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''From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XVIII, No. 9, July 1859, Page 265:''
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The Grand Lodge of this Commonwealth held a quarterly communication in this city on the Sth ultimo. In the absence of the M. W. Grand Master, the Grand Lodge was opened by P. G. M. Dr. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMLewis Lewis], who, at the request of the Grand Master, announced the appointment of the R. W. Brother Hon. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLCTrain Charles R. Train], of Framingham, to fill the vacancy in the Dep. Grand Mastership, occasioned by the death of the late lamented Brother Rev. Wm. Flint, of Greenfield. Brother Train was then duly installed into his office, and presided during the remainder of the session. . .
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A communication from the Grand Lodge of Maine on the subject of an interchange of representatives among the Grand Lodges of the country, was received and referred to a committee, who subsequently reported that it was inexpedient to make such appointments, which report was adopted by unanimous vote. This subject has before been presented in Grand Lodge with a similar result.
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The remainder of the business was chiefly of a local character. The meeting was a very pleasant one, and the results were in all cases arrived at without a division.
  
 
* VI-245: Appointment of Rt. Wor. Charles R. Train as Deputy Grand Master, to replace the recently deceased Rt. Wor. and Rev. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLWFlint William Flint].
 
* VI-245: Appointment of Rt. Wor. Charles R. Train as Deputy Grand Master, to replace the recently deceased Rt. Wor. and Rev. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLWFlint William Flint].

Revision as of 17:41, 2 June 2020

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

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XVIII, No. 9, July 1859, Page 265:

The Grand Lodge of this Commonwealth held a quarterly communication in this city on the Sth ultimo. In the absence of the M. W. Grand Master, the Grand Lodge was opened by P. G. M. Dr. Lewis, who, at the request of the Grand Master, announced the appointment of the R. W. Brother Hon. Charles R. Train, of Framingham, to fill the vacancy in the Dep. Grand Mastership, occasioned by the death of the late lamented Brother Rev. Wm. Flint, of Greenfield. Brother Train was then duly installed into his office, and presided during the remainder of the session. . .

A communication from the Grand Lodge of Maine on the subject of an interchange of representatives among the Grand Lodges of the country, was received and referred to a committee, who subsequently reported that it was inexpedient to make such appointments, which report was adopted by unanimous vote. This subject has before been presented in Grand Lodge with a similar result. The remainder of the business was chiefly of a local character. The meeting was a very pleasant one, and the results were in all cases arrived at without a division.

  • 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

Program of Exercises, 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. 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 REPORTS

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XIX, No. 7, May 1860, Page 193:

Perhaps at no former period were the Lodges, and indeed, the Order generally, in this Commonwealth, in a better, or a more healthy and prosperous condition than they are at the present time. Harmony, which is the great essential of success and the bond of strength, was never more distinguishable throughout the jurisdiction than now. No sound of discord is anywhere heard, and no jarring interests anywhere visible. Petty jealousies and envies, and personal likes and dislikes, and small grumblings and smaller talk, probably do and always will exist in the Lodges, as in every other form of society. This is an evil, annoying in itself, and often productive of mischief, but it is one to which no specific remedy can be applied. The minds of some persons are so constituted that they would be perfectly miserable, if deprived of the privilege of finding fault, of grumbling, of scolding, and in divers other ways making themselves and everybody else around them uncomfortable, if not positively unhappy. Such persons are to be endured as an unavoidable evil, just as we submit to and endure the thousands of other pettish annoyances of life. They will find their way into our Lodges in spite of all that can be done to the contrary, and the only relief is to be found in the hope, that time and the wholesome influences of the principles of the Institution, may work out an improvement in their favor, though it must be conceded that the realization of such a hope is loo improbable to afford much encouragement. Perhaps a more satisfactory source of consolation is the fact, that our Brethren in other jurisdiction's are no belter off in this respect than we are ! The evil is a common one — confined to no particular jurisdiction or section of country, it is not one, however, to cause any serious misgivings or apprehensions. The parties, though they may occasionally succeed in interrupting the ordinary course of business in the Lodge, are generally correctly appreciated, and have, consequently, too little weight to produce any very important results. In making up our estimate of the general condition of the Craft in any particular jurisdiction, we do not therefore take the annoyances of this class of persons into the account, for they are not of sufficient influence to affect its general prosperity, either favorably or otherwise.

There is another disturbing cause which frequently manifests itself in the Lodges, and the consequences of which are sometimes of a more serious nature. This is an unreasonable ambition for office, accompanied by a disposition, on he part of the aspirant, to undervalue the qualifications of others, while he is very sure to overrate his own, in equal ratio. Masonic offices are not to be sought after, like places of political distinction ; nor is the Lodge-room any place for electioneering. The Brother most ambitious for office is usually the least qualified for it, and the least entitled to wear its honors. If a member possesses the requisite talent for office, his Brethren will find it out in due time, and will always be happy to avail themselves of his services. If on the other hand he does not possess the necessary qualifications, he ought not, and cannot, be placed in office without injury to the Lodge. And whether he does or does not possess this talent, is a question not for him to decide, but it is one which must be left, and which every modest and really competent member will insist on leaving, to the judgment of his Brethren. It is one over which he cannot with delicacy or propriety attempt to exercise any control. We lay it down as a general rule—not without its exceptions, for all general rules are subject to that limitation—but as a rule that will verify its own soundness in practice, that the member who seeks office, and resorts to the artifices of the demagogue to secure it, is the least qualified to discharge its duties with credit to himself or for the interest of the Lodge. All such attempts to obtain office should be discouraged in their incipiency, and the aspiring member given to understand that his conduct will not be approved. If the seeking of office were made a disqualification for holding it, the result would be for the benefit of the Lodge.

Still another cause of annoyance, and frequently of disaffection and dissension in the Lodges, is the cacoethes loquendi, or rage for speaking, with which some of the Brethren are alarmingly affected. Forgetting or disregarding the real purposes of the meeting, such members are apparently never more happy than when they can make occasion to render their Brethren wholly miserable, by compelling them to listen for half an hour or more to a speech, the only perceptible aim of which is to glorify the speaker and afford him an opportunity to "air his vocabulary" at the expense of his Brethren. The business of the Lodge is not that of a debating club, nor is the Lodge-room an arena for stump-speaking. The Brethren go there to do the business of Masonry and improve themselves in its ritual, and whoever, from tin itching desire to show himself off in irrelevant and unnecessary talking, diverts them from this purpose, and interrupts the legitimate work of the Lodge, does violence to his solemn duties as a Mason and renders himself an unprofitable member,—one whom his Brethren regret to see enter the hall, and rejoice when he leaves it They tolerate him when present — but nothing more. He commands neither their love nor respect. Discussions are sometimes necessary in the Lodge, but they should take the character of explanations, rather than of debates, and the speakers should always be sententious, clear, and to the purpose. The strength of an argument does not consist in the use of a multiplicity of words. We have seen many a good cause lost "through much talking."

That our Lodges are not, however, more severely tried in either of the above particulars than those of other jurisdictions, is to be inferred from their present excellent condition, though this is hardly an excuse for any delinquencies that may exist. The present is a time of great prosperity, and consequently of great accessions to our numbers, and it becomes the Lodges, and particularly the elder and better informed members, to see that liberties are not now allowed, nor precedents established, which may hereafter lead their less experienced Brethren into a course of practice inconsistent with the usages, and hazardous to the integrity and interests of the Order.

One of the greatest evils we have heretofore had to contend against in this jurisdiction—namely, want of uniformity in the work and practice in the Lodges—is directly referable to the interference and spurious teachings of mountebanks from other States, in the shape of Masonic lecturers, and vagrant pedlars of worthless Masonic books and other publications, pretending to teach the law and usages of the Institution. The former have been driven out from among us, never, it is hoped, to be again allowed to dishonor our Lodges by their presence or corrupt them by their teachings. The latter class are still found, to some extent, among us, spreading their peculiar doctrines in the Lodges, as they can find opportunity to impose upon the inexperience of the more recently admitted and less informed members. And this is a serious evil, because tending to produce incalculable mischief in the jurisdiction. A large proportion of the controverted cases in our Lodges, and which are almost daily submitted to the proper authorities for adjudication, are traceable to this source.

Without stopping to inquire who is right, it is enough that they do not teach the law or the usages of Masonry as they have been taught in Massachusetts for more than a century and a quarter, nor as they are now defined and taught by our own Grand Lodge. They are not, therefore, admissible as authority in our Lodges. We are satisfied with the Masonry we have — with its ritual, its laws, and its philosophy. It is such as we have inherited from our fathers — from the founders of the Order in this country — and such as we desire to transmit to our posterity. We ask for no change—no improvement,— least of all such improvement as we should be like to get by following the counsels of itinerant lecturers and opiniative exponents of Masonic practice.

The following extracts from the reports of the District Deputy Grand Masters will give our readers a correct knowledge of the general condition of the Lodges in this jurisdiction at the close of the last year :—

DISTRICT 1

R. W. Wm. D. Coolidge, D. D. G. M.—

I am roost happy to say that prosperity and harmony prevail in the First Masonic District, and while in the community around us every subject of thought seems to be intensified, it is refreshing to witness the effect of the conservative principles of our Order on the minds of our Brethren, bringing in its train calm thought, common sense, and enlightened judgment to guide their decisions. It is a source of gratification to bear my testimony to the prompt liberality of the Brethren in every case of deserving need, from the ample treasuries of our Lodges and the warm hearts of our Brothers; the aged have been comforted, the blind relieved, and the injunctions of " pure and undefiled religion" hare been carried out.

The effect of the late vote whereby the fees to the Grand Lodge were reduced, will show a great falling off in its revenues, the return of this important District being only four hundred and seventy-one dollars ($471), but the Brethren of this District will be among the first to correot this position, if it be found that the happiness or usefulness of the Grand Lodge is abridged thereby.

The Lodges in this District are in the enjoyment of ample and commodious Lodge rooms—the one now near completion in Brighton is another evidence of the liberality of the Brethren, and the love they bear to this ancient and honored institution; and the Lodges in the city will soon be in the enjoyment of the ample accommodations of Freemasons' Hall. Truly, "the lines have fallen to us in pleasant places, and we have a goodly heritage," a grateful trust should be the prevailing sentiment of our hearts, that we have been thus guided and blest, inciting in us greater efforts for the promotion of the honor, the usefulness and the happiness of our beloved institution, and developing in each Brother's heart and life, greater fidelity to ourselves, to humanity, and to God. And now, Sir, in closing, let me congratulate you, on your retirement from office, on the prosperity and harmony which characterize the Lodges in this jurisdiction. It must be the source of the greatest happiness to you, that at the close of a most efficient administration, you bear with yon the respect and lore of all who have been officially and intimately associated with you.

DISTRICT 2

Rt. W. Isaac P. Seavey.—

The general condition of nearly all the Lodges throughout the District at the Annual visitation, gave good evidence of the progress made the past year over that of previous ones. Several which had heretofore evinced a great lack of skill, and proper discernment in the discharge of their various duties and responsibilities, have assumed a new and highly gratifying position, by which they are enabled to rightfully execute their duties consonant to the high standard of Masonic rule. Nor is it less observable in the entire District, that each Lodge has (unless a single exception be named) endeavored to preserve, with scrupulous caution, the elevated character of its members, by a close and persevering scrutiny into the merits of each new applicant.

The amount of work performed the past year, in its aggregate, is twenty per cent less, in comparison with that of several previous years. This has been, in one sense, beneficial to the Lodges, by giving the Brethren leisure, and enlarged opportunities for improvement in the lectures of the several degrees, which some of them, I am pleased to say, have not failed to appreciate with profit. This has necessarily produced a greater degree of harmony and good fellowship among the Craft, and while such a true and noble effort is kept alive, all discord will be banished from among them.

A majority of the Lodges continue the weekly lecture meetings for instruction, which were established about two years since, and they are attended with good success. Their standard in the ritual is a close approximation to the authorized Work of the Grand Lodge.

DISTRICT 3

Rt. W. Wm. North.—

St. Paul's Lodge, Groton. Last year this Lodge was reported in a prosperous and growing condition. Since my last report a new Lodge has been established at Groton Junction (working under Dispensation). This may have had the effect in some measure to prevent the increase of St. Paul's Lodge — yet those remaining are mostly tried veterans in the cause and will ensure its stability, while the known skill and devotedness of their elected Master and other officers, will be a sufficient guaranty of the correctness of their work.

Corinthian Lodge, Concord. This Lodge continues in about the same state as at my last report — but little work having been done for two years past Two have been initiated the last year.

Aurora Lodge, Fitchburg, is still in a thriving condition, and deservedly stands high among the Lodges in the district. This Lodge is moderately increasing its numbers by initiation of that class which will support the honor an i reputation of the institution. Here too they have frequent meetings for lecturing and by this means keep up the standard of work for which they have long had the reputation.

Merrimack Lodge, Haverhill, continues in its steady course and maintains an honorable position among the Lodges in this section. Its membership is large and composed of many of the most prominent men in the place. Their Hall is large and elegantly furnished, it being one of the best in the State, and their order and decorum in business are worthy of example.

Pentucket Lodge, Lowell, has been regularly advancing, and the nnmber of initiates nearly the same every year since the restoration of its charter. It has the largest membership in the district, and present appearances indicate that the number of initiates this year will equal that of past years.

St. Matthew's Lodge, Andover. Since particular mention of this Lodge has been made, a new, spacious Hall has been procured, and furnished in a neat and tasteful style, affording excellent accommodations.

Grecian Lodge, Lawrence. The prosperity of this Lodge has equaled that of any in this District. Large accessions have been made yearly, and it now stands second in point of numbers. The work has been good and justly merits approval. Sixteen have been initiated the past year.

Ancient York Lodge, Lowell, still merits its high standing. Regular and constant additions are made to its numbers from the highest classes in the community. The present officers are thoroughly skilled in the work, and prompt in the discharge of their duty. One marked feature in the management of this Lodge, and worthy of imitation, is the careful selection of officers, even ol the lowest rank, of such as will fill the chair with honor when in due course they may reach it.

Excelsior Lodge, Groton Junction, (working under a Dispensation) has commenced its operations under the most favorable circumstances. Located in a thriving village, with every prospect of a large and rapid increase, and having connected with it a large portion of the must estimable business men of the place, who in their own commanding position must exert a favorable influence.

DISTRICT 4

R. W. Levi Rawson.—

It is perhaps unnecessary for me to particularize the several Lodges, an you were informed by my former report of their then particular state—their present is about the same as then— they have rather improved in their work. Blackstone River, Montgomery and Franklin Lodges do their work and business of the lodge well; Solomon's Temple has improved; Olive Branch is not yet perfect. All express a desire to comply with the instructions of the Grand Lodge, and the ancient customs and usages of the Order. All have been punctual in making their annual returns and paying the Grand Lodge dues, which I have forwarded to the Grand Treasurer.

DISTRICT 5

R. W. Bradford L. Wales.—

I regret that other positive requirements have prevented me from discharging the whole duty of the office so exactly as its importance requires. On the faithfulness of the District Deputies, depends, in my judgment, a large share of the real success of the Institution. Not how much work, but how well that work is performed, is the trae and only test of its healthy condition. I have personally visited six of the eight Lodges composing the fifth District, and one by proxy, during the year, and am most happy to report, so far as the work is concerned, without exception, I have found it strictly in conformity with that approved by the Grand Lodge. The Lodges, in regard to their pecuniary matters, are in good condition. Those who have been admitted to the degrees, as far as my information extends, are worthy of the distinguished honor—"men of good report and well recommended."

Permit me, M. W. Grand Master, before resigning my office, to congratulate you upon your brilliant administration as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts. No predecessor of yours in that office has performed the amount of labor which you have. None have, or could have, done it better. None have manifested more sincerely an abiding interest in the prosperity of our ancient institution. No one has retired from that office at the end of his constitutional term, who carries with him the confidence of his Brethren in a greater degree, and no one has deserved it more, in the opinion of your triend socially and fraternally.

DISTRICT 6

R. W. John A. Dana.—

It has been my pleasure during the past year to visit all the Lodges in the sixth District, and with one exception, to inspect some part of the work in each.

I have the satisfaction to report that all are in good condition, and that each has made some progress, in the right direction, during the last year; this is true of some of them in a marked degree.

The three Lodges which have been constituted during the pant year in this District, have won for themselves much credit for the zeal they have manifested, and the high rank they have taken among the Lodges of this District as good working Lodges.

Aa the result of my observation, derived from my visits during the year, I am satisfied that all that is wanted to put our Lodges in a high position, is a more frequent recourse to the assistance of the Lecturers of the Grand Lodge.

This matter has been loo much neglected by the Lodges, not from a failure on their part to appreciate the advantages lobe derived from this source entirely, but in some instances I have no doubt it may be occasioned by the expense which attends the procuring of the attendance and labors of lecturers.

To remedy in some degree this state of things I would beg leave to suggest, whether it might not be found for the good of our Lodges to make it their duty, that each Lodge appropriate some part of their receipts each year for this purpose, and that the Grand Lodge take some action in this matter. And should any ot our Lodges be unable to incur the expense, that the same be met from the Treasury of the Grand Lodge.

It is bat justice to you, to acknowledge that the present prosperity our Lodges are now enjoying, is in a very great degree doe to the active interest you have taken in this behalf during your administration.

DISTRICT 7

Rt. W. George H. Taber.—

Another year having expired, it again becomes my duty to report to you the state of the Lodges composing the Seventh Masonic District. And I am pleased to inform you that harmony and prosperity prevail. There have been large accessions to our numbers the past year, (120 in the seven chartered Lodges,) but if they prove good men and true, they are heartily welcome within our portals. There is still a lack of uniformity in the work, which I hope will soon be mended, for I think there should be but one standard, and that strictly complied with. There are two Lodges under Dispensation, which have commenced under favorable circumstances, and I trust they will be useful additions to our Order.

DISTRICT 8

Rt. W. Sylvester Baxter.—

I have recommended to all the Lodges to be more particular in being represented in the Grand Lodge, as many of those who are entitled to seats in the Grand Lodge, would find it beneficial to attend as often as possible ; at any rate, the Mailer of the Lodge should make it a point to be at the annual meeting.

I find the Lodges in my District have made great improvement since the visit of the M. W. G. Master to the Lodges; there certainly is more interest and better work. I think the Fraternity greatly indebted to him for the interest he has manifested. May he long live to enjoy the satisfaction that he has bestowed such benefits.

DISTRICT 9

Rt. W. Daniel Reynolds.—

With perhaps owe exception the Lodges comprising the Ninth District are progressing in usefulness and stability, having added by numbers, intelligence and strength, far in advance of former years, which served to render my visits to them peculiarly pleasant.

The condition of most of the Masonic Halls have been improved within the last two years, and with marked taste, which renders them peculiarly attractive. In this particular the members of Hampden Lodge, have contributed and ex pended a large amount, and have just completed a most praiseworthy remodeling of their Hall.

DISTRICT 10

Rt. W. W. B. C. Pearsons.—

This has been a year of uninterrupted prosperity with all the Lodges in this District, and a harmonious spirit seems to pervade all classes and degrees of the craft.

DISTRICT 11

Rt. W. Chas. B. Rogers. -

There have been one hundred and forty-six initiates in the ten Lodges composing this District, for the year ending September 1st, 1859, and twenty-five rejections, ten of which were in one Lodge. This seems to be a large number, about fifteen per cent, and to some minds would indicate a careful watchfulness in keeping out all unworthy applicants, and to others a careless regard for the best interests of the institution, in allowing so many lo be proposed for admission who were unworthy.

I find a difference of opinion in regard to this matter, whether it were better for a member of a Lodge to refuse, upon solicitation, to propose a person whom he thinks should not be admitted, or to offer his name for consideration and rejection, thus subjecting him to an additional difficulty, should he ever attempt to gain admission in another locality; in connection with this subject I would remark, that there appears to be so much of a desire to increase some of the Lodges in numbers, as to cause too great a leniency to be used and allowed in passing upon the qualifications of those seeking admission into our Order.

DISTRICT 12

Rt. W. John H. Sheppard.—

It would afford me much pleasure to particularize the traits of excellence in each Lodge committed to my charge, but it might, perhaps, lead to invidious distinctions. The records all were well kept and faithful, and in the returns there was not generally a large proportion of rejections — being only twenty-four in the whole. Negatives, like sharp-edged tools, require delicacy in handling; I am of opinion they should be avoided as much as possible by the caution of each Brother who signs the recommendation of the candidate for the Degrees, for a rejection may sometimes cause a bitter enemy. Yet nothing — neither fear, favor, nor hope of reward should tempt any member of a Lodge to vote for an improper or unworthy applicant.

It is but just to say a word touching Germania Lodge which I visited twice. Their work and lectures are altogether in the German language, but the eye and ear of any experienced Brother might easily follow and trace the general accuracy which appears. With all the disadvantages of a foreign tongue, they do well. To the members of that Lodge, living far from their native home and beloved relatives, Freemasonry must be of peculiar importance in promoting pleasing intercourse and Brotherly love—and they seem to appreciate it


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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