MassachusettsHamiltonHistoryCh17
CHAPTER 17: JOHN DIXWELL
At the close of his administration Grand Master Oliver presented to the December Quarterly of 1819 a very comprehensive and detailed report of the condition of the Craft in Massachusetts. It presents such a complete and vivid a picture of the situation then existing that it is well worth reproduction.
REPORT OF THE GRAND MASTER FRANCIS J.OLIVER ESQR
ON THE STATE OF THE LODGES UNDER
THIS JURISDICTION.
Brethren:
At the Quarterly Communication in March last a vote was passed in Grand Lodge requesting "the Gd Master to ascertain and report what Lodges under this jurisdiction are delinquent in the payment of their dues to the Gd Lodge, for what length of time they have been delinquent, and also to ascertain what is the present condition and prospects of said Lodges."
Impressed with the importance of such information as is required by this vote, and finding that the existing returns give but a mere list of the officers, number of members & initiates in each Lodge; I addresses a circular to the several D. D. G. Masters, soon after my election to the office in which your suffrages have placed me the last three years, desiring them to make returns of the actual condition of the several Lodges within their respective Districts.- This call being, perhaps from its novelty, but partially attended to, prevented my then giving to the Grand Lodge the statement contemplated.- My efforts the second year were also ineffectual; the last application, has met with better, though not complete success, and from the returns of the three years, aided by the records of our worthy Treasurer, I am now enabled to give a tolerably correct view of all the Districts under the jurisdiction.-
Believing that as great evils my result from protracted indulgence as from rigid severity, and that an impartial award of praise where deserved and of censure were merited, will have a beneficial effect; I shall proceed to give you in detail the result of my enquiries and in executing the task shall "nothing extenuate, nor set down ought In malice."-
The 1st Masonic District (Rt W Thomas Power DDGM) comprises 18 Lodges, which are reported to be "in such good order and condition, that it would be impossible to select one which is not deserving a favorable representation." The Brethren are in general zealous and attentive, correct in their work and lectures.- A few irregularities were witnessed in some of the Lodges which by the exertions of the well disposed members, are now reformed.- All dues to the Gd Lodge from this District are fully paid and the united funds of the several lodges amount to upwards of $1200 (1219.82).
An Important improvement introduced into this District deserves particular notice, and is worthy the imitation of all the Lodges under the jurisdiction - The D. D. G. M. closes his remarks in saying, "It is highly gratifying to observe that the practice of having refreshments is almost entirely abolished throughout the District."
From D. D. G. Master of the 2nd District (RtW Andrew Nichols) I have no other than the formal returns, unaccompanied with remarks; but hearing no complaints from that quarter, it may be inferred that all is harmonious and correct -- All dues from this District in which are nine Lodges are paid.-
The 3rd District comprises 8 Lodges (Rt W Sylvester Baker D. D. G. M.) which had been so much neglected for several years, that I thought it expedient specially to commission a skilful brother, to visit, inspect and make returns of their situation - Rt. W. Brother Fowle was selected for the task, and at the most inclement period of the severe winter of 5818, he, at great personal hazard, executed the service with that zeal, fidelity and ability for which he has been long eminent. He was welcomed with great cordiality by most of the Lodges, the members of which expressed a high degree of pleasure at renewing an intercourse with the Gd Lodge, which some of them had too much reason to fear for ever terminated. - Bro Fowle adjusted accounts which, owing to the embarrassing situation of D. D. G. M. Waterman and the total neglect of his successor, had remained for years unsettled - By his judicious arrangements, seconded by the attention and talents of the Rt. W. Brother who has since held the office of D. D. G. M. a majority of the Lodges are in a comparatively flourishing condition. - From this number however are to be excluded "Adams" Lodge at Wellfleet.- and "Forefathers Rook" at Plymouth, which are almost 9 years in arrears to the Gd lodge; during which period they have held few or no Meetings - There can be no question as to the expediency of recalling the Charters of these Lodges - "Fellowship" Lodge at Bridgewater is represented as having been for several years very unfortunate in their Officers and instead of paying their dues to the Gd Lodge have converted their funds to other objects. A number of worthy members have lately come forward, and by their exertions have raised the Lodge to a respectable standing, but being destitute of funds, are unable to pay the debt incurred by their unworthy predecessors.- They are now disposed to hold their meetings regularly and to pay their dues punctually hereafter, if they can obtain a remission of the old debt." which is about 80 Dollars — The other Lodges in this District, viz., - "Old Colony" at Hingham - "Corner Stone" at Duxbury - "Fraternal" at Barnstable — "Sumner" at Dennis - and King Hiram at Provincetown, have paid all arrearages and are well conducted, but the total amount of their funds does not exceed $175.
From the 4th District (Abiathar Richardson Jnr DDGM) the Lodges, 7 in number, are reported to be in a favorable state, with the exception of "Eastern Star" Lodge, from which no returns have been made for the last three years, and which are indebted to the Gd Lodge, for dues & initiation fees accrued during that period - "King David" Lodge has made no returns the present year, "St. Albans" is still encumbered with some demands incurred at its establishment, but is not in debt to the Gd Lodge; The aggregate funds of 5 Lodges in this District are estimated at upwards of $3000.
The 5th District (Rt W David Wilder DDGM) embraces 8 Lodges. "Trinity" at Lancaster has met with heavy losses, but is in a state of improvement -"Middlesex" at Framingham, the harmony of which was at one period seriously disturbed, has recovered itself, and a good effect may be expected to result from its temporary derangement -"StPaul" at Groton continues to maintain that truly masonic character for which it has been long eminently distinguished - "Corinthian" at Concord have flattering prospects; much work has been done the past year and to good advantage - In "Social" Lodge at Ashby, laudable exertions are making to restore its declining credit, and it is believed they will be crowned with success, its dues for 5817 are unpaid- "Aurora," at Leominster, is prosperous, and "Fredonia" at Northboro, respectable, but not so flourishing as its members with a little exertion might render it. - In "Pentucket" Lodge at Chelmsford, serious difficulties arose during the last year, and application was made to me by several of the brethren to take some measures for the restoration of its harmony and unanimity.-In consequence of which, I requested a highly respected brother (Rt W John Abbot Esqr) to investigate the causes of dissatisfaction, & to endeavor by his influence to terminate existing divisions- He promptly undertook the task, and for some time we were flattered with the belief that the object was attained, but within a few weeks, discords have again broken out with such virulence as to threaten the dissolution of the Lodge,- The subject having been placed in the hands of a Committee at the last communication of the Gd Lodge, I forbear to make any comment upon it - The amount of funds in this district is estimated at about $3000.
Of the 10 Lodges in the 6th District (Rt W Ja F Robbins D.D.G.M.) "Morning Star" at Worcester, "Thomas" at Munson- "Mount Zion" at Hardwick - and "Thompson" at Rutland, are represented as in a high state of improvement, the members deserving praise for their conduct as men, and for their work as Masons.- "Solomons Temple" recently established at Uxbridge, "promises well, and has laboured much."
To the other Lodges, not much credit can he justly awarded, "Fayette" at Charlton are "doing better than they have done, but not as they ought," the officers neither understand work nor lectures" - In "Meridian Sun" at Brookfield more attention is paid to refreshments, than to the great objects of its institution - "Olive Branch" at Sutton, and "Harris" at Templeton, are declining for want of harmony among the members - and "Humanity" Lodge at Brimfield, only 7 Miles from "Thomas" one of the most correct and best Lodges under the Jurisdiction, is incorrect both in work and lectures - This district is not in debt to the Gd Lodge and the aggregate amount of funds is about $8500.
The 7th District (Revd Titus Strong D D G M ) comprises 13 Lodges, seven of which possess funds, to an amount of nearly $700. "Federal" Lodge at Blandford, owes $24 a balance of fees, accrued the two past years: Two or Three years since it was on the decline, but it is now rapidly improving in knowledge, zeal, and respectability - "Republican" at Greenfield, having recently built a Hall at an expense of nearly $700, has suffered itself to fall in arrears to the Gd Lodge for amount of dues and initiation fees ($88) the present year, which I have the personal assurance of the Master, shall be paid before the close of the next - It is considered as respectable as any Lodge in the district , and is doing well - It may not be improper here to remark, that too many of our Lodges appear to lose sight of the fact, that they receive three dollars from every initiate, solely to the use of the Gd Lodge, of which in this case they are simply trustees and as such, have not the shadow of an excuse for not promptly paying when called upon by the constituted authority, the sums which they may have received, and that the payment or transmission of them to the Gd Lodge through its constitutional agent, can with no propriety be considered a burthen, or a surrender of that to which the subordinate Lodge ever had a claim.- It differs essentially from the annual fee, as the latter is drawn from the regular funds of the Lodge, and three dollars of the initiation fee never constituted a part of them - "Harmony" Lodge of Northfield - "Mount Vernon" at Belchertown - "Friendly Society" at West Springfield - have all paid their dues to the Gd Lodge, are possessed of accumulating funds, and their members are highly respectable - The good effects of the removal of "Jerusalem" Lodge from Williamsburg to Northampton are very apparent, it is now entirely renovated, and holds a distinguished place in the District - "Mount Pleasant" at Granville and "Rising Sun" at Sandisfield are 5 years in arrears to the Grand Lodge; the former owes $76 - and the latter $73; of the payment of which their is little or no hope - Their charters should be recalled - "Pacific" Lodge at Amherst is indebted $77 - for the five years preceding the last, with the dues of $17 for the last year, the D D G M received a Letter from the Sec'y of Pacific Lodge, acknowledging its remissions for years past, attributing it to a want of ambition, energy and regularity, in both Officers and Members, expressing the determination of the Lodge that in future its affairs shall be conducted with propriety, and praying that a few weeks longer may be allowed to regulate them, and to settle accounts with the Gd Lodge - From- the pledge they have given of the sincerity of their intentions, by paying their dues for last year, perhaps it would be well to grant the indulgence solicited.-"Orion" Lodge at Cummington owes the Gd Lodge $56 for the 4 last years, and there is no hope of payment; its members 15 in number, are worthy and respectable, but its prospects are unfavorable, it has no funds and no work has been done since 5817. Its Charter should be resumed at least for the present,- "Golden Rule" at New Salem owes $34 for the last 2 years, no return has been received from the Lodge for the year now closing; but it is believed the dues will be paid - "Mountain" Lodge at Colerain has been in operation but 9 months, during which it has received 24 initiates, Including one clergyman - A gross evasion of the 10th Section 5th Chapter of our regulations "has been practised by this Lodge in remitting 3 Dollars to all but the clerical initiate, a conduct which calls for a prompt and decided expression of the disapprobation of the Gd Lodge - The total amount now due from eight Lodges in this District is very little short of $500 (estimated $503) more than half of which will unquestionably be lost, and if the charters are not recalled where the deficiencies are so great, the evil will undoubtedly increase:- The meritorious and judicious Deputy of this District closes his remarks as follows - viz- "It is an evil in itself and by no means for the Interest of the Gd Lodge or of Masonry in general, that the Lodges in this District are so numerous a division would be of service, leaving Greenfield in the center of the North, and Springfield in that of the South, but a deprivation of Charters in several instances would be found more permanently useful - I find that those Lodges which are generally deficient in their dues, complain much of the burden, imposed by the Constitution, while such as are regular in their payment are perfectly satisfied.- It is worthy of consideration whether an extended lenity to those who are deficient, may not be the means of producing and confirming a disaffection to the most salutary regulations of the Gd Lodge."
In the 8th District (Honbl John Whiting D.D.G.M.) are 8 Lodges. "Friendship" at Williamstown - and "Sheffield" at Sheffield have made no returns and paid no dues to the Gd Lodge these 5 years past - "Evening Star" at Lenox has made no returns, and paid no dues to the Gd Lodge the 2 last years, and has paid no dues for nine years - "Sincerity" at Hinsdale, has made no returns and paid no dues for 3 years, the members of this Lodge are said to be respectable- The interest and dignity of the Gd Lodge seem to require that the Charters of the 3 former, and perhaps of the latter, should be immediately recalled— "Cincinnatus" at Gt Barrington - "Franklin" at Adams South Village - "Wisdom" at West Stockbridge - and "Mystic" at Pittsfield - have all paid their dues, and may be presumed to be in a good situation, but the returns from the District for the present year, not having been received, and those of former years unaccompanied with any remarks from the District Deputy, no character can be given of them -
In the 12th District (Rt W Hezekiah B Gardner D D G M ) there are but 2 Lodges "Union" at Nantucket, respectable in the character, and number of members, and punctual in the payment of its dues - "King Solomon in Perfection" at Holmes Hole, which is 8 years in arrears ($64) to the Gd Lodge - It will be recollected that the recognition of a proxy for this Lodge was recently suspended until some information could be had of its present state, no returns having been received .: from it since the year 5812 and it was believed no Meetings had been held since that period- To obtain this information, I addressed a Letter to the brother (E Hillman) who signed the commission of proxy, and his reply confirmed the belief entertained, and contained an implied threat, that if the Gd Lodge of Massachusetts should see fit to recall the Charter the Lodge would notwithstanding continue to work, under one granted by the Gd Lodge of ____ in the year ____/ The subject was referred to a Committee who have not yet reported.
The memorial from our brethren in the District of Maine for a Separation, now pending in this Gd Lodge renders it unnecessary at this time to continue a detail which has been sufficiently laborious to me, & I fear, tedious to you. - I should be doing injustice, however, to my own feelings, and to the merits of the Rt W Simon Greenleaf, DDGM of the 9th District for the years 5817 & 18 and to those of his Successor. Rt W William Swan, who has held the office for the year now closing, were I not to bear this public testimony to their zeal, intelligence and unwearied exertions to raise that extensive District, now embracing 20 Lodges, to a distinguished rank under this jurisdiction. - It Is principally owing to the arduous services of the first mentioned brother that I could with truth announce to you the last year, In his words, that "the general state of Masonry in the 9th District is prosperous, much attention has been bestowed on the purity of the work, the correction of errors and abuses; the collection of arrearages and the Moral character of the members.
Rt W Swan, who has during the past year personally visited 19 Lodges and consecrated 3 Remarks that "in reviewing the state of our institution In the 9th District - I can with great pleasure pronounce it collectively in a flourishing condition, many of the Lodges are feeling the importance of establishing permanent Charity funds, the interest alone to be applied to the relief of the proper objects of our bounty. The mode of work is very similar throughput the District, and in every Lodge, a few at least, appear well versed in the lectures, and zealous in diffusing proper information."
While bestowing a just tribute of praise upon the D.D.G. Masters of the 9th District, let me not forget to make honorable mention of Rt W Bro Power of the 1st & Brother Baker of the 3rd, Bro Richardson of the 4th - Bro Wilder of the 5th - Bro Bascom and Robbins of the 6th - and Revd Bro Strong of the 7th, who have promptly attended to the call of the Gd Master for information, and by the most active exertions in" their respective districts, have essentially promoted the best interests of this Gd Lodge and of the Craft at large.
Upon a review of the returns enumerated, notwithstanding the Total Neglect of some Lodges, and the culpable Inattention of others, we are justified in the conclusion, that upon the whole, the situation of the Graft is progressively improving -
The continued exertions of the zealous and influential is alone wanting to render our institution all that its best friends can wish.
Thirteen new Lodges, viz., 2 in the first - 1 in the fourth - 1 In the Sixth- 2 in the Seventh - and 6 in the Ninth District have been chartered, since I have had the Honor to preside over the Gd Lodge - twelve of which have been consecrated, and their Officers installed in due or ample form.
Our funds begin to assume a Character of importance .and if the admirable system introduced by the Rt W Brother who has had charge of them for Nine years, and who literally, "brought order out of Chaos, and rude matter into form," be continued we may confidently calculate that the period is not far distant, when we may safely indulge the beat feelings of our Nature, by more liberal donations to the distressed brother, the bereaved Widow, and the destitute stranger, than our present restricted income will allow.
In the past. 3. years we have had many Subjects of gratulation, and some of regret. The most prominent among the former, is the success which after many repeated and unavailing efforts, at length crowned the application for an act of incorporation, and although, the discussions which first ensued under this long desired blessing, engendered feelings, which at one time threatened to destroy the peace and harmony of our Society, recent events induce us to believe that the evil will be as evanescent, as it is hoped the advantage will be permanent.
The destruction of our Hall and its attendant conveniences, acquired with much labour and expense, the benefit of which we had scarcely begun to realize, when it was taken from us, is a source of deep regret, but it is hoped the remembrance of that establishment, contrasted with the inconveniences we are now obliged to submit to, will lead to the adoption of measures which shall give to the fraternity a building which the importance of our Institution demands, and for which we shall have no cause to blush when introducing our brethren from abroad.
In comment it may be said that few, if any, of the Lodges noted as weak or delinquent survived the Morgan persecution. In two cases there are now Lodges of the same name in the same location, but they were chartered many years later and were allowed to take the old name for sentimental reasons. With the exception of the Lodge in Plymouth they were all located in small country towns. At this time no one would think of locating Lodges in those places. Perhaps when the Lodges were chartered there were expectations of growth which were not realized or perhaps it was thought that Lodges might live successfully with a very small membership. At any rate the expectations of the founders were disappointed.
Perhaps it is hardly necessary to state that the "Refreshments" to which the Grand Master disapprovingly alludes were of a liquid nature.
At the close of 1820 Grand Master Fay declined reelection and was succeeded by John Dixwell.
Dixwell was born in Boston, January 6, 1777. He was the son of Samuel Hunt and Mary Dixwell and was baptized as Samuel Hunt. Before entering active life he took the name of his maternal grandfather, John Dixwell, who was a direct descendant of one of the judges of Charles II. He was educated in the Boston Latin School and Harvard College. On graduation he studied medicine with Dr. John Warren and devoted his life to the busy and successful practice of his profession. His wife was the daughter of Epes Sargent, a wealthy ship master of Gloucester and one of its leading citizens. When John Adams was preparing for war with France in 1798 Dixwell enlisted in the Boston Light Infantry as also did Francis J. Oliver, who was born the same year as Dixwell. He remained interested in the company throughout his life. He took a lively Interest in public affairs, but his practice was so engrossing that he devoted no time to any other interest except Masonry.
Dixwell joined St. John's Lodge in 1809 and was its Master from 1813 to 1816. He was District Deputy Grand Master for the First Masonic District in 1811 and 1812, and Deputy Grand Master in 1817 and 1818. He died In Boston in 1834 at the comparatively early age of fifty-four.
At the December Quarterly of 1820 the Library matter came up again on a vote, "That a committee be appointed to collect the books originally purchased of R. W. Bro. Harris, and that committee be instructed to inquire into the expediency of establishing a Grand Masonic Library, for the use of the Fraternity." Zachariah B. Whitman, the firm and constant friend of the library idea, was appointed chairman.
Before the committee reported a change took place in the quarters occupied by the Grand Lodge which greatly facilitated their work. The Grand Lodge had been for some time negotiating with the Selectmen of Boston for quarters in the Old State House. Boston did not give up the town form of government until 1822. For a time the Grand Lodge could not obtain acceptable terms, but an agreement was finally reached, a lease taken, the apartments were remodeled for the use of the Grand Lodge and formally dedicated to Masonic uses on March 13, 1821.
At the September Quarterly the library committee made the very elaborate report which follows and which was accepted by the Grand Lodge.
"The Committee, appointed Dec. 15, 5820 to collect the books originally purchased of Bro. Harris, and also instructed to inquire into the expediency of establishing a Grand Masonic Library for the use of the Fraternity, having attended to the duty assigned them in part, ask leave to report: It appears to your Committee that it is expedient such a Library should be formed. It also appears practicable. When the Historical Society Library, as also those which have been formed since, such as the Antiquarian, Merchant's, Apprentices', and Theological, the founders possessed less means of collecting an useful Library than what the Grand Lodge have and do now possess. All those Libraries have become extensive and useful from small beginnings, and so may one founded by the Grand Lodge. The books originally purchased of Bro. Harris, at a considerable cost, have been scattered, and are in danger of being lost. Some of them perhaps have already become so, for want of a repository where they may be resorted to, under proper regulations. The printed, annual Communications of this Grand Lodge, many of them containing decisions on important questions, and precedents which ought to be preserved for future use are negligently kept by many Lodges to whom they are sent. The Communications of other Grand Lodges, in Sister States, and their By-Laws, when communicated to this Grand Lodge, are never read in Grand Lodge, and seldom but by few individuals, and are lost after a few years, and thereby the opinion of other Grand Lodges upon important questions are lost, or preserved in the loose remembrance of an individual who casually may have read them, So also it may be said of the Communications of Foreign Grand Lodges. All these Communications ought to be preserved where this Grand Lodge and inquiring individuals of the Craft may resort to them for information. By uniting with the above objects the collection of Historical, Biographical and Philosophical works of celebrity, and also such tracts as may tend to preserve the early history of our Country: 4th of July, and 5th of March Orations, Addresses to Lodges and other Charitable Societies, State Election, Artillery Election, Thanksgiving, Fast, Ordination and Century Sermons, with various other tracts of literary and scientific men, a Library may be formed, in the opinion of your Committee, highly honorable to the Grand Lodge and useful to the Craft, and in a few years may rival the Antiquarian^Historical, Topological and even the Atheneum Library.
The great difficulty seems to be in commencing the work. Your Committee believe, if once begun, it will soon be found to be an object of pride to our Grand Lodge, and worthy of its care and patronage. Your Committee find also, that a suitable room has been provided in the building where the Grand Lodge is assembled, and from that circumstance it would appear as if the Fraternity desired this Grand Lodge to take measures to occupy it for the purpose of a Library. Your Committee are therefore of opinion that it is expedient a Library should be commenced and founded.
Difficulties in the details of a plan have occurred; but your Committee are of opinion that it is but to make a beginning and leave it to the future wisdom of the Grand Lodge to mature a system. It is therefore suggested, as the best course, that a Library should be commenced, to be deposited in the room provided for that purpose, to remain under the care and subject to such regulations as the Grand Master and Grand Wardens shall direct for the present, and that they should provide some one or more suitable and careful persons to take charge of the books deposited from time to time, as they may Judge expedient and also use such endeavours as may be within their power, to augment and increase said Library. Your Committee did not consider it expedient to collect the books purchased of Bro. Harris from where they now are, unless the foregoing should meet the approbation of the Grand Lodge as it would only be changing the possession wlthout providing for future safety; but if the Grand Lodge should approve of the foregoing, they ask leave to sit again to finish the duty assigned them, by collecting said books and depositing them agreeably to the Grand Master and Grand Warden's orders, and also to render them all the aid in their power to effect the object.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
- Zachariah G. Whitman
- Thomas Power
Com.
The report is undoubtedly the work of Whitman. It shows that the long and earnest study which he had given the subject had resulted in a splendid vision of what the Grand Lodge Library might become, and a very realistic sense of the process necessary to realize it. The general lines of Whitman's project have dominated the development of the Grand Lodge Library. The only considerable exception is that it has never gone into the field of general history and philosophy so far as Whitman suggested. Many years were to pass, and more than one disappointment was to be faced before the dream came true, but it did come true at last and the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts now has a Library of the very first rank in its field. Perhaps it would have had it in any event, but we owe much to the devotion and foresight of Zachariah G. Whitman.
The erection of the Maine Lodges into a new Grand Lodge called for certain readjustments and Grand Master Dixwell proclaimed a general redistricting of the Lodges at the March Quarterly of 1821. There were then eighty-six Lodges in the Commonwealth, and they were now arranged in twelve Masonic Districts.
At the June Quarterly in 1821 a petition was received from the residents of Mayaguez, Porto Rico, asking for a charter for a Lodge to be named L'Heureux Reveil. The petition was granted and the Lodge was constituted with full ceremonial on October 7. This was the first Lodge in Porto Rico of which there is record. It is unknown to the writer in Gould's History, Edition of 1936. At the September Quarterly of 1822 a communication was received from certain members of the Lodge and referred to the Grand Master. We do not know the nature of the communication nor what the Grand Master did about it.
There is reason to fear that the Lodge was wrecked by internal dissent. In Grand Master Dixwell's report to the December Quarterly of 1823 he states that the Lodge had paid all dues to the Grand Lodge and returned its charter. In any event it could not have survived the edict of the weak, but cruel and bigoted Ferdinand VII in 1824 which made death the penalty for membership in a Masonic Lodge.
In 1821 a constitutional question of great importance arose on the representation of certain members of Jordan Lodge concerning an action of the Master. The complaint was referred to R. W. Thomas Cole, the Senior Grand Warden, and the Masters of Essex and Philanthropic Lodges. The nature of the complaint is shown by the report of the committee. At the December Quarterly the committee presented the following
"Report:
That an examination of the facts alleged by the Complainants in support of the first charge, it appears, that on a regular communlcation of Jordan Lodge, in August last, the R. W. Nathan Poor did deface a page in the Records of the Lodge, by marking it with his pen, but that he did this at the request of the Secretary, who desired the Master to distinguish, in this manner, what he considered improper to be recorded. It also appears that on the next regular communication, in September, the R. W. Master cut from the book of Records two leaves, one of which besides containing a part of the records of the Lodge contained other matter which he considered irrelevant, and improper to be placed among the Records, and which was the same that he had previously marked. It appears further to your Committee that this was done in the exercise of what was believed to be the right and duty of the Master, viz: to see that the proceedings of the Lodge were faithfully and properly recorded.
Your Committee therefore are of opinion, that this as well as the second charge of the memorial, which they have also carefully examined are unsupported, and that the R. W. Nathan Poor has not conducted in the arbitrary, unmasonic and partial manner alleged by the complainants.
But while the Committee express their entire confidence in the integrity of the R. W. Master of Jordan Lodge, they would not by this Report admit in its full extent, the principle that the master of a Lodge, or any other individual, has such a control over the records as will authorize him to alter or expunge any part at his pleasure, but as this opinion appears to prevail among some of the brethren, and seems to be sanctioned by some ancient charges in the Constitutions of Masonry, your Committee would respectfully suggest to this Grand Lodge the propriety of taking the subject into their consideration, and if possible by order or otherwise, to settle what shall in future be the practice in similar cases.
All which is respectfully submitted.
- Thomas Cole
- Henry Whipple
Committee.
The report was accepted and the closing part was referred to a very strong committee consisting of Francis J. Oliver, Thaddeus Mason Harris, Paul Dean, Samuel L. Knapp, and John Soley. At the June Quarterly of 1822 the committee reported as follows:
"Report: Your Committee consider the following statement of usages and principles to be deducible from ancient masonic rules, viz: The Secretary is the servant of the Lodge; and his duty is well defined in the charges given him by the Master on his being inducted into office. That part of his duty which consists in making a record of the meeting and business of the Lodge is performed by the side of the Master, and under his eye, and the first draught should be inspected by the Master before being entered and recorded; for it is the duty of the Master to see that the proceedings of the Lodge be faithfully and properly recorded. Qf course the Master has a right to express his opinion with regard to the accuracy of statement or mode of expression. Moreover, there may be transactions in a Lodge which are not worth recording, or which it would not proper to make matters of history to be perpetuated in the records, and about the inexpediency of entering which the opinion of the Master is to be given. If, however, a misunderstanding should arise between the Master and the Secretary as to the article for record, it may be stated in open Lodge for explanation or decision. If the Master object to an article as improper for record, or to the terms in which one is expressed that is a fit matter for record, and the Secretary, making no reference to the opinion of the Lodge inserts and certifies it, he errs; but the record cannot be cancelled, the Lodge Book is not to be defaced, nor may the leaf be out out. All the remedy is an entry of emendation or correction by the Master or under his direction or by a vote of the Lodge. This specification of ancient principles and inferences from them is respectfully submitted by
- Francis J, Oliver
- Thaddeus Mason Harris
- Samuel L. Knapp
Com.
The Grand Lodge considered this report so important that it not only accepted it, but ordered that copies be sent to all the Lodges. It has never been superseded.
Another constitutional matter came up on the complaint of certain members of St. Alban's Lodge. The complaint was referred to a committee which reported at the March Quarterly, but the report was not satisfactory to the Grand Lodge and the matter was recommitted. The second half of the report is both curious and important, It is as follows:
"The second charge against said Lodge is for altering their By-Laws by which one negative ballot shall not prevent the admission of a Candidate, unless the opposing Brother shall satisfy two thirds of the members present that his objections are good and sufficient.
The Lodge justify themselves in this alteration on the ground, that many of the Lodges under this jurisdiction have a similar article in their By-Laws, and that they suppose the Grand Lodge had sanctioned such an article in the laws of subordinate Lodges inasmuch as D. D. Grand Masters must have been acquainted with the fact, and no proceedings had been taken thereon by the M.W. Grand Lodge. Your Committee think St. Alban's Lodge ought not to have taken the doings of other Lodges as precedent for themselves.
Your Committee believe there are many Lodges under this Jurisdiction who have articles in their By-Laws similar to the one introduced by St. Alban's Lodge, and are in the practice of admitting Candidates when the ballot is not unanimous in their favor.
Your Committee are of opinion such articles in the By-Laws of subordinate Lodges, and such proceedings are contrary to the spirit of the Laws of this Grand Lodge, the immemorial usages of the Craft, and a violation of one of the most important Landmarks of the order. Your Committee therefore recommend that the M. W. Grand Master be requested to adopt such measures as he in his wisdom shall deem expedient to correct the errors into which subordinate Lodges have fallen in the admission of Candidates, and to prevent future abuses.
All of which is respectfully submitted
- Elijah Morse
- Thomas Power
- Francis J, Oliver
- John Soley.
The report was accepted and the recommended action doubtless followed.
Curiously enough the Grand Constitutions of 1819 contained no requirement that the ballot must be unanimous. The committee was right in referring to the spirit of the laws and the usages of the Craft, but it was in error in calling the unanimity of the ballot a Landmark. It is not and never was a Landmark, or even the Common Law of Masonry. The law of the United Grand Lodge of England which lays it down that three black balls are required for rejection unless the Lodge by By-Laws shall provide for rejection by a less number is proof to the contrary. At one time the By-Laws of the First Lodge In Boston provided that in certain eases the ballot need not be unanimous. The committee made the best of a situation which was technically rather difficult. The constitutional requirement of unanimity does not appear until 1843.
At the December Quarterly in 1822 the old question of a General Grand Lodge came up again. This time the overture did not come from a Grand Lodge, but rather "several members of the Masonic Fraternity composed of Members of Congress and Strangers assembled at the Capitol in the City of Washington." The signers of the call were headed by no less a person than Henry Clay. The matter was referred to Grand Master Dixwell and Francis J. Oliver, Asa Eaton, John Soley, and John Abbot. At the March Quarterly in 1823, Dixwell reported for the committee as follows:
"Changes in the form of Masonic government are not consistent with the spirit of the Institution nor with our obligations as members of it: and ought never be resorted to except in cases of obvious necessity. The Grand Lodges of the several states, are supreme bodies, Having the power to create and annul Lodges and to make such regulations for the government of them as are in conformity with the ancient principles or Landmarks of the fraternity, but these cannot be violated or overstepped: they are the great constitutional principles which must govern all Grand Lodges in their deliberations and in their ultimate measures. Grand Lodges being governed by the same principles cannot consistently with their obligations materially differ from each other in the spirit of their government. Admitting these positions to be well grounded your Committee cannot perceive why this Grand Lodge should consent to relinquish any part of its ancient powers and prerogatives, for the purpose of erecting a General Grand Lodge, neither can they discover that any substantial benefit would result from this measure to the fraternity at large.
"The most obvious and ostensive reasons assigned by the brethren proposing the measure are these: the first is to acquire in a correspondence with foreign nations an elevated stand for the Masonry of this Country to unite with them in maintaining its general principles in their purity: and secondly to preserve between our own states that uniformity in work and that active interchange of good offices which would be difficult if not Impossible by other means.
"Your Committee are of opinion that the first of these objects may be much more effectually promoted by the attention of the Grand Lodges as they are now organized than by a General Grand Lodge composed of Members scattered over the whole Union, who could not be assembled together more than once in three or four years; and in all probability a full meeting would never be effected. In respect to the second object, it is believed that the Grand Lodges of respective states are disposed and are fully competent to keep up an active interchange of good offices with each other and so long as they adhere to the grand principles of the institution any slight variations in forms and ceremonies or difference in the verbal arrangements of lectures adopted by subordinate Lodges are comparatively subjects of little importance.
"In the opinion of your Committee, the proposed measure would have a tendency to weaken the bonds of Masonic union by depriving the present Grand Lodges of a part of their power and authority and placing it where its influence could not be felt, that it would increase the expenses and burdens of the Grand Lodge and of the subordinate Lodges and diminish their ability for the exercise of those liberal and charitable affections which are the chief ornament, the most precious jewels of our order.
"Your Committee therefore recommend the adoption of the following resolutions:
- Resolved, that in the opinion of this Grand Lodge it is neither necessary nor expedient to adopt any measures which will have a tendency to establish a General Grand Lodge of the United States.
- Resolved, that the Grand Secretary be directed to transmit copies of the
foregoing report and resolution to the several Grand Lodges in the United States, and a copy to William W. Seaton Esqr., at the City of Washington agreeably to the request contained in the communication proposing the formation of a General Grand Lodge.
"Respectfully submitted,
by order of the Committee
John Dixwell, Chairman."
The report was accepted and the resolutions were unanimously adopted.
The report has been given in full because there are still a good many Brethren who look with some longing toward the idea of a General Grand Lodge, and the same arguments, pro and con, are still advanced. The position of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts has never changed since the idea was first brought forward during the Revolutionary War.
At the the same December Quarterly of 1822 another question was raised whlch has since been many times informally considered. R. W. Thomas Cole, the Senior Grand Warden, moved that a committee be appointed to take into consideration the subject of raising a fund for the institution of an asylum for the female orphans of Masons, and if found expedient to devise some plan for carrying it into effect.
At the September Quarterly of 1823 the committee submitted an elaborate report which represented more zeal and enthusiasm than mature judgment. The report recommended the project and presented elaborate plans for the solicitation of funds and for a governing body for the new institution. It was a fine example of wishful thinking. The Grand Lodge, however, did not allow itself to be stampeded into hasty action. It authorized the committee to print its report and sent it to the Lodges, but referred the subject matter to a new committee.
This committee reported at the June Quarterly of 1824, The report is an exhaustive discussion of the whole matter, running to some 2500 words or more. It sets forth clearly and conclusively the reasons against the project and closes with a recommendation that further consideration of the matter be indefinitely postponed. The report was accepted and the recommendation was adopted.
This ended all attempts to establish any kind of a Masonic home for nearly a century. The movement for the existing home was started in 1888 but the Home was not dedicated until 1911. All this will be recounted in its proper place. The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts is not in favor of a home for children. The Grand Lodge cares adequately for all the children who have a claim upon its protection. It extends this care by enabling mothers to rear their children in their own homes or by providing care in private families. It does not consider institutional care of children, no matter how elaborate, as good for them as normal home life, even under conditions of comparative poverty so long as the poverty does not amount to privation, and it never allows the children under its care to suffer privation.
At the December Quarterly of 1823 one Robert Linsted presented a petition asking for a loan and offering to pledge certain articles of plate as security. The request was referred to a committee which reported December 27. The committee reported that they had seen the petitioner and were impressed by his sincerity, his worthiness, and his present need. They went on to say "your committee, however, do not think it expedient that this Grand Lodge should loan a sum of money to the petitioner, but they do earnestly recommend that the sum of forty dollars be presented to Bro. Linsted as a donation from the funds of the Grand Lodge." The report was accepted and the donation was made.
This action was important because it established the precedent which has since governed the actions of Grand Lodge. The committee dearly saw that making a loan to an individual Brother would be a very dangerous precedent. The ears of the Fraternity should never be closed to the cry of distress, but relief funds are not loan funds and to allow them to be regarded as such would open the door to endless difficulties.
On leaving the office of Grand Master, Dixwell presented a very interesting and valuable report. After commenting gratefully upon the f. harmony and unanimity which had prevailed in Grand Lodge during his administration and the uniform support he had received, he proceeds to say:
"The course pursued by my respected predecessor, the Right Worshipful Francis J. Oliver, Esq., although it excited, at first, some feelings of opposition, has had the most salutary effect. At the time he was elected Grand Master, the affairs of Masonry in this jurisdiction were in a hazardous state. A spirit of disaffection and insubordination was mating rapid progress. Principles and feelings very foreign from Masonry, were spreading their baneful influence far and wide.
Many of the Lodges had been negligent in paying their dues to Grand Lodge: these debts having accumulated upon them, it became more and more burdensome to perform their part of their duty: they gradually lost the recollection of the conditions on which they received their charters, and of the solemn promises they made at the time they received them, to obey all the edicts and regulations of this Grand Lodge: instead of viewing it as a kind and protecting parent, ready, at all times, to extend towards them its fostering care, they began to consider it as a hard task-master, disposed to grasp from them all their earnings. The Lodges had been too much in the habit of thinking that they were not accountable fop the manner in which they disposed of the money they received from the initiated; but that they had the right to spend it as suited their own inclinations as much as any other property they might hold individually, or in any corporate capacity.
Their opinion had led them to think that all the money they paid to the Grand Lodge for its support and for its charity fund, was a burdensome exaction, depriving them of a great source of enjoyment. As these debts accumulated upon them in the same ratio were they disposed to cavil at the measures of the Grand Lodge. It was wisely determined to stop these delinquencies by recalling the charters of all the Lodges which did not fulfill their engagements. Charters are granted on conditions that the individuals to whom they are granted comply with the regulations of the Grand Lodge and obey all its constitutional edicts. It is upon this tenure they hold them, and it is upon this condition only that they should continue to hold them. The above measure having been proposed by Grand Master Oliver and adopted by the Grand Lodge, has been carried into effect since I have had the honor to preside over you, as far as time and the nature of the subject would admit. The charters of four of the lodges which had been the most indolent and delinquent have been recalled, viz. Forefathers' Rock in Plymouth, Adams in Wellfleet, Eastern Star in Rehoboth, and King Solomon in Perfection in Holmes Hole."
Reading between the lines of this report the inference is quite clear that Grand Master Fay was not equal to his task. His brief administration of one year was terminated by a refusal to stand for re-election, a refusal which may well have been suggested to him by his friends. There is no possible reflection on his high standing as a man, a citizen, and a judge. The qualities which would make him, as he was, a highly successful probate judge were not necessarily those which would make him an energetic and forceful Grand Master such as was needed at that time. After his retirement from office he was not active in Grand Lodge affairs. That he continued loyal and retained the respect of the Fraternity is shown by the fact that the only later mentions of him are in connection with the reception of Lafayette in 1825, the laying of the corner stone of the Temple in 1830, and the proposed reception of President Jackson In 1833.
Grand Master Dixwell goes on to say that very material improvement had been made throughout the state, but expressed dissatisfaction with two of the District Deputy Grand Masters, who had been delinquent in making their returns. One of them had made the curious mistake of supposing that his work was the teaching of ritual. The Grand Master had taken steps to keep the District Deputies informed as to their duties and to see that they performed them.
He had this to say as to Lodge finance. "The quarterages assessed on the members are intended for the support of the Lodge and they should endeavor not to exceed the amount of them in their expenses. The money received from the initiated, with the exception of that part appropriated for the support of the Grand Lodge and its Charity Fund, should be considered a sacred deposit for the purpose of charity, and ought not to be alienated from this object xxx and it ought never to be squandered for festive enjoyment."
Dixwell was no ascetic, but he comments with pleasure on the general abolition of refreshments "except at the annual communications and annual visitations. The intemperate will no longer resort to the lodge as a place where they can gratify their pernicious propensities, and the funds will be reserved for the exercise of the nobler feelings of the human heart."
