary of his becoming a Mason, regarding his final sickness and burial, he says, "I have been with the Lodge through evil as well as good report, with my colors always NAILED to the mast-head."

Brother Swain was remarkably genial and social until within a few years, when he became very deaf. His house was the home of hospitality and many will recall his generous welcome. Ripe with years of sobriety, industry and morality, this venerable, devoted member of our Fraternity has passed from the life of earth to the unseen and eternal. Treasuring his illustrious example, may we reach the same goal of rest and peace.

SWAN, JOSHUA AUGUSTUS 1788-1867

  • MM 1816, Hiram
  • Member 1826, Charter Member at Restoration 1845, Pentucket

At the last Regular Convocation of Ahasuerus Council of Select and Royal Masters, held in Lowell, May 6th, Anno Depositi 2767, the following Preamble and Resolutions were unanimously adopted : —

  • Whereas, it hath pleased the Supreme Architect of the Universe to remove by death our worthy and esteemed Companion, Joshua Swan, Past Thrice Illustrious Grand Master of Ahasuerus Council, therefore:
  • Resolved, That our heartfelt sympathies be tendered to the widow and other members of the family of the deceased, in view of their trying bereavement, with the assurance that they have our kindest wishes for their comfort here and their eternal happiness hereafter.
  • Resolved, That the succeeding page of this record he dedicated to the memory of our deceased companion, and that his name, age, and date of his death be recorded thereon.
  • Resolved, That a copy of these Resolutions he transmitted to the family of the deceased; also to the Masonic Magazine for publication.

Edward B. Howe, Recorder.

Ancestry.com page

SWETT, E. LESTER 1891-1938

From Proceedings, Page 1938-58:

Right Worshipful Brother Swett was born in Dedham, March 26, 1891, and died there February 8, 1938.

Brother Swett was educated in the Dedham schools and spent his active life in banking. At the time of his death he was in the service of the Old Colony Trust Company.

He was raised in Constellation Lodge December 9, 1914, and served it as Master in 1931. He was appointed Senior Grand Deacon in 1932 and was District Deputy Grand Master for the Hyde Park Twenty-fifth Masonic District in 1933 and 1934, by appointment by Most Worshipful Curtis Chipman. At the time of his death he was Representative of the Grand Lodge of Guatemala near this Grand Lodge.

Brother Swett united to conspicuous ability a very pleasing personality. His passing at an early age is mourned deeply by a wide circle of friends.

SYLVESTER, CHARLES W. 1858-1927

From Proceedings, Page 1927-23:

R.W. Charles W. Sylvester was born at Northport, Maine, June 25, 1858. After receiving a common school education he learned, and practiced the trade of steamfitter.

For many years he was an instructor in the Reformatory at Concord Junction. While there he became interested in Masonry and joined Corinthian Lodge of which he became a member in 1905. He was Worshipful Master of his Lodge in 1915, and upon his retirement from the Master's chair became Treasurer, which position he held continuously from 1916 to the time of his death which took place January 15, 1927. He served as District Deputy Grand Master for the 12th Masonic District in 1919 by appointment of M. W. Leon M. Abbott, and in 1920 by appointment of M.W. Arthur D. Prince.

He is survived by his wife, no children having been born to them.

R.W. Bro. Sylvester won the respect of all with whom he came in contact buz his upright charaeter, the firmness of his convictions, and the courage with which he invariably supported them. His efficient service as District Deputy Grand Master won the confidence and respect of the Grand Masters whom he represented and the Lodges among which he served, and the affectionate regard of his Brethren in Corinthian Lodge went out to him in unstinted measure through the many years of his service as an officer.


Distinguished Brothers