Difference between revisions of "MassachusettsYear1859"

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=== SPECIAL COMMUNICATIONS ===
 
=== SPECIAL COMMUNICATIONS ===
  
* 08/02: (no page) Laying of the Cornerstones of the Monumental Canopy and the Pilgrim Monument, Plymouth. Described in Moore's '''Freemasons' Monthly Magazine''', Vol. XVIII, No. 11, September, 1859, beginning on Page 321. Address by the Grand Master, starting on Page 323, with further remarks beginning on Page 326.
+
==== CEREMONY AT PILGRIM MONUMENT, AUGUST 1859 ====
 +
 
 +
''Laying of the Cornerstones of the Monumental Canopy and the Pilgrim Monument, Plymouth. Described in Moore's '''Freemasons' Monthly Magazine''', Vol. XVIII, No. 11, September, 1859, beginning on Page 321. Address by the Grand Master, starting on Page 323, with further remarks beginning on Page 326.''
 +
 
 +
The interesting ceremonies of laying the Corner Stones of a Canopy over the Rock on which the Pilgiims first landed on their arrival at Plymouth, and of a National Monument to be erected on one of the highest eminences of the town, in commemoration of their settlement, took place at Plymouth on Tuesday the 2d of August last. The day was most favorable to the occasion, and the town, which was beautifully and profusely dressed in holiday attire, was crowded to excess with visitors. Never before, probably, has there been so large a gathering of men and women within this ancient home of the Pilgrim, and never before has this venerated old town shown out in so much beauty and attractiveness. Every street and every house, so far as the eye could distinguish, presented some manifestation in sympathy with the occasion. Evergreen archways and inscriptions were to be met with in every direction, and bunting of all shapes and sizes —flags of all nations, and of all devices, and of all colors, floated to the breeze in highways and byways, in countless numbers. But for a more particular description of them and of the decorations, mottoes, inscriptions, and curious and patriotic devices which everywhere arrested the attention, we refer the reader to the papers of the day — having no more room in our pages to spare than will be required for a brief notice of the Masonic part of the ceremonies. The Grand Lodge assembled at Nassau Hall on the morning of the day and were escorted by the Boston and De Molay Encampments to the cars. On arriving at Plymouth the Grand Lodge proceeded at once to the Masonic Hall, where they were joined by the [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Plymouth Plymouth] Lodge, when both bodies, accompanied by a band of music, proceeded to Forefathers' Rock, and there laid, in due and ancient Masonic form, the Corner Stone of a Monumental Canopy, designed to mark the spot and protect the rock on which the passengers of the May Flower landed on the 21st Dec, 1620. "The canopy will cover a square space, the sides of which will measure about fifteen feet. The whole height of the structure will be about thirty feet. Each of the four facades will present an arched opening, through which Forefathers' Rock can be seen resting upon the floor of the arched chamber. The angles of these openings will be formed of solid piers, decorated with Roman doric columns bearing a plain entablature; above which will be an ornamental attic, with tablets containing inscriptions in the spares above the arches; and the whole will be surmounted with circular pediments, the continuation of which will form the roofs. At the angles on the outside, between the columns, are to be placed (our statues, representing some of the most distinguished persons among the Pilgrims. The material of which it is to be constructed is Quincy granite."
 +
 
 +
The ceremonies of laying the corner stone were commenced, in the presence of thousands of spectators, by Hon. Richard Warren, President of the Pilgrim Society, with the following address :—
 +
<blockquote>
 +
''Descendants of the Pilgrims'' — Six years ago to-day the first public movement wa» made for the erection of a monument to the Fathers. Since that day there have been many causes which have necessarily delayed the progress of the work. Differences of opinion in regard to the kind of structure that should be built, and as to where it should be placed, had to be reconciled, if possible. Then financial matters have rot been favorable. The whole country has passed through a severe ordeal in all its business transactions. But the effort begun six years since has had some success. We look on the surroundings of the Rock, and perceive that a great deal has been done here. To-day, on the sacred spot, on and around that Rock on which some of the nob'e band first stepped, near to their first Burial Hill, we come in reverence and with gratitude to begin the structure. Its foundation is as solid ai were the principles of the Pilgrim Fathers. It cannot be moved ; resting down on the firm earth, the wintry waves of ocean may roll and heave, and perhaps flow over it, but it will stand immovable The monument shall rise in beauty and simplicity, a fitting testimonial of the gratitude of the children placed where the Pilgrims' life in the New World began, where also it ended.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
Years, centuries have rolled on since these heroic men were here, and not a stone is reared anywhere to mark the spot where most of them were laid to rest from their worldly toil, alter having, by the aid of their God, laid the foundation of a New World !<br>
 +
<br>
 +
They sleep in peace beneath the sod on yonder hill of graves, or on the hill at whose base we are standing, where are no signs of any grave. Comrade buried comrade there in faith- Hardy manhood, who had borne all for truth's sake, who had left the home of his youth lor freedom in an unknown land, was placed in that soil, the seed, as it were, of a future growth of noble men.
 +
 
 +
Brave woman, also, who had pledged her fidelity to him; she who came over the rough sea, his aid, his comforter, his joy and treasure, as the true woman ever is to man; she, who gave up all else to follow him to whom she had, before Heaven, given herself, the sleeps there; there, all that was lovely in her frame, the casket that contained the jewel, has mouldered; the dust made into beautiful humanity in the Old World has returned to dust in the New World, while her pure spirit has risen to a higher life, to bless from there both the old and the new nations of earth- There, too, was put away sweet innocent childhood ! the boy and the girl—the joy of the parental heurt! They were conscious of but little here, save only that each revelled in the love of father and mother. These little ones had crossed the wide ocean, their cradle the fragile bark, their lullaby the roaring winds and ever-restless waves; their shelter, amid storm and tempest, a mother's arms, and the love of a good God who careth for all. Many ol these are buried under the sod whereon you now stand. Side by side, the child and the parent, safe from Indian cruelty, safe from starvation and from man's injustice. All are quiet there. Home and kindred in their last hours visited their imagination. One thought of all they had left j one prayer to heaven for loved ones—then the young child, the tender mother, the brave father went to that bourne from whence no one returns, in visible form, to look on what had been.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
And here, my friends, is to be their imperishable memorial stone. This day the work too long neglected begins in earnest. Perrevere wuh it, children of a noble ancestry. It is holy work in which we to-day engage. When thi* structure shall be completed, as it soon will be, if you of New England shall will it so, you and I, all of the present, and all of coming time, shall bow here in reverence, and recall the story of the Pilgrim Fathers, and thank God that tbey were directed to this wilderness, which now blossoms as a rose.<br>
 +
<blockquote>
 +
"Not those who have trod the martial field,<br>
 +
And led to arms a battling host,<br>
 +
And at whose name 'the world grew pale,'<br>
 +
Will be in time remembered most;<br>
 +
<br>
 +
But they who've walked the 'paths of peace'<br>
 +
And gave their aid to deeds t'were just,<br>
 +
Shall live for aye, on mem'ry's page, <br>
 +
When heroes sleep in unknown dust."<br>
 +
</blockquote>
 +
And now, in faith, in hope, with trust in God, I, as the representative of those to whom is entrusted this work of commemoration, say to these friends who have come to this place to-day in such goodly numbers that they are welcome to this sacred spot. And may the holy purpose for which you have come be sanctified for good to all.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Massachusetts, all things being prepared, in the name of the society over which I have the honor to preside, I ask you to proceed to lay the corner stone of the Monument on the Rock whereon the Pilgrim Fathers of 1620 landed.
 +
</blockquote>
 +
 
 +
At the conclusion of Mr. Warren's address, the Grand Chaplain, Rev. Dr. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLSaOsgood Osgood], of Springfield, offered ptayer, Col. http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMHeard John T. Heard], Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, then spoke as follows :—
 +
 
 +
''Brethren and Gentlemen'' — In compliance with the request of the President of the Pilgrim Society and the Building Committee, we shall now deposit the corner atone of an edifice to be designated as the Monumental Canopy which is intended to point out and protect the exact point where the Forefathers landed from their boats on the 21st December, 1620.
 +
 
 +
It will not be inappropriate to the time and place to call to mind some of the facts connected with their arrival and landing and with the history of the forefathers' rock itself, as given in the [http://archive.org/details/historymassachu01barrgoog excellent history of Massachusetts] by Brother John Stetson Barry.
 +
* November 9, 1620, after a boisterous voyage of two months, the welcome cry of land was heard on board the Mayflower, and the sandy cliffs of Cape Cod were the first points which greeted the eyes of the exiles. November 11, the compact was signed in the cabin of the Mayflower. Fifteen or sixteen men well armed were set on shore at Long I'oint to explore, who returned at night. November 12, the Sabbath, was consecrated to worship, the first probably ever observed by Christians in Massachusetts. November 13, the shallop was drawn to the beach for repairs, and for the first time the whole company landed for refreshment.
 +
* November 15th, a party under Capt. Standish commenced a journey by land for discovery. They debarked at Steven's Point, at the Western extremity of the harbor. At the distance of about a mile five savages were espied, who at their approach hastily fled. November 16, compassing the head of East Harbor Creek, they refreshed themselves in a deep valley, and drank their first draught of New England water. Proceeded to another valley in Truro, in which was a pond Here were found grapes, the ruins of a house, and heaps of sand filled with corn stored in baskets.
 +
* Nov. 17th, they returned to the ship, weary and welcomed.
 +
* Nov. 27th, another expedition was fitted out, in which twenty five of the colonists and nine or ten of the sailors, with Capt. Jones at their head, were engaged. They visited the mouth of the river, which they called Cold Harbor, and obtained supplies from the aboriginal granaries. After a brief absence they returned.
 +
* Nov. 30th, a discussion occurred whether to settle at Cold Harbor or not. Robert Coppin, their pilot, informed them of a great and navigable river and good harbor in the other headland of the bay, almost right over against Cape Cod, which he had formerly visited, and which was called Thievish Harbor.
 +
 
 +
The speaker continued to trace this interesting record of the Puritans down to Dec. 11, S. O., 1620. In 1774, in the act of elevating this precious boulder, it split in twain, an occurrence regarded by many as ominous of the separation of the Colonies from England, and the lower part being left in the spot where it still lies, the upper part, weighing several tons, was conveyed, amid the heartiest rejoicings, to Liberty Pole Square, and adorned with a flag bearing the imperishable motto, " Liberty or Death."
 +
 
 +
July 4th, this part of the rock was removed to the ground in front of Pilgrim Hall, and there it rests, encircled with railing ornamented with heraldic wreaths, bearing the names of the fortyone signers of the compact in the Mayflower.
 +
 
 +
The upper portion of the corner stone was then elevated by a derrick, while the Grand Master, the Architect, Mr. Billings, the Chairman of the Committee of Arrangements, Trustees of the Pilgrim Society, and others, each placed a trowel of mortar upon the lower back, when the upper stone was lowered into its place.
 +
 
 +
Then followed the customary Masonic ritual, including the pouring on of corn, wine and oil. This part of the ceremony being concluded, the following original hymn, written by R. W. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLJSheppard John H. Sheppard], Esq., was sung with fine effect :—
 +
<blockquote>
 +
Though ages pass—and empires wane, <br>
 +
Our ''Ancient Landmarks'' still remain;<br>
 +
And Rites, which stood the tempest shock,<br>
 +
We now renew on Pilgrim Rock.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
We consecrate to Thee, Oh God,<br>
 +
This spot where first the Fathers trod, <br>
 +
Forever sacred let it be,<br>
 +
Beneath a Pilgrim Canopy.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
Immortal Rock !—On thee began<br>
 +
The march of mind—the righls of man;<br>
 +
And, taught by Pilgrim Sires, we see, <br>
 +
Nought but the Truth can make us free.
 +
</blockquote>
 +
 
 +
The following inscription, on a silver plate, was placed in the corner stone, with many other articles :—
 +
 
 +
<p align=center>
 +
This Casket,<br>
 +
containing objects of historical interest relating<br>
 +
to the<br>
 +
Plymouth Forefathers,<br>
 +
is deposited<br>
 +
in<br>
 +
the Corner Stone of a Monumental Canopy,<br>
 +
erected for the shelter and protection of<br>
 +
The Rock<br>
 +
on whioh the Pilgrims of the May Flower landed<br>
 +
on the Iwenlyfirst day of December,<br>
 +
A. D 1620.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
Corner Stone<br>
 +
laid on the second day of August, 1859,<br>
 +
with<br>
 +
Religious and Masonic services,<br>
 +
under the direction<br>
 +
of<br>
 +
The Pilgrim Society ol Plymouth,<br>
 +
Richard Warren, President;<br>
 +
Building Committee,<br>
 +
Jonn H. Clifford, Nathaniel B. Shortleff, <br>
 +
Samuel Nicolson, Charles G. Davis, <br>
 +
William Thomas, Eleazer C. Sherman;<br>
 +
Hammatt Billings, Architect; <br>
 +
W. M. Harding, Financial Agent.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
M. W. John T. Heard, Grand Master<br>
 +
of the M. W. Grand Lodge ol. Freemasons ol Massachusetts.
 +
</p>
 +
 
 +
The general procession was formed immediately after the laying of the corner stone of the Canopy, under the Chief Marshalship of [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLWDavis Wm. T. Davis], Esq., and consisted of four or five military companies, as the escort; distinguished guests Jn carriages ; the Masonic Fraternity, which was by far the most numerous part of the procession); fire companies; children in carnages, &c. The Masonic bodies were formed in a separate division under the Grand Marshalship of W. Br. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMGardner Wm. S. Gardner], Esq., assisted by Brothers Chas A. Davis, of Chelsea, Jas. Cook, of Taunton, Benj. Randall and David Bragdon, of N. Bedlord, all in Templars' costume, and consisted of the Grand and subordinate Lodges, under escort of the Boston and De Molay Encampments, in full ranks—especially the former, which has seldom appeared to better advantage,—though neither of these fine bodies ever fails to honor itself and to do credit to the Institution when it consents to appear in public.
 +
 
 +
We have not a correct list of the Lodges present, but we noticed among the number, [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsLodge Massachusetts], Boston; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Washington Washington], Roxbury, in full numbers; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Plymouth Plymouth], Plymouth, also in full numbers; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Baalbec Baalbec], E. Boston, with a band ; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=KingSolomon King Solomon], Charlestown; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=CornerStone Corner Stone], Duxbury; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=StarEast1 Star in the East], New Bedford; and [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=SocialHarmony Social Harmony,] Wareham. And there %vere doubtless others present whose names have not been furnished us. And it is not improper to add, that as the Masonic division was the most numerous, so, we think, it was the most attractive part of the procession. The march was long, tedious and dusty— unnecessarily so; for there was no necessity for exhibiting the elephant more than three times in the same street and to the same parties. But he was patient, and being of great endurance, survived the infliction, trusting to gentler usage in the future.
 +
 
 +
On arriving at Monument Hill, the ceremonies of laying the corner stone were commenced by Mr. Warren, President of the Pilgrim Society, with an appropriate and eloquent address, in which he spoke of the patriotic work the society had undertaken, in terms of encouragement and confidence,—predicting its early and successful completion. At the conclusion of his remarks, he introduced his excellency Gov. Banks, who delivered an exceedingly able and philosophical address, but. for which we have room only for the following sentences, as specimens of the whole :—
 +
<blockquote>
 +
"It is a voluntary offering which we present to-day. We speak for the living, not for the dead. Surtly no people that have animated the scenes of human history —neither Greeks nor Romans, Celts nor Saxons, have left behind them monuments more numerous, more imperishable, more beautiful than those that mark the historic path of the Puritan founders of the Commonwealth.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
"On every side they rise—on the sea, and beyond the sea; upon the sterile and rock-bound coast; over the vale and upland of the rich interior ; over mountain, rock and river they speak to us, and will speak forever to those who succeed us, of their marvelous energy, vast forecast, and abiding faith in God. . .<br>
 +
<br>
 +
"Nevertheless, it is for us a pleasure and a duty to connect the events of the present and the past by some marked and visible sign, to make apparent to careless and indifferent beholders the relation which the inestimable privileges of our time bear to the heroism and devotion of the forefathers. Never did monument rise to commemorate nobler deeds or greater heroism than theirs. No fortress, citadel, or temple—no pyramid, arsenal or obelisk, no triumphal arch or marble statue, bears testimony to holier virtues that yet live in Greek or Roman fame, than the innumerable and imperishable evidences of great purposes and powers which make illustrious the fame of the New England fathers.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
"The monument, then, that we plant to day, is for us as for them. It is for our instruction, to remind our children and our children's children so long as the seed of woman shall bruise the serpent's head, that our life is of their life; that out of their trials and sorrows we pluck prosperity and happiness—from their oppression springs our freedom."
 +
</blockquote>
 +
At the conclusion of the address, which was received with much favor, Col. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMHeard Heard], G. M., was introduced and spoke as follows:—
 +
 
 +
Mr. President :—
 +
 
 +
To celebrate the deeds of the benefactors of mankind, is a service dictated alike by gratitude and the benevolent desire to transmit the blessings of their examples to posterity. The memory of the good and brave, whose virtues and exploits challenge admiration and homage, should be honored and perpetuated; and the establishment of institutions affecting happily the welfare of our race, is eminently worthy of commemoration. A people capable of greatness will not forget the virtues of their fathers; reverently will they cherish them, and gratefully present them in all their lustre for the respect and mitation of after ages.
 +
 
 +
Impressed with sentiments like these, we are assembled here to-day to solemnize an undertaking designed to perpetuate the renown of that peerless band—the first settlers of New England. It was here on this spot, then the border of a wilderness nearly as vast as the continent, where they landed on the 21st of December, 1620. Here, therefore, it is appropriate that a National Monument to their memory should be erected; a work which, we are happy to see, ha» been commenced under the most flattering prospects of success. To the Pilgrim Society belongs the honor of initiating this grateful and patriotic enterprise; and under ils auspices it will be, we doubt not, triumphantly accomplished. In compliance with your courteous invitation lo the Grand Lodge of Massachu- setls to lay this Corner-Stone, that body will now discharge that agreeable duty according to the ancient usages of the Craft.
 +
 
 +
It is not known, Sir, that any of the passengers of the Mayflower were Freemasons; certainly no record of the fact has been discovered. But since it is well authenticated that our institution was in a flourishing condition in England in 1620, it is not improbable that some members of a society which from the earliest times has been tolerant as regards modes of religious worship, should have united with the members of the Church of the Pilgrims and fled with them from the persecutions inflicted on dissenters by the established church. That there are no accounts extant of private or subordinate Lodges in the earlier days of the colonies, is not to be taken as evidence that none then existed in them. In the constitution of a Lodge previous to the past century it was not necessary that its existence and proceedings should have official or durable record; it received no warrant or charter from the General Assembly — the Grand Lodge of that time; nor were its meetings confined to any particular time or place: it is not to be wondered at, that under these circumstances and after a lapse of two centuries, all traces of it should be obliterated. Thus it is apparent that a Lodge might have existed even in the Mayflower, and been composed of Pilgrims, without the knowledge of their associates or posterity. The principles of Freemasonry are in no way incompatible with the professions of the Forefathers in morals or religious belief, but, on the contrary, are such as would have been approved and vindicated by them.
 +
 
 +
It will not be out of place for me to mention here a coincidence derived from the history of our society and that of the first settlers; — I allude to the fact that two of the Grand Masters of England were also members of the "Council established at Plymouth" by the Great Patent which passed the seals on the Third of November, 1620, and became the foundation of all subsequent grants of territory in New England. They were William, the third Earl of Pembroke, and Thomas, Earl of Arundel; the former was Chancellor of the University of Oxford and Lord Chamberlain of the King's household, the latter Earl Marshal of the realm. Pembroke, who was Senior Grand Warden under the Grand Mastership of Inigo Jones, his friend and a celebrated architect, succeeded him as Grand Master in 1618, and continued to preside over the Fraternity until the time of his death in 1630. Arundel was elected to the office in 1633, and filled it for the period of two years.
 +
 
 +
It is worthy of remembrance that though the Plymouth Company possessed the privileges of a monopoly, it having exclusive right by its patent to all the lands in New England, the members of the Council were lenient in their measures affecting the colonists. Towards the Pilgrims, especially, they showed much liberality. The latter, compelled by treachery to settle on this spot instead of that farther to the south, which they had selected before their departure from Europe, found themselves without privileges within the territorial limits of the Plymouth Company. The Council did not, however, look upon them as trespassers; but, through the influence of one of its number, caused a patent to be issued in their favor. This generous act of the government of the company, indicates that ils counsels were controlled by sentiments of humanity—by sentiments of brotherly-love, such as it might be supposed would have influenced the action of those members of it, at least, who were Masons.
 +
 
 +
On former occasions the Fraternity have been called upon to consecrate by their riles statues and other memorials erected in honor of the distinguished dead. To the illustrious Washington, to Franklin, Warren, Jackson, Clay - esteemed and venerated of our countrymen, esteemed and venerated also as Freemasons — have lasting monuments been reared whose commencement and completion have been thus signalized; But it is not to eminent characters who were of us alone, that our ceremonials of honor are confined : we recognize and respect exalted worth in whomsoever it exists or has existed, and are always ready as a society to manifest our appreciation of it. Important events like that wc are now commemorating, which have piomoted the progress and improvement of general society and conferred great benefits on the intellectual, moral and religious well being of man, may be celebrated with great propriety by Masons with all the distinction which their ceremonies can bestow.
 +
 
 +
This occasion naturally carries our thoughts back to the times of the Forefathers, and suggests the recital of their trials and sufferings, and triumphant struggle for religious freedom; but this duty I leave for others to perform. Though that instructive tale has been often told with power and beauty by the historian, orator and poet, until it has become familiar to all, still it is not a worn out tale; its reiteration never falls upon listless ears, or fails to move the sympathies and arouse the patriotic feelings of an American audience. The Pilgrim Monument will be one of the most imposing and beautiful monumental works in the world. The design, so creditable to the taste and genius of the artist, prefigures a structure of vast, yet harmonious proportions. While it will mark the place of the first settlement of New England, it will, also, by inscriptions, devices and sculpture, signalize the leading events in the lives of the Forefathers, and by appropriate figures, symbolize their cherished principles. May it endure for ages; and decay only when our descendants shall cease to appreciate their rich inheritance of civil and religious liberty.
 +
 
 +
At the conclusion of this address the Corner Stone was laid with the usual Masonic ceremonies. The following beautiful hymn, written for the occasion by R. W.  [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLJSheppard John H. Sheppard], Esq., was sung by a quartette from Boston,— each of the first three verses being introduced in its proper connection, and the fourth at the conclusion of the consecrating ceremonies. The effect was very fine, as well as very appropriate :—
 +
<blockquote>
 +
Whene'er our ancient Brethren went<br>
 +
To build a Church, or Monument —<br>
 +
The Head-Stone laid with skill and care,<br>
 +
They pour'd the Corn of Plenty there.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
Wine was the next oblation given,<br>
 +
Emblem of Gladness—dew of Heaven; <br>
 +
For the pure grape—without alloy,<br>
 +
Will cheer the heart with hope and joy. <br>
 +
<br>
 +
Then with the Oil of Peace they sought <br>
 +
A blessing on the work they wrought. <br>
 +
Thus was the stone an altar made,<br>
 +
Where bloodless sacrifice was laid.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
Lord God of Hosts! To Thee alone<br>
 +
We look, and lay this Corner Stone; <br>
 +
Here let a Monument arise,<br>
 +
Where Faith stands pointing to the skies.
 +
</blockquote>
 +
 
 +
The prayers and reading of the scriptures were by Rev. Dr. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLSaOsgood Osgood], of Springfield, Rev. Dr. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLEWells Wells], of this city, being too unwell to assist in this part of the services, as originally intended. After the benediction the procession was re-formed and proceeded to dinner, which was spread by the celebrated caterer J. B. Smith, of Boston, under a mammouth tent, capable of holding about three thousand persons, and which was nearly filled on the present occasion. Here speeches were made by a number of distinguished gentlemen, among whom were Govs. Banks, of Massachusetts, Turner, of Rhode Island, Buckingham, of Connecticut, Chase, of Ohio, Kent, of Maine, Hon. J. P. Hale, of New Hampshire, and others.
 +
 
 +
The plate placed in the corner Btone, bore the following inscription :—
 +
<p align=center>
 +
The Corner Stone<br>
 +
of the<br>
 +
National Monument to the Forefathers,<br>
 +
laid in presence of<br>
 +
The Pilgrim Society of Plymouth,<br>
 +
by the<br>
 +
M. W. Grand Lodge ol Freemasons of Massachusetts,<br>
 +
M W. John T. Heard, G. Master,<br>
 +
On the second day of August, A. D. 1859—A. L 5859;<br>
 +
being in the two hundred and thirty-ninth year<br>
 +
since the first settlement of New England<br>
 +
by the Pilgrim Forefathers.
 +
</p>
 +
''(Then follow the names of the President of the Pilgrim Society, Building Committee, Architect (Hammatt Billings, Esq.), President U. S., &c.)''
 +
 
 +
'''Description of the Monument.'''
 +
 
 +
The design for the National Monument to the Forefathers, to be erected at Plymouth, consists of an octagon pedestal, on which stands a statue of Faith. From the four smaller faces of the pedestal project buttresses, upon which are seated figures emblematic of Morality, Education, Law and Liberty. Below them, in panels, are alto-reliefs of "The Departure from Delft-Haven," "The Signing of the Social Compact in the Cabin of the May Flower," "The Landing at Plymouth," and "The first Treaty with the Indians." Upon the four large faces of the main pedestal are large panels, to contain records of the principal events in the history of the Pilgrims, with the names of those who came over in the May Flower, and below are smaller panels for records connected with the Society and the building of the Monument.
 +
 
 +
A chamber within the pedestal, 26 feet in diameter, and well lighted, is to be a depository for all documents, &c, relating to the Pilgrims and the Society. In this chamber will be a stairway leading to the platlorm upon which stands the figure of Faith, from which may be seen all the places of interest connected with the history of the Forefathers. The whole Monument will be about 150 feet high, and SO feet at the base. The statue of Faith rests her foot upon the Forefathers'Rock; in her left hand she holds an open Bible; with the right uplifted she points to Heaven. Looking downward, as to those she is addressing, she seems to call them to trust in a higher power. The sitting figures are emblematic of the principles upon which the Pilgrims proposed lo found their Commonwealth. The first of these is Morality. She holdj tbe Decalogue in her leit, and the Scroll of Revelation in her right hand. Her look is upward, towards tbe impersonation of tbe Spirit of Religion above. In a niche, on one side of tbe throne, is a Prophet, and in the other, one of the Evangelists. The second of these figures is Law. On one side of bis seat is Justice; on the other, Mercy. The third is Education. In the niche, on one side ol her seat, is Wisdom, ripe with years; on the other. Youth, led by Experience, The fourth figure is Freedom. On one side, Peace rests under his protection ; on the other, Tyranny is overthrown by his prowess.
 +
 
 +
The Statue of Faith will be seventy feet high, and the sitting figures thirtyeight feet high, thus making it in magnitude the greatest work of the kind in the world; while as a work of art, it is believed it will afford pleasure to every American citizen.
 +
 
 +
The occasion was one of much interest, and will long be remembered with pleasurable recollections by all who had the happiness to participate in its observances.
  
 
=== FEAST OF ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST ===
 
=== FEAST OF ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST ===

Revision as of 12:46, 28 March 2013

1859

JOHN T. HEARD, Grand Master

William Flint, Deputy Grand Master
Charles R. Train, Deputy Grand Master
Lawrence H. Gowell, Senior Grand Warden
Charles Robbins, Junior Grand Warden


NOTES

QUARTERLY COMMUNICATIONS

Held at Nassau Hall, Boston

  • 03/08: VI-234;
  • 06/08: VI-244;
  • 09/14: VI-257;
  • 12/14: VI-263; (Annual Communication)

03/08 Agenda

  • VI-235: Following the 1858 sale of the Masonic Temple, Grand Master Heard, "with the advise [sic] and cooperation of such officers and members of the Grand Lodge as he could most conveniently consult, obtained of the Legislature an Act of Incorporation, authorizing the Grand Lodge to hold real estate to the value of two hundred thousand dollars and personal estate not exceeding the value of fifty thousand dollars."
    • VI-238: The Grand Lodge proceeded to organize itself as a corporation. Grand Master Heard was nominated as Moderator and Grand Secretary Charles W. Moore was nominated as Clerk for the meeting; the following items were voted upon:
    • VI-239: To accept the Act and declared itself organized under it.
    • VI-239: To use the Grand Lodge Seal as the seal of the corporation.
    • VI-239: To create Board of Directors consisting of the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Wardens and Recording Grand Secretary.
    • VI-240: To publish notices of further meetings in one or more Boston newspapers, and the conditions under which special meetings would be called.
    • VI-240: That the present officers would be declared as officers of the Corporation "until their successors shall be chosen and installed."
    • VI-240: That these votes, along with the Constitutions "excepting such provisions thereof as are inconsistent with these votes, or are otherwise inapplicable" shall be made the By-Laws of the Corporation.
    • VI-240: To add Rt. Wor. Winslow Lewis and Rt. Wor. William H.L. Smith to the Board of Directors.
    • VI-241: To appoint a committee to review the By-Laws and recommend alterations to be made.
    • VI-241: Certain additional provisions to support the conveyance of property and establishment of the corporation.

06/08 Agenda

  • VI-245: Appointment of Rt. Wor. Charles R. Train as Deputy Grand Master, to replace the recently deceased Rt. Wor. and Rev. William Flint.
  • VI-252: Request for exchange of representatives with the Grand Lodge of Maine; deemed "inexpedient" and recommended that no further action be taken.
  • VI-253: Invitation to celebrate St. John's Day with Middlesex Lodge, Framingham; accepted.
  • VI-254: Invitation to lay the corner stone of the Monument to the Pilgrim Fathers in Plymouth; accepted.
  • VI-254: Report of Charity Committee.

09/14 Agenda

  • VI-260: Committee appointed to examine the work of the Grand Lecturers.
  • VI-261; Report of Charity Committee.

12/14 Agenda

  • VI-264: Report of the Committee of Finance.
  • VI-267: Report of the Trustees of the Temple.
  • VI-269: Report of the Committee on the Library.
  • VI-272: Report of Charity Committee.
  • VI-273: Petition by Olive Branch Lodge to remove to Millbury; granted.
  • VI-273: Report of the Trustees of the Grand Charity Fund.
  • VI-275: Committee appointed to draft resolutions to appreciate the work of the Trustees.
  • VI-277: Election of Winslow Lewis as Grand Master; other Grand Lodge officers elected and appointed.

Grand Constitutions Amendment Proposals

  • 12/14: VI-275; Amendment to Grand Constitutions to grant each subordinate lodge three votes; referred to committee.
  • 12/14: VI-276: Amendment to Grand Constitutions to change the manner of organization of the Board of Directors; tabled.

Grand Master's Address

  • 09/14: VI-260; Report on the Grand Master's address in December 1858; received and tabled.

Lodge By-Law Changes

  • 12/14: VI-273; Marine; referred to the Grand Master.

Necrologies and Memorials

  • 06/08: VI-245; Death of Rt. Wor. Rev. William Flint, Deputy Grand Master; memorial by Rt. Wor. Winslow Lewis, Jr. Rev. and Rt. Wor. Flint "was a man of no ordinary composition. In stature commanding, with a fine voice . . . He had a genial, warm, affectionate heart. . . He won hearts by his kindness of manner, and respect by his evident excellence."

Petitions for Charters

  • 03/08: VI-242; Petition for Quaboag U.D., Warren, granted. (Granted 03/09; constituted 03/21)
  • 06/08: VI-250; Petition for Montacute Lodge, U.D., Worcester, granted, but the By-Laws to be returned for "revision and correction" and that the lodge not be consecrated until they are approved.
  • 06/08: VI-251; Petition for Henry Price Lodge, U.D., Charlestown, granted. (Granted 06/08; constituted 06/28)
  • 06/08: VI-255; Petition by Benjamin Franklin Lodge, West Dennis, and Mount Horeb Lodge, West Harwich, to merge under the charter of Mount Horeb; report offered "in conformity with the prayer of the petitioners" but the matter was referred to the Grand Master "with full powers". Note: this is the first record of a merger under the United Grand Lodge of Massachusetts.
  • 09/14: VI-258; Petition by Webster Lodge U.D., Webster, granted. (Granted 09/06; constituted 09/22)
  • 09/14: VI-258; Petition by Trinity Lodge, Clinton; granted a new charter "the previous charter not being granted because it was not surrendered in accordance with the Grand Constitutions." However, by vote (VI-262) they were permitted to retain the original records and physical copy of the charter until called for by the Grand Lodge. (Granted 09/06; constituted 09/21)
  • 12/14: VI-276; Petition by Hiram Lodge, Copiapo, Chile; granted. (Granted 12/14; to be constituted by Rt. Wor. Charles T. Ward, Jr., Special Deputy)
  • 12/14: VI-276; Petition by Southern Cross Lodge U.D., Valparaiso, Chile; granted. (Granted 12/15; to be constituted by Rt. Wor. Charles T. Ward, Jr., Special Deputy)

Petitions for Dispensation for Lodges

Mentioned in Grand Master's Address on Pages VI-285:

Petitions for Restoration of Charter

  • 09/14: VI-260; Petition to restore Bristol Lodge, Attleboro, referred to committee.

SPECIAL COMMUNICATIONS

CEREMONY AT PILGRIM MONUMENT, AUGUST 1859

Laying of the Cornerstones of the Monumental Canopy and the Pilgrim Monument, Plymouth. Described in Moore's Freemasons' Monthly Magazine, Vol. XVIII, No. 11, September, 1859, beginning on Page 321. Address by the Grand Master, starting on Page 323, with further remarks beginning on Page 326.

The interesting ceremonies of laying the Corner Stones of a Canopy over the Rock on which the Pilgiims first landed on their arrival at Plymouth, and of a National Monument to be erected on one of the highest eminences of the town, in commemoration of their settlement, took place at Plymouth on Tuesday the 2d of August last. The day was most favorable to the occasion, and the town, which was beautifully and profusely dressed in holiday attire, was crowded to excess with visitors. Never before, probably, has there been so large a gathering of men and women within this ancient home of the Pilgrim, and never before has this venerated old town shown out in so much beauty and attractiveness. Every street and every house, so far as the eye could distinguish, presented some manifestation in sympathy with the occasion. Evergreen archways and inscriptions were to be met with in every direction, and bunting of all shapes and sizes —flags of all nations, and of all devices, and of all colors, floated to the breeze in highways and byways, in countless numbers. But for a more particular description of them and of the decorations, mottoes, inscriptions, and curious and patriotic devices which everywhere arrested the attention, we refer the reader to the papers of the day — having no more room in our pages to spare than will be required for a brief notice of the Masonic part of the ceremonies. The Grand Lodge assembled at Nassau Hall on the morning of the day and were escorted by the Boston and De Molay Encampments to the cars. On arriving at Plymouth the Grand Lodge proceeded at once to the Masonic Hall, where they were joined by the Plymouth Lodge, when both bodies, accompanied by a band of music, proceeded to Forefathers' Rock, and there laid, in due and ancient Masonic form, the Corner Stone of a Monumental Canopy, designed to mark the spot and protect the rock on which the passengers of the May Flower landed on the 21st Dec, 1620. "The canopy will cover a square space, the sides of which will measure about fifteen feet. The whole height of the structure will be about thirty feet. Each of the four facades will present an arched opening, through which Forefathers' Rock can be seen resting upon the floor of the arched chamber. The angles of these openings will be formed of solid piers, decorated with Roman doric columns bearing a plain entablature; above which will be an ornamental attic, with tablets containing inscriptions in the spares above the arches; and the whole will be surmounted with circular pediments, the continuation of which will form the roofs. At the angles on the outside, between the columns, are to be placed (our statues, representing some of the most distinguished persons among the Pilgrims. The material of which it is to be constructed is Quincy granite."

The ceremonies of laying the corner stone were commenced, in the presence of thousands of spectators, by Hon. Richard Warren, President of the Pilgrim Society, with the following address :—

Descendants of the Pilgrims — Six years ago to-day the first public movement wa» made for the erection of a monument to the Fathers. Since that day there have been many causes which have necessarily delayed the progress of the work. Differences of opinion in regard to the kind of structure that should be built, and as to where it should be placed, had to be reconciled, if possible. Then financial matters have rot been favorable. The whole country has passed through a severe ordeal in all its business transactions. But the effort begun six years since has had some success. We look on the surroundings of the Rock, and perceive that a great deal has been done here. To-day, on the sacred spot, on and around that Rock on which some of the nob'e band first stepped, near to their first Burial Hill, we come in reverence and with gratitude to begin the structure. Its foundation is as solid ai were the principles of the Pilgrim Fathers. It cannot be moved ; resting down on the firm earth, the wintry waves of ocean may roll and heave, and perhaps flow over it, but it will stand immovable The monument shall rise in beauty and simplicity, a fitting testimonial of the gratitude of the children placed where the Pilgrims' life in the New World began, where also it ended.

Years, centuries have rolled on since these heroic men were here, and not a stone is reared anywhere to mark the spot where most of them were laid to rest from their worldly toil, alter having, by the aid of their God, laid the foundation of a New World !

They sleep in peace beneath the sod on yonder hill of graves, or on the hill at whose base we are standing, where are no signs of any grave. Comrade buried comrade there in faith- Hardy manhood, who had borne all for truth's sake, who had left the home of his youth lor freedom in an unknown land, was placed in that soil, the seed, as it were, of a future growth of noble men.

Brave woman, also, who had pledged her fidelity to him; she who came over the rough sea, his aid, his comforter, his joy and treasure, as the true woman ever is to man; she, who gave up all else to follow him to whom she had, before Heaven, given herself, the sleeps there; there, all that was lovely in her frame, the casket that contained the jewel, has mouldered; the dust made into beautiful humanity in the Old World has returned to dust in the New World, while her pure spirit has risen to a higher life, to bless from there both the old and the new nations of earth- There, too, was put away sweet innocent childhood ! the boy and the girl—the joy of the parental heurt! They were conscious of but little here, save only that each revelled in the love of father and mother. These little ones had crossed the wide ocean, their cradle the fragile bark, their lullaby the roaring winds and ever-restless waves; their shelter, amid storm and tempest, a mother's arms, and the love of a good God who careth for all. Many ol these are buried under the sod whereon you now stand. Side by side, the child and the parent, safe from Indian cruelty, safe from starvation and from man's injustice. All are quiet there. Home and kindred in their last hours visited their imagination. One thought of all they had left j one prayer to heaven for loved ones—then the young child, the tender mother, the brave father went to that bourne from whence no one returns, in visible form, to look on what had been.

And here, my friends, is to be their imperishable memorial stone. This day the work too long neglected begins in earnest. Perrevere wuh it, children of a noble ancestry. It is holy work in which we to-day engage. When thi* structure shall be completed, as it soon will be, if you of New England shall will it so, you and I, all of the present, and all of coming time, shall bow here in reverence, and recall the story of the Pilgrim Fathers, and thank God that tbey were directed to this wilderness, which now blossoms as a rose.

"Not those who have trod the martial field,
And led to arms a battling host,
And at whose name 'the world grew pale,'
Will be in time remembered most;

But they who've walked the 'paths of peace'
And gave their aid to deeds t'were just,
Shall live for aye, on mem'ry's page,
When heroes sleep in unknown dust."

And now, in faith, in hope, with trust in God, I, as the representative of those to whom is entrusted this work of commemoration, say to these friends who have come to this place to-day in such goodly numbers that they are welcome to this sacred spot. And may the holy purpose for which you have come be sanctified for good to all.

Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Massachusetts, all things being prepared, in the name of the society over which I have the honor to preside, I ask you to proceed to lay the corner stone of the Monument on the Rock whereon the Pilgrim Fathers of 1620 landed.

At the conclusion of Mr. Warren's address, the Grand Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Osgood, of Springfield, offered ptayer, Col. http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMHeard John T. Heard], Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, then spoke as follows :—

Brethren and Gentlemen — In compliance with the request of the President of the Pilgrim Society and the Building Committee, we shall now deposit the corner atone of an edifice to be designated as the Monumental Canopy which is intended to point out and protect the exact point where the Forefathers landed from their boats on the 21st December, 1620.

It will not be inappropriate to the time and place to call to mind some of the facts connected with their arrival and landing and with the history of the forefathers' rock itself, as given in the excellent history of Massachusetts by Brother John Stetson Barry.

  • November 9, 1620, after a boisterous voyage of two months, the welcome cry of land was heard on board the Mayflower, and the sandy cliffs of Cape Cod were the first points which greeted the eyes of the exiles. November 11, the compact was signed in the cabin of the Mayflower. Fifteen or sixteen men well armed were set on shore at Long I'oint to explore, who returned at night. November 12, the Sabbath, was consecrated to worship, the first probably ever observed by Christians in Massachusetts. November 13, the shallop was drawn to the beach for repairs, and for the first time the whole company landed for refreshment.
  • November 15th, a party under Capt. Standish commenced a journey by land for discovery. They debarked at Steven's Point, at the Western extremity of the harbor. At the distance of about a mile five savages were espied, who at their approach hastily fled. November 16, compassing the head of East Harbor Creek, they refreshed themselves in a deep valley, and drank their first draught of New England water. Proceeded to another valley in Truro, in which was a pond Here were found grapes, the ruins of a house, and heaps of sand filled with corn stored in baskets.
  • Nov. 17th, they returned to the ship, weary and welcomed.
  • Nov. 27th, another expedition was fitted out, in which twenty five of the colonists and nine or ten of the sailors, with Capt. Jones at their head, were engaged. They visited the mouth of the river, which they called Cold Harbor, and obtained supplies from the aboriginal granaries. After a brief absence they returned.
  • Nov. 30th, a discussion occurred whether to settle at Cold Harbor or not. Robert Coppin, their pilot, informed them of a great and navigable river and good harbor in the other headland of the bay, almost right over against Cape Cod, which he had formerly visited, and which was called Thievish Harbor.

The speaker continued to trace this interesting record of the Puritans down to Dec. 11, S. O., 1620. In 1774, in the act of elevating this precious boulder, it split in twain, an occurrence regarded by many as ominous of the separation of the Colonies from England, and the lower part being left in the spot where it still lies, the upper part, weighing several tons, was conveyed, amid the heartiest rejoicings, to Liberty Pole Square, and adorned with a flag bearing the imperishable motto, " Liberty or Death."

July 4th, this part of the rock was removed to the ground in front of Pilgrim Hall, and there it rests, encircled with railing ornamented with heraldic wreaths, bearing the names of the fortyone signers of the compact in the Mayflower.

The upper portion of the corner stone was then elevated by a derrick, while the Grand Master, the Architect, Mr. Billings, the Chairman of the Committee of Arrangements, Trustees of the Pilgrim Society, and others, each placed a trowel of mortar upon the lower back, when the upper stone was lowered into its place.

Then followed the customary Masonic ritual, including the pouring on of corn, wine and oil. This part of the ceremony being concluded, the following original hymn, written by R. W. John H. Sheppard, Esq., was sung with fine effect :—

Though ages pass—and empires wane,
Our Ancient Landmarks still remain;
And Rites, which stood the tempest shock,
We now renew on Pilgrim Rock.

We consecrate to Thee, Oh God,
This spot where first the Fathers trod,
Forever sacred let it be,
Beneath a Pilgrim Canopy.

Immortal Rock !—On thee began
The march of mind—the righls of man;
And, taught by Pilgrim Sires, we see,
Nought but the Truth can make us free.

The following inscription, on a silver plate, was placed in the corner stone, with many other articles :—

This Casket,
containing objects of historical interest relating
to the
Plymouth Forefathers,
is deposited
in
the Corner Stone of a Monumental Canopy,
erected for the shelter and protection of
The Rock
on whioh the Pilgrims of the May Flower landed
on the Iwenlyfirst day of December,
A. D 1620.

Corner Stone
laid on the second day of August, 1859,
with
Religious and Masonic services,
under the direction
of
The Pilgrim Society ol Plymouth,
Richard Warren, President;
Building Committee,
Jonn H. Clifford, Nathaniel B. Shortleff,
Samuel Nicolson, Charles G. Davis,
William Thomas, Eleazer C. Sherman;
Hammatt Billings, Architect;
W. M. Harding, Financial Agent.

M. W. John T. Heard, Grand Master
of the M. W. Grand Lodge ol. Freemasons ol Massachusetts.

The general procession was formed immediately after the laying of the corner stone of the Canopy, under the Chief Marshalship of Wm. T. Davis, Esq., and consisted of four or five military companies, as the escort; distinguished guests Jn carriages ; the Masonic Fraternity, which was by far the most numerous part of the procession); fire companies; children in carnages, &c. The Masonic bodies were formed in a separate division under the Grand Marshalship of W. Br. Wm. S. Gardner, Esq., assisted by Brothers Chas A. Davis, of Chelsea, Jas. Cook, of Taunton, Benj. Randall and David Bragdon, of N. Bedlord, all in Templars' costume, and consisted of the Grand and subordinate Lodges, under escort of the Boston and De Molay Encampments, in full ranks—especially the former, which has seldom appeared to better advantage,—though neither of these fine bodies ever fails to honor itself and to do credit to the Institution when it consents to appear in public.

We have not a correct list of the Lodges present, but we noticed among the number, Massachusetts, Boston; Washington, Roxbury, in full numbers; Plymouth, Plymouth, also in full numbers; Baalbec, E. Boston, with a band ; King Solomon, Charlestown; Corner Stone, Duxbury; Star in the East, New Bedford; and Social Harmony, Wareham. And there %vere doubtless others present whose names have not been furnished us. And it is not improper to add, that as the Masonic division was the most numerous, so, we think, it was the most attractive part of the procession. The march was long, tedious and dusty— unnecessarily so; for there was no necessity for exhibiting the elephant more than three times in the same street and to the same parties. But he was patient, and being of great endurance, survived the infliction, trusting to gentler usage in the future.

On arriving at Monument Hill, the ceremonies of laying the corner stone were commenced by Mr. Warren, President of the Pilgrim Society, with an appropriate and eloquent address, in which he spoke of the patriotic work the society had undertaken, in terms of encouragement and confidence,—predicting its early and successful completion. At the conclusion of his remarks, he introduced his excellency Gov. Banks, who delivered an exceedingly able and philosophical address, but. for which we have room only for the following sentences, as specimens of the whole :—

"It is a voluntary offering which we present to-day. We speak for the living, not for the dead. Surtly no people that have animated the scenes of human history —neither Greeks nor Romans, Celts nor Saxons, have left behind them monuments more numerous, more imperishable, more beautiful than those that mark the historic path of the Puritan founders of the Commonwealth.

"On every side they rise—on the sea, and beyond the sea; upon the sterile and rock-bound coast; over the vale and upland of the rich interior ; over mountain, rock and river they speak to us, and will speak forever to those who succeed us, of their marvelous energy, vast forecast, and abiding faith in God. . .

"Nevertheless, it is for us a pleasure and a duty to connect the events of the present and the past by some marked and visible sign, to make apparent to careless and indifferent beholders the relation which the inestimable privileges of our time bear to the heroism and devotion of the forefathers. Never did monument rise to commemorate nobler deeds or greater heroism than theirs. No fortress, citadel, or temple—no pyramid, arsenal or obelisk, no triumphal arch or marble statue, bears testimony to holier virtues that yet live in Greek or Roman fame, than the innumerable and imperishable evidences of great purposes and powers which make illustrious the fame of the New England fathers.

"The monument, then, that we plant to day, is for us as for them. It is for our instruction, to remind our children and our children's children so long as the seed of woman shall bruise the serpent's head, that our life is of their life; that out of their trials and sorrows we pluck prosperity and happiness—from their oppression springs our freedom."

At the conclusion of the address, which was received with much favor, Col. Heard, G. M., was introduced and spoke as follows:—

Mr. President :—

To celebrate the deeds of the benefactors of mankind, is a service dictated alike by gratitude and the benevolent desire to transmit the blessings of their examples to posterity. The memory of the good and brave, whose virtues and exploits challenge admiration and homage, should be honored and perpetuated; and the establishment of institutions affecting happily the welfare of our race, is eminently worthy of commemoration. A people capable of greatness will not forget the virtues of their fathers; reverently will they cherish them, and gratefully present them in all their lustre for the respect and mitation of after ages.

Impressed with sentiments like these, we are assembled here to-day to solemnize an undertaking designed to perpetuate the renown of that peerless band—the first settlers of New England. It was here on this spot, then the border of a wilderness nearly as vast as the continent, where they landed on the 21st of December, 1620. Here, therefore, it is appropriate that a National Monument to their memory should be erected; a work which, we are happy to see, ha» been commenced under the most flattering prospects of success. To the Pilgrim Society belongs the honor of initiating this grateful and patriotic enterprise; and under ils auspices it will be, we doubt not, triumphantly accomplished. In compliance with your courteous invitation lo the Grand Lodge of Massachu- setls to lay this Corner-Stone, that body will now discharge that agreeable duty according to the ancient usages of the Craft.

It is not known, Sir, that any of the passengers of the Mayflower were Freemasons; certainly no record of the fact has been discovered. But since it is well authenticated that our institution was in a flourishing condition in England in 1620, it is not improbable that some members of a society which from the earliest times has been tolerant as regards modes of religious worship, should have united with the members of the Church of the Pilgrims and fled with them from the persecutions inflicted on dissenters by the established church. That there are no accounts extant of private or subordinate Lodges in the earlier days of the colonies, is not to be taken as evidence that none then existed in them. In the constitution of a Lodge previous to the past century it was not necessary that its existence and proceedings should have official or durable record; it received no warrant or charter from the General Assembly — the Grand Lodge of that time; nor were its meetings confined to any particular time or place: it is not to be wondered at, that under these circumstances and after a lapse of two centuries, all traces of it should be obliterated. Thus it is apparent that a Lodge might have existed even in the Mayflower, and been composed of Pilgrims, without the knowledge of their associates or posterity. The principles of Freemasonry are in no way incompatible with the professions of the Forefathers in morals or religious belief, but, on the contrary, are such as would have been approved and vindicated by them.

It will not be out of place for me to mention here a coincidence derived from the history of our society and that of the first settlers; — I allude to the fact that two of the Grand Masters of England were also members of the "Council established at Plymouth" by the Great Patent which passed the seals on the Third of November, 1620, and became the foundation of all subsequent grants of territory in New England. They were William, the third Earl of Pembroke, and Thomas, Earl of Arundel; the former was Chancellor of the University of Oxford and Lord Chamberlain of the King's household, the latter Earl Marshal of the realm. Pembroke, who was Senior Grand Warden under the Grand Mastership of Inigo Jones, his friend and a celebrated architect, succeeded him as Grand Master in 1618, and continued to preside over the Fraternity until the time of his death in 1630. Arundel was elected to the office in 1633, and filled it for the period of two years.

It is worthy of remembrance that though the Plymouth Company possessed the privileges of a monopoly, it having exclusive right by its patent to all the lands in New England, the members of the Council were lenient in their measures affecting the colonists. Towards the Pilgrims, especially, they showed much liberality. The latter, compelled by treachery to settle on this spot instead of that farther to the south, which they had selected before their departure from Europe, found themselves without privileges within the territorial limits of the Plymouth Company. The Council did not, however, look upon them as trespassers; but, through the influence of one of its number, caused a patent to be issued in their favor. This generous act of the government of the company, indicates that ils counsels were controlled by sentiments of humanity—by sentiments of brotherly-love, such as it might be supposed would have influenced the action of those members of it, at least, who were Masons.

On former occasions the Fraternity have been called upon to consecrate by their riles statues and other memorials erected in honor of the distinguished dead. To the illustrious Washington, to Franklin, Warren, Jackson, Clay - esteemed and venerated of our countrymen, esteemed and venerated also as Freemasons — have lasting monuments been reared whose commencement and completion have been thus signalized; But it is not to eminent characters who were of us alone, that our ceremonials of honor are confined : we recognize and respect exalted worth in whomsoever it exists or has existed, and are always ready as a society to manifest our appreciation of it. Important events like that wc are now commemorating, which have piomoted the progress and improvement of general society and conferred great benefits on the intellectual, moral and religious well being of man, may be celebrated with great propriety by Masons with all the distinction which their ceremonies can bestow.

This occasion naturally carries our thoughts back to the times of the Forefathers, and suggests the recital of their trials and sufferings, and triumphant struggle for religious freedom; but this duty I leave for others to perform. Though that instructive tale has been often told with power and beauty by the historian, orator and poet, until it has become familiar to all, still it is not a worn out tale; its reiteration never falls upon listless ears, or fails to move the sympathies and arouse the patriotic feelings of an American audience. The Pilgrim Monument will be one of the most imposing and beautiful monumental works in the world. The design, so creditable to the taste and genius of the artist, prefigures a structure of vast, yet harmonious proportions. While it will mark the place of the first settlement of New England, it will, also, by inscriptions, devices and sculpture, signalize the leading events in the lives of the Forefathers, and by appropriate figures, symbolize their cherished principles. May it endure for ages; and decay only when our descendants shall cease to appreciate their rich inheritance of civil and religious liberty.

At the conclusion of this address the Corner Stone was laid with the usual Masonic ceremonies. The following beautiful hymn, written for the occasion by R. W. John H. Sheppard, Esq., was sung by a quartette from Boston,— each of the first three verses being introduced in its proper connection, and the fourth at the conclusion of the consecrating ceremonies. The effect was very fine, as well as very appropriate :—

Whene'er our ancient Brethren went
To build a Church, or Monument —
The Head-Stone laid with skill and care,
They pour'd the Corn of Plenty there.

Wine was the next oblation given,
Emblem of Gladness—dew of Heaven;
For the pure grape—without alloy,
Will cheer the heart with hope and joy.

Then with the Oil of Peace they sought
A blessing on the work they wrought.
Thus was the stone an altar made,
Where bloodless sacrifice was laid.

Lord God of Hosts! To Thee alone
We look, and lay this Corner Stone;
Here let a Monument arise,
Where Faith stands pointing to the skies.

The prayers and reading of the scriptures were by Rev. Dr. Osgood, of Springfield, Rev. Dr. Wells, of this city, being too unwell to assist in this part of the services, as originally intended. After the benediction the procession was re-formed and proceeded to dinner, which was spread by the celebrated caterer J. B. Smith, of Boston, under a mammouth tent, capable of holding about three thousand persons, and which was nearly filled on the present occasion. Here speeches were made by a number of distinguished gentlemen, among whom were Govs. Banks, of Massachusetts, Turner, of Rhode Island, Buckingham, of Connecticut, Chase, of Ohio, Kent, of Maine, Hon. J. P. Hale, of New Hampshire, and others.

The plate placed in the corner Btone, bore the following inscription :—

The Corner Stone
of the
National Monument to the Forefathers,
laid in presence of
The Pilgrim Society of Plymouth,
by the
M. W. Grand Lodge ol Freemasons of Massachusetts,
M W. John T. Heard, G. Master,
On the second day of August, A. D. 1859—A. L 5859;
being in the two hundred and thirty-ninth year
since the first settlement of New England
by the Pilgrim Forefathers.

(Then follow the names of the President of the Pilgrim Society, Building Committee, Architect (Hammatt Billings, Esq.), President U. S., &c.)

Description of the Monument.

The design for the National Monument to the Forefathers, to be erected at Plymouth, consists of an octagon pedestal, on which stands a statue of Faith. From the four smaller faces of the pedestal project buttresses, upon which are seated figures emblematic of Morality, Education, Law and Liberty. Below them, in panels, are alto-reliefs of "The Departure from Delft-Haven," "The Signing of the Social Compact in the Cabin of the May Flower," "The Landing at Plymouth," and "The first Treaty with the Indians." Upon the four large faces of the main pedestal are large panels, to contain records of the principal events in the history of the Pilgrims, with the names of those who came over in the May Flower, and below are smaller panels for records connected with the Society and the building of the Monument.

A chamber within the pedestal, 26 feet in diameter, and well lighted, is to be a depository for all documents, &c, relating to the Pilgrims and the Society. In this chamber will be a stairway leading to the platlorm upon which stands the figure of Faith, from which may be seen all the places of interest connected with the history of the Forefathers. The whole Monument will be about 150 feet high, and SO feet at the base. The statue of Faith rests her foot upon the Forefathers'Rock; in her left hand she holds an open Bible; with the right uplifted she points to Heaven. Looking downward, as to those she is addressing, she seems to call them to trust in a higher power. The sitting figures are emblematic of the principles upon which the Pilgrims proposed lo found their Commonwealth. The first of these is Morality. She holdj tbe Decalogue in her leit, and the Scroll of Revelation in her right hand. Her look is upward, towards tbe impersonation of tbe Spirit of Religion above. In a niche, on one side of tbe throne, is a Prophet, and in the other, one of the Evangelists. The second of these figures is Law. On one side of bis seat is Justice; on the other, Mercy. The third is Education. In the niche, on one side ol her seat, is Wisdom, ripe with years; on the other. Youth, led by Experience, The fourth figure is Freedom. On one side, Peace rests under his protection ; on the other, Tyranny is overthrown by his prowess.

The Statue of Faith will be seventy feet high, and the sitting figures thirtyeight feet high, thus making it in magnitude the greatest work of the kind in the world; while as a work of art, it is believed it will afford pleasure to every American citizen.

The occasion was one of much interest, and will long be remembered with pleasurable recollections by all who had the happiness to participate in its observances.

FEAST OF ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST

held at Nassau Hall, Boston, 12/27/1859); VI-279.

  • VI-279: Dedication of the new hall at the corner of Tremont and Boylston Streets.
  • VI-279: Extensive correspondence from Fredericksburg Lodge #4 in Virginia, regarding the erection of a statue to General Washington; the Grand Lodge voted to contribute $300 to this effort.
  • VI-282: Lodge of Instruction.
  • VI-284: Installation of Grand Master Lewis and other Grand Lodge officers; description of the order of ceremonies given.
  • VI-285: Report of the Grand Master for the preceding year:
    • Mergers:
    • Statements regarding delinquent lodges; initiation of sojourners; and an accounting of the number of initiates over the past three years.
  • VI-290: An "excellent and appropriate Address" by the new Grand Master, and the Annual Feast "after the manner of Masons" held in the Banquet Hall. Note: This address is reproduced in full in Moore's Freemasons' Monthly Magazine, Vol. XVIII, No. 4, starting on Page 98. A report of the Feast is detailed beginning on Page 125.

LIST OF LODGES BY DISTRICT: 1859

This district layout is based on the O.P. edition of the Proceedings. However, this publication is riddled with errors, and some adjustment was necessary.
(Note: There were 12 Districts in 1859, plus a special area for Chile.)

DISTRICT 1

William T. Coolidge, Newton, District Deputy Grand Master; 10 Lodges + 1 U.D.

DISTRICT 2

Isaac P. Seavey, Newburyport, District Deputy Grand Master; 10 Lodges

DISTRICT 3

William North, Lowell, District Deputy Grand Master; 8 Lodges + 2 U.D.

DISTRICT 4

Levi Rawson, Farnumsville, District Deputy Grand Master; 6 Lodges + 1 U.D.

DISTRICT 5

Bradford L. Wales, Randolph, District Deputy Grand Master; 8 Lodges + 1 U.D.

DISTRICT 6

Jonathan A. Dana, Worcester, District Deputy Grand Master; 7 Lodges + 2 U.D.

DISTRICT 7

George H. Taber, Fairhaven, District Deputy Grand Master; 8 Lodges

DISTRICT 8

Sylvanus Baxter, Hyannis, District Deputy Grand Master; 7 Lodges + 2 U.D.

DISTRICT 9

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

DISTRICT 10

W.B.C. Pearsons, Holyoke, District Deputy Grand Master; 7 Lodges + 1 U.D.

DISTRICT 11

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

DISTRICT 12

John H. Sheppard, District Deputy Grand Master; 8 Lodges

VALPARAISO

C.T. Ward, Valparaiso, Special Deputy for Valparaiso; 1 Lodge + 2 U.D.


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