Difference between revisions of "MorningStar"

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(EVENTS)
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''Levi Clapp, Sec'ry'', Morning Star Lodge.
 
''Levi Clapp, Sec'ry'', Morning Star Lodge.
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 +
==== MASONIC FESTIVAL, JUNE 1847 ====
 +
 +
''From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. VI, No. 9, July 1847, p. 276:''
 +
 +
'''ORIGINAL MASONIC SONGS.'''
 +
 +
The following Songs, written for the occasion, were sung at the Masonic Festival at Worcester, on the 24th ult:—
 +
 +
I. BY R. W. BR. [http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLTPower THOMAS POWER].
 +
 +
<blockquote>
 +
Tune— ''Auld Lang Syne.''<br>
 +
<br>
 +
Again in social kindness met,<br>
 +
As Brothers good and true,<br>
 +
We 'll cherish still, and ne'er forget<br>
 +
The thoughts to friendship due.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
''Chorus.''—As days and years roll kindly by,<br>
 +
And varied scenes appear,<br>
 +
No change shall reach the social tie,<br>
 +
To Brothers ever dear.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
A hand of welcome we extend, <br>
 +
To friends and Brothers here;<br>
 +
And ever, till life's joys shall end,<br>
 +
Shall memory linger near.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
''Chorus'' —As days and years, &c.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
How dear, upon our festal day,<br>
 +
To join the social band,<br>
 +
To gather pleasures while we may,<br>
 +
United heart and hand.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
''Chorus.''—As days and years, &c.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
For others be the warrior's plume,<br>
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For them the trumpet's blast;<br>
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Be ours the laurels that shall bloom<br>
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In love, while time shall last.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
''Chorus.''—As days and years, &c.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
While Wisdom gives its steady light,<br>
 +
And Strength its manly aid,<br>
 +
In smiles of Beauty hearts unite, <br>
 +
That ne'er from memory fade. <br>
 +
<br>
 +
''Chorus.''—As days and years, &c.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
Then hold we on our even way,<br>
 +
That dearest friends approve,<br>
 +
Till passed where friendships ne'er decay,<br>
 +
Nor fades Fraternal Love.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
''Chorus.''—As days and years, &c.
 +
</blockquote>
 +
 +
II. BY  J. H. D., OF BOSTON.
 +
 +
<blockquote>
 +
''Air—Bonnie Doon.''<br>
 +
<br>
 +
Their perils pass'd—the warfare o'er— <br>
 +
Hate's ruthless rage all spent in vain—<br>
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Upon this festal day, as erst,<br>
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In peace the Craftsmen meet again.<br>
 +
Again all o'er the land is heard<br>
 +
The busy Gavel's pleasing sound,—<br>
 +
And where, but late, we met with foes,<br>
 +
True friends and Brothers now abound.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
''Repeat.''—And where, but late, &c. <br>
 +
<br>
 +
Again, as erst, with blithesome hearts, <br>
 +
We come in strength and pride today;<br>
 +
Not as the victors, to exult, <br>
 +
But to our Patron honor pay.<br>
 +
Here, hoary heads, with ''Wisdom'' crown'd, <br>
 +
And vig'rous manhood's ''Strength'' are met;<br>
 +
While Woman's ''Beauty'' radiant glows,<br>
 +
Like diamonds in thick cluster set.<br><br>
 +
<br>
 +
''Repeat.''—While Woman's beauty, &c.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
Wide o'er the earth as Heaven's own light, <br>
 +
Our Craft is spread—a balm for grief:—<br>
 +
Where'er in woe a Brother's found, <br>
 +
A Brother's hand brings quick relief.<br>
 +
Hark! o'er the wave, from Erin's shores, <br>
 +
There comes a famish'd people's cry :<br>
 +
The needed aid is quickly sent,<br>
 +
And Masons swell the blest supply.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
''Repeat.''—The needed aid, &c.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
Oh! life were but a cheerless scene, <br>
 +
And drear and dark the way we tread,<br>
 +
Did we not know fraternal joys, <br>
 +
Had we not ''Woman'', light to shed.<br>
 +
As parent, wife, and friend, most dear, <br>
 +
We greet her presence here today:— <br>
 +
Still faithful found, and blessing still,<br>
 +
"She points to Heaven and leads the way."<br>
 +
<br>
 +
''Repeat.''—Still faithful found, &c.
 +
<br>
 +
Oh.' hail the day,—improve the hour : <br>
 +
Let social joy and mirth abound:—<br>
 +
Still firm our truth-based Temple stands,<br>
 +
And faithful Craftsmen still are found.<br>
 +
Though blind-led hate our Art assail,<br>
 +
We 've nought to fear :—in God we trust :<br>
 +
By Him upheld, 'twill live and bless,<br>
 +
When man's best monuments are dust.<br>
 +
<br>
 +
''Repeat.''—By Him upheld, &c.
 +
</blockquote>
  
 
<hr>
 
<hr>

Revision as of 12:49, 28 September 2012

MORNING STAR LODGE

Location: Worcester

Chartered By: John Cutler

Chartered By: Simon W. Robinson

Charter Date: 06/11/1793 II-36

Charter Date: 12/16/1844 IV-553

Precedence Date: 06/11/1793; note that the second charter was granted the precedence of the original charter on 12/08/1857 (page VI-140).

Current Status: Active

NOTES

Rose of Sharon merged into this Lodge, 07/15/1974.

Isaiah Thomas merged into this Lodge, 12/21/2004.


YEARS

1793 1813 1814 1815 1816 1829

1842 1843

1844 1845 1846 1853 1857 1858 1870 1871 1873 1875 1878 1879 1880 1881 1882 1893 1895 1896 1901 1902 1906 1911 1913 1914 1916 1917 1918 1921 1926 1927 1928 1930 1943 1945 1947 1953 1954 1968 1969 1973 1974 1977 1980 1982 1983 1985 1988 1990 1993 1994 1999 2003 2004 2005 2006


EVENTS

CONSTITUTION OF THE LODGE, 1845

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. IV, No. 6, April, 1845, p. 168:

CONSTITUTION OF MORNING STAB LODGE, WORCESTER, MASS.

To Augustus Peabody, Esq.
M W. G. Master, Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, of Mass.

M. W. Sir :—Enclosed please find the Warrant by which you empowered me to constitute "Morning Star Lodge," and Install its officers; and with it I have the honor of transmitting a Report of my official proceedings.

The applicants for the Charter, with their associates, and many other Brethren of this, and the adjoining towns, assembled at the Masonic Hall, on the evening of Tuesday the 18th inst, at 7 o'clock. The Lodge was opened and the necessary preparations were made for the reception of the representatives of the Grand Lodge. The R. W. Pliny Slocomb, Dist. Dept Grand Master, was present, with several other Past Masters, and to them I am much indebted for their valuable assistance.

The Grand Lodge was represented as follows, viz:

  • R. W. Albert Case, as Grand Master.
  • Pliny Slocomb, as Deputy Grand Master.
  • Levi Rawson, P. M. Olive Branch Lodge, as Sen. Gr. Warden.
  • Asa Woodbury, P. M. as Jr. Gr. Warden.
  • Daniel G. Livermore, P.M. as Gr. Treasurer.
  • Caleb Chase, P. M. as Gr. Secretary.
  • James Estabrook, P. M. Morning Star as Gr. Marshal.
  • Nelson Cowing, P. M. Olive Branch as Sen. Gr. Deacon.
  • Simeon Thompson, P. M. Morning Star as Jr. Gr. Deacon.

This body having formed in an adjoining room, was waited upon by a Messenger, and informed that the new Lodge was opened and ready to receive it. The representatives then entered in procession, and were received in form. The officers of the new Lodge vacated the chairs, which were taken by the representatives, the former taking seats on the left.

The presiding officer then stated the object of the meeting, the Warrant empowering me to constitute the Lodge and Install the Officers was read, and the Brethren signified their satisfaction with my authority. The Brethren, with the exception of Past Masters, then retired. During their absence the Worshipful Master Elect, was bound to the faithful performance of his trust, and took his station on the left of the Master's chair. The Grand Marshal having formed the Brethren in procession, re-conducted them into the hall, and in passing the East, they saluted their Master; after which the Lodge was seated.

The preliminaries having been arranged, the Charter was read and the imposing ceremonies of Consecration were performed. The several Officers were Installed, and invested with the badges of their respective offices—the charges were delivered and the Lodge was constituted in form. The Grand Marshal then made the usual proclamation, and the blessing of the Supreme Grand Master was invoked by the Past Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of South Carolina, who officiated as G. Chaplain during the ceremony of Consecration.

The Lodge is composed mostly of experienced Craftsmen, who will well and truly guard the Institution and promote its interets. The younger Masons associated with them, are intelligent, active and faithful. The prospect is that the Lodge will have all the work it can conveniently attend to, for the sham vail of antiraasonry has been rent in twain — the people have began to "consider their ways," and the highly respected members of the Fraternity will commend the Institution and gain for it the approval of the wise and good.

The Lodge retains in its possession a Bible, which the late Past Grand Mas¬ ter, Isaiah Thomas, presented to the former Lodge. After the Worshipful Mas¬ ter, Br. Horace Chenert,—had taken the chair, he presented the Lodge an elegant copy of the Holy Scriptures, and accompanied the presentation with a few appropriate remarks. It was a well-timed and useful gift, and placed in the centre, it shall give unfading light to the "Star."

I am happy to acknowledge the assistance rendered me by the intelligent Past Masters from abroad. Their zeal for Masonry is truly commendable. And now, Most Worshipful, I beg to congratulate you on the prosperous condition of the Masonic Fraternity in this State. Having recently returned from the State of South Carolina, where, for some years, I have associated with the Craftsmen in the labors of the Lodge, and where Masonry is enjoying a high degree of prosperity, it is a great satisfaction to me, that I am located within your jurisdiction, and permitted to associate in Masonic labors with the " Sons of Light" in the East.

I congratulate you on the uprising of the "Morning Star," and assure you, its light will not be dim! As members of the great Fraternity, may we be all, at one, influenced by the benign principles of pure Freemasonry, then under the inspection of wise and skilful overseers, and the direction of the Supreme Grand Master, we shall maintain the glory of our excellent Institution—increase its usefulness, and hand it down, a blessing to ages yet to come, and generations yet unborn.

All of which is respectfully submitted, by yours, fraternally,

Albert Case,
Special Deputy, &c.
Worcester, Feb. 22,1845.—A. L. 5845.


Worcester, Feb. 25, 1845.

Rev. Br. Albert Case,

Dear Sir:—The undersigned were appointed a Committee of Morning Star Lodge, to express to you their grateful acknowledgments for the very accurate and acceptable manner in which you performed the Ceremonies of Consecration of said Lodge, and in the Installation of its officers, on Tuesday evening, the 18th. Also, for the exceedingly able, eloquent and Masonic address, with which you favored them on that occasion, and they would respectfully request that you forward a copy of said address, with an account of the ceremonies of Consecration and Installation, to the editor of the Masonic Magazine for publication.

With great respect, your Brothers,
(Signed)
James Estabrook,
Henry Earl,
Horace Chenery,
Committee of Morning Star Lodge.

Respected Brethren:

Worcester, February 26, 1845.

Your favor of the 25th inst., in behalf of Morning Star Lodge, has been received. I am grateful for the expression of satisfaction on the part of the Lodge, with respect to the performance of the duties assigned me by the M. W. G. Master.

The remarks addressed to the Lodge and Brethren on the occasion, imperfect as they were, are in substance, submitted at your request for publication. With sentiments of Fraternal regard, I am respectfully, your Brother,

Albert Case.

ADDRESS TO THE MASTER.

Worshipful Master:—As the special deputy of the M. W. Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of this Commonwealth, by the power and authority by him conferred upon me, and with the assistance of the R. W. Brethren present, I have Consecrated " Morning Star Lodge," and Installed its several officers. It is with a degree of satisfaction I will not attempt to describe, that I now have the honor of inducting you into the distinguished station your Brethren have called you to It would not become me to enter into a detail of the numerous and important duties devolving upon you in the responsible office you have assumed, because, in by-gone days, you have enjoyed the satisfaction of having performed them with the skill of a wise and faithful Master. Your ability and zeal are well known to those who have reposed the trust in you, and you can rely with confidence on their aid, to render your labors easy, agreeable and profitable.

To you, as the chief pillar of the Lodge—the Representative of Wisdom,—will the Brethren look for instruction. While they have been careful to fill the Chair with an experienced Mason, they have happily placed the jewel of your office on one that will not only lay out the work, and enforce the regulations, but set an example that shall influence others to work by the Square. As the Sun rises in the East to open and enlighten the day—to give warmth and vigor to man, so should the Worshipful Master rise,—open his Lodge in due time; give proper instruction for labor, cause the light of science to shine and impart knowledge among the Brotherhood, and thereby give greater vitality to Masonic teachings, that the Brethren, profiting by them, may receive full pay as Masons.

Before you, and shedding its light all around, is that Holy Volume, which as Masons we revere as the rule and guide of our "faith and practice," and under the benignant bend of the All-Seeing Eye, it will render your own and the pathway of the Brethren clear, and the journey pleasant. May that Eye which never slumbers nor sleeps, but sees into the innermost sanctuary of the heart, as well as the Lodge-room, look approvingly upon you and the members of the Lodge. May you have the high satisfaction of knowing that your works are accepted, and at the last be seated at the right of the Grand Master Supreme, in the celestial Grand Lodge!

ADDRESS TO THE WARDENS.

Bro. Senior and Junior Wardens:—The stations you occupy are important, and very much responsibility devolves upon you. By a faithful performance of your duties, you will greatly aid the representative of Wisdom in carrying out his plans of instruction and rearing the moral edifice. As the representatives of the pillars of Strength and Beauty, you are to yield support to the Master and strengthen and adorn the fair fabric with those excellences and virtues, which are of more value than a profusion of precious stones.

Br. Junior:—Your exertions will be required in the heat of the day, and the interests of Masonry demand that you be a faithful and prudent Overseer, and

"Ne'er Shrink from the Sun jn the pride of its height."

As the Sun at meridian is the glory and beauty of the day, so may you by precept and example cause the Brethren to act by the Plumb, to practice Temperance, Prudence and Justice, and adorn themselves with the beauty of holiness.

Br. Senior:—Your assistance is invaluable in directing the Craft on the level of equality, in their improvement in science and virtue. As the Sun sets in the West to close the day, you will see that all receive a proper share of instruction, that good-will may prevail, and none be allowed to depart dissatisfied, so that harmony may strengthen and support the Lodge, and give durability to our ancient Institution.

ADDRESS TO THE LODGE.

Brethren of the Lodge:—I congratulate you on the organization of Morning Star Lodge, in your beautiful Village, and on the bright prospects that open before you, for the inculcation and practice of those sublime virtues, which have a common God for their origin, and a boundless universe for their temple. It is matter of gratulation to the Fraternity, when another is added to the number of Altars before which Masons bow, at which they worship, and from which, the light of eternity is far shining, to instruct, improve and bless. But particularly to you, is it a joyous circumstance, that this Lodge, like a Phoenix, from the ashes of the old, has arisen in all the solidity and brightness of the Morning Star! Masonry, during its protracted slumber, has not here lost aught of its energy or its power. The workmen, though they have not for long years heard the sound of the gavel, calling them to labor, have been spared by the Grand Architect of Heaven and Earth, and now, in all the wisdom of early instruction, improved by the light and meditation of after years,—with jewels all bright and glowing, with clean hands and pure hearts,—you have assembled to renew your labors—to impart to the worthy and well qualified, those mysteries and principles which for long ages have made man Brethren, in fraternal affection, faithfulness and truth. It is well that the former workmen should again resume the tools and commence the labor. From your experience and love of Masonry, you are better prepared for the undertaking than young and inexperienced Craftsmen. You have seen the Institution in its palmy days, in the time of its power and useful¬ ness—in the hour of its former glory. You have witnessed its decline, and you know the cause.

You saw it when a night of thick darkness threw its ponderous clouds around its brow—when unprincipled recreants assailed its fortress with all the weapons that malignity could devise or dare. You have witnessed the haughty and heartless smile of the hypocritical and base pretender, as he flattered himself he saw the lightnings of vengeance and the thunders of wrath and indignation he had levelled against it, reaching its heart of hearts, piercing its vitals and producing its spasms, and its death throes! You have seen the aspiring, the ambitious politician, seeking to gain the hearts of the people, and rise to power, by calumniating an Institution whose principles were too pure for his perverted heart, and whose light was reaching that heart's core,—exposing its rottenness and reproving its sin. You have seen many of the gentler sex, who, in consequence of the false representations of the artful and designing, were prejudiced against the Institution which has extended its arms to protect and bless, and been a support and shield to them, and the lone orphan. Yet amid all this opposition from the depraved designing ones, and from the ignorant, yet confiding, whom the reckless so wickedly deceived,—you have not despaired. You have waited with good hope for the storm to spend its violence, and you have not waited in vain. You have seen the boisterous and contending elements hushed in silence, the prime movers of strife and discord retire in dismay and shamefacedness. You again behold the fair fabric of Masonry standing up in all her first grandeur, unscathed, undimmed,—redeemed,—her sanctuary cleansed, her pillars standing firm and immutable, with bright beams from the Omniscient Eye resting on their heads. Well did the Poet sing:

"Truth crushed to earth, will rise again;
The eternal years of God are her's;
But error wounded writhes in pain,
And dies amid her worshippers."

All true was this saying, and fully, in this instance, has it been verified.

The Brethren have witnessed all this, and now there seems to come over us a kind of inspiration, as we assemble in this sacred retreat, linger a moment on the past tribulations, and gladden our hearts with our present conditions and prospects.

" The rule and guide to our faith and practice," is still unchanged, bright and inviting as before,—the "All-Seeing Eye," is still watching over us—Faith, Hope and Charity have lost none of their influence—Brotherly love and Relief may yet be cherished and exercised—the

"Truth is mighty and will prevail."

My Brethren:—The past, with all its lights and shades, has been—the present is. For this time, was the past, and we should improve its lessons. The interests of the Fraternity are in some measure in yourliands. Let them not suffer in the house of their friends. Let each one feel that on him, his zeal, his conduct, rests the welfare of Freemasonry, and each one will promote its respectability and usefulness. Preserve the ancient land-marks unmoved; let your whole lives be regulated by the precepts of wisdom,—your characters have all the strength and support which virtue gives, and then will they be adorned with the beauty of holiness! By carefully observing the principles, you will preserve the mysteries, and extend the blessings of Freemasonry.

Ours being a system of peace, order and harmony, is promotive of fraternal affection and good will. These fruits should be seen in Lodge, and in all our intercourse with the world. Then will Freemasonry, the hand-maid of our holy religion, be commended,—its principles will spread abroad and their salutary influence be excited beyond the Lodge room, beyond the members of the mystic tie. They will go out like seed broad-cast, improving the social relations, moralizing and invigorating the mass of mind. Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence and Justice shall then be recognized as powerful principles, worthy to be cherished and practised, rather than as mere sounding names! Then will those not of the Order, feel the thrillings of benevolence and charity, and fraternize for the purpose of promoting the welfare of each other and of the great whole. When such associations arise, and arise they will, wherever Masonry spreads her wand and exerts her power, let us regard them without jealousy, not as Masonic societies, but as kindred in spirit, and extend to them that kindness which shall encourage the growth of benevolence and charity.

As Masons, we shall be pleased at all times to see the uprising of that Love which God has implanted in the bosoms of his children,—a principle which is far-reaching as the wants of humanity,—lasting as eternity! Be ye promoters of all that is good, then ye will be faithful Masons, and in due time receive a Master's pay.

Brethren, Officers and Members,—be co-workers in the great work, guard well the avenue to your Altar, allow it not to be polluted by profane hands --keep a strict watch over your own affections and conduct—square your lives by the square of virtue and maintain such characters as shall be approved by the Infinite One!

The M. W. Grand Lodge has been pleased to favor your re-organization ; it will rejoice in your prosperity; that prosperity will depend on your attachment to Masonry, your devotion to its interests, and your observance of its requirements. Be ye sincere, fervent, and true, and your Lodge shall be and remain, like

"The bright pillar that rose at Heaven's command,
When Israel marched along the desert land,
Blazed throngh the Night, on lonely wilds afar,
And, told the path, a never failing Star."

I have now performed the duty entrusted to me, by the appointment I had the honor to receive from the Most Worshipful Grand Master. As his representative, I tender you the thanks of the Grand Lodge, for your praiseworthy exertions to increase its honors and extend the beneficial influences of Freemasonry. I give you its parental benediction, and am happy in being enabled to assure that distinguished body, that the interests of Masonry have here been confided to faithful and true Brothers, in whose hands they are safe; that here, Masonry will be inculcated and honored, and that the Lodge it has planted in Worcester, shall be a firm pillar of the Grand Lodge, a promoter of our useful art—a bright—a MORNING STAR.

HALL DEDICATION, 1846

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. VI, No. 3, January, 1847, p. 67:

DEDICATION OF THE NEW MASONIC HALL, WORCESTER, MASS.

The new Hall recently fitted up by Morning Star Lodge, in Worcester, was dedicated with appropriate services on Tuesday evening, Nov. 84th. At an early hour the Hall was filled by members of the Order, and a very intelligent assembly of ladies and gentlemen, anxious to witness the consecrating services.

The Grand Lodge was opened in ample form, in an adjoining apartment The following were the officers present:—M. W. Simon W. Robinson, G. Master; R. W. Ed. A. Raymond, as D. G. M.; Wm. Eaton, as S. G. W.; Ruel Baker, as J. G. W.; Albert Case, as G. Chaplain ; Ammi B. Young, as G. Treas.; Wm. Parkman, as G. Sec'ry ; E. F. Dixy, as G. Marshal.

The Grand Lodge, thus organized, the proper officers bearing the pitchers of corn, wine and oil, the venerable Dea. Alpheus Merrifield, bearing the Holy Bible, Square and Compass, entered the Hall and marched three times around the Lodge; during which time "Washington's March" was played on the piano, by Miss Perry. A fervent prayer was offered by the G. Chaplain of the G. R. A. Chapter of the State. The Hall was then solemnly consecrated by the Grand Master, M. W. Simon W. Robinson, Esq., in accordance with ancient form and usage.

An able and impressive address was then delivered by the W. and Rev. Br. Albert Case. He gave a history of the Lodge, from its organization—dwelt on the late opposition to Masonry, and the triumphs of the Institution. He depicted the political demagogue, who, he said, had " dreamed of leading forth the imaginary goat from the Lodge-room, and riding, John Gilpin-like, astride of the poor animal, into the Halls of Congress and the Gubernatorial chair of State." He then entered into a brief explanation of the principles and objects of Masonry, and concluded with an earnest appeal to the Brotherhood to carry out those principles in their lives.

During his remarks, he stated that the Lodge was chartered on the 25th of March, 1793. The late P. G. M., Isaiah Thomas, Esq., was the first Master, and during the two years of his service, he attended 52 meetings of the Lodge. Br. C. held up an ancient copy of the Holy Scriptures, which was presented to the Lodge on the 24th June, 1815, by Br. Thomas, and pointed to a beautifully bound Bible, on the Altar, the gift of P. M. Geo. Chenery. After the second ode had been sung, the G. Master delivered a very able and instructive charge to the Lodge and Fraternity.

The music was performed under the direction of Br. Emery Perry, by a number of ladies and gentlemen, who cheerfully gave their valuable services. Miss Perry presided at the piano.

The new Hall is in the third story of Haywood's Block, on Main street. It is 30 by 40 feet. There are two large and convenient ante-rooms. The whole is carpeted and furnished in a tasteful manner. The central Chandelier is rich and beautiful. The Globes, or shades, are ornamented with emblems of the Order.

Morning Star Lodge is in a prosperous condition. Henry Earl, Esq. is the presiding officer. The Worcester R. A. Chapter, and the Worcester County Encampment of Knights Templars, will hereafter occupy the apartments in the new Hall.

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. VI, No. 3, January, 1847, p. 90:

The following votes and resolutions should have accompanied the notice of the Dedication of the new Masonic Hall, at Worcester, given in a preceding page, but they were not received until after the first form had been put to press, and consequently too late to appear in their proper place:—

At a regular communication of Morning Star Lodge, Worcester, December 1, A. L. 5845,

Voted, That the thanks of this Lodge are due and hereby are returned to Simon W. Robinson, Esq., M. W. G. Master, the R. W. Brothers E. A. Raymond, William Eaton, Ruel Baker, A. B. Young and William Parkman, for their fraternal visit, and. for the very solemn and impressive manner in which they dedi¬ cated the new Hall on Tuesday evening last.

Resolved, That the thanks of this Lodge be tendered to G. M. Robinson for the dignified manner in which he presided, and for tho very instructive charge be delivered to the Lodge and the Fraternity on the evening of the consescration of this Hall.

Voted, That the thanks of this Lodge be tendered to R. W. Albert Case, for the eloquent and interesting address delivered before this Lodge and the public, on the above occasion.

Voted, That the thanks of this Lodge be returned to Br. Emery Perry, and the ladies and gentlemen who assisted him, for their services so cheerfully rendered, and for the highly satisfactory manner in which the musical part of the dedication was performed.

Voted, That the thanks of this Lodge be tendered to the committee for the satisfactory mariner in which they have performed the duties entrusted to them in fitting up this hall.

Voted, That a copy of the foregoing Resolutions be forwarded by the Secretary to Br. C. W. Moore, for publication in the Freemasons' Magazine.

Levi Clapp, Sec'ry, Morning Star Lodge.

MASONIC FESTIVAL, JUNE 1847

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. VI, No. 9, July 1847, p. 276:

ORIGINAL MASONIC SONGS.

The following Songs, written for the occasion, were sung at the Masonic Festival at Worcester, on the 24th ult:—

I. BY R. W. BR. THOMAS POWER.

Tune— Auld Lang Syne.

Again in social kindness met,
As Brothers good and true,
We 'll cherish still, and ne'er forget
The thoughts to friendship due.

Chorus.—As days and years roll kindly by,
And varied scenes appear,
No change shall reach the social tie,
To Brothers ever dear.

A hand of welcome we extend,
To friends and Brothers here;
And ever, till life's joys shall end,
Shall memory linger near.

Chorus —As days and years, &c.

How dear, upon our festal day,
To join the social band,
To gather pleasures while we may,
United heart and hand.

Chorus.—As days and years, &c.

For others be the warrior's plume,
For them the trumpet's blast;
Be ours the laurels that shall bloom
In love, while time shall last.

Chorus.—As days and years, &c.

While Wisdom gives its steady light,
And Strength its manly aid,
In smiles of Beauty hearts unite,
That ne'er from memory fade.

Chorus.—As days and years, &c.

Then hold we on our even way,
That dearest friends approve,
Till passed where friendships ne'er decay,
Nor fades Fraternal Love.

Chorus.—As days and years, &c.

II. BY J. H. D., OF BOSTON.

Air—Bonnie Doon.

Their perils pass'd—the warfare o'er—
Hate's ruthless rage all spent in vain—
Upon this festal day, as erst,
In peace the Craftsmen meet again.
Again all o'er the land is heard
The busy Gavel's pleasing sound,—
And where, but late, we met with foes,
True friends and Brothers now abound.

Repeat.—And where, but late, &c.

Again, as erst, with blithesome hearts,
We come in strength and pride today;
Not as the victors, to exult,
But to our Patron honor pay.
Here, hoary heads, with Wisdom crown'd,
And vig'rous manhood's Strength are met;
While Woman's Beauty radiant glows,
Like diamonds in thick cluster set.


Repeat.—While Woman's beauty, &c.

Wide o'er the earth as Heaven's own light,
Our Craft is spread—a balm for grief:—
Where'er in woe a Brother's found,
A Brother's hand brings quick relief.
Hark! o'er the wave, from Erin's shores,
There comes a famish'd people's cry :
The needed aid is quickly sent,
And Masons swell the blest supply.

Repeat.—The needed aid, &c.

Oh! life were but a cheerless scene,
And drear and dark the way we tread,
Did we not know fraternal joys,
Had we not Woman, light to shed.
As parent, wife, and friend, most dear,
We greet her presence here today:—
Still faithful found, and blessing still,
"She points to Heaven and leads the way."

Repeat.—Still faithful found, &c.
Oh.' hail the day,—improve the hour :
Let social joy and mirth abound:—
Still firm our truth-based Temple stands,
And faithful Craftsmen still are found.
Though blind-led hate our Art assail,
We 've nought to fear :—in God we trust :
By Him upheld, 'twill live and bless,
When man's best monuments are dust.

Repeat.—By Him upheld, &c.


GRAND LODGE OFFICERS

DISTRICTS

1803: District 6 (Central Mass.)

1821: District 6

1835: District 6

1849: District 6

1867: District 11 (Worcester)

1883: District 18 (Worcester)

1911: District 21 (Worcester)

1927: District 21 (Brookfield)

2003: District 23


LINKS

Lodge web site

Massachusetts Lodges