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MOSES MICHAEL HAYS 1739-1805

MosesMichaelHays1915.jpg

Grand Master, Massachusetts Grand Lodge, 1788-1792

NOTES

  • Involvement with King David's Lodge of Newport, Rhode Island.

BIOGRAPHY

MOORE'S FREEMASON'S MONTHLY, 1861

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XX, No. 8, June 1861, Page 232:

Moses Michael Hays was Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts in 1788, '89, '90 and '91. He was a Jew, and the only Brother of that religious faith who ever held any prominent office in the Grand Lodge of this State; and it is said he had no conscientious scruples in dietetics, — indeed, Grand Masters are not oftener troubled in that way than common people — or our observation is at fault! Bro. Hays, however, was a zealous Mason and highly respected by the Brethren of his day. He was buried in the Jews' burial-ground at Newport, R. I., where his son with filial love, some years after his decease, erected a handsome monument in commemoration of his virtues, and placed upon it the following inscription :—

"Here repose the ashes of Moses Michael Hays, Esq., who died in Boston, in the State of Massachusetts, on the 11th day of Sivan, A. M. 5565: 9th day of May, 1805 of the Christian era, aged 66.

" In commemoration of his virtues, his son with filial reverence erected this monument."

NEW ENGLAND FREEMASON, 1875

From New England Freemason, Vol. II;

  • No. 2 (February 1875, Page 71)
  • No. 3 (March 1875, Page 117)
  • No. 4 (April 1875, Page 145):

Biographical Sketch of Moses Michael Hays, By the Editor.

Note: We are indebted to W. Brother Henry J. Parker, Past Master of Massachusetts Lodge, for important and valuable assistance in the preparation of this sketch.

There is probably less known in regard to the distinguished Brother whose name stands at the head of this article, than of any of the Grand Masters in Massachusetts. Brother Charles W. Moore, in the Freemasons' Monthly Magazine, vol. 20, p. 232, devotes to him only a dozen lines. He says: "He was a Jew, and the only Brother of that religious faith who ever held any prominent office in the Grand Lodge of this State; and it is said he has no conscientious scruples in dietetics. Bro. Hays, however, was a zealous Mason, and highly respected by the Brethren of his day."

He was born in Lisbon, Portugal, in 1739, came to this country about the year 1768, by way of Jamaica in the West Indies, and established himself at Newport, R. I. While in Jamaica, Brother Hays, through Henry Andrew Francken, received the appointment of Deputy Inspector General for North America. Dr. Mackey (Encyclopaedia of Freemasonry, p. 697) thus relates the history of the introduction of the Scottish Rite into North America: "In 1758, a Body was organized at Paris, called the Council of Emperors of the East and West. This Council organized a Rite called the Rite of Perfection, which consisted of twenty-five degrees, the highest of which was Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret. In 1761, this Council granted a Patent or Deputation to Stephen Morin, authorizing him to propagate the Rite in the Western continent, whither he was about to repair. In the same year, Morin arrived at the city of St. Domingo, where he commenced the dissemination of the Rite, and appointed many Inspectors, both for the West Indies and for the United States. Among others, he conferred the degrees on M. M. Hays, with a power of appointing others when necessary. Hays accordingly appointed Isaac Da Costa Deputy Inspector General for South Carolina, who in 1783 introduced the Rite into that State by the establishment of a Grand Lodge of Perfection in Charleston. Other Inspectors were subsequently appointed; and in 1801, a Supreme Council was opened in Charleston by John Mitchell and Frederick Dalcho."

It is known that Brother Hays, while a resident of Newport, R. I., was active in Masonry. Indeed, he and one or two of his Jewish Brethren were the main supports of all the Masonic Bodies there. The fact that he took particular interest in the degrees of the Rose et Croix, coupled with the remark of Brother Moore as to his liberality in the matter of dietetics, would seem to indicate that he was less bigoted than the children of Israel are generally supposed to be. Further evidence is afforded on this point, as well as in regard to his general character and reputation, by the following extract from the Memoir of Samuel Joseph May:

"If the children of my day were taught, among other foolish things, to dread, if not despise, Jews, a very different lesson was impressed upon my young heart. There was but one family of the despised children of the house of Israel resident in Boston, the family of Moses Michael Hays; a man much respected, not only on account of his large wealth, but for his many personal virtues, and the high culture and great excellence of his wife, his son Judah, and his daughters,—especially Catherine and Slowey. His house, far down on Hanover Street, then one of the fashionable streets of the town, was the abode of hospitality; and his family moved in what were then the first circles of society. He and his truly good wife were hospitable, not to the rich alone, but also to the poor. Many indigent families were fed pretty regularly from his table. They would come especially after his frequent dinner parties, and were sure to be made welcome, not to the crumbs only, but to ampler portions of the food that might be left.

"Always on Saturday he expected a number of friends to dine with him. A full-length table was always spread and loaded witli the luxuries of the season; and he loved to see it surrounded by a few regular visitors, and others especially invited. My father was a favorite guest. He was regarded by Mr. Hays and his whole family as a particular friend, their chosen counsellor in times of perplexity, and their comforter in the days of their affliction. My father seldom failed to dine at Mr. Hays' on Saturday, and often took me with him; for he was sure I should meet refined company there.

"Both Uncle and Aunt Hays (for so I called them) were fond of children, particularly of me; and I was permitted to stay with them several days, and even weeks, together. And I can never forget, not merely their kind, but their conscientious care of me. I was the child of Christian parents, and they took especial pains that I should lose nothing of religious training so long as I was permitted to abide with them. Every night I was required, on going to bed, to repeat my Christian hymns and prayers to them, or else to an excellent Christian servant woman who lived with them many years. I witnessed their religious exercises, their fastings and their prayers, and was made to feel that they worshipped the Unseen, Almighty and All-merciful One. Of course I grew up without any prejudice against Jews—or any other religionists—because they did not believe as my father and my mother believed."

In the Boston Directory of the period, Brother Hays is described as keeping an Insurance Office at No. 68 State Street. He was probably what was then called an "underwriter," carrying on for his private account the same business as is now transacted by Insurance Companies. He died, intestate, May 9, 1805, and his son Judah administered on the estate, the inventory amounting to $80,000. His remaiiiB were conveyed to Newport, R. I., and buried in the Jewish cemetery, by the side of those of his daughter Rebecca. Some years afterwards, his son erected a handsome monument on the spot, and placed upon it the following inscription:

"Here repose the ashes of Moses Michael Hays, Esq., who died in Boston, in the State of Massachusetts, on the 11th day of Sivan, A. M. 5565: 9th day of May, 1805 of the Christian Era, aged 66.

"In commemoration of his virtues, his son, with filial reverence, erected this monument."

The Columbian Centinel, published in Boston on Saturday, May 11, 1805, contained the following obituary notice:

"In the character of the deceased there is much worthy of our admiration, much for our imitation. Possessed by nature of a strong intellect, there was a vigor in his conceptions of men and things which gave a seeming asperity to his conversation, which was ever frank and lucid. He walked abroad fearing no man, but loving all. Under his roof dwelt hospitality; it was an asylum of friendship, the mansion of peace. He was without guile, despising hypocrisy as he despised meanness. Take him for all in all, he was a man. In his death .society will mourn the loss of a most estimable citizen, his family the kindest of husbands, the most indulgent of fathers.

"But what consolation shall we offer to assuage the violence of their grief? Why, this is all — the recollection of his virtues, and that as he lived, so he died; that to his last moment the cheerfulness and benevolence of his whole life wasted not on his falling brow. Calm and without a sigh he sunk to rest, and is now secure in the bosom of his Father and our Father, of his God and our God."

Of the five daughters of Brother Hays, Rebecca died, unmarried, in Boston; Catherine and Slowey both died unmarried, in Richmond, Va.; Judith and Sally both married gentlemen of the name of Myers, in Richmond, and both have issue still living there. The son, all the grandsons and great-grandsons have been Masons.

The name of Brother Hays appears in the Records of Massachusetts Lodge, of Boston, for the first time, on the evening of July 3, 1781, as a visitor. He visited again Jan. 1, 1782, when he is described as "Mr. Rd. Td. Lodge." On the evening of Feb. 5, 1782, he is recorded on the list of visitors as "R. W. M. M. Hays, M. R. T. Lodge." On the occasion of his fourth visit — Nov. 5, 1782 — Brother John Warren, Senior Warden,"proposed Brother Hays to become a member of this Lodge. Voted that he be ballotted for this evening. He was accordingly ballotted for, and accepted."At this meeting were present four officers of the French Army, which, in December following, sailed for home from Boston by way of the West Indies."

At the very next meeting, Dec. 3,1782,"the Lodge proceeded, agreeable to the Bye-Laws, to make choice of officers for the year ensuing. R. W. Brother Bruce [Master] was unanimously chose Mr., but for reasons by him given was excused from accepting. Votes being again prepared, the following Brethren were chose, viz: R. W. Mo. Mi. Hays, Master, J. Warren, S. W., &c. Voted the R. W. Bro. Hays and Bro. Whipple join the committee chose 1st night in the last quarter for revising the Bye-Laws."

On the 16th of December, only thirteen days after the election above reported, Brother Hays presided at a Special Communication. One candidate was initiated; he and another were passed, and some business transacted, when "R. W. Br. Hays having resign'd the chair, votes were prepar'd for a choice, and Brother Jno. Warren was unanimously elected Master, and took the chair. The office of S. W. being vacant, Bro. Scollay succeeded it. [sic] Bro. Whipple succeeded the J. W.'s place, Bro. Bradford the S. D., and Bro. Dexter was unanimously chose J. D. The R. W. Bro. Warren beg'd leave to resign the chair, for reasons by him alleg'd. The Lodge accepted his resignation, and, votes being prepar'd, Bro. Hays was re-elected Mast 'unanim'. The thanks of the Lodge were voted to Bro. Warren for his past services as S. W. and Master."

This blowing hot and cold requires some explanation. Past Master Zachariah G. Whitman thus hints at a reason for it, in an address delivered before Massachusetts Lodge, Dec. 26, 1822:

"It is reported that Moses Michael Hays, a Jew and merchant possessed of great wealth, came out from England with a third patent constituting him Grand Master of a Grand Lodge in America, with power to grant charters to subordinate Lodges. It is also reported that the following method was taken to amalgamate his patent with that obtained by Gen. Warren. Brother Hays was proposed as a member of Massachusetts Lodge by the late M. W. John Warren, M. D., then Senior Warden, and at the same meeting, Nov. 5, 1782, elected a member. At the next meeting of Massachusetts Lodge, Dec. 3, 1782, Brother Hays was elected Master. Soon after, he was chosen Junior Grand Warden of Massachusetts Grand Lodge, and in 1788, Grand Master, and thus the two patents became united." This story of 'a third patent' probably had its origin in the powers conferred upon Brother Hays under the Scottish Rite, as already related. Such powers were new and strange to the Brethren of this country. They had already supp'd full with horrors of Ancients and Moderns, deputations from the Grand Lodge of England and the Grand Lodge of Scotland. The foremost of them had already come to the conclusion that it was time to "cleanse the stuff'd bosom of that perilous stuff"; that "the patient must minister to himself."They were vigorously agitating the question of "independency" in Masonic matters, as a natural and necessary consequence of their success in the civil experiment. It is, therefore, not strange that the advent among them of this formidable "Deputy Inspector General for North America" produced some fluttering, and that the Brethren used every means to enlist this, new dignitary on their side.

Brother Hays presided at every one of the fifteen meetings of the Lodge held during the year 1783, and on the 10th December was re-elected, and honored with a vote of thanks. At the same meeting, it was voted to celebrate the festival of St. John the Evangelist, (the Grand Lodge having decided not to observe it,) and the Master was made chairman of a committee to invite St. John's Lodge to join with them.

On the 7th of December, 1784, Brother Hays was again elected Master, and a vote of thanks was passed. On the 2d of May following, he was appointed chairman of a committee to represent the Lodge at the Convention to be held at Charlestown, on the 26th of the same month. Our readers will find a report of the proceedings of that Convention on p. 465 of vol. 1 of this Magazine. It will be observed that Brother Hays was chosen President of that Convention, and also chairman of a committee to which the whole business of the Convention was referred, and whose report was adopted, with the dissent of the representatives of only one Lodge, and that to certain paragraphs only.

A meeting of the Lodge was held on the 6th of June, 1785, Brother Hays being absent; from that date until June 12, 1788, a period of three years, the meetings were suspended.

On this latter date, Brother Hays specially called the members together, and "acquainted them that so much time had elapsed by neglect of the Lodge's meeting, that complaints were made by the Grand Lodge, and demands were made for the dues to the Grand Lodge; therefore the W. M. called on the Lodge for their serious consideration; whereupon the members present Voted and Resolved, To support the honor and dignity of the Lodge; and that from this evening shall commence our resolutions."

This resolution has been scrupulously observed, and no suspension of meetings, except during the summer months, has occurred. From the date last mentioned, also, the Lodge took a fresh and prosperous start, and each member vied with the others in contributing to the general welfare. On the 1st September, the M. W. Grand Master, M. M. Hays, presented the Lodge with three truncheons; whereupon the thanks of the Lodge were voted for the gift, and it was directed that the name and number of the Lodge be engraved on the silver cap at one end, and the donor's name on the other. The date of this gift, by comparatively recent vote, was added to the inscriptions. The caps of these truncheons were saved from the ruins of the fire which destroyed the Temple in April, 1864, and are carefully preserved.

Brother Hays' name appears for the first time in the Records of Massachusetts Grand Lodge on the evening of June 7, 1782. In a note at the end of the record, it is stated that "a copy of a letter from the Most Worshipful J. Webb and the two Grand Wardens, to Moses Michael Hays, together with his answer, are filed with the Grand Lodge Papers."

At the next meeting,"held on Special Occasion, Monday evening, 10th June, 1782,"after the list of Grand Officers and representatives of Lodges, the following entry is made: "Worshipful Moses M. Hays, by request of the Most Worshipful Master and Grand Wardens." At the same meeting it was "Voted, That a committee be appointed to Draught resolutions explanatory of the Powers and Authority of this Grand Lodge, respecting the extent and meaning of its jurisdiction, and of the exercise of any other Masonic Authority within its jurisdiction."The committee consisted of Perez Morton, Paul Revere, John Warren, James Avery and John Juteau. Their report was submitted on the 30th September following, but its consideration was deferred until"the next Lodge evening" — December 6th — when it was considered, paragraph by paragraph, adopted, ordered to be recorded in the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge, to "be printed, and a copy inclosed to each of the Lodges under this jurisdiction, in order that it may be kept in, and considered a part of, the Book of Constitutions." This was the celebrated document asserting and defending the doctrine of Grand Lodge Independence and Sovereignty:— "That this Grand Lodge be forever hereafter known and called by the name of The Massachusetts Grand Lodge of Ancient Masons, and that it is free and Independent, in its Government and Official Authority, of any other Grand Lodge or Grand Master in the Universe."Brother Hays is not recorded as present at the Festival of St. John the Baptist, held in Faneuil Hall, that year, nor at either of the two meetings of the Grand Lodge in September following. At that of December 6th, his name appears as Master of Massachusetts Lodge, and in that capacity he"presented a List of the Choice of Officers for the year ensuing."

At a special meeting on the 24th December, he was joined with Brothers Perez Morton, William Scollay, James Avery and Stephen Bruce, as a committee "to confer with St. Andrew's Lodge, at their next meeting, upon the subject of their letter, on refusing to acknowledge the Independency of this Grand Lodge."

At the next meeting—Special, January 3, 1783 he was appointed one of a committee of seven,"to write to the Grand Lodge of Scotland, informing them the Reasons why the Grand Lodge in Commonwealth of Massachusetts assumed to themselves that Dignity;" "the same committee also to write the Grand Lodge of Philadelphia, in forming them of the Assumption of this Grand Lodge."

At the meeting of June 6, 1783, he was made chairman of a committee "to make report at the next meeting what Endorsement shall be made on the Warrants which have been granted from this Grand Lodge."This was probably in pursuance of one of the resolutions, reported by the committee on independent sovereignty, adopted December 6th:—"That the Grand Master for the time being be desired to call in all the Charters which were held under the jurisdiction of the late Grand Master, Joseph Warren, Esq., and return the same with an Endorsement thereon, expressive of their Voluntary Recognition of the Power and Authority of this Grand Lodge."

September 5th, 1783, a committee of seven was appointed "for the purpose of forming Rules and Regulations for the Government of the Grand Lodge; "it consisted of Paul Revere, Joseph Webb, John Warren, Perez Morton, Moses M. Hays, William Hoskins and William Scollay. They were ordered to report on the first Friday in October — the 3rd —which they did; and it was

  • "Voted — That the Rules and Regulations for the Government of this Grand Lodge as reported by the Committee, after being read, paragraph by paragraph, be accepted.
  • Voted — There be One Hundred copies of the Rules and Regulations of this Grand Lodge printed, and that each member be serv'd with a copy, also each Lodge under its jurisdiction. Voted— That a committee of three be chose to see the printing of the above Rules and Regulations mentioned."

At the meeting on the 4th December, 1783,"Worshipful Brother Hays Reports a Choice of the Officers and Members of Massachusetts Lodge, "and he and Brothers Revere and Morton were appointed a committee, "for the purpose of writing to the Lodges under this jurisdiction, and requesting an immediate answer to the late Circular Letter on the subject of Independence of this Grand Lodge, and that this letter accompany the Constitutions lately ordered to be printed and sent to those Lodges."

March 4, 1784, Brother Hays is recorded as having acted as Junior Grand Warden. At this meeting,"the Most Worshipful Grand Master [John Warren] communicated a Letter which he received from Br. Alex. Thomas, signed by him as Secretary of St. Andrew's Lodge, Holding under the Grand Lodge of Scotland, mentioning to take Notice that all Connection and Debates between the Grand Lodge and the Lodge of St. Andrew arc at an End. Return from St. Andrew's Lodge, Holding under this Grand Lodge, was received, accepted and approved of."

In the record of a Special Meeting held on the 15th of March, 1784, at the head of the list of officers and members present stand the following names: "Most Wpfll. John Warren, Esq., G. M. Rt. Wpfll. Paul Revere, Esq., D. G. M. Rt. Wpfll. M. M. Hays, Mr. Mass. Wpfll. Perez Morton, S. G. W. Wpfll. John Juteau, J. G. W. Benj. Coolidge, G. Sec'y."

We are at a loss to understand why the Master of Massachusetts Lodge should have precedence of the three last-named officers, or why his title should be different from theirs.

The only business recorded is the following:"The Lodges being called, the seats of Senior and Junior Grand Deacons were found vacant, that had been fill'd by Bros. Urann and Symmes, whom the Grand Lodge were informed had withdrawn themselves by adhering to the Brethren that declare themselves Holding under the Constitution of Scotland, as appears by their Letter to this Grand Lodge. The Lodge proceeded to the choice of Grand Deacons and Grand Stewards."

Thus far Brother Hays appears to have been very regular and constant in his attendance upon the Communications of the Grand Lodge; but his name does not occur again until the record of the 24th June, 1785, when he was chosen Junior Grand Warden. Notwithstanding this promotion, he is not recorded as present until the 2d of June, 1786, when he is described as Senior, instead of Junior, Grand Warden — probably a clerical error, the names being reversed. At this meeting numerous reports and returns were received from the Lodges, and"the Grand Lodge then proceeded to choice of Grand Officers for the year ensuing. A motion was made for the Constitutions to be read, which was negatived; and Voted, To proceed by Ballot for the choice of Grand Master, when, the numbers being counted, Most W. J. Webb was re-elected Grand Master, who was pleased to appoint the R. W. John Lowell D. G. Master. Senior Warden voted for, and M. M. Hays, Esq., elected, who excused himself, and his resignation was accepted. The Book of Constitutions being again called for, the Regulations were read, respecting the election of a Grand Master and other Officers. Motion made by Brother Revere for the adjournment of Grand Lodge, seconded by Brother Juteau, and negatived. The Lodge then proceeded to the choice of a new Senior Grd. Warden, Dr. Josiah Bartlett elected. "It was voted that the installation should take place at Charlestown on the 24th." Accordingly the Grand Lodge was "opened in due Masonick Form, "in Warren Hall, Charlestown, on Saturday, June 24th, 1786, at 3 o'clock p. m., and "the Most Worshipful Grand Master invested the officers with the Badges to them respectively belonging." Brother Hays was present.

At a Special Meeting held at the Bunch of Grapes Tavern, State Street, on Friday evening, April 6, 1787, although apparently not in attendance, ho was appointed one of a committee of seven, "to act in conjunction with the other committee, who were to form a plan of union between the 2 Grand Lodges (St. John's and Massachusetts), and that said committee write to the several Lodges holding under this jurisdiction, to obtain their sentiments upon the subject, either by Proxy or otherwise, and to report at the next quarterly Communication."

Brother Hays' name does not again occur in the record until Friday evening, June 6, 1788, when the"Grand Lodge assembled in Ample Form "at the Bunch of Grapes. After the transaction of miscellaneous business, they proceeded to the choice of Grand Officers,"when the following were chosen: M. W. John Warren, Esq., G. M., who declined accepting the choice; whereupon the M. W. M. M. Hays, Esq., was unanimously chosen G. M., and, being informed of the choice by a Respectable Committee, he testified his acceptance of the same." "Tuesday, the 24th instant, was, by unanimous consent, appointed for the installation of Grand Officers for the ensuing year, at Bunch of Grapes, 6 o'clock p. m."

The installation did not take place at the Bunch of Grapes Tavern, as ordered. The next record recites that "Massachusetts Grand Lodge assembled in ample form, July 24, 1788, at Charlestown, for installation of Grand officers for the year ensuing." By a clerical error July is substituted for June; the records of King Solomon's Lodge, as well as the newspapers of the time, give the date correctly."Grand Lodge being opened in Masonick Order,""On motion, voted to re-consider the vote of the last Grand Lodge for the installation of Grand Officers at the Bunch of Grapes, and to proceed on that Business at this place."The Brethren associated in office with the newly elected Grand Master were:

  • Perez Morton, Esq., Deputy Grand Master.
  • Josiah Bartlett, M. D., Senior Grand Warden.
  • Gen. Elisha Porter, Junior Grand Warden.
  • Aaron Dexter, M. D., Grand Treasurer.
  • John Jackson, Recording Grand Secretary.

The new Grand Master was installed by his immediate predecessor, Dr. John Warren. The ceremonies of installation being concluded, the Grand Lodge was closed until the first Friday in September. No other business was transacted, nor does it appear from the record that any festivities took place on the occasion.

The records of King Solomon's Lodge, however, furnish the following information:

"June 24, 5788. Festival of St. John the Baptist. The Lodge assembled at Warren Hall. The Massachusetts Grand Lodge, being present, was opened in Ample Form and an installation of the Grand Officers took place; after which, the Grand Lodge being closed, King Solomon's Lodge was opened. After the transaction of some business, a procession was formed as follows: The officers and members of King Solomon's Lodge, under R. W. Isaac Snow, Master; the Massachusetts Grand Lodge, under M. W. Moses M. Hays, Grand Master; visiting Brethren from other Lodges; invited guests, amongst whom were His Honor Benjamin Lincoln, Lieutenant Governor, Rev. Samuel Parker, Rev. Mr. Montague, Rev. John Eliot, Rev. Mr. Rowland, Captain Thomas Harris, Representative of Charlestown, the Parish Committee, &c.; — fifty-seven Masons, ten invited guests and six musicians, making in all, seventy-three persons.

"The procession proceeded to the meeting-house with 'musick playing,' where divine service was performed by Rev. Messrs. Parker and Montague, after the Episcopal manner; after which, a collection was made for the benefit of the poor of Charlestown, when the sum of £9. 5s. 6d. was collected. The procession then returned to the Hall, where an elegant entertainment was provided, and the afternoon was spent in innocent festivity.

"The thanks of the Lodge were presented to Rev. Samuel Parker for his learned and elegant sermon, with the request that a copy might be furnished for the press; also, to Mr. Oliver Holden and the ladies and gentlemen who compose the Singing Society of this town, for their services this day.

"The money collected was distributed amongst twenty-seven worthy persons, more than half'of whom were widows.
"The whole expense of the festival was £32 12s. 6d."

The Massachusetts Centinel of that week gives some further particulars. The order of procession is curious on account of the mingling of the officers of King Solomon's Lodge and the Grand Officers.

Band of Musick.
Tylers.
Stewards of King Solomon's Lodge.
Grand Stewards.
Deacons of King Solomon's Lodge.
Grand Deacons.
Entered Apprentices.
Fellow Crafts.
Master Masons.
Wardens of Lodges.
Past Masters.
Masters of Lodges.
Treasurer and Secretary of King Solomon's Lodge.
Grand Treasurer and Secretary.
Wardens of King Solomon's Lodge.
Past Grand Officers.
Master of King Solomon's Lodge.
Grand Master and Deputy Grand Master. </blockquote> "Having arrived at the meeting-house, an elegant and well adapted discourse was delivered to a numerous and respectful auditory by the Rev. Mr. Parker, of this town, from John the XIII, 35, and the solemnities of the day were much enlivened by the various performances of the Society of Singers, who favored the company with their services. At the conclusion of divine worship, the procession, being joined by a number of gentlemen of publick character, not of the fraternity, returned to the Hall, which was ingeniously decorated on the occasion. A genteel entertainment was provided and the following toasts were drank:

  1. Masonry universal.
  2. The United States.
  3. May the brightness of the East, the soft breezes of the South and the going down of the West have its influence on every Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons.
  4. The Governour and Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
  5. All regular constituted Grand Lodges.
  6. May the Nine Pillars which have been raised to support the American Fabrick, be soon joined by the other four. [Alluding to the thirteen States and the new Constitution.]
  7. Our illustrious Brother George Washington, Esq.
  8. His Most Christian Majesty, Louis XVI.
  9. The memory of our illustrious Grand Master Joseph Warren, Esq.
  10. Agriculture and Commerce.
  11. Speedy relief to all distressed Brethren throughout the world.
  12. May the Americans be as distinguished for their virtues as they have been in arms.
  13. All mankind.
"At sunset the Brethren took leave of each other, having spent the afternoon in convivial innocence agreeably to ancient Masonick usage." </blockquote> The next Communication of Massachusetts Grand Lodge was held at the Bunch of Grapes Tavern in the following September. The only business of interest transacted, except the appointment of "Brother Homans to inspect the Grand Lodge chest and see the same put in order," was the choosing of a committee to write "to some Brother who is, or hath been, an officer in any of the several Lodges which were lately struck out of the Grand Lodge books, requesting them to use their influence that the Charter of their Lodge be returned before the next Quarterly Communication."The committee were further instructed to notify the Lodges referred to, that,"if their request is not complied with, the Grand Lodge will write to the Grand Lodges in the thirteen States, acquainting them with their doings, and transmit the names of all their members." The business of the Quarterly Communication in December, was wholly local and unimportant. But at a Special Meeting held on the 18th of the same month, a Charter was granted for a Lodge at Hanover, New Hampshire, under the title of Dartmouth Lodge, "provided the fees and charges are paid down;" which was done, the Grand Secretary acknowledging to have "received of Brother Davenport Phelps, 3 guineas for said Charter." In all cases when a Special Communication was required to grant a Charter, the petitioners paid the necessary current expenses of such meeting. This rule was also enforced at the time of which we are writing, (and indeed at a much later period,) in the case of candidates whose convenience might require a special meeting of the Lodge either for initiation or advancement. In the record for January 7, 1789, it is related: "Brother Homans reported that Brothers Morton and Juteau presented to the Grand Lodge their collars. Whereupon it was voted that the thanks of the Grand Lodge be presented to those gentlemen by Brother Homans." It was also "Voted that the Grand Treasurer pay Brother Lowell £2. 8s. Od. for his collar, and that it become the property of the Grand Lodge." It would seem, therefore, that up to this time, at least, the officers of the Grand Lodge furnished their own regalia. At a Special Meeting held on the 16th of February, a deputation from Massachusetts Lodge was in attendance, "earnestly requesting this Grand Lodge that the ceremonies of Masonry be observed at the funeral of our deceased Brother, John Welsh, Jun., late Grand Secretary and Secretary to Massachusetts Lodge. —Whereupon Voted — That Brother Welsh be buried with the Honours of Masonry and under the direction of this Grand Lodge. On motion — Voted that a committee of three (Brothers Scollay, Bartlett and Freeman) be chosen to conduct the procession—and that the same committee be requested to invite the Modern G. Lodge, under the direction of the R. W. Brother Cutler. Also Voted—That the same Committee make application to the Gent. Selectmen for the use of Faneuil Hall on this solemn occasion." The proposed arrangement was not carried out. The funeral took place on the 18th, from his father's house in Union Street. On the 6th of March following, the Charter of Essex Lodge (one of those previously erased) was returned, and a new one was ordered to Rising States Lodge, with its original rank. Brother Juteau presented the Grand Lodge with "three candlesticks, two Warden's wands and three ballotting-boxes, — whereupon — Voted — That the thanks of this Grand Lodge be given to Brother Juteau for his polite present." Article XX. of the "Old Regulations" of Masonry, as they were compiled first by Mr. George Payne in 1720, is in the following words: "The Grand Master, with his Deputy and Wardens, shall, (at least once), go round and visit all the Lodges about Town during his Mastership." This wholesome regulation had not, it would seem, come to the notice of either of the preceding Grand Masters; or, if it had, the Records do not show any action under it, except an occasional rather informal visit. Brother Hays, however, seems to have regarded it as imposing upon him a duty which he was not at liberty to neglect. Accordingly, on the 9th of March of this year (1789), "By order of the Most Worshipful M. M. Hays, Esq., Grand Master, the Dep. G Master, the Wardens, Treasurer and Secretary of Massachusetts Grand Lodge were summoned to attend the visiting of Massachusetts Lodge this even'g, precisely at 7 o'clock, being Massachusetts regular Lodge night. Present.
  • M Worship. M. M. Hays, Esq., G. Master.
  • R. W. Perez Morton Esq., D. G. M.
  • Josiah Bartlett, S. G. W.
  • Isaac Snow, J. G. W., pro tem.
  • Aaron Dexter, G. Treas.
  • John Jackson, G. Sec'y.
  • Josiah Waters, G. Marshall.
"Massachusetts Lodge being duly assembled in their Lodge-room, the Grand Officers in the ante-chamber — the Grand Master directed the Gr. Marshal to announce the approach of the Gl Officers, which being done, the doors of the Mass. Lodge were thrown open and the Grand officers entered in Form, (preceded by the Deacons and Stewards of Mass. Lodge with their wands), and took their places in due Order. The Grand Master, having taken the chair and Hiram, called profound silence — then proceeded to open G. Lodge; which being done, the Grand Master, conformable to the Usual Rules and Regulations, desired the Inspection of the Records and Bye-Laws of the Lodge, which being examined were found in perfect good Order. By the request of the Grand Master, the Worshipful Brother W. Scollay, Master of the Mass. Lodge, proceeded to lecture the Lodge, which was done in a masterly manner. The Grand Master then addressed the Lodge in these words:

'It gives me great pleasure, Brethren, to find here so Respectable a Lodge, and that pleasure is greatly increased by the expert abilities and knowledge you discover in our Sublime Science. You Possess fully the Rudiments of the Craft, and a steady perseverance of the pursuits you have already made, will enable you perfectly to understand the Origin, Design and Use of the Society, and will compensate you in the full price of your Travel and Industry.

'Masonry has suffered much by imprudent and unfaithful Brethren. Permit me, therefore, my dear Brethren, to recommend to you great Caution and Care in the choice of the persons whom you wish to Adorn with the formidable appellation and affection of Brother and Friend.

'Worshipful Master and Wardens, — I leave this Lodge under your Patronage and Care and under your Protection and Instruction. I flatter myself that they will, as in their numbers, shine as so many Brilliant Stars in the highest Heavens, where they will receive the reward of their Merit.

'You will, Worshipful, please to direct your Secretary to transcribe from your Records a complete list of the names of the officers and members of your Lodge, as well as the names of those whom you have brought from the Veil of Darkness thro' the current year, and you will please to transmit the same to the Grand Lodge at their next Quarterly Communication, that they may be Registered in the Grand Lodge Books, agreeable to our ancient usage.'

"The Right Worshipful Master of Massachusetts Lodge then arose and made the following reply:

"'Most Worshipful Grand Master,—Permit me, Sir, to return you the thanks of Massachusetts Lodge, and in their name to Assure you we feel gratefull for this Testimony of the Love and Affection of the Grand Lodge. Under its benign influence and direction, conformable to the Constitutions of Masonry, and a steady perseverance in pursuit of the original design of our Glorious Institution, we expect to increase in Wisdom, Strength and Beauty; and, we flatter ourselves, by a strict Observance of Order, Harmony and Proportion in our great work, we shall become proficients therein, which will fully compensate us for our Travel and Industry.

"' Agreeable to your directions, a list of the Names of the Officers and Members of the Lodge, and the Names of those who have been brought from the Veil of Darkness, shall be transmitted to Grand Lodge at their next Quarterly Communication.'"

On the next evening (March 10th) Grand Master Hays visited King Solomon's Lodge, of Charlestown, and on the 30th of the same month he visited Rising States Lodge, of Boston. On each occasion he was accompanied by the Grand Officers, and the same dignified ceremony was observed as in the case of Massachusetts Lodge, the Grand Master addressing to the assembled Brethren similar words of affectionate caution and admonition, and the Masters replying in terms of gratitude and respect. The ceremony and addresses in each instance are set forth at length in the Records of the Grand Lodge.

The Master of King Solomon's Lodge was Brother Isaac Snow, whose name appears frequently in the Grand Lodge Records. He died in the next year, and the following entry appears in the Records of the Lodge:

"Sept. 6, 5790. All necessary preparations having been made at a previous special meeting, a grand procession was formed by the M. W. Grand Master, Moses M. Hays, Esq., with his Grand Officers, to pay the last tribute of respect to the remains of our late Brother, R. W. Isaac Snow, Past Master of King Solomon's Lodge, who departed this life on Saturday, the fourth instant, aged 30 years."

The Master of Rising States Lodge, at the time of the official visit of Grand Master Hays, was Brother Paul Revere. The Grand Master having finished his address on that occasion, "the Right Worshipful Master of the Rising States Lodge then arose and in the Name of the Lodge returned thanks for the favor of this visit and for this Mark of Love and Affection of the Grand Lodge. It was a great addition to the pleasure of the Lodge to find the Grand Master so much gratified in viewing the Harmony and Decorum of the Lodge. And they presume to flatter themselves that, by a steady Perseverance of such Cultivation, and travelling in pursuit of Virtue and Morality, and being circumspect as to the persons we admit into our Society, we shall continue to merit the Approbation of the Grand Lodge. Agreeable to your Direction, Most Worshipful, a list of the Names of trie Officers and Members, as well as the Names of those who have been initiated the present year, shall be transmitted to the Grand Lodge."

The Grand Master was not content with the manifestation of an affectionate care and supervision of the Lodges in and near Boston only; his interest extended to all under his jurisdiction. Immediately after the account of the three official visits just described, the record sets forth the following letter, addressed to the Junior Grand Warden, Brigadier General Elisha Porter, of Hadley.

Sir:— The Most Worshipful Grand Master for this Commonwealth, attended by his Grand Officers, has visited the several Lodges in the vicinity of Boston, examined their Records, Charters &c,— and, being desirous that the Respective Lodges under this jurisdiction should be visited in like manner by the proper officer,— The Grand Master directs me to inform you that it is his will and pleasure that you proceed as soon as convenient to visit the Lodges in your vicinity; and you are hereby vested with full Power and Authority to examine their Records and Charters, and make a Report, at the next Quarterly Communication in June, of the State of the Lodges, remarking their progress in the Masonick art, and pressing a punctual discharge of their dues. Also to Direct Secretarys of Lodges to return a list of their Officers respectively to the Grand Lodge.

By Order of
M. M. Hays, Esqr, Grand Master,
Jno. Jackson, G. Secr

"The Massachusetts Grand Lodge Assembled in Ample Form (being quarterly Communication) Thursday even., 4 June, 5789, at the bunch of Grapes." "On motion— Voted, That the Grand Lodge now proceed to the Choice of G. Officers for the year ensuing. On counting the Votes, it appeared that John Warren Esq', was Elected G. Master. (This was the fourth time Dr. Warren had been elected to the Chair.) Voted, that a Committee of three (Bro. Bartlett. Bradford and Juteau were chosen), wait on Bro. Warren and acquaint him of his Appointment to the Chair. The Committee proceeded, and Reported that Bro. Warren returned thanks for the Honor done him in this Choice, but his situation in Business necessarily Obliged him to Decline Accepting it. Whereupon the G. Lodge again proceeded to the Choice of Grand Master and the M. W. M. M. Hays Esqr. was Unanimously chosen G. Master, who was pleased to accept the choice." "Voted, that the G. Secy. write to the Respective Lodges in the thirteen States [we suppose he means Grand Lodges] & Acquaint them with their [our?] proceedings respecting the Lodges ordered to be Erased from the G. Lodge Books." "Moved & Voted — That a Committee of three Assist the G. Sec' in writing to the several Lodges respecty. the Grand Lodges." "The Charter of Amity Lodge, returned, was presented by Bro. Revere." It was voted that the Grand Lodge celebrate the Feast of St. John the Baptist, and "that a Committee of five be raised to Conduct the Grand Feast;" of this committee the Grand Master was made chairman.

"Massachusetts Grand Lodge assembled in Ample Form June 24th, 5789, at the bunch of Grapes Tavern, to celebrate this festival & for Installation of Grand Officers. "Voted — That we now proceed to consider the Amendments proposed by the Committee relative to the Regulations of the Grand Lodge, and the aforesaid Amendments were unanimously adopted. "Voted — That a Committee of five be appointed to procure the printing of a book of Constitutions — provided it shall not be attended with Expence to the Grand Lodge; if, however, this cannot be effected, then the present Regulations are to be printed for the Benefit of the Lodges under the jurisdiction of the Massachusetts Grand Lodge. The Committee appointed— M. W. G. M. Bro. Hays, G. S. W. Bro. Bartlett, Bro. Revere, Bro. Scollay & Bro. Dexter.

"The several Grand Officers chosen the present year on Thursday Eveng., 4 June, were now Installed. The Grand Master then declared R. W. Bro. Perez Morton, Esq. D. G. Master for the ensuing year." Voted that Bro. "Revere, Scollay and Bradford be a Committee to settle the late G. Treas' Accounts & place them in the Hands of the New G. Treas." - "The Business being Finished, at 2 o'clock The Feast was Celebrated in perfect Harmony."

No business of special interest was transacted at the Quarterly Communication in September following.

On the 4th of December, 1789, the Grand Lodge assembled at Concert Hall for the first time, Brother Paul Revere in the chair, the Grand Master not being present. It was voted a committee of three be appointed, consisting of Brothers Lowell, Bradford and Hunt, "to wait on the Gd. Master and request him to call the Committee upon the Book of Constitutions together, — so that the object of the Grand Lodge may be perfected.".

At the Quarterly Communication in March, 1790, a very painful subject was presented, which is thus stated in the record:"Whereas, in the course of a dispute in the public papers, between Bro. John Juteau and Bro. Baury du Bellerive, the former S. G. W. of this G. Lodge, and the latter a member of a Lodge under this jurisdiction, an imputation of conduct, highly unbecoming a Mason, has been brought against Bro' Juteau, and it being the duty of the G. Lodge not only to investigate the Misconduct of its Officers and to Censure the guilty, but also in case of false Accusation to Vindicate the Innocent, and to discountenance the Accuser; it is, therefore, Voted — By the Grand Lodge — That the said Bro. John Jutau and Bro. Baury de Bellerive be summoned to attend an Inquiry into the Charges above refcrr'd to, that such justice may be done to the party in fault as is consistent with the Rules of Masonry and the Dignity of the Craft. And it is further Voted, That the Grand Lodge be summoned to attend, for the purposes aforesaid, at the Concert Hall, on the first Friday in April, next, at 7 o'clock P. Mv and that Bro'. Jutau and Bro' Baury be summon'd to attend accordingly, by the See's serving them with a Copy of the Vote of the G. Lodge."

Agreeably to appointment, the Grand Lodge assembled on the 2nd of April, with the Grand Master in the Chair, and"proceeded to the investigation of an imputation of conduct highly derogatory to the principles of good Men & Masons, as charged by Bro' Baury against Bro. Juteau. — Bro. Baury being present.— A letter was Recd. and Read from Bro. Juteau declining his Attendance this eveng. Whereupon — The G. Lodge Voted — That a Committee of two be appointed to wait on Bro' Jutau. Bro""Lowell & Bradford were accordingly chosen to inform Bro. Juteau that the G. Lodge expected his attendance at the Lodge now sitting. The Committee reported, that they had proceeded to Bro. Juteau's House, where they were informed that Bro. Juteau was not at Home. The G. Lodge then proceeded to make a full Enquiry into the charge alledged against Bro. Juteau.

"The G. Lodge, having maturely considered the Declarations made by Brothers Baury and Olive, [the witnesses], are Unanimously of Opinion that the allegation brought against Bro. Juteau, and published in the Herald of Freedom of the - December, 1789, under the signature of Baury de Bellerive, as it respects the point under consideration, viz. his, (Bro' J.), having two wives at one & the same time, is fully established. Whereupon, Voted Unanimously, that Bro' Juteau's conduct is and has been highly derogatory to the laws of Morality, Society and Honor, & diametrically Opposed to the Principles of Masonry. Voted Unanimously, that Bro' Juteau's office of S. G. W. of this G. Lodge is hereby Vacated, and that he be no longer considered a Member of the G. Lodge. And, Voted, that John Juteau's name be Erased from the G. Lodge Books by the Sec'y thereof, and that Notice be given of these proceedings to all the Lodges under this jurisdiction."

The election of officers took place on the 3d of June, 1790, when Brother Hays was again elected to the chair. The installation of officers and the celebration of St. John's Day took place at Concert Hall, on the 24th, when an interesting address was delivered by Dr. Josiah Bartlett, which is spread upon the records in full, and was afterwards published. The orator gives a brief sketch of the rise and progress of Masonry under Massachusetts Grand Lodge, and thus alludes to the subject of this Sketch:

"The next material event was the festival of June 24th, 1788, when our respected and Most Worshipful Brother, Moses M. Hays, whose extensive knowledge in the mysteries of the Craft have justly excited our attention, was duly elected and installed Grand Master; and who, by a steady perseverance in the various duties of his exalted station, has secured our affection and esteem. May he still continue a burning and a shining light around the Masonic Altar. And may the animated example of those who have so nobly reared this illustrious fabrick produce in us a laudable emulation to support its influence, by a constant cultivation of those kind offices of humanity which will convince the world that the main pillar of Masonry is the love of Mankind."

At the Quarterly Communication in September, "a committee was appointed to consider the state of the Grand Lodge, and report at the next quarterly communication." On the 8th of December, the committee submitted a full and comprehensive statement of the affairs of the Grand Lodge. They report, "that there is a much larger sum due to the Grand Lodge than is necessary to discharge the Debts, which they suppose will not exceed 130 dollars, and having maturely considered the situation of the different Lodges, and compared the sums due with their various circumstances, they have assessed the sum o f £58.16.0, which, when paid as follows, shall be in full discharge of all demands to the meeting"in December, inclusive, viz:

[Total] £58.16

"It is the opinion of the Committee that a General Inattention to the Grand Lodge, and a want of strict adherence to its Laws and Regulations have tended to lessen its importance. They therefore recommend that the foregoing Lodges, and those only, be hereafter considered as within its immediate control; that all the other Lodges be considered as having forfeited their right of connection, not to be restored but by consent of the Grand Lodge, and that the Grand Master cause the names and precedency of the aforesaid Lodges, with the towns where they arc holden, to be recorded at large on a separate leaf of the Grand Lodge Book, to be a complete list of the Lodges within its jurisdiction at the present day.

"The Committee further recommend that, for the future support of the Grand Lodge, each of the said Lodges, with all such as may be regularly added, shall pay at each quarterly communication nine shillings; and that every Lodge not represented and neglecting to pay for the space of twelve months, shall positively forfeit their connection with the Grand Lodge; and it shall be the duty of the Grand Master for the time being, to revoke the Charters of such delinquent Lodges.

"It is further recommended, that the Grand Master write to any Lodges within the limits of this Commonwealth not mentioned in this report, and request that they would either form a new connection with the Grand Lodge or return the Charters they have received by its authority; and that he also write to the Lodges under this Jurisdiction requesting the immediate payment of the sums assessed, and that they attend either by their Officers or by proxy agreeably to the regulations of the G'd Lodge."

At the same Communication, "the Committee appointed to enquire into the state of certain persons, Foreigners, who call themselves Masons, and affect to hold a Lodge, reported: That, in their opinion, it was expedient to grant a Charter of Dispensation to them, under such restrictions as the Grand Lodge think proper. Which being read, it was thereupon Voted: That a Charter of Dispensation be granted them, for the term of three years, to hold a Lodge and to make Masons, provided that no person be made a Mason uutil the name of the Candidate be first given to the Grand Master, with his place of abode and occupation, and receive his approbation; and provided also, that the said persons, in presence of a Committee of this Grand Lodge, to be appointed for the purpose, take anew the several Masonic Obligations. At the end of which term, if their conduct shall warrant it, they may receive a Charter at large, without any further expence."The Lodge thus carefully warranted took the name of Harmonic Lodge, and was represented at the next Communication of the Grand Lodge, — March 2, 1791, — by the Master and Wardens, Brothers George Gideon, Peter Smink and George Grosman. They presented "the following Address, which was ordered to be engrossed,"and is spread upon the record:

"Harmonic Lodge legally assembled on the second Monday in February, A. L., 5791, A. D. 1791—then and there moved, seconded and unanimously Voted, that a Committee should be chosen to draft an address of thanks to the Most Worshipful Master, other officers and members belonging to the Massachusetts Grand Lodge, who are to assemble on the first Thursday in March.

"A. L. 5791, A. D. 1791, do report [sic] that we, the subscribers, being duly impressed with every sentiment of Gratitude towards our leading Patrons, and as a Committee regularly chosen in behalf of the Harmonic Lodge for that purpose, do return our humble & most sincere thanks for having taken into their wise Consideration the petition of our said Lodge & ratifying the same by granting a Charter therefor, together for all other Civilities therefrom received, particularly to our worthy Brother, Captain Joseph Laughton, for his extreme goodness in dispensing with his trouble & fees free gratis, and as duty bound we pray that Heaven may inspire the whole Fraternity with Light & Prosperity.

(Signed) Peter Smink, Frederic Granger, John J. Geyer, Committee.

While Brother Peter Smink's Masonic zeal is worthy of all commendation, we must admit that his knowledge of the art of English composition seems to have been somewhat limited.

At the Quarterly Communication held on the 2d of June, 1791, Brother Hays was re-elected Grand Master. A Charter was granted for Essex Lodge, of Salem, on the petition of the Rev. Dr. Bentley and others. The"Grand Lodge assembled in Ample Form, Friday, June 24th, 1791, at Concert Hall, to Celebrate the festival of St. John & for Installation of the Grand Officers, — proceeded to business by Installing the several officers chosen at the last Grand Lodge. The Grand Master then declared R. W. Brother Paul Revere Deputy Grand Master for the year ensuing. A procession was then form'd and march'd in proper order from Concert Hall to the Chapel, where prayers were read by the Rev. Mr. James Freeman, after which an elegant Discourse on Masonry was deliver'd by the Revd Brother William Bentley, of Salem. Procession then returned to Concert Hall, where the brethren partook of a decent entertainment. After dinner a number of Masonic & other toasts were drank."A collection was taken up for the relief of a worthy Brother, and "nineteen and one third dollars being collected, it was put into the hands of a Committee to be disposed of as they tho't proper for the relief of him and his family." "Motion by Brother [Perez] Morton that the remains of the feast be sent to the prisoners in the gaol, passed unanimously, & that the Grand Stewards be requested to see the same distributed."

The Columbian Centinel, of Saturday, June 25, 1791, gives some additional particulars in regard to this celebration:

"Yesterday being the festival of St. John, the same was celebrated in this town by the Most Worshipful M. M. Hays, Esq., and the Brethren of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts.

"At 11 o'clock, the Grand Lodge met and opened at Concert Hall, when the Grand Officers for the ensuing year were installed, and the procession formed in the following order: <p align=center> Grand Tyler with the Bible, Square and Compasses.
Tylers.
Grand Stewards — and Stewards with Staves.
Entered Apprentices.
Fellow Crafts.
Master Masons.
Deacons.
Wardens.
Masters and Past Masters.
Royal Arch Masons.
Band of Musick.
Grand Deacons.
Grand Wardens.
Deputy Grand Master.
Grand Master,
Attended by the Grand Sword Bearer and Grand Marshal.

"In this order, the Craft proceeded to the Stone Chapel, when the usual solemnities of the day were performed by the Rev. Mr. Freeman. An address was pronounced by Rev. Bro. Bentley, in which, with the maxims of universal philanthropy, the principles of the Craft were supported and maintained in a masterly and ingenious manner. The services being ended, the Procession returned to Concert Hall, where the Brethren partook of an elegant and sumptuous entertainment, after which the following toasts were drank:

  1. Our Brother George Washington, with the honors of Masonry.
  2. May Wisdom contrive our happiness, Strength support our virtuous resolutions, and Beauty adorn our beds.
  3. May the tongue of every Free and Accepted Mason be the key of his heart, may it hang in just equilibrium, and never be suffered to lie to the injury of a brother.
  4. May every Mason's heart have the freedom of chalk, the fervency of charcoal, the zeal of a friend, but not the hardness of marble, when a distressed brother makes his demand.
  5. May the Square form our conduct through life, the Level and Plumb-Line remind us of our condition, and teach us to walk perpendicular and act upright.
  6. May our wisdom be as conspicuous to our sisters as the wisdom of our Grand Master Solomon was to the Queen of Sheba.
  7. The American Fair — with the honors of Masonry.
  8. May we enter apprentices to virtue, be Fellow Crafts with Charity, and always Masters of our passions.
  9. May the Bible rule and guide us through life, the Square square our actions, and the Compasses circumscribe the bounds we are to keep with all mankind, especially with a brother.
  10. May the rays of celestial light dart from the East, force their way to the West, and pierce through the veil of ignorance, and may perseverance remove the keystone that covers truth.
  11. May the fragrance of a good report, like a sprig of Cassia, bloom over the head of every departed brother.
  12. May every Free and Accepted Mason rise in the East, find refreshment in the South, be dismissed in the West, and then be admitted into the middle chamber, to receive the rewards of a good mason.
  13. May the Royal Arch cover every honest mason's heart and overshadow all who act up to the true principles of the c# All Mankind."

Under date of September, 1791, we are informed that "no Grand Lodge was held this quarter in consequence of the absence of the Grand Secretary."

The last meeting of the Massachusetts Grand Lodge at which Brother Hays appears to have been present was the Quarterly Communication of December 5, 1791. The following business was transacted: The Grand Master was "requested to take proper measures to install the Officers of the Essex Lodge; "the Grand Master was requested to answer a letter from "Union Lodge, No. 1, Northwest of the Ohio; "the Grand Master, was made chairman of a committee "to write Circular Letters to all the Lodges in the United States, on the subject of a union with said Lodges; "the Grand Master was "requested to write to Rising Sun Lodge, at Keene, in the State of New Hampshire, in answer to a letter received from them some time since, which was not answered by a Committee chosen for that purpose, who are now dismissed; "Brother Thaddeus M. Harris was "added to the Com. for revising the book of Constitutions; and a Committee of seven was appointed,"agreeably to the spirit of a vote of the Grand Lodge passed at a former meeting, (March 2, 1787) to confer with the officers of St. John's Grand Lodge upon the Subject of a compleat Masonic Union throughout this Commonwealth."The Committee consisted of Brothers M. M. Hays, John Warren, Paul Revere, Josiah Bartlett, William Scollay, John Lowell & Joseph Laughton. They were ordered to report "as soon as may bo convenient.

"At the Quarterly Communication in March following, the Deputy Grand Master, Paul Revere, presided. All the members of the Union Committee were present except Brothers Hays and Laughton."A constitution & laws for associating the St. John's & the Massachusetts Grand Lodges, as unanimously agreed to by their Joint Committees & accepted by St. John's Grand Lodge, was read and deliberately considered. The question whether the s' constitution shall be accepted was called for & it pass'd unanimously in the affirmative."Voted that Brothers Warren, Scollay & Lowell be appointed to prepare a list of candidates for Officers of the Grand Lodge & also a list of seven electors agreeable to the constitution.

"The said committee having reported, the following Brethren were nominated & appointed:

  • R.W. John Cutler, Grand Mast:
  • R.W. Josiah Bartlett, S.G.W.
  • R.W. Samuel Dunn, J.G.W.
  • Samuel Parkman, G. Treasurer.
  • Joseph Laughton, G. Secretary.
  • For Electors, Brothers Revere, Dexter, Little, Bradford, Swan, Lowell & Scollay.

"Voted that Brothers Bartlett, Scollay & Bradford be a committee to wait upon Saint John's Grand Lodge, now sitting at the Bunch of Grapes, & inform them that this Grand Lodge have unanimously accepted the constitution, & having taken the necessary steps, they are now ready to proceed to the choice of Grand Master, G. Wardens, G. Treasurer & G. Secretary.

"The committee reported that seven Electors from St. John's G. Lodge would immediately attend for the purposes before mentioned."The Electors who met in convention were Brothers Revere, (Chairman,) Samuel Barrett, James Jackson, Samuel Dunn, Job Prince, Thomas Dennie, William Shaw, Thomas Farrington, John Lowell, Aaron Dexter, William Scollay, Samuel Bradford, William Little & Caleb Swan, who, having examined the lists of candidates, unanimously made choice of the following Brethren as the first Officers of the Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honourable Society of Free and Accepted Masons for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts:

  • R. W. John Cutler, Grand Master.
  • R. W. Josiah Bartlett, Senr G. W.
  • R. W. Mungo Mackay, Jun. G. W.
  • Samuel Parkman, Grand Treas.
  • Thomas Farrington, G. Secy.

It was then "voted that Brothers Revere, Bartlett, Scollay, Lincoln and Bradford be a committee to wait upon the Most Worshipful Moses M. Hays, Esq., with the thanks of this Grand Lodge, for his faith full services, &c, that the same be recorded in testimony of the obligations of this Grand Lodge, for his various and distinguished attentions to the interests of the Masonick Institution."

Thereupon all committees of the Grand Lodge were discharged, except the committee on the Book of Constitutions, and they were ordered to report their doings to the new Grand Lodge. Brothers Revere, Bartlett, Scollay and Bradford were appointed a committee to adjust all accounts, and to deliver to the Grand Master elect all records and Masonic papers, together with the furniture and regalia.

Finally, it was "voted that this Grand Lodge be dissolved."

The records close with a list of Lodges, which are"consider'd as within the immediate Jurisdiction of the late Massachusetts Grand Lodge,"and a list of persons who are"standing Members"of the same, the latter being attested by Grand Master Hays.

Thus ended in Massachusetts the rivalry between "Ancients" and Moderns; thus, in the language of the new Grand Master, "a Complete Union of the Two Grand Lodges, formerly held in this State, was happily effected, and the Grand Lodge of the most ancient and honorable Society of Free and Accepted Masons for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, was completely organized."St. Andrew's Lodge alone held aloof, having some years previously fallen back under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Scotland; but in December, 1809, even she gave in her adhesion, the chain was made complete and has so remained to this day.

PROCEEDINGS, 1916

(From Proceedings, 1916.)

Most Worshipful Brother Hays was born of Hebrew parents, in Lisbon, Portugal, in 1739. He came to this country about the year 1768 by way of Jamaica and the West Indies and established himself at Newport, R. I. While in Jamaica Brother Hays, through Henry Andrew Francken, received the appointment of Deputy Inspector-General for North-America for the Rite of Perfection. A contemporaneous written copy of his deputation is among our archives. Dr. Mackey (Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, p. 697) thus relates the history of the introduction of the Scottish Rite into North America.

"In 1758, a Body was organized at Paris, called The Council of the Emperors of the East and West. This Council organized a Rite called the Rite of Perfection, which consisted of twenty-five degrees, the highest of which was Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret.

"In 1761, this Council granted a Patent or Deputation to Stephen Morin, authorizing him to propagate the Rite in the Western continent, whither he was about to repair. In the same year, Morin arrived at the city of St. Domingo, where he commenced the dissemination of the Rite, and appointed many Inspectors, both for the West Indies and for the United States. Among others, he conferred the degrees on M. M. Hays, with a power of appointing others when necessary. Hays accordingly appointed Isaac Da Costa Deputy Inspector-General for South Carolina, who in 1783 introduced the Rite into that State by the establishment of a Grand Lodge of Perfection in Charleston. Other Inspectors were subsequently appointed; and in 1801, a Supreme Council was opened in Charleston by John Mitchell and Frederick Dalcho."

It is known that Brother Hays while a resident of Newport, R. I., was active in Masonry. Indeed, he and one or two of his Jewish Brethren were the main supports of all the Masonic Bodies there.

He was proposed as a member of The Massachusetts Lodge, Boston, November 5, 1782. December 3, 1782, he was elected Master and served during the years 1783, 1784, and 1785. In 1785, he was Junior Grand Warden and served as Grand Master of the Massachusetts Grand Lodge from July 24, 1788 until the union of the two Grand Lodges within this Commonwealth on March 5, 1792. He was one of the main factors in effecting the union.

The fact that he took particular interest in the degrees of the Rose et Croix, coupled with a remark of R.W. Charles W. Moore (13 M.F.M. 232) to the effect that he had no conscientious scruples in dietetics, would seem to indicate that he certainly was not bigoted. Further evidence is offered on this point, as well as in regard to his general character and reputation, by the following extract from the Memoir of Samuel Joseph May:

"If the children of my day were taught, among other foolish things, to dread, if not despise, Jews, a very different lesson was impressed upon my young heart. There was but one family of the despised children of the house of Israel resident in Boston - the family of Moses Michael Hays; a man much respected, not only on account of his large wealth, but for his many personal virtues, and the high culture and great excellence of his wife, his son Judah, and his daughters - especially Catherine and Slowey. His house, far down on Hanover Street, then one of the fashionable streets of the town, was the abode of hospitality; and his family moved in what were then the first circles of society. He and his truly good wife were hospitable, not to the rich alone, but also to the poor. Many indigent families were fed pretty regularly from his table. They would come especially after his frequent dinner parties, and were sure to be made welcome, not to the crumbs only, but to ampler portions of the food that might be left.

"Always on Saturday he expected a number of friends to dine with him. A full-length table was always spread and loaded with the luxuries of the season; and he loved to see it surrounded by a few regular visitors, and others especially invited. My father was a favorite guest. He was regarded by Mr. Hays and his whole family as a particular friend, their chosen counsellor in times of perplexity, and their comforter in the days of their affliction. My father seldom failed to dine at Mr. Hays, on Saturday, and often took me with him; for he was sure I should meet refined company there.

"Both Uncle and Aunt Hays (for so I called them) were fond of children, particularly of me; and I was permitted to stay with them several days, and even weeks, together. And I can never forget, not merely their kind, but their conscientious care of me. I was the child of Christian parents, and they took especial pains that I should lose nothing of religious training so long as I was permitted to abide with them. Every night I was required, on going to bed, to repeat my Christian hymns and prayers to them, or else to an excellent Christian servant woman who lived with them many years. f witnessed their religious exercises, their fastings and their prayers, and was made to feel that they worshipped the Unseen, Almighty and All-merciful One. Of course I grew up without any prejudice against Jews- or any other religionists - because they did not believe as my father and mother believed."

In the Boston Directory of the period Brother Hays is described as keeping an insurance office at No. 68 State Street. He was probably what was then called an underwriter, carrying on for his private account the same business as is now transacted by insurance companies. He died intestate, May 9, 1805, and his son Judah administered on the estate, the inventory amounting to $80,000. His remains were conveyed to Newport, R. I., and buried in the Jewish cemetery, by the side of those of his daughter Rebecca. Some years afterwards his son erected a handsome monument on the spot and placed upon it the following inscription:

"Here repose the ashes of Moses Michael Hays, Esq., who died in Boston, in the State of Massachusetts, on the 11th day of Sivan, A.M.5565; 9th day of May, 1805 of the Christian Era; aged 66. In commemoration of his virtues, his son, with filial reverence, erected this monument."

The Columbian Centinel, published in Boston on Saturday, May 11, 1805, contained the following obituary notice:

"In the character of the deceased there is much worthy of our admiration, much for our imitation. Possessed by nature of a strong intellect, there was a vigor in his conceptions of men and things which gave a seeming asperity to his conversation, which was ever frank and lucid. He walked abroad fearing no man, but loving all. Under his roof dwelt hospitality; it was an asylum of friendship, the mansion of peace. He was without guile, despising hypocrisy as he despised meanness. Take him for all in all, he was A MAN.

"In his death society will mourn the loss of a most estimable citizen, his family the kindest of husbands, the most indulgent of fathers. But what consolation shall we offer to assuage the violence of their grief? Why, this is all the recollection of his virtues, and that as he lived, so he died; that to his last moment the cheerfulness and benevolence of his whole life wasted not on his falling brow. Calm and without a sigh he sunk to rest, and is now secure in the bosom of his Father and our Father, of his God and our God.

Columbian Centinel for May 11, 1805.
Memorial Volume of 125th Anniversary of The Massachusetts Lodge, 27 and 88.
2 N.E.F. 71. 117, 145.
5 American Freemason, 576.
The Jews and Masonry in the United States before 1810, by Samuel Oppenheim (1910).

TROWEL, 1990

From TROWEL, Fall 1990, Page 2:

Moses Michael Hays: Merchant, Citizen, Freemason, 1739-1805
By Robert W. Williams, III

If the Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honourable Society of Free and Accepted Masons for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (commonly called the Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts) is the lengthening shadow of one man - Henry Price - the same may be said about Moses Michael Hays. Under his leadership a standard was set in the late eighteenth century Boston for Jews in business and civic leadership, community service, and charity. The most prominent Jew in Boston before the late 1840s, Hays achieved what many before could not: success as both a Bostonian and a member of a minority culture. He not only carved a niche in society and Freemasonry for himself, but he opened doors for other Jews who chose to contribute to mankind.

Perhaps his greatest achievement in business was his role in the establishment of the first permanent, successful bank in Boston, the Massachusetts Bank, now known as the Bank of Boston. From June 11 through August 6. 1990, on the 36th floor of the bank, the American Jewish Historical Society of Waltham and the Bank of Boston presented an exhibit: A Most Valuable Citizen: Moses Michael Hays and the Establishment of Post-Revolutionary Boston. Our Grand Lodge loaned the apron worn by Hays that is preserved in our Museum on the second floor, as well the only known portrait of him. The portrait had been copied by Miss E. M. Carpenter from the original work of Gilbert Stuart owned by E. T. D. Myers, a grandson of Hays. The original was later destroyed by fire in Richmond. VA.

To really know Hays and appreciate what he and other early Jews in America had to endure, one must know of their early trials.

In 1492 the government of Spain had declared Roman Catholicism the only practicing religion permitted in the country. Those who did not convert to it would have to leave the country or answer to the dreaded Inquisition. Many went to the stake. Many children and grandchildren of Jews migrated to Spanish possessions of the New World. Ten years after Columbus discovered America, trade privileges were granted to a Jewish company by King Ferdinand V of Castile and Leon. But in 1511 the long arm of the Inquisition and Crown reached across the Atlantic to persecute anew. When Portugal and Holland went to war sometime later, the Marranos (Jews) gave aid to the Dutch. Upon the defeat of the Portuguese many settled in Brazil. But the recovery of Brazil by the Portuguese in 1654 prompted Jews to seek a haven in other Dutch settlements in America. They departed for Surinam and New Netherlands, letter known as the Isle of Manhattan.

With Peter Stuyvesant's marked degree of tolerance and hospitality to the strangers, Jews secured their first foothold n North America. It was in New York that they began their commercial activities as importers and exporters, a field in which Moses Michael Hays did exceedingly well in his day more than a century later. Though they were still disadvantaged as aliens under British domination after they took possession from the Dutch in 1664, a modification of statutes and the enactment of the naturalization law in 1740 worked in their favor.

The tolerance of Stuyvesant in New Amsterdam toward the Jews prompted several families to migrate to Newport between 1654 and 1657 where they were joined by a contingent from Curaçao. Roger Williams was not only tolerant toward the Jews, but exerted himself on behalf of them. This was shown in his argument supporting the re-admission of the Jews to England. In that respect he differed from his Puritan neighbors to the north where Cotton Mather had stigmatized Newport as "the common receptacle of the convicts of Jerusalem and the outcasts of the land." It was with the arrival of the Lopez family and other outstanding families in 1750 that Newport enjoyed a rapid commercial development and became a strong rival of New York. Families came from Spain, Portugal, the West Indies, and South America.

The earliest reference to a Jew in Massachusetts relates to one Solomon Franco. Provision was made May 3, 1649 that "The court doth allow the said Solomon Franco six shillings per week out of the treasury for 10 weeks for subsistence till he can get his passage into Holland so (long) as he do so within that time." He had been ordered out of Boston alter losing his lawsuit for payment of commission.

Judah Monis, who died in 1764 at age 81, was appointed Instructor in Hebrew at Harvard in 1722, but only after he converted to Christianity. He published the first Hebrew grammar in America in 1735. Between 1740 and 1776 only four persons were naturalized in the Superior Court of Boston, one of whom was the famous Aaron Lopez, formerly of Newport, but later (1762) of Swansey (now Swansea). Moses Michael Hays entered the picture soon after. However, with his death in 1805, and the departure of his family for other places, Jewish life was practically non-existent until the 1840s.

Born in New York City in 1739, the son of Jewish Dutch immigrants, Hays worked in his father's trading and shipping business until his father died in 1764. Two years later he married Rachel Myers, sister of the New York silversmith Myer Myers. By 1768 he had moved his family and business to Newport, RI, and in 1776 he was living at least part-time in Boston where the family would settle permanently by 1782. In Boston he had an insurance business on State Street and a shipping business on Long Wharf. He played a significant role in the creation of Boston's economic and cultural character, helped to establish trade routes between Boston and the Far East, and the Boston Marine Society and fire insurance industries.

In June of 1775, seventy-six men in Newport were asked to sign a declaration of loyalty to the cause of the Colonies. Some of them were Tories or Loyalists (British sympathizers), but most were not, including Hays. When summoned to prove loyalty, Hays refused, demanding a confrontation with his accusers. He prepared a formal statement, which said in brief, "This is my native land!" He expressed his belief that the Revolutionary War was a just cause in a statement made July 2, 1776. The letter was presented to the General Assembly of Rhode Island. Called before Speaker Metcalf Bowler, he demanded to face his accusers and refused to sign the oath. Only when the oath was required of everyone, did Hays subscribe his name, "'solemnly and sincerely" and promised to do all he could "in defense of the United Colonies."

Along with Meyer Pollock, Hays built ships and did business on the seas. One ship sprang a leak and was smashed to bits. The ship and cargo were insured, but the loss was so great that both men were imprisoned for debt. When released, Hays opened a stationery shop, but the outbreak of war had sapped Newport of its vitality and with the British occupation it became a garrison town. The people, Christians and Jews, left the area. Hays then found success in Boston.

For the Jewish people, Freemasonry in the pre-1717 period was essentially and exclusively a Christian institution. Insofar as the exclusion of the Jews was concerned, it was due not only to the measures of suppression which prevented them from becoming free agents in the communities where they lived, but also because opportunities as artisans, mechanics, and builders were curtailed. In primitive times they had been shepherds and agriculturalists, but with migration to Europe, they learned that economic and social insecurity made it imperative that accumulated wealth be flexible and mobile. Operative Freemasonry in medieval England was essentially a Christian institution; some of the early charges made reference to the Virgin Mary that the Jew could not and would not subscribe to.

The earliest reference to Jews in English Freemasonry appeared in an announcement in the Daily Post of London on June 24, 1717. It was reported that "at a meeting held at the Rose Tavern in Cheapside where in the present of several Brethren of Distinction, as well as Jews as Christians, a Mr. Ed. Rose was admitted of the Fraternity by Mr. Danl. Delvalle, an eminent Jew Snuff Merchant."

In an article authored by Rev. F. Peterson, in the History of Rhode Island and Newport in the Past (New York, 1853), page 101: "In the spring of 1658, Mordecai Campannall, Moses Packeckoe, Levi, and others, in all 15 families, arrived in Newport from Holland. They brought with them the first three degrees of Masonry, and worked them in the house of Campannall, and continued to do so, they and their successors, to the year 1742."

Duly constituted Freemasonry was not introduced in Rhode Island until 1749, and the first Jewish connections with it are those of King David's Lodge, of which Moses Michael Hays was Master under a New York warrant. Prior to the American Revolution, only two Lodges existed in Rhode Island: Saint John's No. 1 of Newport, instituted Dec. 27, 1749, and Saint John's No. 1 of Providence, instituted Feb. 17, 1757, both originally of "Modern" allegiance. At the outbreak of the war, an absolute decay took place in the St. John's Lodge at Newport. In February 1769, George Harrison, the Provincial Grand Master of New York, issued a warrant to Moses Michael Hays, a Hebrew of great Masonic distinction, for a Lodge in the city of New York, to be known as King David Lodge, which he directed as its Master until June 7, 1780, when upon his removal to Newport, he, as "Grand Elect Perfect Supreme Deputy Inspector of Masonry," organized King David Lodge at Newport in line of practice and ritual as pursued by the "Ancients," and as Master he proceeded to initiate certain members of St. John's Lodge whom he held as "Moderns," into the Fraternity in due and ancient form. It appears form the records of Oct. 29, 1787, "That most of the members of St. John's Lodge had united with King David Lodge, that St. John's Lodge had never been revived under that name and in their opinion it never would." Moses M. Hays, Master; Moses Seixas, Sen. Warden; David Lopez, Jun. Warden; Jeremiah Clare, Treasurer; Henry Dayton, Secretary; Solo. A. Myers, Deacon.

The Providence Lodge prospered and is now located in East Greenwich, but the Lodge at Newport suffered. Through the effort and concern of Moses Seixas, King David Lodge merged into St. John's Lodge, and on Oct. 19, 1790, King David Lodge ceased to exist. Bro. Seixas was the instigator of the merger which brought his 130 members into St. John's Lodge, which had only 11 members. On June 21-23, 1991, the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations will celebrate its 200th anniversary at The Viking Hotel in Newport, not far from the Touro Synagogue, the oldest in North America. The speaker will be Judge and Bro. David B. Sentelle, who, following some resistance from three U.S. Senators before confirmation, was appointed by President Ronald Reagan to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.

On June 12, 1798, the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts granted a charter to 17 petitioners for the first Lodge in Taunton, MA. They chose the name of King David Lodge, which is now one of only seven lunar Lodges in the state, meeting on or before the full of the moon on Wednesday, September through June, or when the tenth stated meeting in the Masonic year is held. Because some of the 17 petitioners and others in Taunton were engaged in commerce using the Taunton River, the mouth of which is in Mt. Hope Bay, we may assume they chose the name to keep King David Lodge active. It is possible some of the men may have sat in King David Lodge in Newport when serving with the military during the Revolutionary War. We do know that the main travel road from Boston to Newport was via Taunton with the stagecoach road always in view of the river. The Hays family, no doubt, were travelers of this road.

Hays' menage consisted of himself, his wife RacheH children, his widowed sister, Mrs. Reyna Touro, and two infant sons, Judah and Abraham, who were raised and educated by Bro. Hays. A daughter, Catherine, was 1 the Hays family on Oct. 3, 1776 while they resided on Middle St., in Boston (now Hanover St.). At the time| area was the choice residential section of the town.

Through an act of incorporation The Massachusetts Bank was secured, and when it opened July 5, 1784, Hays, who made the first deposit of $14,500, was the first to register his name on the ledger. He also drew the first check the same day, made payable to Jonathan B. Livingston for $60. He had made a contribution to Harvard College before 1780 and held membership No. 328 in the Boston Marine Society. In a Memoir published in 1873 by the American Unitarian Society at Boston, a Rev. Samuel Joseph May pays great tribute to Hays and his family, relating how Hays taught Hebrew lessons in his home on Saturdays, and for the many contributions he made to Boston society.

Bro. Hays and Rachel had only one son, Judah, born in Rhode Island in 1772. He drowned in St. Augustine, Florida, on May 1, 1832. His earthly remains, like those of Hays, his wife, and three daughters, are interred in the Touro Cemetery on Touro St., Newport. At the time there was no Jewish burial ground in Massachusetts. Judah was one of the founders of the Boston Athenaeum and was initiated in The Massachusetts Lodge in Boston on Aug. 7, 1788. He was Passed and Raised Aug. 16, and elected to membership Jan. 11, 1790. His diploma may be seen in the Grand Lodge Museum, Boston.

Of five daughters, there is some record. Rebekah, born in 1769, who died in Boston on July 23, 1802; Slowey, birth unknown, who died Oct. 19, 1836; Judith, born Sept. 2, 1767, who died at Richmond, VA on Feb. 4, 1844. Judith and her sister Sally, who died in Richmond on Aug. 3, 1832, married half-brothers, Samuel Myers and Moses Mears Myers, who were originally from New York. Both couples were married on Sept. 21, 1796. Daughter Catherine died in Richmond on Jan. 2, 1854. She was in love with her cousin the philanthropist Judah Touro, but her father frowned upon the marriage on grounds of consanguinity. Both remained unmarried through life.

It is not known where or when Moses Michael Hays received Masonic light. He appeared on the Masonic horizon Dec. 6, 1768 when Henry Andrew Francken of Jamaica appointed him Deputy Inspector General of the Rite of Perfection for the West Indies and North America. Contrary to accepted opinion, the various systems of Freemasonry do not necessarily rest upon the three degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry as we know them now. In the eighteenth century, as well as today, there were several Masonic systems, each of them working a set of degrees known as Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. There was the system in England, Ireland, and Scotland; there were also the Rit Ancien, the French Rite or Rit Moderne, the Swedish Rite, and the Rite of Perfection to mention the better known systems. It may be that Hays received his degrees in a New York Lodge, or he may have been made a full-fledged Mason of the Rite of Perfection, a system embracing a series of degrees from the first to the twenty-fifth. There is no documented evidence other than his own transcript of a patent given him by Francken.

He became a member of The Massachusetts Lodge Nov. 15, 1782 at a meeting held at the Bunch of Grapes Tavern. Proposed that night by Bro. John Warren (brother of Joseph), he was elected. Attending the meeting were Moses Seixas, Senior Warden of King David's Lodge, Newport, and officers of the French fleet, including Adm. Marquis de Vandreil. A month later Hays was elected Master. He was re-elected in 1783 and 1784. Hard times followed the Revolution and the Lodge was not at labor from 1785 until 1788.

There were two Provincial Grand Lodges in Massachusetts. The first was founded by Henry Price on July 30, 1733, and was known as Saint John's Grand Lodge. The second resulted from the commission dated May 30, 1769 given to Joseph Warren, Master of St. Andrew's Lodge, by the Grand Lodge of Scotland. When the Massachusetts Grand Lodge was organized March 8, 1777, Joseph Webb was chosen Grand Master, serving through 1783. John Warren was elected for one year and Webb served again through 1786. Warren was elected to serve one more year and Moses M. Hays was elected in 1788. His term of office ended with the merger of the Massachusetts Grand Lodge and St. John's Grand Lodge in March 5-19, 1792.

At a meeting of the Massachusetts Grand Lodge held on Dec. 5, 1791 at Concert Hall, Boston, it was "Voted That a Committee of Seven be appointed agreeably to the Spirit of a Vote of this Grand Lodge passed March 2, 1791, to Confer with the Officers of St. John's Grand Lodge, upon the subject of a Compleat Masonic Union throughout this Commonwealth and that the Said Committee report as soon as may be Convenient. Committee: M.M. Hays, John Warren. Paul Revere, Josiah Bartlett, William Scollay, John Lowell, Joseph Laughton. Attest, (signed) Joseph Laughton, Gd. Secry."

In consequence of that meeting, a special Grand Lodge of St. John was called at Bro. Colman's on January 18, 1792, with R. W. John Cutler, Senior Grand Warden, in the Chair. "Voted That a Committee of seven be chosen to Confer with the Committee from Massachusetts Grand Lodge and promote the proposed Union, provided it can be done on true Masonic principles, and that John Cutler, Samuel Parkman, Mungo Mackay, Samuel Dunn, John Foster Williams, Thomas Dennie, and Wm. Shaw be the Committee."

In 1791 M. W. Hays warranted King Solomon's Lodge of Perfection at Holme's Hole, Martha's Vineyard, with the privilege of making Royal Arch Masons. This was a hautes ks creation, which came into the Grand Lodge fellowship in 1797 and ceased working in 1811.

On March 5, 1792, when final steps for the merger of the oGrand Lodges took place, Paul Revere presided at the last meeting of the Massachusetts Grand Lodge. He had been appointed as Deputy Grand Master in that Grand Lodge. R. W. John Cutler was chosen the Grand Master of the new Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honourable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The old order changed and passed into the history books; some things preserved for posterity, others lost, thus denying historians the writing of a complete history of that which we now know as The Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts.

Most Worshipful Hays died intestate and his son Judah administered the estate which was valued at $81,479.34. The heirs were Rachel Hays, widow; Judith Myers, wife of Samuel Myers; Sally Myers, wife of Moses M. Myers; Catherine Hays, Slowey Hays, and Judah Hays. Portraits by Gilbert Stuart of other family members exist among his descendants today.

American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote a lengthy poem about the small Newport Touro Cemetery which tells of the pioneering Jewish families and the spirit and the winds that brought them to America.

Bro. Hays counted among his close associates U.S. Senator and Boston mayor (1829) Harrison Gray Otis, nephew of the famed James Otis, who actually instigated the war against England. Sen. Otis was a member of the Federalist Party who first served as a Congressman (1797-1801) then as Senator (1817-22). A strong opponent of slavery, Otis died in 1848. Paul Revere was a trusted friend and made at least nine pieces of silver for the Hays family, which probably were given to the Touro Synagogue. I was apprised of the silver by Mrs. Mercer Gilmore of Kansas City, when she visited our Grand Lodge Library at the time of the opening of the exhibit at the Bank of Boston. She is a direct descendant of the Myers family of Richmond. "It's buried in the Newport synagogue," she remarked, but when I approached Rabbi Shapiro about it, and he pleaded nolo, presumably for security reasons. A Federalist-type building across from the synagogue is being refurbished to serve as a museum for Touro, but is delayed in opening. Judah Touro, who also taught Hebrew lessons, died in 1854 at age 78, after a successful career in shipping in New Orleans. He left $10,000 to the Massachusetts General Hospital (the largest gift at the time), in memory of his brother, Abraham. Other financial bequests were made to various New England institutions, including $10,000 toward construction of the Bunker Hill Monument.

In 1931, Grand Master Herbert W. Dean issued a charter to petitioners for the Moses Michael Hays Lodge, which meets in Needham and has a membership of 1114.

Though we would like to conclude this story with "they (Jews) lived happily forever," the persecutions of World War II and the tension in the Middle East tell us that because of tyrants and jealousies the world will never know complete harmony, and that brotherly love and affection does not always prevail. The Hays family and their close associates, through their love, devotion and contributions to society, made America a better place to live for those who followed, and they proved that some hope ends in fruition.

Sources:

  • Moses Michael Hays, written in collaboration by Wor. Harry Smith of Moses Michael Hays Lodge, and J. Hugo Tatsch, A.M., Litt.D., Acting Librarian and Curator of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, copyrighted 1937 by Moses Michael Hays Lodge, A.F. and A.M.;
  • American Jewish Historical Society of Waltham, MA;
  • The Bank of Boston and Ellen Smith, guest curator;
  • History of King David Lodge, 1798-1898, Taunton, MA.

Distinguished Brothers