Difference between revisions of "BlackstoneRiver"

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=== YEARS ===
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'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1855 1855]'''
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=== PAST MASTERS ===
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1856 1856]
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'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1857 1857]'''
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<div style="column-count:3;-moz-column-count:3;-webkit-column-count:3">
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1858 1858]'''
+
* Samuel S. White, 1872-1874, 1883
 +
* ''1875?''
 +
* Leonard T. Gaskill, 1876, 1878, 1882
 +
* Charles F. Sisson, 1877, 1878 ''died in office''
 +
* Jeremiah Gatchell, 1879-1881; '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAOtherBrothersG#GATCHELL.2C_JEREMIAH_1836-1906 Memorial]'''
 +
* George J. Baldwin, 1884, 1885
 +
* William H. Hawkins, 1886, 1887
 +
* William A. Cole, 1888, 1888
 +
* Charles W. Rickards, 1890, 1891
 +
* Edward E. Wheelock, 1892, 1893
 +
* George W. Maxon, 1894, 1895; '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASuppNecrologiesHM#MAXON.2C_GEORGE_WASHINGTON_1862-1945 SN]'''
 +
* Melvin E. Ellis, 1896, 1897, 1901, 1902;  '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASuppNecrologiesAG#ELLIS.2C_MELVIN_ELISHA_1862-1907 SN]'''
 +
* Isaac T. Holman, 1898
 +
* Ambrose B. White, 1899, 1900;  '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAOtherBrothersW#WHITE.2C_AMBROSE_B._1862-1932 Memorial]'''
 +
* John Kinnibergh, 1903
 +
* Ansel Holman, 1904
 +
* Joseph Hoyle, 1905-1907;  '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASuppNecrologiesHM#HOYLE.2C_JOSEPH_1875-1956 SN]'''
 +
* Fred M. Bennett, 1908
 +
* William R. Booth, 1909
 +
* Ralph M. Estes, 1910
 +
* Edward J. Saalfrank, 1911, 1912
 +
* Joseph F. Barnet, 1913
 +
* Duncan B. Cunningham, 1914
 +
* William C. Hay, 1915
 +
* Harry S. Nelson, 1916
 +
* Nelson Slater, 1917
 +
* William Carville, 1918
 +
* Samuel L. Lampher, 1919
 +
* William Spencer, 1920
 +
* Harold W. Armstrong, 1921
 +
* Philip E. Thomas, 1922; '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MANecrologiesSZ#THOMAS.2C_PHILIP_EDWIN_1889-1955 N]'''
 +
* Edwin M. Crane, 1923
 +
* Louis A. Webster, 1924
 +
* William E. Loveland, 1925
 +
* Morton C. Matteson, 1926
 +
* Ray S. Maxon, 1927
 +
* Daniel E. Greene, 1928
 +
* Harrison M. Smyth, 1929
 +
* Lester H. Matteson, 1930
 +
* Andrew N. Maxon, 1931
 +
* George A. Arnold, 1932
 +
* Edwin M. Crane, 1933; '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MANecrologiesAG#CRANE.2C_EDWIN_MAXON_1891-1962 N]'''
 +
* Cornelius J. Hauge, 1934
 +
* Henry F. Feddern, 1935
 +
* John W. Mellor, 1936
 +
* John Alden, 1937
 +
* Paul E. Larson, 1938
 +
* Fred Israel, 1939
 +
* Lester E. Carpenter, 1940
 +
* Philip L. Voelker, 1941
 +
* Jules E. Conrardy, 1942
 +
* Joseph D. Rosenthal, 1943
 +
* William A. Robbins, 1944
 +
* Philip H. Hoyle, 1945, 1946
 +
* Harold A. Gustafson, 1947
 +
* Gerard A. Lafreniere, 1948
 +
* Paul L. Hoyle, 1949, 1954
 +
* Raymond G. LaFreniere, 1950-1951, 1955, 1978-1980; '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MANecrologiesHM#LAFRENIERE.2C_RAYMOND_GABRIEL_1916-1984 N]'''
 +
* Neilson A. Darling, 1952
 +
* Daniel B. Middleton, 1953
 +
* Frank C. Wadsworth, Jr., 1956
 +
* Herbert S. Smith, 1957
 +
* Joseph D. Rosenthal, 1958
 +
* Walter Karasek, 1959
 +
* Samuel H. Stein, 1960
 +
* Henry C. Feddern, 1961
 +
* Alexander Kokolski, 1962
 +
* Clinton S. J. Jacks, 1963
 +
* Joseph Hoyle, Jr., 1964
 +
* Robert E. Ranslow, 1965, 1966
 +
* Hollis S. Booth, 1967
 +
* Robert F. Taylor, 1968, 1969
 +
* Victor J. Karasek, 1970
 +
* John J. Salisbury, 1971
 +
* Elmer E. Normandin, Jr., 1972
 +
* Henry R. Reiner, 1973
 +
* Randall L. Faneuf, 1974
 +
* Cecil H. Lane, Sr., 1975, 1983
 +
* Cecil H. Lane, Jr., 1976, 1981, 1982, 1985
 +
* George A. L. Ethier, 1977
 +
* Ross N. Fisher, 1984, 1988
 +
* ''Stewart R. Holbrook'', 1986; '''PDDGM'''
 +
* Todd E. Smith, 1987
 +
* Ross N. Fisher, 1988
 +
* Russell S. Wise, 1989-1992; '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MANecrologiesSZ#WISE.2C_RUSSELL_SHERWOOD_1942-1992 N]'''
 +
* David W. Farrington, 1993, 1995
 +
* Richard E. Heon, 1994
 +
* Donald E. Guertin, 1996, 1997
 +
</div>
 +
 +
<hr>
 +
 
 +
== REFERENCES IN GRAND LODGE PROCEEDINGS ==
 +
 
 +
* Petition for Dispensation: '''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1855 1855]'''
 +
* Petition for Charter: '''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1857 1857]''' ''chartered 1856; constituted 1857''
 +
* Consolidation Petition (with [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Montgomery Montgomery] Lodge): '''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1997 1997]'''
 +
 
 +
=== ANNIVERSARIES ===
 +
 
 +
* '''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1955 1955]''' (Centenary)
 +
* '''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1980 1980]''' (125th Anniversary)
 +
 
 +
=== VISITS BY GRAND MASTER ===
 +
 
 +
* '''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1857 1857]''' ([http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMHeard Heard]; Constitution of Lodge and installation; see below)
 +
* '''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1879 1879]''' ([http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMWelch Welch])
 +
* '''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1927 1927]''' ([http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMSimpson Simpson]; Cornerstone laying at Blackstone Federated Church)
 +
* '''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1940 1940]''' ([http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMPerry Perry]; district meeting)
 +
* '''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1955 1955]''' ([http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMWJohnson W. Johnson]; Centenary)
 +
* '''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1980 1980]''' ([http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMMelanson Melanson]; 125th Anniversary)
 +
* '''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1987 1987]''' ([http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMAmes Ames]; consolidation with [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Montgomery Montgomery] Lodge)
 +
 
 +
=== BY-LAW CHANGES ===
 +
 
 +
<blockquote>
 
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1859 1859]'''
 
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1859 1859]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1860 1860]
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1861 1861]
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1862 1862]
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1863 1863]
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1864 1864]
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1865 1865]
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1866 1866]
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1867 1867]
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1868 1868]
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1869 1869]
 
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1870 1870]'''
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1871 1871]
 
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1872 1872]'''
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1873 1873]
 
 
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1874 1874]'''
 
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1874 1874]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1875 1875]
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1876 1876]
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1877 1877]
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1878 1878]
 
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1879 1879]'''
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1880 1880]
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1881 1881]
 
 
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1882 1882]'''
 
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1882 1882]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1883 1883]
+
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1912 1912]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1884 1884]
+
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1913 1913]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1885 1885]
+
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1922 1922]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1886 1886]
+
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1926 1926]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1887 1887]
+
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1927 1927]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1888 1888]
+
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1928 1928]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1889 1889]
+
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1929 1929]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1890 1890]
+
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1940 1940]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1891 1891]
+
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1947 1947]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1892 1892]
+
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1955 1955]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1893 1893]
+
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1956 1956]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1894 1894]
+
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1957 1957]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1895 1895]
+
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1982 1982]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1896 1896]
+
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1986 1986]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1897 1897]
+
</blockquote>
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1898 1898]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1899 1899]
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=== HISTORY ===
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1900 1900]
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[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1901 1901]
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* '''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1955 1955]''' (Centenary History, 1955-281)
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1902 1902]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1903 1903]
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==== CENTENARY HISTORY, DECEMBER 1955 ====
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1904 1904]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1905 1905]
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''From Proceedings, Page 1955-281:''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1906 1906]
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[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1907 1907]
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''By Worshipful Fred M. Bennett.''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1908 1908]
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[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1909 1909]
+
A brief sketch of our Lodge's history and mention of some of the active members is all that can be attempted in this part of our anniversary program.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1910 1910]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1911 1911]
+
One hundred years ago, Blackstone was a growing and flourishing community. Ten years previous it had been set aside from the mother Town of Mendon and was now an incorporated Town. Within the boundaries were three villages with cotton and woolen mills, and later felting and rubber factories were erected. Two main railroad systems had recently laid their tracks through the Town with a junction depot and round house. The population was about 5000 and employees of these activities had become residents and some had built homes. Some among this group were Masons. The nearest Lodges were at Cumberland, Rhode Island, and Uxbridge and Milford, Massachusetts. The distances to these Towns with horse and buggy conveyance over dark, dirt roads, as well as the time consumed in travel, made it inconvenient to attend monthly communications. And so it was that fourteen Masons signed a petition to the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts for a new Lodge at Blackstone. These Masons were Emory Scott, Alexander W. Griswold, Samuel E. Bowley, John Cady, Arthur Cook, Caleb Colvin, William Legg, Nahum Morse, Noah Taft, Lewis Warfield, Lebbeus L. Wood, David Brayton, John Remington and Jacob Chase.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1912 1912]
+
A charter was obtained and dated December 6, 1855, with the name of Blackstone River Lodge, A. F. & A. M. It was organized with Emory Scott, Master; Alexander W. Griswold, S. W.; Samuel Bowley, J. W.; John Cady, Treasurer; and Arthur Cook, Secretary.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1913 1913]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1914 1914]
+
For a few years the Lodge was under the close supervision of the District Deputy Grand Master, with the monthly meetings called for two o'clock in the afternoon. Later on they were held on the first Wednesday on or before the full of the moon. With the coming of electric lighted highways, the date was changed to the first Wednesday in the month.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1915 1915]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1916 1916]
+
The new Lodge rented what seems to have been at that time the only hall in town, the upper room in the brick block on Monument Square. At the end of fifteen years, the rent had been raised to a figure that did not set well with the members. With confidence in the esteem in which Masonry is held, and in the future of the Town, a small lot on Main Street was purchased and our present Lodge building was erected.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1917 1917]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1918 1918]
+
Dr. George E. Bullard was Chairman of the building committee and, because of his unremitting interest in its erection, has been called the father of this building. Since it was built on swampy ground, Brother Bullard poured many bags of cement into the basement to ensure a firm foundation and our members have with equal effect, poured the cement of brotherly love and affection which is a strong bond of our existence through the century. Its cost was $8000, which was raised by bond issue. Dedication was on Washington's birthday, February 22, 1870, with a ball.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1919 1919]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1920 1920]
+
Now eighty-five years old, this building has known the first candidates and probably most of the charter members. Its walls have echoed to the business of one thousand regular communications, the working of the degrees, and social times. Banquets were held for many years in the upper story, and an esteemed Brother, Rufus A. Benson, ran a hardware store in the lower story. Reminders of departed Brothers are in the Deacon's and Stewards' rods given by Lucius S. Pennimen; the flag and its staff by W. Austin B. Rankin; the fine painting on the north wall of W. Charles F. Sisson, given by his widow; the Bible on the altar, of W. William R. Booth, given by his son, Bro. Hollis S. Booth; the small cast-iron stove in the coat room of W. Charles W. Rickards; the jewels of the officers and their aprons by Morning Star Lodge of Woonsocket, Rhode Island.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1921 1921]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1922 1922]
+
It has long been our custom to attend divine service on or .ibout June 24th, in a body.   Our late Brother Wardwell C. Matteson always carried the flag, and now his son, Wor. Morton C. Matteson, carries it in his father's place. The Lodge conducted many Masonic funerals, always at the deceased's request, and older members remember the impressive renderings of the burial service by Wor. William A. Cole, who served thirty years as Chaplain.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1923 1923]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1924 1924]
+
1 think that the Past Masters of this Lodge who were appointed to be District Deputy Grand Masters of this Masonic District by the Grand Master should be listed. This office calls for much time and travel. They are
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1925 1925]
+
* [http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLDTaft Daniel W. Taft]
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1926 1926]
+
* Joseph Hoyle
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1927 1927]
+
* Jeremiah Gatchell
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1928 1928]
+
* Ambrose B. White
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1929 1929]
+
* George W. Maxon
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1930 1930]
+
* Edwin M. Crane
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1931 1931]
+
* Melvin E. Ellis
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1932 1932]
+
* Philip E. Thomas
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1933 1933]
+
* Philip H. Hoyle
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1934 1934]
+
They retain the title of Right Worshipful and are presented a jewel of their office. R.W. Daniel W. Taft was raised in 1856 in the lodge-room in the brick block on Monument Square, and thus the Masonic lives of these officers cover the span of one hundred years.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1935 1935]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1936 1936]
+
The growth and continued life of an association depends largely on the faithfulness and efficiency with which the officers discharge their respective duties. This is particularly so in the just and true keeping of the records of the Treasurers and Secretaries. The Treasurers with the longer tenure of office are: John Cady, 16 years; Dr. George E. Bullard, 28 years; R. W. Ambrose B. White, 15 years; and R. W. Edwin M. Crane, 27 years. Brothers John Cady and Dr. George E. Bullard received gold headed canes on their retirement from office. The officers are benefited at rehearsal by the attendance of R.W. Edwin M. Crane with his knowledge of Masonic law and procedure, and his impressive rendering of the charge in the Master Mason Degree. In the Secretaries' list are Thomas Ball, 8 years; Americus Welch, 12 years; Wor. Harry S. Nelson, 8 years; R.W. Philip E. Thomas, 13 years; and Wor. Philip L. Voelker, 9 years. Wor. Ansel Holman is our oldest living Past Master, who in his terms of over two years, raised seventeen candidates.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1937 1937]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1938 1938]
+
Three distinguished members have served the Lodge in important offices through their entire Masonic careers.  They are:
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1939 1939]
+
* ''R. W. Jeremiah Gatchell.'' Master, 1880-1; District Deputy Grand Master; Treasurer for 9 years; installing officer many years; Proxy to the Grand Lodge, 18 years; member of Trustees, Relief and other important committees for many years, a vigorous and eloquent Mason of thirty-six years.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1940 1940]
+
* ''R.W. George W. Maxon.'' Master, 1895; District Deputy Grand Master; for fifty years a Trustee and member of Relief Committee; thirty-three years guardian of East Gate; installing officer many years; Tyler SO years, a popular and able Mason of fifty-five years.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1941 1941]
+
* ''R. W.'' Joseph Hoyle. Master, 1906-1907; District Deputy Grand Master of the Blackstone 20th District; Master of the Lodge at the fiftieth anniversary; Trustee and Proxy to the Grand Lodge SO years; installing officer many years; he has had the pleasure and pride of raising six sons — one, Philip, now a Past District Deputy Grand Master, and another, Paul, now a Past Master and his successor as Proxy to the Grand Lodge. This Lodge and Masonry in this area are much indebted to him for his time and able services generously given in 55 years of membership. We wish him many happy years of life.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1942 1942]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1943 1943]
+
Two notable occasions have been the visit of M. W. [http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMPerry Joseph Earl Perry] and suite in 1939, to present fifty-year Veterans' Medals to R. W. George W. Maxon and Wor. Andrew N. Maxon; and on September 11, 1927, the visit of M. W. [http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMSimpson Frank L. Simpson] to lay the corner-stone of the Federated Church on the corner of Main and Blackstone Streets.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1944 1944]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1945 1945]
+
If the scope of this sketch allowed, the names of members who have given much of their time and services would be a long one. Suffice it to say that in support of the officers and work of the Lodge they have been a strong factor in its life, and the Grand Lodge in recognition of this cooperation, has named this Masonic District the [http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MABlackstone20_1927-2003 20th Blackstone Masonic District].
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1946 1946]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1947 1947]
+
The members have a most important paft in the social life of the Lodge and in the extension of friendship. In looking over the names, it is surprising to find so many listed for over forty years and quite a number over fifty years. Our oldest living members are James B. Hodder and Edward W. Mongeon, now on the list for sixty-three years. This has been equalled only by Henry C. Phillips and Wor. Andrew N. Maxon.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1948 1948]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1949 1949]
+
The generations come and go, but the tenets and teachings of Masonry never change. An institution having for its foundation the practice of the moral and social virtues and the extension of brotherly love, relief and truth among its members, a belief in God and individual responsibility, has the qualities of permanency and will always continue to attract men of good will.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1950 1950]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1951 1951]
+
=== OTHER ===
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1952 1952]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1953 1953]
+
* '''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1870 1870]''' (Complaint against [http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=OliveBranch Olive Branch]''' Lodge)
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1954 1954]
+
* '''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1872 1872]''' (Petition regarding formal charity to families of deceased members)
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1955 1955]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1956 1956]
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<hr>
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1957 1957]
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[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1958 1958]
+
=== EVENTS ===
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1959 1959]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1960 1960]
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==== CONSTITUTION OF LODGE, FEBRUARY 1857 ====
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1961 1961]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1962 1962]
+
''From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XVI, No. 5, February 1857, Page 155:''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1963 1963]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1964 1964]
+
At Blackstone, Worcester Co., was consecrated by the Grand Lodge of this State, on Monday evening, Feb. 2, by the usual ceremonies. The officers of the Lodge for the current year were duly installed and the new hall dedicated on the same evening. The exercises were attended by an audience of ladies and gentlemen, and the occasion was one of more than ordinary interest to the fraternity of the neighborhood. After the ceremonies the Brethren and their ladies supped together at Gaskill's hotel.  
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1965 1965]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1966 1966]
+
In the course of the evening, brief and appropriate speeches were made by the Most Worshipful Grand Master, [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMHeard John T. Heard], Esq., [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLJSheppard John H. Sheppard], [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GSCWMoore C. W. Moore], and [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMCoolidge W. D. Coolidge], Esqs., and other gentlemen. The Grand Lodge was well represented by its chief officers. They were received with great courtesy and attention, and the presence of the highest officers of the order in this part of the Commonwealth, (never visited before by them as a body,) was a compliment duly appreciated by the new Lodge and the Brethren generally. — ''B. H. Aurora.''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1967 1967]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1968 1968]
+
==== OFFICER LIST, JANUARY 1864 ====
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1969 1969]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1970 1970]
+
''From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXIII, No. 3, January 1864, Page 96:''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1971 1971]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1972 1972]
+
Officers of Blackstone River Lodge, for 1864.  
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1973 1973]
+
* William A. Northup, W M.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1974 1974]
+
* Lewis Holmes, S. W.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1975 1975]
+
* Ben. Ainsworth, J. W.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1976 1976]
+
* John Cady, Treas.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1977 1977]
+
* Geo. E. Bullard, Sec.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1978 1978]
+
* E. Metcalf, S. D.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1979 1979]
+
* E Daniels, J.D.  
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1980 1980]
+
* Thomas Fisher, S. S.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1981 1981]
+
* Wm. Walton, J. S.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1982 1982]
+
* E. Nichols, Mar.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1983 1983]
+
* Moses Farnum, R. A. Benson, J. P. Pillsbnry, Trustees.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1984 1984]
+
* J. P. Pillsbury, John C. Scott, J. S. Weedham, Relief Committee.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1985 1985]
+
* E. Nichols, Tyler.
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1986 1986]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1987 1987]
+
<hr>
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1988 1988]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1989 1989]
+
=== GRAND LODGE OFFICERS ===
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1990 1990]
+
 
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1991 1991]
+
* Edwin M. Crane, DDGM, [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASouthbridge20_1927-2003#BLACKSTONE_20TH_DISTRICT District 20 (Blackstone)], 1933, 1934; '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MANecrologiesAG#CRANE.2C_EDWIN_MAXON_1891-1962 N]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1992 1992]
+
* Melvin E. Ellis, DDGM, [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASouthbridge19_1883-1910 District 19 (Southbridge)], 1903, 1904;  '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASuppNecrologiesAG#ELLIS.2C_MELVIN_ELISHA_1862-1907 SN]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1993 1993]
+
* Jeremiah Gatchell, DDGM, [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASouthbridge19_1883-1910 District 19 (Southbridge)], 1890, 1891, 1892; '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAOtherBrothersG#GATCHELL.2C_JEREMIAH_1836-1906 Memorial]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1994 1994]
+
* ''Stewart R. Holbrook'', DDGM, [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASouthbridge20_1927-2003#BLACKSTONE_20TH_DISTRICT District 20 (Blackstone)], 1987, 1988
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1995 1995]
+
* Joseph Hoyle, DDGM, [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MABlackstone22_1911-1926 District 22 (Blackstone)], 1911, 1912;  '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASuppNecrologiesHM#HOYLE.2C_JOSEPH_1875-1956 SN]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1996 1996]
+
* Raymond G. LaFreniere, DDGM, [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASouthbridge20_1927-2003#BLACKSTONE_20TH_DISTRICT District 20 (Blackstone)],  1975, 1976; '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MANecrologiesHM#LAFRENIERE.2C_RAYMOND_GABRIEL_1916-1984 N]'''
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1997 1997]
+
* George W. Maxon, DDGM, [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASouthbridge19_1883-1910 District 19 (Southbridge)],  1898, 1899; '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASuppNecrologiesHM#MAXON.2C_GEORGE_WASHINGTON_1862-1945 SN]'''
 +
* [http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLDTaft Daniel W. Taft], DDGM, [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MADISTRICT4_1849-66 District 4], 1860, 1861; Senior Grand Warden 1902
 +
* Philip E. Thomas, DDGM, [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASouthbridge20_1927-2003#BLACKSTONE_20TH_DISTRICT District 20 (Blackstone)], 1939, 1940; '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MANecrologiesSZ#THOMAS.2C_PHILIP_EDWIN_1889-1955 N]'''
 +
* Ambrose B. White, DDGM, [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MABlackstone22_1911-1926 District 22 (Blackstone)], 1922, 1923;  '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAOtherBrothersW#WHITE.2C_AMBROSE_B._1862-1932 Memorial]'''
 +
* Russell S. Wise, DDGM, [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASouthbridge20_1927-2003#BLACKSTONE_20TH_DISTRICT District 20 (Blackstone)], 1985, 1986; '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MANecrologiesSZ#WISE.2C_RUSSELL_SHERWOOD_1942-1992 N]'''
 +
 
 +
=== OTHER BROTHERS ===
 +
 
 +
* Asa Brooks, '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAOtherBrothersB#BROOKS.2C_ASA_1800-1864 Memorial]'''
 +
* J. Hervey Howe, '''[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAOtherBrothersH#HOWE.2C_J._HERVEY_1830-1863 Memorial]'''
  
 
<hr>
 
<hr>
Line 161: Line 264:
 
=== DISTRICTS ===
 
=== DISTRICTS ===
  
[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1867 1867]: District 12 (Milford)
+
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1855 1855]''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MADISTRICT4_1849-66 District 4]
 +
 
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'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1867 1867]''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAMilford12_1867-1882 District 12 (Milford)]
 +
 
 +
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1883 1883]''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASouthbridge19_1883-1910 District 19 (Southbridge)]
 +
 
 +
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1911 1911]''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MABlackstone22_1911-1926 District 22 (Blackstone)]
 +
 
 +
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1927 1927]''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAMilford22_1927-2003 District 22 (Milford)]
 +
 
 +
'''[http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsYear1931 1931]''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MASouthbridge20_1927-2003#BLACKSTONE_20TH_DISTRICT District 20 (Blackstone)]
 +
 
 +
<hr>
  
 
=== LINKS ===
 
=== LINKS ===
  
 
[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsLodges Massachusetts Lodges]
 
[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsLodges Massachusetts Lodges]

Latest revision as of 18:14, 25 March 2015

BLACKSTONE RIVER LODGE

Location: Blackstone

Chartered By: Winslow Lewis

Charter Date: 12/12/1856 V-264

Precedence Date: 12/12/1855

Current Status: in Grand Lodge Vault; merged to Montgomery Lodge, Milford, 06/12/1997


PAST MASTERS

  • Samuel S. White, 1872-1874, 1883
  • 1875?
  • Leonard T. Gaskill, 1876, 1878, 1882
  • Charles F. Sisson, 1877, 1878 died in office
  • Jeremiah Gatchell, 1879-1881; Memorial
  • George J. Baldwin, 1884, 1885
  • William H. Hawkins, 1886, 1887
  • William A. Cole, 1888, 1888
  • Charles W. Rickards, 1890, 1891
  • Edward E. Wheelock, 1892, 1893
  • George W. Maxon, 1894, 1895; SN
  • Melvin E. Ellis, 1896, 1897, 1901, 1902; SN
  • Isaac T. Holman, 1898
  • Ambrose B. White, 1899, 1900; Memorial
  • John Kinnibergh, 1903
  • Ansel Holman, 1904
  • Joseph Hoyle, 1905-1907; SN
  • Fred M. Bennett, 1908
  • William R. Booth, 1909
  • Ralph M. Estes, 1910
  • Edward J. Saalfrank, 1911, 1912
  • Joseph F. Barnet, 1913
  • Duncan B. Cunningham, 1914
  • William C. Hay, 1915
  • Harry S. Nelson, 1916
  • Nelson Slater, 1917
  • William Carville, 1918
  • Samuel L. Lampher, 1919
  • William Spencer, 1920
  • Harold W. Armstrong, 1921
  • Philip E. Thomas, 1922; N
  • Edwin M. Crane, 1923
  • Louis A. Webster, 1924
  • William E. Loveland, 1925
  • Morton C. Matteson, 1926
  • Ray S. Maxon, 1927
  • Daniel E. Greene, 1928
  • Harrison M. Smyth, 1929
  • Lester H. Matteson, 1930
  • Andrew N. Maxon, 1931
  • George A. Arnold, 1932
  • Edwin M. Crane, 1933; N
  • Cornelius J. Hauge, 1934
  • Henry F. Feddern, 1935
  • John W. Mellor, 1936
  • John Alden, 1937
  • Paul E. Larson, 1938
  • Fred Israel, 1939
  • Lester E. Carpenter, 1940
  • Philip L. Voelker, 1941
  • Jules E. Conrardy, 1942
  • Joseph D. Rosenthal, 1943
  • William A. Robbins, 1944
  • Philip H. Hoyle, 1945, 1946
  • Harold A. Gustafson, 1947
  • Gerard A. Lafreniere, 1948
  • Paul L. Hoyle, 1949, 1954
  • Raymond G. LaFreniere, 1950-1951, 1955, 1978-1980; N
  • Neilson A. Darling, 1952
  • Daniel B. Middleton, 1953
  • Frank C. Wadsworth, Jr., 1956
  • Herbert S. Smith, 1957
  • Joseph D. Rosenthal, 1958
  • Walter Karasek, 1959
  • Samuel H. Stein, 1960
  • Henry C. Feddern, 1961
  • Alexander Kokolski, 1962
  • Clinton S. J. Jacks, 1963
  • Joseph Hoyle, Jr., 1964
  • Robert E. Ranslow, 1965, 1966
  • Hollis S. Booth, 1967
  • Robert F. Taylor, 1968, 1969
  • Victor J. Karasek, 1970
  • John J. Salisbury, 1971
  • Elmer E. Normandin, Jr., 1972
  • Henry R. Reiner, 1973
  • Randall L. Faneuf, 1974
  • Cecil H. Lane, Sr., 1975, 1983
  • Cecil H. Lane, Jr., 1976, 1981, 1982, 1985
  • George A. L. Ethier, 1977
  • Ross N. Fisher, 1984, 1988
  • Stewart R. Holbrook, 1986; PDDGM
  • Todd E. Smith, 1987
  • Ross N. Fisher, 1988
  • Russell S. Wise, 1989-1992; N
  • David W. Farrington, 1993, 1995
  • Richard E. Heon, 1994
  • Donald E. Guertin, 1996, 1997

REFERENCES IN GRAND LODGE PROCEEDINGS

  • Petition for Dispensation: 1855
  • Petition for Charter: 1857 chartered 1856; constituted 1857
  • Consolidation Petition (with Montgomery Lodge): 1997

ANNIVERSARIES

  • 1955 (Centenary)
  • 1980 (125th Anniversary)

VISITS BY GRAND MASTER

BY-LAW CHANGES

1859 1874 1882 1912 1913 1922 1926 1927 1928 1929 1940 1947 1955 1956 1957 1982 1986

HISTORY

  • 1955 (Centenary History, 1955-281)

CENTENARY HISTORY, DECEMBER 1955

From Proceedings, Page 1955-281:

By Worshipful Fred M. Bennett.

A brief sketch of our Lodge's history and mention of some of the active members is all that can be attempted in this part of our anniversary program.

One hundred years ago, Blackstone was a growing and flourishing community. Ten years previous it had been set aside from the mother Town of Mendon and was now an incorporated Town. Within the boundaries were three villages with cotton and woolen mills, and later felting and rubber factories were erected. Two main railroad systems had recently laid their tracks through the Town with a junction depot and round house. The population was about 5000 and employees of these activities had become residents and some had built homes. Some among this group were Masons. The nearest Lodges were at Cumberland, Rhode Island, and Uxbridge and Milford, Massachusetts. The distances to these Towns with horse and buggy conveyance over dark, dirt roads, as well as the time consumed in travel, made it inconvenient to attend monthly communications. And so it was that fourteen Masons signed a petition to the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts for a new Lodge at Blackstone. These Masons were Emory Scott, Alexander W. Griswold, Samuel E. Bowley, John Cady, Arthur Cook, Caleb Colvin, William Legg, Nahum Morse, Noah Taft, Lewis Warfield, Lebbeus L. Wood, David Brayton, John Remington and Jacob Chase. A charter was obtained and dated December 6, 1855, with the name of Blackstone River Lodge, A. F. & A. M. It was organized with Emory Scott, Master; Alexander W. Griswold, S. W.; Samuel Bowley, J. W.; John Cady, Treasurer; and Arthur Cook, Secretary.

For a few years the Lodge was under the close supervision of the District Deputy Grand Master, with the monthly meetings called for two o'clock in the afternoon. Later on they were held on the first Wednesday on or before the full of the moon. With the coming of electric lighted highways, the date was changed to the first Wednesday in the month.

The new Lodge rented what seems to have been at that time the only hall in town, the upper room in the brick block on Monument Square. At the end of fifteen years, the rent had been raised to a figure that did not set well with the members. With confidence in the esteem in which Masonry is held, and in the future of the Town, a small lot on Main Street was purchased and our present Lodge building was erected.

Dr. George E. Bullard was Chairman of the building committee and, because of his unremitting interest in its erection, has been called the father of this building. Since it was built on swampy ground, Brother Bullard poured many bags of cement into the basement to ensure a firm foundation and our members have with equal effect, poured the cement of brotherly love and affection which is a strong bond of our existence through the century. Its cost was $8000, which was raised by bond issue. Dedication was on Washington's birthday, February 22, 1870, with a ball.

Now eighty-five years old, this building has known the first candidates and probably most of the charter members. Its walls have echoed to the business of one thousand regular communications, the working of the degrees, and social times. Banquets were held for many years in the upper story, and an esteemed Brother, Rufus A. Benson, ran a hardware store in the lower story. Reminders of departed Brothers are in the Deacon's and Stewards' rods given by Lucius S. Pennimen; the flag and its staff by W. Austin B. Rankin; the fine painting on the north wall of W. Charles F. Sisson, given by his widow; the Bible on the altar, of W. William R. Booth, given by his son, Bro. Hollis S. Booth; the small cast-iron stove in the coat room of W. Charles W. Rickards; the jewels of the officers and their aprons by Morning Star Lodge of Woonsocket, Rhode Island.

It has long been our custom to attend divine service on or .ibout June 24th, in a body. Our late Brother Wardwell C. Matteson always carried the flag, and now his son, Wor. Morton C. Matteson, carries it in his father's place. The Lodge conducted many Masonic funerals, always at the deceased's request, and older members remember the impressive renderings of the burial service by Wor. William A. Cole, who served thirty years as Chaplain.

1 think that the Past Masters of this Lodge who were appointed to be District Deputy Grand Masters of this Masonic District by the Grand Master should be listed. This office calls for much time and travel. They are

  • Daniel W. Taft
  • Joseph Hoyle
  • Jeremiah Gatchell
  • Ambrose B. White
  • George W. Maxon
  • Edwin M. Crane
  • Melvin E. Ellis
  • Philip E. Thomas
  • Philip H. Hoyle

They retain the title of Right Worshipful and are presented a jewel of their office. R.W. Daniel W. Taft was raised in 1856 in the lodge-room in the brick block on Monument Square, and thus the Masonic lives of these officers cover the span of one hundred years.

The growth and continued life of an association depends largely on the faithfulness and efficiency with which the officers discharge their respective duties. This is particularly so in the just and true keeping of the records of the Treasurers and Secretaries. The Treasurers with the longer tenure of office are: John Cady, 16 years; Dr. George E. Bullard, 28 years; R. W. Ambrose B. White, 15 years; and R. W. Edwin M. Crane, 27 years. Brothers John Cady and Dr. George E. Bullard received gold headed canes on their retirement from office. The officers are benefited at rehearsal by the attendance of R.W. Edwin M. Crane with his knowledge of Masonic law and procedure, and his impressive rendering of the charge in the Master Mason Degree. In the Secretaries' list are Thomas Ball, 8 years; Americus Welch, 12 years; Wor. Harry S. Nelson, 8 years; R.W. Philip E. Thomas, 13 years; and Wor. Philip L. Voelker, 9 years. Wor. Ansel Holman is our oldest living Past Master, who in his terms of over two years, raised seventeen candidates.

Three distinguished members have served the Lodge in important offices through their entire Masonic careers. They are:

  • R. W. Jeremiah Gatchell. Master, 1880-1; District Deputy Grand Master; Treasurer for 9 years; installing officer many years; Proxy to the Grand Lodge, 18 years; member of Trustees, Relief and other important committees for many years, a vigorous and eloquent Mason of thirty-six years.
  • R.W. George W. Maxon. Master, 1895; District Deputy Grand Master; for fifty years a Trustee and member of Relief Committee; thirty-three years guardian of East Gate; installing officer many years; Tyler SO years, a popular and able Mason of fifty-five years.
  • R. W. Joseph Hoyle. Master, 1906-1907; District Deputy Grand Master of the Blackstone 20th District; Master of the Lodge at the fiftieth anniversary; Trustee and Proxy to the Grand Lodge SO years; installing officer many years; he has had the pleasure and pride of raising six sons — one, Philip, now a Past District Deputy Grand Master, and another, Paul, now a Past Master and his successor as Proxy to the Grand Lodge. This Lodge and Masonry in this area are much indebted to him for his time and able services generously given in 55 years of membership. We wish him many happy years of life.

Two notable occasions have been the visit of M. W. Joseph Earl Perry and suite in 1939, to present fifty-year Veterans' Medals to R. W. George W. Maxon and Wor. Andrew N. Maxon; and on September 11, 1927, the visit of M. W. Frank L. Simpson to lay the corner-stone of the Federated Church on the corner of Main and Blackstone Streets.

If the scope of this sketch allowed, the names of members who have given much of their time and services would be a long one. Suffice it to say that in support of the officers and work of the Lodge they have been a strong factor in its life, and the Grand Lodge in recognition of this cooperation, has named this Masonic District the 20th Blackstone Masonic District.

The members have a most important paft in the social life of the Lodge and in the extension of friendship. In looking over the names, it is surprising to find so many listed for over forty years and quite a number over fifty years. Our oldest living members are James B. Hodder and Edward W. Mongeon, now on the list for sixty-three years. This has been equalled only by Henry C. Phillips and Wor. Andrew N. Maxon.

The generations come and go, but the tenets and teachings of Masonry never change. An institution having for its foundation the practice of the moral and social virtues and the extension of brotherly love, relief and truth among its members, a belief in God and individual responsibility, has the qualities of permanency and will always continue to attract men of good will.

OTHER

  • 1870 (Complaint against Olive Branch Lodge)
  • 1872 (Petition regarding formal charity to families of deceased members)

EVENTS

CONSTITUTION OF LODGE, FEBRUARY 1857

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XVI, No. 5, February 1857, Page 155:

At Blackstone, Worcester Co., was consecrated by the Grand Lodge of this State, on Monday evening, Feb. 2, by the usual ceremonies. The officers of the Lodge for the current year were duly installed and the new hall dedicated on the same evening. The exercises were attended by an audience of ladies and gentlemen, and the occasion was one of more than ordinary interest to the fraternity of the neighborhood. After the ceremonies the Brethren and their ladies supped together at Gaskill's hotel.

In the course of the evening, brief and appropriate speeches were made by the Most Worshipful Grand Master, John T. Heard, Esq., John H. Sheppard, C. W. Moore, and W. D. Coolidge, Esqs., and other gentlemen. The Grand Lodge was well represented by its chief officers. They were received with great courtesy and attention, and the presence of the highest officers of the order in this part of the Commonwealth, (never visited before by them as a body,) was a compliment duly appreciated by the new Lodge and the Brethren generally. — B. H. Aurora.

OFFICER LIST, JANUARY 1864

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXIII, No. 3, January 1864, Page 96:

Officers of Blackstone River Lodge, for 1864.

  • William A. Northup, W M.
  • Lewis Holmes, S. W.
  • Ben. Ainsworth, J. W.
  • John Cady, Treas.
  • Geo. E. Bullard, Sec.
  • E. Metcalf, S. D.
  • E Daniels, J.D.
  • Thomas Fisher, S. S.
  • Wm. Walton, J. S.
  • E. Nichols, Mar.
  • Moses Farnum, R. A. Benson, J. P. Pillsbnry, Trustees.
  • J. P. Pillsbury, John C. Scott, J. S. Weedham, Relief Committee.
  • E. Nichols, Tyler.

GRAND LODGE OFFICERS

OTHER BROTHERS


DISTRICTS

1855: District 4

1867: District 12 (Milford)

1883: District 19 (Southbridge)

1911: District 22 (Blackstone)

1927: District 22 (Milford)

1931: District 20 (Blackstone)


LINKS

Massachusetts Lodges