Pentucket

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PENTUCKET LODGE

Location: Chelmsford (Lowell)

Chartered By: Timothy Bigelow

Charter Date: 03/09/1807 II-353

Precedence Date: 03/09/1807

Current Status: Active


NOTES

Note that Lowell was formed from Chelmsford and did not exist as an entity when this lodge was chartered.


PAST MASTERS

  • Isaac Colburn, 1807-1812
  • Artemus Holden, 1813, 1815, 1816
  • Jonathan Fletcher, 1814
  • Charles Blood, 1817, 1818
  • Israel Hildreth, 1819-1823
  • Zacheus Fletcher, 1824
  • John Fletcher, 1825, 1826
  • Jesse Phelps, 1827, 1828, 1832-1834, 1846; Mem
  • Jefferson Bancroft, 1829, 1830
  • Richmond Jones, 1831
  • DARK 1835-1846
  • Daniel Balch, 1845
  • Prentice Cushing, 1847, 1848; SN
  • William North, 1849-1855
  • Isaac Cooper, 1856, 1857
  • James B. Trueworthy, 1858, 1859
  • Hiram N. Hall, 1860-1862
  • Thomas G. Gerrish, 1863, 1864
  • Fred T. North, 1865, 1866
  • Ruel J. Walker, 1867, 1868
  • Samuel S. Fuller, 1869
  • Albert B. Hall, 1870, 1871
  • Oliver Ober, 1872, 1873
  • Frederick Frye, 1874, 1875
  • Charles H. Richardson, DDGM, 1876, 1877; Mem
  • Wesley R. Batcheler, 1878
  • Benjamin C. Dean, 1879, 1880
  • George F. Morgan, 1881
  • William D. Brown, 1882, 1883
  • Henry Caril, 1884, 1885
  • Adelbert N. Huntoon, 1886, 1887
  • Herbert A. Wright, 1888, 1889
  • Charles A. Cross, 1890, 1891
  • Frank W. Emerson, 1892, 1893
  • Avery B. Clark, 1894, 1895
  • Charles S. Proctor, 1896, 1897; N
  • George H. Smith, 1898, 1899
  • Winslow S. Clark, 1900, 1901
  • Horace C. Page, 1902, 1903
  • Benjamin W. Clements, 1904, 1905; SN
  • Frank W. Hall, 1906, 1907
  • George P. Howes, 1908, 1909
  • Martin L. Kirkeby, 1910, 1911
  • Frank D. Proctor, 1912, 1913
  • William R. Foster, 1914, 1915
  • Edson K. Humphrey, 1916, 1917; Mem
  • Robert A. Kennedy, 1918, 1919
  • Garfield A. Davis, 1920, 1921; N
  • A. Gordon Foster, 1922, 1923
  • Percy J. Wilson, 1924, 1925
  • Willard A. Parker, 1926, 1927
  • Roscoe C. Turner, 1928, 1929
  • Harry Priestly, 1930, 1931
  • Alexander Semple, Jr., 1932, 1933
  • Everett T. Reed, 1934, 1935
  • Ralph A. Johnson, 1936, 1937
  • Walter W. Colby, 1938, 1939
  • Raymond W. Sherburn, 1940, 1941
  • Elton L. F. Silk, 1942, 1943
  • Wilbur H. Roberts, 1944, 1945; N
  • Edmond H. Gunther, 1946, 1947
  • Herbert G. Pascall, 1948, 1949
  • Ray Pike, Jr., 1950, 1951
  • Francis A. Mathews, 1952, 1953
  • John P. Wood, 1954
  • Raymond V. Ullom, Jr., 1955, 1956; SN
  • Millis C. Pelton, 1957, 1958
  • Roland E. Mosley, 1959, 1960; N
  • Willis A. Clark, Jr., 1961, 1962
  • Richard C. Gillis, 1963, 1964
  • Donald A. Pelton, 1965, 1966
  • Walter F. Bujnowski, 1967, 1968
  • Robert S. Gibson, 1969
  • Bradley H. Tuttle, 1970, 1971
  • Ainsworth C. Pedersen, 1972, 1973
  • Charles Boyajian, 1974, 1975
  • Philip G. Tays, 1976, 1977
  • Robert A. Silk, 1978, 1979
  • William B. Roberts, 1980, 1981
  • H. Mark Leonard, Jr., 1982, 1983
  • David B. Ullom, 1984, 1985
  • John E. Ullom, 1986, 1987
  • Douglas A. Hanks, 1988, 1989
  • Joseph L. Husson, 1990, 1991
  • David B. Hanks, 1992, 1993
  • Robert G. Wallace, 1994, 1995
  • Linscott Fadden, 1996, 1997
  • Raymond R. A. Bul, 1998, 1999
  • Jeffrey A. Northrup, 2000, 2001
  • Robert J. Walsh, 2002, 2003
  • George N. Tournas, 2004, 2005
  • Wayne L. Standley, Sr., 2006, 2007
  • Wayne L. Standley, Jr., 2008, 2009
  • Jason A. Standley, Sr., 2010-2012

REFERENCES IN GRAND LODGE PROCEEDINGS

  • Petition for Charter: 1807
  • Petition for Restoration of Charter: 1845

ANNIVERSARIES

  • 1897 (90th Anniversary)
  • 1907 (Centenary)
  • 1957 (150th Anniversary)

VISITS BY GRAND MASTER

BY-LAW CHANGES

1876 1877 1880 1883 1886 1888 1891 1903 1906 1907 1912 1922 1928 1933 1934 1943 1952 1953 1966 1972 1977 1990 2003 2012

HISTORY

  • 1957 (150th Anniversary History, 1957-56; see below)

150TH ANNIVERSARY HISTORY, MARCH 1957

From Proceedings, Page 1957-56:

By Worshipful Francis A. Mathews.

In the early part of the 19th Century in the several villages scattered through Chelmsford and Dracut there were a number of influential men who were Masons and who desired to enjoy the benefits of a Lodge without being compelled to travel 14 or 15 miles to Corinthian in Concord or Saint Paul in Groton. Therefore, early in 1807 fifteen of them petitioned the Grand Lodge of the Ancient Society of Free and Accepted Masons of Massachusetts for a charter for a Lodge at the Falls. It is generally agreed that the intention of the petitioners was to call it Pawtucket Lodge, but probably because of a clerical error, the charter was made to Pentucket, which incidentally was the Indian name for Haverhill. This charter was granted March 9, 1807. Some of the original petitioners were men whose names are familiar to people of Lowell today: Coburn, Fletcher, Hildreth, Chapman, Fiske and Clarke.

Let us go back and briefly sketch the background of these times. By the end of the American Revolution, Chelmsford, from which much of Lowell was later taken, had become a town of considerable importance, and at the beginning of the 19th Century, it had steadily grown in population so as to be known as a large town with several villages, the most enterprising of which was the one at Pawtucket Falls. In 1792 the first bridge across the Merrimack in Massachusetts had been constructed at the location of the present Pawtucketville Bridge. This displaced the old ferry which had operated above the Falls, but which had never been dependable. This bridge provided easy transportation over the river for the heavy stream of traffic between Boston and the farms north of here.

In the same year, 1792, a corporation was formed to build a canal around the Falls. This, the Pawtucket Canal, was opened with a ceremony in October 1796. The business enterprises connected with travel across the bridge and transportation through the canal made the village at the Falls an industrious and influential community. The Middlesex Canal was started in 1794 and completed in 1803. This canal was largely responsible for the growth of the section known as Middlesex Village, it being the northern terminal of the canal.

At the time the Lodge charter was granted, Thomas Jefferson was President; and James Sullivan was Governor of the Commonwealth and was considered to be sympathetic to the administration, which it appears, the Masons of that time were not. In the history of the Lodge written at the time of the 100th anniversary it was noted that party feeling ran high and intense bitterness was common. To quote a line from this history, "the superior breeding and elegant manners of the gentlemen's party has been superseded by the rudeness, irreverence and ignorance of the mob." Evidently the Masons of that day were not Democrats.

Aaron Burr had lately been arrested and was to be tried for treason. A British warship had recently fired a broadside at the U. S. Frigate Chesapeake, thus insulting our flag. Robert Fulton had at last succeeded in running a steamboat on the Hudson, and the people at the Falls were sure that very soon the packet boat "Gov. Sullivan" would be replaced by a steamboat making regular trips from Concord, New Hampshire, to Boston by the Middlesex Canal.

The mechanical age had not touched this community as yet; the only manufacturing establishment in the vicinity was Mr. Hale's carding mill on River Meadow or Hale's Brook.

This history gives a long list of inventions which had not yet been developed. A few examples will suffice: photographs, matches, writing pens, kerosene oil, metal or armored ships, labor unions and strikes, Sunday papers or postage stamps, golf or women's clubs, and also no graft in political offices.

The Lodge has met in a dozen or more places. Many of these buildings are still standing. It is interesting to read a brief resume of these sites. They first assembled in what was known as Whiting's Hall, described as a "Large and commodious hall in the rear of Phineas Whiting's Tavern," situated where the French Orphanage now stands. Access was gained by means of an outside stairway. At the head of the stairs was a small ante-room in which the Tyler was sometimes stationed during Lodge meetings to ward off cowans and eavesdroppers or, to be more exact, inquisitive boys and girls.

On the morning of October 12, 1809, Pentucket Lodge met in the Spalding House, now occupied by the Molly Varnum Chapter D. A. R., for the special purpose of receiving the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, who had come here to consecrate the new Lodge.

In this hall the Master of Pentucket Lodge was invested with the "Characteristicks of the Chair." Then a procession was formed and led by a band. The Masons marched in full regalia across the bridge to the church (since been replaced by the present Pawtucketville Congregational Church), where an "elegant and enlightened" discourse was delivered and the remaining officers of the Lodge were installed.

"The procession was reformed shortly after High Twelve and returned to Mr. Whiting's Hall where several of the Reverend Clergy and other Gentlemen joined with the fraternity and partook of a 'sumptuous refreshment' after which a number of toasts were drank."

Regular Lodge meetings continued to be held in Whiting's Hall until 1811, when they moved across the street to a hall owned by Senior Warden Jonathan Fletcher, where they met except for one meeting until 1816. This meeting was held for a special purpose at the home of the Master, Artemas Holden, probably for the purpose of instruction in the ritual, because Holden was noted for his proficiency. The following day they again met in the home of Simeon Spalding in Chelmsford Centre. This house is still standing and is known as the Fiske house. This was probably the first meeting at this house and of more than usual interest because it is recorded that the Rev. Bro. Wilkes Allen, Pastor of the Church and Society of Chelmsford, delivered a discourse. They continued to meet here until 1819.

It is evident that there existed at this time among some of the Brethren a jealousy against the village at the Falls, and the cause may have originated in the increased business and growth of this important point on the Merrimack River. The residence of the Rev. Mr. Allen at the middle of the town, may have added to the strength of those who resided in the other villages. August 17th, 1817, the opposition advanced so far as to raise a committee charged to consider the expediency of changing the name of the Lodge. Probably those friendly to removing to the Palls, claimed that by reason of the name, there was great propriety in the Lodge being located there, and that its name indicated the place where it should be held. This excitement, however, declined, and the committee made no report. . .

A committee was raised May 14th, 1814, to consider the expediency of fitting up a hall for the accommodation of the Lodge. At the annual meeting in October of this year, a Chaplain and a Marshal were chosen for the first time, no such officers having been previously needed. . . On the 7th of January, 1819, the committee appointed in May 1814, to consider the expediency of fitting up a hall, were ordered to report in writing at the next meeting. February 4th, 1819, they reported that —

Mr. Wood will furnish his hall in May next, and let it with the appendages to the Lodge for twenty dollars per year, for the purpose of holding meetings in; and that Brother Daniel Tuck will furnish his hall, and give the use of it to the Lodge for two years, with the appendages, and after that time will let the same to the Lodge for twelve dollars per year, for the purpose of holding meetings in.


After this report was made, Brother K. Adams remarked that in case the Lodge should remove to Mr. Wood's hall, he was authorized to say that one year's rent would be given to the Lodge; and Brother Israel Hildreth said, in that case he was authorized to offer another year's rent free from Brother Tuck. On motion of Brother Allen to accept Brother Tuck's offer of his hall, it was voted not to accept it. A vote was taken to accept Mr. Wood's offer.

Thus it appears that there was considerable competition between Mr. Wood and Brother Tuck, and that the feelings of the members were deeply interested in the contest.

Brother Tuck's house was situated at North Chelmsford near the residence of General Adams. Mr. Wood's hall was at Middlesex Village, and is now the three-story house next to that occupied by the Village Riding Academy operated by Eddie Gaudette. In those days it was the second house on the north side of the road leading to North Chelmsford, west of the old Middlesex Canal. It has since been converted into an apartment house.

Middlesex Village was at this time a flourishing place. The Canal which here connected with the River was doing an extensive business in the transportation of freight and passengers. Glass works were in full operation near by. Hat manufactories and other business were carried on to some extent, and the importance of this place as a central point for the location of the Lodge was clearly seen by the Brethren. . .

April 22nd, 1819, the Lodge voted (eighteen to eleven) that the Lodge be removed to the hall of S. F. Wood, near the head of the Canal, after an ineffectual attempt to refer the whole matter to disinterested Brethren, whose determination should be final. . .

The Lodge was held at the house of Simeon Spalding, in the middle of the town, three years and four months. May 6th, 1819, it met for the first time at the hall of S. F. Wood, at Middlesex Village. . .

In the days we are now alluding to, it was customary at each meeting to call the Craft from "labor to refreshment." Visitors were admitted upon their first visit free, but afterwards, they were expected to pay twenty-five cents, if they partook of refreshments. From this custom originated the rule (until quite recently a regulation of Pentucket Lodge) that no visiting Brother shall be admitted more than twice without permission of the Master — that they should not be permitted to live upon the Lodge, and enjoy its hospitality, without contributing something to its support. In the change of times this rule is now of as much importance to the Craft as it was in those days of eating and drinking. . .

In 1819 it became apparent that the expenses of the Lodge were too great, and that recourse must be had to some economical plan to relieve it from embarrassment. Accordingly, November 25th, 1819, a committee was appointed to propose refreshments less expensive than those which had been provided. The same evening the committee reported that "the refreshments of the Lodge shall be crackers and cheese, and the liquors rum and gin." This report was accepted for six months. . .

The following May, a committee raised for the same purpose, recommended "bread and cyder," and it was accepted. March 13th, 1821, it was voted that the refreshments in future be composed of "bread, biscuit and cheese." . . .

Thus at this early date, some years before temperance as a moral reform was preached and inculcated upon the basis of total abstinence, and years before the community was generally excited upon the question, Pentucket Lodge took the foremost step in the great reform which has since pervaded all classes of society, and upon which volumes have been written by the philanthropist, and political economist. It is a matter of much interest that the Masonic Fraternity thus early awoke to the evil of the use of intoxicating liquors at every meeting of the Lodge. Columbian Lodge, of Boston, in 1821, made a similar reform, and it is fair to presume that the movement was general among the Lodges of Massachusetts.

In 1825 the Lodge moved to a hall connected to the tavern kept by Messrs. Balch & Coburn in East Chelmsford. This tavern is the stone building on Pawtucket Street now known as the Ayer Home. They met here for two years and it was during this time that the Town of Lowell was incorporated. There is an endorsement on the charter authorizing the Lodge to meet in the new Town of Lowell.

On May 31, 1826, Pentucket Lodge, assisted by Mt. Horeb Royal Arch Chapter, which had just obtained its charter, laid the corner-stone of the First Baptist Church, now known as the First United Baptist Church.

The Chapter had by vote of the Lodge been using the latter's hall and furniture but they were not satisfied with the accommodations. In October 1826 each body appointed a committee to confer and report back on the advisability of securing new quarters. The Lodge committee reported against moving. In January 1827 a new committee was appointed to secure a hall for the ensuing year, its report to be binding.

February 8th, 1827, the Lodge committee reported "that they had endeavored to keep in view that friendship and brotherly love which ought ever to exist among Masons, and notwithstanding the different opinions which have been called forth relative to the removal of the Lodge to a more retired room, your committee, taking into view the connection between the Chapter and the Lodge, and many other circumstances connected therewith, have agreed with Mt. Horeb R.A. Chapter, for the use of their hall, now finishing in the brick block lately erected by the Merrimack Manufacturing Company, on the following terms: that the Lodge pay half of the rent of said hall, which is sixty dollars a year, and that they be on equal footing with the Chapter in regard to fixtures of the hall, fuel, lights, &c." (This is the building now occupied in part by the Arthur L. Turcotte Wine & Liquor Store.)

In March 1827, Ahasuerus Council was admitted to use of the hall and furniture for $30.00 a year. The Council ceased to function April 7, 1830. The Lodge lingered on until March 2, 1834, when the last meeting was held.

The charter, jewels, and property of the Lodge were surrendered to the Grand Lodge. The furniture divided among the Brethren or sold at auction and a long dark night settled down upon Masonry in Lowell.

The Chapter had expended much money in the decoration and furniture of the new hall and was deeply in debt. On September 7, 1829, a committee was appointed to confer with the Lodge regarding the expediency of purchasing the Chapter furniture, but the Lodge reported it would be inexpedient. This is the first intimation from the Lodge or Chapter records of the tempest which was gathering.

A Meeting of the Chapter was held April 1, 1833. No meetings were again held until July 1st, 1836 — when it was voted that the furniture be sold and the proceeds applied to extinguish the debt. The Grand Chapter of Massachusetts on March 10th, 1840 revoked the charter of Mt. Horeb R. A. Chapter.

This brings us to an incident in Masonic history which is seldom thought of today. In the year 1826, there occurred what is generally known as the Morgan Affair, in which Masonry was blamed for the disappearance of one William Morgan. It was never proved that the Masons had caused his disappearance, but some people sought to use it as a platform on which to build an anti-Masonic political party. Of course the attempt failed, but for a number of years feeling against the Fraternity was bitter and widespread. Families were divided, brother arrayed against brother, father against son, and even wives against their husbands. The hatred of Masonry was carried everywhere and there was no retreat so sacred that it did not enter. The pressure was so strong that withdrawals by individuals and bodies were numerous. In 1827, 227 Lodges were represented in the Grand Lodge of New York. By 1835 the number had dwindled to 41. Every Lodge in the State of Vermont surrendered its charter or became dormant, and the Grand Lodge of Vermont held no meetings for several years. Pentucket succumbed in 1834 and ceased to function for eleven years.

On September 10, 184S, seven members petitioned the Grand Lodge for a restoration of the charter of Pentucket Lodge, its jewels and its property; and at the Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge in September, 1845, the prayer of the petitioners was granted. Pentucket Lodge was reopened September 16th, 1845, after a lapse of eleven years, six months, and fourteen days, at the dwelling house of Brother Jesse Phelps, on the Merrimack Corporation, on the westerly side of Dutton Street, a few doors north from Merrimack Street. The Lodge met at the same place September 22nd and 27th. Pentucket Lodge held its first meeting in Wentworth's Hall October 2nd, 1845, and again commenced its career of usefulness. (This hall was in the building now occupied in part by the Thompson Hardware Company.)

The Chapter had its charter restored March 10, 1846.

The Lodge increased in numbers. In 1851 and 1852 it became apparent that the establishment of another Lodge in this thriving and growing city was necessary. Pentucket Lodge cordially gave permission to several of its members to form a new Lodge in Lowell. The name of Ancient York was fixed upon, and Grand Master Randall granted a dispensation dated June 9th, 1852; W. Jefferson Bancroft, who in 1828, had presided over Pentucket, was appointed Master. The establishment of Ancient York Lodge created a generous rivalry between the two Lodges, and its effect was soon observed in the manner of work, and the attendance at Lodge meetings. . .

The insufficiency of the apartments in which the meetings were held, induced the Brethren to raise a committee for the purpose of securing more suitable rooms. Mr. John Nesmith was then erecting the building on John Street; the two Lodges and the Chapter entered into an arrangement, by which the Hall adjacent rooms were built and finished as they required. A joint agreement was entered into by which three Trustees from each Lodge and from the Chapter were elected for three years — one third of whom retired each year — who should have charge of the Masonic apartments, the property and furniture of which were jointly owned by the three bodies. . .

In January, 1853, the Lodges and Chapter left Wentworth's Hall which had been occupied by Pentucket Lodge nearly seven years and removed to the Masonic Hall in Nesmith's Block. (This building is now occupied by the Wedgewood Restaurant.)

Pentucket Lodge celebrated the semi-centennial of its charter in March, 1857, by a Lodge meeting in Masonic Hall and a supper at French's Hall on Central Street. The large hall was filled, and the speeches made were interesting and instructive. . .

The success of the Society had been such in the City of Lowell, that in the early part of 1866 the propriety of establishing a third Lodge was discussed. A petition was accordingly prepared, to which Pentucket and Ancient York gave their approval. The name of Kilwinning was chosen as representing the earliest history of Scottish Masonry, as Ancient York did that of the English Craft, through both of which distinguished sources we, in Massachusetts, take pride in tracing our Masonic lineage. A dispensation was issued, dated April 23rd, 1866. . .

The establishment of Kilwinning did not satisfy the increasing demands of the Craft in this city. A number of young, enterprising, enthusiastic Brethren, belonging to Pentucket and Ancient York, associated themselves together and petitioned for another Lodge. They selected the name of William North, who was familiarly known to his Lowell Brethren as "Father North," a veteran in the Institution who had identified himself with Freemasonry early in life, and followed its fortunes in sunshine and in storm with his characteristic fidelity. He had presided over Pentucket during seven of its most prosperous years. In the decline of life he retained the vivacity of youth and endeared himself to his younger Brethren by familiar yet dignified intercourse. He was a Christian man, a kind, genial brother, honored by his Brethren, and respected by all who knew him. A dispensation was granted to William North Lodge (thirty-two petitioners) March 26th, 1867, and March 11th, 1868, a charter was issued. . .

The last meeting held in Masonic Hall, on John Street, was January 31st, 1872, when it was used by Pilgrim Commandery, the Fraternity of Lowell having occupied it nineteen years. . .

When it was opened, in January, 1853, there were but seventy-one Lodges in Massachusetts; now there are over two hundred. . .

The increase in the number of the Craft in Lowell has equalled
the general prosperity throughout the Commonwealth. The popu
lation of Lowell is now rising 40,000. The number of Brethren
affiliated with the Lodges on the first of September last, as appears
by the official returns to Grand Lodge, were as follows: Pen tucket,
265; Ancient York, 196; Kilwinning, 43; William North, 111;
total, 615. . .

During these nineteen years two new Lodges have been chartered, Ahasuerus Council been revived, a Commandery instituted, and four bodies of the Scottish Rite established in this city. The influence of these organizations and of their members has not been confined to limits of this municipality, but has extended to the Grand Bodies of which they are constituent parts, not only in State, but in the Nation. Especially in the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, our venerable mother, has this influence been exerted and felt. Through all the embarrassments and trials through which, in late years, our Grand Lodge has been called upon to pass, it has always received the encouragement, support and sympathy of the Lodges of Lowell and their representatives. From time to time the highest honors have been freely bestowed upon, and most responsible officers of trust in the Grand Lodge confided to, the Brethren of this city. During the entire period of the occupation of the John Street Hall, the Lodges of Lowell were represented among the officers of the Grand Lodge.

By this time the John Street apartments were inadequate and for several years the Brethren had been looking for a new home more suitable to their growing needs.

In the summer of 1870 the Honorable Hocum Hosford started construction of the building now occupied in part by the Dutch-land Tea Room and the Morse Shoe Store. After getting his building under way, Brother Hosford, who at the time was Worshipful Master of Kilwinning Lodge and Eminent Commander ot Pilgrim Commandery, proposed to the Trustees of the Lowell Masonic Association that "he finish the third and fourth stories in such manner as they desired and lease the same for a period of ten years with the privilege of another lease for the same period. This proposal was accepted and in February, 1872, the Fraternity moved into their new Temple, which was excelled by very few in the country. Briefly, these quarters on the third floor consisted of the main lodge room, 49' x 38' x \lx/i, known as Hosford Hall, the Armory for the Commandery, a small hall 30' x 20', fitted with the furniture from the old hall, ante-rooms and lockers for each of the bodies. On the fourth floor was the banquet hall, a kitchen, a "sodality room" and an ante-room for each of the several Lodges and each equipped to suit its respective tenant.

Masonry continued to grow, and about 1903, Pollard Hall was added to these apartments. This hall was located on the third and fourth floors over the Pollard Store Annex at the corner of Palmer and Middle Streets. These two halls were connected by a long ramp. This entire establishment was completely destroyed by the fire of 1926.

Wor. Brother Ray Pike, Jr., received his first two degrees in these quarters just prior to the fire. He is still wondering if someone set the fire to keep him out. The next meeting was held at the Hillside Congregational Church, where he received his third degree.

After that, the several bodies in the City met in the First Lmiversalist Church on Hurd Street, now the office of the New England Telephone and Telegraph Company, until 1928, when with fitting ceremonies they moved into this beautiful building of which we are all justly proud. In short, it can be said both literally and figuratively — PENTUCKET LODGE has been around.

By the latter part of 1927, the total membership of the four Lowell Lodges was approaching 2,800. There were numerous Masons residing in the City who were not affiliated with any of the four, and the Grand Masters for years preceding favored more and smaller Lodges. In short, conditions were right for the founding of a new Lodge in the City. Lucius A. Derby, for fifty-six years the Secretary of Pentucket Lodge, was largely responsible for the initial steps toward establishing this new Lodge.

There were fifty-two signers of the petition, including representatives from the four Lowell Lodges and thirteen others from states outside of Massachusetts. They held their first meeting in the First Universalist Church on February 28, 1928.

They had chosen the name of William Sewall Gardner for their new Lodge. He was a native of Hallowell, Maine. He had practiced law here until 1861, when he moved to Boston. He was a Justice of the Supreme Court. He joined Ancient York Lodge in 1852 and was its Master in 1856 and 1857. He was active in the York and Scottish Rites, was the first Master of Kilwinning Lodge, and District Deputy Grand Master in 1862 and 1863. In the Grand Lodge he held the offices of Marshal and Senior Warden, and in 1869, 1870 and 1871, was the Most Worshipful Grand Master.

Members of Pentucket were prominent in the formation and early life of this new Lodge and furnished its first three Masters: R. W. Garfield A. Davis, Lucius A. Derby and Walter L. Muzzey.

An occasion of historic interest occurred on March 18, 1954, when the Lodge celebrated its 147th Anniversary. The Most Worshipful Whitfield Whittemore Johnson, Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts, had accepted an invitation to join in the festivities, largely because it was also the 64th Masonic birthday of his friend R. W. Charles S. Proctor. Brother Proctor was then in his 89th year and in good health. He had been District Deputy Grand Master in 1907 when the Lodge celebrated its 100th Anniversary.

On this day the Grand Master opened the Grand Lodge in Pentucket Hall in the Spalding House on Pawtucket Street. This is the room in which the Lodge met and received the Grand Lodge on the day of its consecration 144 years and 5 months previous and the Grand Master, after opening, reminisced briefly on this fact. A picture was taken of those present at this meeting and is now hanging in the Tyler's room of the Masonic Temple. In the group were two other prominent Masons who had given many years of service to the Fraternity: Most Wor. Melvin Maynard Johnson, Grand Master in 1914, 1915 and 1916, and 62 years a Mason; Right Wor. Harry G. Pollard, Deputy Grand Master in 1920, and 58 years a Mason. M.W. Brother Melvin Johnson in his remarks after supper commented on this meeting and humorously said that the Spalding House and its furnishings were not the only "antiques" present.

As this historic sketch is being written for our 150th Anniversary, it is worth noting that these men are still with us and also that Andrew Gray Jenkins, who was then District Deputy Grand Master and in the group, is now our Most Worshipful Grand Master.

As you enter this luxurious Temple and enjoy the comforts which have been provided, reflect, at least for a moment, upon the founders of Masonry in this region, as they gathered on that bleak December day in 1807, in the cheerless hall of Phineas Whiting. They were brave men, accustomed to hardships and privations. They trod upon no carpet in their perambulations and processions, no electric lights flooded that melancholy room with a brilliancy rivalling that of the meridian sun. The bare windows were without shades or draperies. An uncushioned seat ran around the room. The officers occupied ordinary chairs upon a common level. A small table stood before Wor. Master Coburn. A warm fire blazed upon the ample hearth and this was the only hospitable token save the good cheer which the bright fire heated as they passed from labor to refreshment. The accommodations were meagre, their properties few, but their hearts were warm and beat with true fraternal feeling. They were fully imbued with the great principles of Freemasonry and although few in number they were closely allied and stood firm and united. They have long since departed this life. By slow degrees, the Institution which they founded here has increased until it now occupies its present proud position. Difficulties, trials, persecutions and bitter hatred have, from time to time, beset it; but through the protecting care of Divine Providence, it has survived them all. . .

In 1828, when Masons' Hall was opened the Institution found a home of its own which the members could control for the first time. The old custom of resorting to houses of entertainment as the only places where the Lodge could properly be held was then abandoned. That custom has not since returned. The effect of this change upon the Institution and upon the character of its members is apparent. The Lodges have been more respected by the community at large, and the members, as a class, have been selected from more elevated spheres of life. It can fairly be stated that the character of gentlemen enrolled as members of the Masonic Society in Lowell will rival in this respect any other Society in this city. . . . The growth and prosperity of Freemasonry have been commensurate with the growth and prosperity of this city which has sprung up "like the enchanted palaces of the Arabian tales" and have kept pace with its rapid advance. . .

Brethren: Let us remember that whatever honor we have heretofore attained, whatever prestige we have gained from the past and however high and influential our Society has become, its present prosperity and future triumphs must depend upon our lives and our separate individual exertions. Let us not live alone upon the hereditary glory of our Institution but let us make proof of our own ministrations, striving to build up higher yet the walls and towers of our Temple.

OTHER

  • 1809 (Constitution of lodge, II-432)
  • 1819 (Irregularities, III-253, III-264)
  • 1820 (Difficulties, III-281, III-296)
  • 1821 (Report of delinquency, III-373)
  • 1827 (Hall Dedication; at dedication of Lowell Masonic Hall, October 1929, 1929-170; see below)

HALL DEDICATION, FEBRUARY 1827

From Proceedings, Page 1929-170:

AN ADDRESS DELIVERED AT THE DEDICATION
OF A NEW MASONICK HALL,
FEB. 28, 1827

An apology is due from me so lately initiated in masonry for presuming to address you at all and especially for standing in the place of my reverend brethren so much my superior in the Craft and so much worthier to appear before you in this capacity on an occasion like this. Whilst I thought only of an opportunity of expressing my thanks to this right worshipful Lodge and this Most Excellent Chapter for the light, instruction and honours which you have so generously conferred upon me and for the respect and tenderness with which you have carried me through the several gradations of masonry — my feelings betrayed me and I felt my incompetence to sustain this honour when it was too late to decline it.

I find myself therefore thrown upon your indulgence and whilst I assume the language of exhortation, shall feel myself only as your pupil.

Having dedicated this Hall to Masonry in the name of Him whose eye ever sees within our Lodge, in the hope that that eye will vouchsafe a benignant look upon this work of charity and love, let us cast a glance at some of the leading features and purposes of the institution with a view to a practical improvement.

It is one of the purposes of Masonry as you all very well know, to put the social feelings of your nature under high and extraordinary cultivation. The perfection of our nature is the perfection of our social character. The reflecting mind reads this truth in the book of nature, of providence and of religion. Yes, nature links us together and prompts us to strengthen the tie. Providence has made us dependent on each other and in that dependence has opened the sources of almost all our valuable improvement and refined enjoyment. The Christian religion is eminently social through all its departments.

The regeneration of our hearts is a renewal of our social susceptibilities and heaven the ultimate point of blessedness and hope is the sanctification and maturity of our social affections and character. The social character is most effectually cultivated by close contact. That if I mistake not is to be a feature of the heavenly enjoyment.

The more points of close contact, then, the better for good men. I have brothers by the tie of blood. I have brethren in the bonds of a loved profession. I have brethren by the sacred tie of religion. I have brothers by the dear and strong tie of Masonry, an institution in which fraternity is one of its very objects; which brings the social feelings under direct cultivation and put them into vigorous exercise. If there are any generous and social feelings in the heart, the Lodge will cherish them with kindly warmth: it will draw them forth and nourish them.

But when a man enters whose heart is impenetrably wrapped in the cold envelope of some selfish and partial design, he passes rapidly through the degrees: he looks with wary eye to see if there be any thing which he can turn to his own private purpose and finding nothing, he shakes his head at masonry and seldom has time to visit the Lodge any more. But he who has disinterested affections to cultivate; he who brings a heart capable of strong and close and pure attachments, will enter with diligence into your labours and will be content with his wages.

Be true then, brothers and companions, to this feature of your institutions. Bring hearts worthy of friendship and you will find hearts here to meet them. If you walk worthy of the masonick character you cannot but find sympathy — and see that ye weep with them that weep — that ye share in the distress and help the infirmities of a brother.

Brethren, beware how you admit men to your society, who from their situation in life, their habits or their natural temperament you have good reason to believe incapable of warm and generous friendship. Order is a feature of masonry. The order and regularity that prevails at publick meetings of masons, however large and crowded, over that of every other sort of meeting whatever, is striking even to the eye of a careless observer, and leads the world to suspect the truth that there is some secret power in your institution by which this marked, superior and untiring regularity is maintained. It is even so. Brethren, for the integrity of your masonick character, for the honour you have pledged, for the reputation of your institution let the power of that secret never be diminished among you.

Now to make a strict subordination of rank and station consistent with that perfect equality upon which all men naturally stand, was long a problem of very different solution. And little does the world know or dream how much it is indebted to freemasonry for its happiest forms of political institutions and for all the most successful experiments in rational and practical liberty.

I have often contemplated the commencement of the American Revolution with amazement, when the leading men of that day had become exasperated by the delay of justice and by repeated unavailing threats; when the pub-lick mind was heated even to desperation; when the oppressive fabrick of provincial government had crumbled away; when the yoke of existing authority was thrown off and no provision made for a substitute; when the civil arm was paralized, when the judiciary was in effect abolished; when every man was left to do that which was right in his own eyes, amenable to no law and liable to no apparent authority. I have often wondered what strong unseen influence at that critical moment, laid its silent, salutary and efficient authority upon this whole mass of excited, disordant materials? What invisible tie bound them together? What did link the machinery then, so that one impulse should give motion to the whole? What effectual checks had those leading spirits upon each other that no one could snatch the sword of ambition and overstep the bounds of due influence and seize upon the prize of arbitrary sway? What light illumined and what genius inspired them? The leaders of that struggle were worthy Masons and it was in the Lodge that they inhaled and cherished the spirit of Liberty, in the Lodge they cemented their indissoluble fraternity. The power of masonry was a curb on ambition and the light of masonry disclosed the true principles of freedom and suggested the happiest models of free government when our own was constituted.

Brethren, when you behold the order of the Lodge, when you witness and I trust experience its influence on the mind, contemplate the moral beauty of the principle as you see it exemplified, and mark well how subordination and equality combine together to form that lovely union which constitutes the life of happy society and the soul of desirable liberty. Never will rational liberty fail of a sanctuary on earth so long as the Temple of Masonry shall endure.

Interwoven throughout the institution, is, as you very well know, a complete system of moral emblems. This the world might have guessed from your charts and other printed documents and from what they see exhibited on publick occasions.

All nature is rich in emblems, we find them in the arts and in the sciences; we find them in morals and in religion. The nature of man is adapted to emblematical instruction and many of our best impressions are received in this way. The postures and ceremonies of religion's worship are emblematical and so are the sacred ordinances of the Gospel.

But when I speak of emblematical morality as constituting a distinctive feature of masonry, you understand me brethren, to allude to our peculiar method of using emblems. These implements of speculative Masonry are so applied in a system of important and very impressive instruction, that they become almost as instrumental in building up the moral character as the square and trowel in erecting our needful habitations. And it is this use of our emblems that makes them so interesting, significant and instructive to us.

When the uninitiated examine your chart, what do they see f Tell them that those pictures are moral emblems and what do they feel or understand? But to you, who are Masons in deed and not in name only, do know how to apply them emphatically and effectually to the edification of your moral character.

When you come before the publick as it is sometimes proper you should, and exhibit the implements with which you work on that noble edifice, what do they see but a mere show, a gay unmeaning pantomime. When the officers of this chapter were publickly installed, having been at that time but recently raised to the third degree of masonry, I knew but little of what was going on. And yet I had learned enough to suspect that rich streams of instruction were overflowing around us, though perceived only by enlightened eyes.

Did I mistake or was it indeed a fact that whilst some looked with a countenance of scorn upon that which seemed to them only a ridiculous show, the hearts of others were full as they could contain of sublime instruction and impressive feeling.

But though Masonry, in the use of its emblems, unfolds to you an admirable system of moral instruction, it is indispensably necessary that you set your selves to understand the nature and use of your tools and that you apply them accordingly in order that your work may be real and your character truly improved.

Although the moral apparatus of the Lodge is efficacious as any thing of the kind can be, yet Masonry has no machinery that can operate on yon against your will or without your will.

No power can give you effectual instruction unless your own minds be exercised upon it and your hearts opened to receive it. It depends upon you to make it a school of Virtue, after all. The purpose of speculative Masonry is a moral one interwoven with religion. He who looks not at the moral edifice which you build, he who likes to witness and engage in your work whilst he sees not or feels not the moral influence is a Mason in name only but not in truth. Such a Mason reminds us of a little child, when by chance he got hold of a book. He is delighted to put his hand on the gay smooth cover, to turn over the rustling leaves and perhaps to jabber in imitation of reading, but what knowledge does he thereby gain of the subject matter of the book. You must regard the moral of what you see and hear within the Lodge if you would be worthy of your calling.

And here I cannot but recommend the union of Christian faith and Christian motives with instrumentality of masonry. I say this, dear brothers and companions, not only because I know that in your indulgence you will consider me entitled to say so, but it is from the deepest and sincerest convictions of my heart. Masonry is indeed all that it claims to be. It is an admirable system of means and apparatus adapted to a noble end. It has been judiciously placed on the broadest platform possible. Its covering is the canopy of Heaven, its sphere is the round world itself. All however have not the light of Christianity as we have it and in us it requires a greater degree of moral pravity to resist it than is implied in the ignorance of the barbarian.

There is a divinity and inspiration in Christianity which Masonry lays no claim to. And brethren, we must borrow from Christianity the influence of its spirit to give sincerity to our devotions and purity to our motives, power to the means of virtue and genuine life to our morality.

As another prominent feature of our society, I will only remind you that it is a charitable institution. I know of no charitable fund that is placed upon a footing so sure and so unexceptionable as yours.

The world sometimes cries — "Where are your charities, we see nothing of your charities." That is as it should be, my brethren. They have no occasion to know when and where you distribute your funds — Let the streams of your bounty flow on silently and unperceived. Let every Mason make it a part of his business and duty to search in secret for worthy deserving participants of this fund. Let every brother feel that he has done an essential service to his Lodge when he has found out where and how the Masonick charity may be silently bestowed. Let it be more honorable to present the claims of suffering in your Lodge than even to wear the badge of distinction. Let the tears of the widow whose wants you may relieve be more precious than pearls. Let the crying of a brother's orphan infant, possess a power over your soul like the sound of the mallet. Here it shall be your honour and your reward to find out ways and means of relieving the suffering. Here when you bring a worthy claim on Masonick charity, you should feel that you offer a prize to the Lodge.

Then when your wife shall be a widow the watchful eye of the brethren shall unperceived be over her, unknown to her, the stream of relief shall be made to flow in her way; and her safety, her reputation and her comfort shall be guaranteed by the pledged honour of every brother. When your children are fatherless they shall not have to ask for friends, the finger of oppression shall not touch them if a Mason can prevent it. A door of hopeful exertion by some invisible hand shall be opened before them and every stumbling stone in the pathway of honorable distinction shall be privately removed.

Beware then, how you pervert funds destined to so sacred and benevolent a purpose and though I would not be in favor of defeating a worthy object by an ill timed parsimony, yet beware how you now put your finger on that which might cheer the heart of your widow or feed your hungry orphans. On worthy objects and to a proper extent, spare not and God will bless your basket and replenish your store.

These, brethren, are among the well known purposes and characteristicks of freemasonry. You must have perceived already what is necessary to be a true Mason. The world has no other means of judging of the tendency of the institution than by our lives—shall they have the power to point to the intemperate man, the dissolute, the profane, the unjust, the oppressor, the immoral and say with a sneer "is that Man a Mason". Alas, that we should ever be obliged to confess that some men do sin not only against the restraints of society, the light of conscience, the yearnings of religion but against the influence of the Masonick institution, the remonstrances of their brethren and against the obligation of Masons.

On this happy occasion, while we dedicate this hall to Masonry, and morality let us dedicate our lives anew to virtue and to religion.

Let us all from this moment, resolve to redeem our Masonick character, to use the means of virtue that are here to be offered us to repair the breaches of our moral edifice, to build up the waste places of our character and in humble dependence on the presiding spirit of all true Lodges on earth — Let us humbly strive to train our better part for the service and presence of the same spirit in the Lodge of Heaven.

Note — The Spelling and Capitalization follow the old form as written by Dr. Edson in his original manuscript.


GRAND LODGE OFFICERS

OTHER BROTHERS


EVENTS

CENTENARY CELEBRATION, MARCH 1907

From New England Craftsman, Vol. II, No. 7, April 1907, Page 260:

Among the important events connected with the history of Freemasonry in Lowell, nothing has exceeded in interest the celebration of the centennial of Pentucket Lodge which occurred Saturday, March 9, 1907, and which was observed in a most elaborate manner with the assistance of the Most Worshipful Grand Master and officers of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts and other distinguished Masons. The event had been long anticipated, its detail had been carefully arranged and generously provided for.

The general management of the celebration was in the hands of a committee whose chairman was Right Worshipful Charles S. Proctor, District Deputy Grand Master of the district and a Past Master of Pentucket Lodge.

The celebration occupied practically a whole day beginning at half past ten o'clock in the morning and ending at about half past ten in the evening.

One of the interesting incidents of the day was a reception held in the old Spalding House where Pentucket Lodge was constituted one hundred years before. The officers of the Grand Lodge, with the committee in charge, entered the historic house shortly after eleven o'clock. The old rooms of the house with their memories and the Masonic tablet were reminders of days long gone and a striking contrast of the difference in the requirements of the early days and those of the present time.

Shortly before twelve o'clock the ladies of the party took carriages for the Textile school, across the river, and spent an hour in viewing the place. Promptly at noon the Grand Lodge went into session at the Spalding house. This session lasted for an hour and at one o'clock the members of the Grand Lodge entered carriages once more and drove to Masonic Temple, in Merrimack Street, where Pentucket lodge, which had also been in session, formally received them.

At 1.30 the church parade was formed. A squad of eight policemen, all Masons, commanded by Capt. William R. Kew, headed the line. Then followed the American band, of 30 pieces. The officers of the Pentucket lodge were next, together with the members of the lodge. Altogether about 250 members were in line. The grand officers and invited guests occupied carriages, and brought up the rear of the line.

The procession proceeded to the First Baptist Church, where the literary exercises connected with the celebration were given. Worshipful Frank W. Hall, master of Pentucket Lodge, gave the address of welcome. The response was delivered by Most Worshipful Grand Master J. Albert Blake. The principal feature of the exercises in the church was the historical address of Right Worshipful Solon W. Stevens. Mr. Stevens said in part:

In Central park in the city of New York there stands a colossal monolith granite-obelisk which constantly bears silent, solemn testimony to the architectural skill of a people, the oldest born of time, whose history runs back into the unknown, whose origin seems miraculous and whose stupendous temples and pyramids were reared at a time when everywhere else rude huts and dug-outs were the only known means of shelter for the race of man.

It is known as "Cleopatra's Needle." It was erected by Thothmes III., [600 years before the birth of Christ, at Heliopolis, a city of Egypt described in the Scriptures as the land of On where Moses was born.

It is about 70 feet in height exclusive of the pedestal on which it rests which is not far from seven feet in height and the weight of the structure is 240 tons. It is covered on each side with hieroglyphics running in perpendicular lines commemorating the famous dynasties of Thothmes III and Rameses II.

Twenty-five years before the Christian era it was moved by Augustus Caesar from its original site to the city of Alexander to commemorate the military victories of the illustrious Roman over its Egyptian builders.

Here it stood for 1900 years, or until 1880, when it was presented to the United States by Ismail Pasha, a former Khedive of Egypt, aud re-erected in Central park in the city of New York.

When the monument was taken down to be shipped to this country there were found around and beneath its base several curious emblems and implements which to the eye of the intelligent observer had a peculiar significance.

Vox instance there was a mosaic pavement around the foundation which was located due east and west; in order to reach the main column it was necessary to ascend by three steps; beneath or rather in the centre of the foundation there were found a rough ashler, a perfect ashler, a square, a trowel, and a stone of pure white marble representing an anchor in its shape; and there was also found a keystone, the faces of which were covered with significant designs.

It is a matter of record that when this obelisk was erected in its present location more than 25 years ago these identical emblematic stones were carefully placed in the same relative situation which they had continuously occupied since a period of time 25 years before the Sou of God was born. It stirs the blood momentarily at least to think of the vast antiquity which enswathes this colossal granite column, pointing backward calmly and with dignity more than 3500 years to the land of mystery situated on the shadowy threshold of prehistoric times, the home of the Pharaohs and the Ptolemies, of Moses and of Joseph, while standing in this brilliant, restless 20th century in the heart of the empire city of the grandest of the five great national powers of the world.

The craftsmen have passed into oblivion like the mummied kings and queens whom they served, but their tools aud implements of architecture have become the symbolic representations of certain great moral principles whereby thoughtful men in every civilized land have been induced to group themselves into societies for mutual helpfulness, and the promotion of the great scriptural doctrines of the brotherhood of man under the guidance and fatherhood of God.

Of such societies Pentucket Lodge of ancient Free and Accepted Masons is one; and we have met today to celebrate the 100th anniversary of its organization.

The speaker then drew a detailed and highly interesting sketch of the formation of Pentucket lodge at the opening of the 19th century. A number of influential men who as Masons were quite anxious to enjoy the privileges of lodge association without being obliged to travel to Groton or Concord applied in the year 1807 for a charter for a lodge at the Falls. The petition was signed by the following: Deputy Sheriff Isaac Coburn of Dracut, Moses Fletcher of Chelmsford, Ebenezer Flint of Tewksbury, Jonathan Hildreth of Dracut, John Chapman, Jr., of Tewksbury, Jeremiah P. Chapman of Tewksbury, Pierce R. Rea of Tewksbury, Jonathan Fletcher of Chelmsford, Benj. Fisk of Chelmsford, Wilkes Allen of Chelmsford, Jonas Clark of Chelmsford, H. Thorndike of Chelmsford, T. Berson of Dracut, Dudley Spofford of Pelham, Daniel Hayden of Chelmsford.

Then followed biographical sketches of the early masters, and mention of some of the principal events that have contributed to the welfare of the Lodge.

Pentucket Lodge by the personal character and capacity of its members and citizens has always been closely identified with the welfare and development of Lowell both as a town and as a municipal corporation.

In the history of nearly every branch of manufacturing industry in the church history, the school history, the political history and in the government of this enterprising municipality the names of many members of this society appear as leaders in these various departments of progress and growth and in the list of the 35 gentlemen who have been elected to the office of mayor of this city, from the day of its incorporation, to the present time there may be found the names of the following brethren who have been members of Pentucket lodge, namely: Elisha Huntington, Jefferson Bancroft, Ambrose Lawrence, Stephen Mansur, Jonathan P. Folsom, Edward F. Sherman, Chas. A. Stott, John A. G. Richardson.

Thus brethren in rapidly moving panoramic vision may be seen some of the leading incidents in the career of this society running from the date of the beginning to the closing hour of the century.

In the tremulous realm of shadows, which crowd the vista of 100 years, there are many forms and faces on which loving eyes would feign linger long, but the hour for reverie is past. New duties will demand new responsibilities. In these shifting transitory days of confusion and change there is one principal which is eternal and sure. It is expressed in the doctrine of the brotherhood of man and the fatherhood of God. As long as a free and intelligent civil government shall endure so long will the symbolism of our institution point to the development of magnanimity of character and of strong moral convictions. Let us never be unmindful of the tenets of our profession.

And so, brethren, in remembrance of the past, but with hearts buoyant and eager for greater achievements in the future, as you close the record of the old century and open the books for the registry of fraternal functions in the new one, let the text the preacher of your consecration sermon in the old Pawtucketville church be uppermost in mind: "Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things."

An interesting musical program was given and a Centennial Ode read which is given on another page.

"One Hundred Years Ago" was the title of the anniversary hymn. It was composed by the oldest living Past Master of Pentucket Lodge, Thomas O. Gerrish, now a resident of Malden. America was sung by the audience. The benediction was pronounced and the service concluded at 3:45 with an organ postlude. After the services the members left the church for the temple, where a collation was served.

card00393_fr.jpg
Lowell Armory

The closing feature of the day was the magnificent banquet given at the Armory. It is not an exaggeration to state that no banquet in the annals of Lowell's social or fraternal life has been so lavishly planned. Every cold, hard outline of the big drill shed, in which 400 men can maneuver, was softened by the touch of the decorator. Thousands of yards of red, white and blue bunting were used. The great cross beams and braces of the roof were covered with pennons which fluttered now and anon, and the red walls were bright in their vestiture of the national flags.

Thirteen tables, each with accommodations for 44 diners, ran crosswise of the hall, while on the West side of the armory the guests' table ran the entire length of the shed. And the tables were dressed with the utmost care. Little dining candelabra were everywhere visible, and bunches of yellow jonquils were placed at intervals on each table. It was a glorious scene as the diners marched to their seats, while the American baud played with much beauty an inspiring march. And considering that 600 persons had to find their seats, there was a surprising lack of confusion. Everything was done with most admirable precision.

It was just 7.15 when Worshipful Master Frank W. Hall called to order. Grace was then given by Rev. Edward A. Horton, of Boston, the Chaplain of the Grand Lodge. Following this the task of bringing in the food was begun. From each end of the immense shed the dishes came, 75 members of the various Masonic lodges in the city acting as waiters.

At 9 o'clock Worshipful Master Frank W. Hall rapped to order and introduced the toastmaster of the evening, R. W. Charles S. Proctor. Mr. Proctor stated that the lodge had a seven-shooter to fire at the assembled company, in the shape of seven speakers. He dwelt upon the mystic significance of the figure seven, and then introduced as the first speaker Sereno Dwight Nickerson, Recording Grand Secretary since 1881. Mr. Nickerson responded to the toast, "Masonry of Former Days."

Most Worshipful Grand Master J. Albert Blake got a warm reception when called to speak upon the subject of Masonry in Massachusetts. He was very brief in his remarks, saying in part: "I think we all know the Grand Lodge today holds an enviable position in the world, and this is due, for the most part, to the efficient management of the order's affairs by the men of a century ago, men like those who brought this lodge into existence."

The next speaker was Wor. Frederick W. Farnham, Mayor of Lowell who said in part:

"Pentucket lodge is celebrating today an event which will add lustre to the already bright chronicles of Masonry. Masons will long think of your observance of this centenary. It is eminently fitting that we cast aside the cares of business and enter into the proper observance of the 100th anniversary of goad, old Pentucket Lodge. Through storm and sunshine, through adversity and prosperity, under the banner of liberty, equality and justice, embodiments of the grand old institution we have taken as our own. Pentucket Lodge has thrived and grown strong and today stands more virile than ever before.

As I look out on this magnificent assemblage I see the best representatives of the financial and social bulwarks of the commonwealth. Such has been the power of Masonry that many leading men of the nation have been identified with it, including the signers of the Declaration of Independence, presidents of these United States, governors of states, men of letters and of business. Our first Grand Master — first in the hearts of his countrymen — stands alone, supreme in our history — George Washington. Lafayette said of Masonry that it was a most happy institution, and one of the pillars of American independence.

And, among our members, is counted the commander-in chief of the army and navy of this country (applause ;) the first man in the United States, if not in the whole world today, President Theodore Roosevelt. (Applause).

Just so long as we live up to the principles of good government and good public service we shall stand by the most sacred tenets of Masonry, and shall vote down the annals of crime. The spirit that actuates Masonry today is the most important factor in government, of, for and by the people, and may it bless you all with peace and prosperity." (Applause).

Charles Carroll Hutchinson responded to the toast, "Fraternity and Masonry." He was introduced as "one of the highest types of Lowell's citizenship." Mr. Hutchinson spoke briefly on historical matters and said, in conclusion: "There are few things which command our respect and inspire our admiration as antiquity does."

Rev. Edward A. Horton, of Boston, chaplain of the Grand Lodge, gave the response to the toast "Masonry and Religion." After telling inimitably some stories, he said:

If anyone should ask me if Masonry were linked with religion I should say the two were linked through and through. We are told man should not live by bread alone and in the calm, quiet survey of life we see the wisdom of it. We live, as surely as the sun rises, by friendship, comradeship, sentiment, the poetry of life. Sentiment is mightier than all the statistics in the world. Pile up your statistics on the products of the looms in Lowell, compile the figures of the output of all the great manufacturing plants, here, and what, aside from sentiment, do they represent? Masonry is filled with sentiment. We are members one of another, from the man who pays his poll tax, to the illustrious leader of men in America, Theodore Roosevelt. Sincerity also abounds in Masonry and religion alike. The hand clasp of brother Masons on the street is a short cut to the heart, the surest token of sincere friendship. Anyone listening to me who possesses the idea that Masonry is hostile to the church, should dismiss the notion. Their respective missions are not dissimilar.

John C. Burke responded for Pentucket Lodge. In opening he extended thanks to all those who had contributed towards the success of the observance. He then eulogized Pentucket as the mother lodge of the city and reminisced about the early years of the organization. He touched upon the progress of the lodge, an exemplification of the Precepts of the order, fraternity and charity. In Europe, he said, in Past ages, Masons had engaged in Political struggles. Masons in those times were men in high positions, who were identified with great movements and, at that time Was customary to combine men of like minds and fight in a common cause. Today Masons are fulfilling their mission of charity, fraternity and brotherly love toward the world. He said that nations, no more than organizations could forget their God. He cited the national upheavals in Egypt, when Pharoah's hosts were destroyed, and in Babylon, when Belshazzar saw the handwriting on the wall. In conclusion he hoped that Free Masonry would continue to adhere to the guidance of supreme power and carry out the principles of love.

A very handsome Menu was provided giving list of speakers and portraits of Timothy Bigelow, who was Grand Master in 1806 and signed Pentucket's charter, and Sereno D. Nickerson, Recording Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge.

The officers of Peutucket Lodge are: Wor. Bro. Frank W. Hall, Worshipful Master; Bro. George F. Howes, Senior Warden; Bro. Milo W. Hale, Jr., Junior Warden; Wor. Bro. Avery B. Clark, Treasurer; Bro. Lucius A. Derby, Secretary; Rev. Bro. George C. Wright and Bro. Daniel R. Wallace, Chaplains; Bro. Charles R. Blanchard, Marshal; Bro. Martin L. Kirkeby, Senior Deacon; Bro. Frank D. Proctor, Junior Deacon; Bro. William R. Foster, Senior Steward; Bro. Robert A. Kennedy, Junior Steward; Bro. James Hunt, Inside Sentinel; Bro. Irvin A. Foote, Organist; Wor. Bro. Frank K. Stearns, Tyler. Trustees— Rt. Wor. C. S. Proctor, Wor. W. D. Brown, Wor. A. B. Clark.


DISTRICTS

1807: District 2 (Newburyport and North Shore)

1821: District 5

1845: District 3

1849: District 3

1867: District 7 (Lowell)

1883: District 11 (Lowell)

1911: District 12 (Lowell)

1927: District 12 (Lowell)

2003: District 12


LINKS

Lodge web site

Massachusetts Lodges