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Brethren, remember the character of the Gentile apostle; remember the fidelity, zeal and courage of the fathers; recall the century's history replete with the great achievements of our Order, and let these recollections inspire you to begin the new century by imitating the example of the fathers; so that one hundred years hence the walls of St. Paul Lodge-room will resound with words in praise of your achievements, even as to-day they echo and re-echo your grateful thanks for the fidelity, zeal and courage of its founders.
 
Brethren, remember the character of the Gentile apostle; remember the fidelity, zeal and courage of the fathers; recall the century's history replete with the great achievements of our Order, and let these recollections inspire you to begin the new century by imitating the example of the fathers; so that one hundred years hence the walls of St. Paul Lodge-room will resound with words in praise of your achievements, even as to-day they echo and re-echo your grateful thanks for the fidelity, zeal and courage of its founders.
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==== AT HALL DEDICATION IN GARDNER, FEBRUARY 1897 ====
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''From Proceedings, Page 1897-24:''
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''MY BROTHERS:'' By the offices' and ceremonials of our Order this Hall has been dedicated, according to ancient usage, to Freemasonry, to Virtue and to Universal Benevolence. Henceforth it becomes to you a most interesting place. To it your hearts will turn with pride and
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delight; to it you will come, and away from the distracting cares and employments of life, apart from all partisan, sectarian or extraneous influences, meet in happy fraternal communion.
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Here new duties and obligations will be assumed, and new associations and fraternal ties be formed, which time can neither weaken nor break. Here the best teachings of our ancient Institution will find their proper expression. Here men will be induced to review their daily walk and conversation, new and greater opportunities will be opened to them, and they will be encouraged to meet all the duties of life with fidelity and zeal.
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The selection and preparation of these apartments testify to your attachment to our brotherhood and to. your purpose to make it a means of great good in this community, a conservator of those high moral principles which promote the welfare and happiness of all who come within their influence. They are also a witness to your material prosperity and commend you as an example to your Brethren.
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That this happy condition may long continue, we most sincerely hope and desire; but to make it secure will require^ as you all know, fidelity and zealous endeavor on the part of every member.
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No institution or society can live of itself, — there must be a vital force within it, to direct and maintain it. In our Institution this force or power is the loving spirit, the harmonious, united effort and the willing hand of those who have its welfare and interest truly and deeply at heart. And this leads me to suggest that you should be particularly careful whom you admit to fellowship in this great brotherhood, closing your doors against all whom you may deem unworthy, remembering always that great numbers are not absolutely necessary to great achievement, and that the best and most permanent results to our Institution have come from Brethren possessing sterling qualities of character, such, as I see about me here to-day; and hence it is, as we believe, that this Lodge has grown, prospered and attained its present
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enviable position.
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But, my Brothers, because of your present happy condition do not become indifferent or careless, nor live upon the reputation which the labors of others have acquired for you, however brilliant it may be. Strive to make for yourselves a name. and record of honor, justice, truth
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and zeal in promoting whatever may be for our common welfare. Be faithful in directing and aiding every sincere seeker after light, before whom lie great possibilities for good, and whom you should not leave at the very entrance to your Lodge-room, nor forsake at any "time during his novitiate; but by examples of decorum, of fidelity to obligation and loyalty to the Order, awaken within him a broader, deeper realization of the duties which rest upon him as a man, and of what it means to be a ''FREEMASON.''
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I think a conformity to these few suggestions will promote the interest and welfare of your Lodge and secure to you the commendations of the entire Fraternity.
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I bring to you the sincere congratulations of the Grand Lodge upon this happy occasion, and would express the hope that here Freemasonry may find true and loyal support, Virtue be respected and revered, Universal Benevolence be truly and wisely practised, and that this Lodge may continue to stand a monument to the fidelity, zeal and intelligence of the Freemasons of Gardner. God speed you on your way!
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==== AT CORNER STONE LAYING IN SPRINGFIELD, JUNE 1897 ====
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''From Proceedings, Page 1897-67:''
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''YOUR HONOR, LADIES, BRETHREN AND MY YOUNG FRIENDS:'' With the impressive ceremonies and solemn benediction of our ancient Fraternity, this Corner-stone has now been placed.
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Upon it is to be erected an edifice within which the youth of this fair city are to be instructed in subjects which will qualify them to meet with intelligence, probity and zeal the duties of whatever station in life they may be called to fill. Their presence gives additional interest and inspiration to this occasion. What a beautiful spectacle they present! It stirs our hearts and awakens a thousand remembrances of events and incidents which marked our young days, to stand in their presence and hear their cheerful voices. It also leads us to contemplate most seriously the grave responsibility which rests upon this generation. The future welfare of our country will soon be in the keeping and control of the youth of the present; it therefore remains to us to do whatever we can to make it secure, by impressing upon the minds of the children of to-day the importance of properly fitting themselves for the great duties they are to assume, and providing them with every means and opportunity to do so.
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It is most appropriate that our honorable Fraternity should be invited to perform this ceremony, for, in its operative character, it has been from time immemorial a teacher and promoter of the arts and sciences, and has left its impress upon every age of the world's history, in
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those great works which to-day, notwithstanding so many years have passed since their construction, are still a study, and command the attention and admiration of all who come within their shadow. In its speculative character also it is one of the great conservators of education, and by its symbols morally demonstrates the force and power of discipline of the mind, and draws it forth to range the large field of matter and space, to display the summit of human knowledge — our duty to God and to man.
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We do not mean by this' that Masonry is religion; that it is religious and the handmaid of religion, none can deny. It is true that it is not the exponent of any particular creed or dogma, but it requires that all who enter its portals should express a belief in God, leaving it to every one to worship God in accordance with the dictates of his conscience.
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Nor is it in any sense partisan. It is not bound to any school or system of politics; but strives to break down the barriers which partisan or sectarian influences erect between men, and teaches in its fullest, broadest sense the spirit of toleration.
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Hence it is that it gives its sanction and approval to the public school system of our Commonwealth, whose benefits and privileges the youth of all nationalities and creeds can equally enjoy.
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Hence it is also that we are pleased to bring to you the service and duty of the Grand Lodge upon this happy occasion, and offer you its aid in disseminating those great principles which affect the law-making and administrative agencies of your city — education, good morals, true and upright living — without which no community can be prosperous, no people truly happy, nor truth, honor and justice be respected and revered.
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The time appointed for this service could not have been more appropriate, when all thoughts turned to memories most dear, to a land blessed with peace, and a people united in the bonds of friendship. Our great Fraternity mourns the loss of many noble Brothers fallen in the great struggle for the preservation of our national union; and in testimony of its true loyalty to the laws of our country, joins with loud acclaim in hailing its honored flag which floats so proudly over us, the' ensign of a nation's power and glory. And as it shall float from the
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highest pinnacle of the building to be erected here, may the youth who shall sit beneath its folds be taught to regard it not as a symbol of war; let it not speak to them of the marshalling of armed force, of ruthless carnage, but of order under constituted authority, of an heritage in a country blessed above all countries, of peace and love and that harmony in thought and deed which is the very cement and support of all government.
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Our work is done. It remains for you, my friends, to carry to completion the object and purpose of. these rites, which are not merely the erection and occupying of this building; these would represent only the operative character of our Institution; but rather recognize its speculative character by requiring that from this place shall emanate the influences and principles which control the intellectual and moral life of this community; that your youth lie taught to reverence God, love the truth, be obedient to the laws under whose protection they live, and never lose sight of the allegiance due to their country.
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==== AT CENTENNIAL OF [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Bristol BRISTOL] LODGE ====
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''From Proceedings, Page 1897-110:''
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''W. MASTER:'' It is a pleasant privilege to receive your cordial welcome on this interesting occasion, and to join with you in the festivities of the hour. We tender you our heartiest congratulations, and bring to you the fraternal regards and good-will of the whole Fraternity.
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It is an occasion of which you have reason to be proud; an event which all the Masons of. our jurisdiction delight to recognize as proving, in some degree, the perpetuity of our Institution, and the value of the principles which are the basis of its usefulness and power.
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Contrasting the condition of our Fraternity at the time this Lodge was founded, with its present condition, we can hardly realize the great strides it has made in material prosperity and growth.
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It is an Institution which grows with the growth and strengthens with the progress of the times, so that to-day. it is in full sympathy with every true and earnest effort which is made to improve the condition of mankind. The broad spirit of toleration which characterizes it enables it to command respect, and assert its power at all times and in all places. In this respect, it stands to-day without a rival. It can, and many times does, exert an influence over minds which even religion cannot effect; and although we regard it as the handmaid of religion, it exists where Christianity has not gone, and exerts its beneficent influence in the most distant portions of the earth, and is an effective means for promoting progress and civilization.
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It was a great factor in the management of civil affairs about the time this Lodge was formed. Very many of its most prominent and ardent supporters had been officers in the American Army during the Revolution, and received the degrees in Army Lodges. The war being over, they made the Lodge the rendezvous where old and dear friendships were renewed and "enjoyed. What an inheritance of precious memories this Lodge must be to you, my Brothers! What a priceless legacy has come to you, " with not a marble fractured, not a pillar fallen!"
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The lesson of to-day, it seems to me, is fidelity to duty and obligation; for through these only it is that you are permitted to enter into and enjoy these festivities which constitute the local crowning Masonic event of the century.
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As history, teaching by example, is the surest and safest guide, holding out in one direction cheering signals of safety, and in another, beacons of warning, I would ask you to review the history of your Lodge, and from it and the incidents of this day, gather strength and inspiration for the future; keep the fires of charity and brotherly love burning brightly upon your altar; preserve the purity and vigor of Masonry; be true and faithful in every duty, so that your Lodge may stand here as a monument to your fidelity and loyalty to the great principles of our venerable Institution.
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==== AT CENTENNIAL OF [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Fellowship FELLOWSHIP] LODGE ====
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''From Proceedings, Page 1897-118:''
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''W. MASTER AND BRETHREN:'' I am pleased to receive the welcome which. you have so cordially extended to me as the representative of the Grand Lodge, and in recognition of your loyalty to it and to the cause of Masonry, would express my full appreciation of the same, and offer to you and this Lodge my personal congratulations and those of the whole Fraternity.
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It is no little honor to have stood in a community for one hundred years and receive the encomiums of your Brethren as you are doing to-day. And, my Brothers, these expressions of good-will are emphasized by the fact that you merit them.
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Could we trace the unwritten history of this Lodge, we should find, undoubtedly, that it has made its impress upon this community by the comity and deeds of charity of the men who have been its best and truest exponents; in fact, that the great underlying principles of our Fraternity have controlled the friendly and neighborly intercourse and communion between man and man, and thus have shown to this community that they are a power for good.
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If our Institution fails to be of benefit to a community, it is not the fault of the Institution nor of its precepts, but because of the indifference and laxity of those to whom it is given to illustrate them and make them effective.
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This occasion is evidence that the Brethren of this Lodge have been zealous and indefatigable in preserving and transmitting the valuable tenets of our profession, exemplifying its teachings, and therefore have been true and faithful in all the relations of life. Were it otherwise,
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there could have been no occasion for this anniversary. The past at least is secure to you, and you have only to be constant in your duty in order to insure a continuance of the prosperity which has hitherto attended you. If you are ever doubtful of the future of this Lodge, if clouds arise to darken your pathway, and you despair of realizing your hopes for its success and prosperity, recur to the incidents of this hour, look upon this venerable document, your Charter, gather new inspiration and greater courage, and press on with quickened zeal
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and earnest effort to emulate the example of the founders of this Lodge and their successors who have made it possible for us to celebrate this day.
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Let us, then, take the Institution as we have received it, wisely enlarge its scope and functions, improve its aims, broaden its organization and energies, expand and heighten its charities, preserve and secure its rituals and forms, and thus transmit it to our successors purer and
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better than we found it. If each generation of Masons shall accomplish a work like this, all care and anxiety as to the future life of the Institution may be thrown aside, for it will surely live as long as the affections, the hopes, the faith, and the charity of man shall live, to demand, receive, and spread its beneficence.
  
 
=== CHARTERS GRANTED ===
 
=== CHARTERS GRANTED ===
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[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsPeople#GRAND_MASTERS Grand Masters]
 
[http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsPeople#GRAND_MASTERS Grand Masters]

Revision as of 02:19, 12 November 2014

CHARLES C. HUTCHINSON 1832-1915

CharlesCHutchinson.jpg

Grand Master, 1897-1899


TERM

1897 1898 1899

NOTES

MEMORIAL

From Proceedings, Page 1915-89:

It is my sad duty officially to announce the decease of our Past Grand Master, M.W. Charles Carroll Hutchinson, of Lowell, who died in that city, April 29, 1915.

He endeared himself to us by his constant good nature: his cordial greeting, and his rising, seemingly without effort, to the demands of every occasion where he was called upon to act. He was a faithful servant of this Grand Lodge, a courteous and thoughtful Brother, and a Grand Master whose administration was marked with progress, ability, and success. It was under his Grand Mastership that this Temple was erected. I acted as an Honorary Pall Bearer at his funeral with M.W. Brothers Charles T. Gallagher, Edwin B. Holmes, R.W. Brother Arthur G. Pollard, and others. The funeral was attended by a large number of the Fraternity of Loweli and elsewhere. The following other officers and permanent members of the Grand Lodge were noted; viz.:

From Proceedings, Page 1915-114:

Charles Carroll Hutchinson, son of Samuel King Hutchinson and Susan Warren Hutchinson, was born in Andover, Massachusetts, June 9, 1832, and died in Lowell April 29, 1915, at the age of 82 years 10 months and 20 days. He was educated in the LoweII public schools and at Ireland Academy, West Springfield, now Holyoke.

His vocation since the days of youth was substantially as follows: Clerk in the Railroad Bank, Lowell, 1853-1858, Cashier of Bank at Brighton, 1858-1864, Clerk in Central National Bank, New York, 1864-1871, Treasurer of the Mechanics Savings Bank, Lowell, 1871, resigned as Treasurer July 22, 1973, and was elected Vice-President. He was the first Treasurer of the Brighton Savings Bank, 1861-1864. He was a communicant of St. Anne's Church in LoweII, Trustee of the Old Ladies' Home, 1901-1910, a member of the Common Council of Lowell, 1880, President of the Council in 1881, Commissioner of the Sinking Fund, 1885-1887, President of the Traders & Mechanics Insurance Company in 1901, and also at the time of his decease, and Director of the Lowell Gas Light Company 1902.

His Masonic Record is as follows:

Received the Entered Apprentice in Ancient York Lodge October 11, 1854, Fellow Craft, November 8, 1854, Master Mason December 6, 1854, Senior Deacon in Ancient York Lodge 1855-1856, Senior Warden 1857, Worshipful Master 1858. He was a Director in the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts 1892-1909, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge 1896-1899.

He received the Royal Arch Degree in Mt. Horeb R'oyal Arch Chapter December 3, 1855, and was elected Captain of the Host in 1856 and Grand Captain of the Host in 1856. He received the Super Excellent Degree in Ahasuerus Council of Lowell, March 16, 1856, and was Captain of the Guard, 1871-1874. He received the Order of the Temple in Pilgrim Commandery, Knights Templar, March 26, 1856. He was Generalissimo 1872-1873, Commander 1874, 1875, 1877, 1878, Grand Senior Warden 1879, Grand Captain-General 1880-1881, Deputy Grand Commander 1882-1883, Grand Commander 1884-1885.

He received the 14th Grade in Lowell Lodge of Perfection of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite September 9, 1858, was elected its Potent Master 18?3-1887, and received all the grades from the 14th to the 32nd inclusive in Lowell Council of Princes of Jerusalem, Mount Calvary Chapter of Rose Croix, and Massachusetts Consistory. He was Most Wise Master of Mount Calvary Chapter 1891-1895, enrolled an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council 33°, sitting at Portland, Me., August 19, 1875. He was crowned an Active Member of the Supreme Council 33°, sitting at Pittsburgh, Pa., September 19, 1896, elected the Deputy for the District of Massachusetts 1900-1909, resigned his active membership and elected. an Emeritus Member September 20, 1909.

He was an Honorary Member of Charles A. Welch Lodge, Eliot Lodge; Lafayette Lodge, Pentucket Lodge, Kilwinning Lodge, Saint Bernard Commandery, Boston; Burlington Commandery, Vermont; Merrimack Valley Lodge of Perfection, Haverhill; and Massachusetts Consistory.

He was a Life Member of Ancient York Lodge, Massachusetts Consistory, Mount Olivet Chapter of Rose Croix, Giles F. Yates Council, Princes of Jerusalem, and Boston Lodge of Perfection.

During his term as Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts the important duty of rebuilding the Temple in Boston came under his direction, which obligation he faithfully and conscientiously discharged, so that the dedication of the new Temple will remain as one of the enduring monuments of his Masonic life.

Such is an outline of a Brother who was well known and most highly respected as a citizen of integrity and probity in the community in which he lived, an expert and conscientious adviser in his vocation, and a most accomplished, enthusiastic Mason. He leaves as his only survivor, one son, the Rev. Charles S. Hutchinson, Rector of St. Clement's Church, Philadelphia, Pa.

He was by temperament dignified, somewhat reticent and demure, and seemingly at times unsusceptible, but to those who were honored by an intimate acquaintance he gave undisputed evidence of a warm-hearted, manly friendship, and a disposition to render happiness to all who sought his counsel and aid.

In Masonic circles he will be greatly missed. Some of us who have been associated with him for many years in the conduct of business, in the various departments of our Masonic professions, and in the delicate task of conferring degrees, will never forget his attractive personality, his deep musical voice in the calm enunciation of the truths of the lessons of the ritual, and the dignified, impressive manner which fascinated both the candidate and the habitual Iistener. He was courageous to the last in his struggle with the insidious disease which laid him low. He was laid at rest in accordance with the services of the church to which he belonged. His memory is an inspiration and his fidelity to the Craft affords an example worthy of imitation.

Respectfully submitted,
Edwin B. Holmes
Solon W. Stevens
Arthur G. Pollard

SPEECHES

AT CENTENNIAL OF ST. PAUL LODGE, JANUARY 1897

From Proceedings, Page 1897-3:

W. MASTER: I thank you for your cordial salutation, and would assure you and the Brethren of St. Paul Lodge that it gives me great pleasure to bring to you the fraternal greetings and congratulations of the Grand Lodge upon this the Centennial Anniversary of your Lodge.

It is most gratifying to us all to know that the welfare and interest of our Institution have been so well supported and its principles so long and so boldly defended by your Lodge. It is evident that the zeal and fidelity of its founders still live among you. Although a hundred years have passed since, the fathers established here an institution which they believed would improve the condition of the people of this community and, awaken in them higher aspirations and nobler impulses, you have cause for congratulation that to-day you are permitted to enjoy the fruits of their labors.

I have often thought that if there be any place more than another where the great principles and teachings of our ancient brotherhood can be best appreciated and developed, it is in the rural portion of our Commonwealth where every man can be a friend and every neighbor a brother: where the ties of family and kinship are more closely woven and every one is his brother's keeper: where the rippling brook, the fertile fields and indeed all nature speak of peace and love, and turn one's thoughts to things that make for good.

The facts concerning the history of St. Paul Lodge, gathered from the Records of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, are few, but interesting.

The Charter bears the date of Jan. 26, 1797, and gives the Lodge precedence. from the same date. The next reference to St. Paul Lodge, in the Grand Lodge Records, occurs under the date of June 12, 1797, when it was voted: That the Grand Lodge will attend for the installation of St. Paul Lodge, at Groton, the 2d of August next.

The Columbian Centinel, of which R. W. Benjamin Russell, Past Grand Master, was editor and proprietor, supplements the Grand Lodge Records. That paper of Aug. 12, 1797, contains the following:

"On Wednesday last {Aug. 9th} St. Paul Lodge was consecrated and its officers installed in ample form, at Groton, by the R .W. Samuel Dunn, Esq., D. G. M., assisted by the officers of the Grand Lodge. The ceremonies were performed in the Meeting-House, before a large assembly; of which the ladies formed a brilliant and beautiful part. The Rev. Br. Harris delivered a pertinent and pointed discourse on the occasion, and an ingenious Oration was pronounced by R. W. Br. Thomas, acting D. G. M. After the business was finished, the Lodge, which had proceeded in order from Richardson's tavern to the Meeting-house, repaired in like order, to an arbour, where they partook of a liberal entertainment, and closed the day with festive hilarity, social greeting and deed's of benevolence. The clergy of "the vicinity were guests and appeared gratified."

The sermon on that occasion was printed at the request of the Grand Lodge. A. copy is in the Grand Lodge Library.

Dr. Harris selected as his text, Exodus xvi., 15, and his subject was "Ignorance and prejudice shown to be the only enemies to Freemasonry: then objections considered and answered: and the true description of the Society given."

The Grand Lodge Records show that St. Paul Lodge was represented in Grand Lodge with commendable regularity. Excepting from 1832 to 1840—when the doors of so many Lodges were closed — there has been scarcely a year of the century in which some representative of St. Paul Lodge has not been present in Grand Lodge.

Oliver Prescott, of Groton, is the earliest-named representative. Then in December, 1802, came W. Timothy Bigelow, at which Communication he was elected Junior Grand Warden. He paid all Lodge dues owing to the Grand Lodge, amounting to $24.50.

Other representatives of St. Paul Lodge in Grand Lodge were: in 1803, Bro. Wallis Little; 1806-7, R. W. Bro. James Brazier, Proxy; 1807, Bro. Oliver Prescott; 1808-9, David Child, Proxy; 1814-19, Bro. William F. Brazier, of Boston, Proxy; 1820, Oliver Shedd, of Roxbury, Proxy; 1823, David Child, of Groton, Proxy; 1846, Daniel Shattuck, who became Master of the Lodge; and lastly our lamented Brother, Hon. E. Dana Bancroft, regularly represented St. Paul Lodge; in Grand Lodge for nearly twenty-four years next preceding his decease.

The Grand Lodge Records also inform us that:

"A Special Meeting of the Grand Lodge was held in the town of Groton, county of Middlesex, for the purpose of consecrating a new Hall, erected by St. Paul Lodge, on the 18th of September, Anno Lucis 5804. The Lodge was opened in due form and organized in the following manner:

  • R. W. TIMOTHY BIGELOW, Grand Master, pro tem.
  • R. W. TIMOTHY WHITING, D. G. M., pro tem.
  • R. W. BENJAMIN RUSSELL, S. G. W., pro tem.
  • R. W. HENRY FOWLE, J. G. W., pro tem.
  • R. W. JONATHAN GAGE, G. T., pro tem.
  • R. W. JOHN B. HAMMATT, G. Sec., pro tem.
  • R. W. EDMUND BOWMAN, G. Mar., pro tem.
  • Rev. Bro. BEDE, G. C., pro tem.
  • Bros. WHITE and HOWARD, G. Deacons, pro tem.
  • W. EATON and BILLINGS, G. Stewards, pro tem.
  • W. HORSEMAN, G. S. B., pro tem.

" W. BROWN and ABBOTT, Pursuivants, pro tem.

  • Bro. JOHN KNOWLES, Grand Tyler, pro tem.

"The Grand Lodge thus arranged, accompanied with St. Paul Lodge, proceeded to the. new Hall, where an eulogium was delivered by the. R. W. Bro. Prescott, on the principles of Masonry.. The Hall was consecrated in- due form. An Oration was delivered: by Brother Peabody, and the Grand Lodge was closed in due form.

"Attest: JOHN B. HAMMATT, Grand Secretary."

June 14, 1820, the Grand Master, in speaking of the condition of the various Lodges in the State, said concerning St. Paul Lodge, of Groton: It "continues to maintain that truly Masonic character for which it has been long eminently distinguished."

June 25, 1821, the Festival of St. John the Baptist was celebrated in Groton under the auspices of St. Paul Lodge. Trinity, Social and Aurora Lodges and St. John's Royal Arch Chapter joined in the celebration. An oration — which was printed — was delivered by Comp. James Carter, and a banquet with post-prandial exercises closed the observance of the day.

At the Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge held March 8, 1871, W. Bro. E Dana Bancroft offered the following motion, which was adopted:

Voted, That St. Paul Lodge, of Groton, be authorized to meet in the town of Ayer, in Caleb Butler Lodge-room, unless sooner provided with accommodations in Groton, till January, 1872.

At the Communication of the Grand Lodge held March 13, 1872, a petition, signed by nineteen members of St. Paul Lodge, approved by the District Deputy Grand Master and indorsed by Caleb Butler Lodge, was presented by Brother Bancroft asking for the removal of St. Paul Lodge from Groton to Ayer. The prayer of said petition was granted and the Lodge was accordingly removed to Ayer.

In a cursory review of the history of St. Paul Lodge, one is impressed with the character and prominence of many of its members, especially of its Worshipful Masters.

Oliver Prescott, Jr., — its first Senior Warden, a graduate of Harvard and a physician of extensive practice — was Surgeon in General Lincoln's army and accompanied the expedition which was raised to suppress Shay's rebellion in 1787. His father was an officer in the Revolutionary Army. Oliver Prescott, Jr., was Junior Grand Warden in 1810.

His successor as Master was his brother-in-law, Hon. Timothy Bigelow, who was a Harvard graduate and a distinguished lawyer. He was a member of both branches of the General Court and of the Executive Council.

James Prescott, a cousin of Oliver Prescott, Jr., a graduate of Harvard, began the practice of law. but upon the death of his uncle Oliver, the judge of probate, he was appointed to that office and was afterward chief justice of the Court of Common Pleas.

Caleb Butler was present in Grand Lodge Jan. 1, 1811; was District Deputy Grand Master from 1814 to 1817 inclusive; afterwards Senior Grand Warden, Deputy Grand Master, and Grand Master.

John Abbot succeeded Wor. Brother Butler as Master of St. Paul Lodge. Brother Abbot was District Deputy Grand Master in 1811 and 1812; Junior Grand Warden in 1813; Senior Grand Warden in 1814; Deputy Grand Master in 1821, 1822 and 1823; and Grand Master in. 1824, 1825, 1826 and 1834.

Augustus Peabody, a graduate of Dartmouth College, was District Deputy Grand Master in 1813 and 1814, Senior Grand Warden in 1817, and Grnnd Master in 1843, 1844, and 1845.

Besides these there have been others — not so prominent in Masonic matters, but no less efficient in their several Masonic offices: Col. Wm. Butterick, Capt. Daniel Shattuck, Hon. E. Dana Bancroft and others.

It would be interesting could we discover the circumstances under which this Lodge received its name. We can surmise that the Brethren of Groton, after a full consideration of appropriate names for the Lodge, selected the name St. Paul, not simply for its euphony, or the place of the Apostle in sacred history, but rather on account of the characteristics of the man. He was a zealous, tireless, enthusiastic promoter of any cause in which he was engaged. Converted to Christianity, his loyalty, zeal and fearlessness shone with a lustre which 1,900 years have not dimmed. He overshadows and overreaches every other worker in the early church. Fidelity to the truth was his motto, and no opposition however strong, nor punishment however severe forced him to waver in his duty.

The selection of his name implies, on the part of the founders of this Lodge, a recognition of the value of fidelity, zeal and courage in the discharge of duties which devolve upon us.

Were not these largely the characteristics which gave so much prominence and influence to the citizens of Groton? They were certainly characteristics of those who founded and nurtured St. Paul Lodge and guided it wisely and well through the anti-Masonic storm of sixty years ago.

St. Paul Lodge never surrendered its Charter; its altar light was never extinguished; its loyalty to the Grand Lodge was never weak nor uncertain. It has pressed on through the century, sometimes possibly with feeble and flagging step, but it has been faithful to our Order, zealous in retaining its chartered rights, and courageous in meeting difficulties and the opposition of misguided men.

Brethren, remember the character of the Gentile apostle; remember the fidelity, zeal and courage of the fathers; recall the century's history replete with the great achievements of our Order, and let these recollections inspire you to begin the new century by imitating the example of the fathers; so that one hundred years hence the walls of St. Paul Lodge-room will resound with words in praise of your achievements, even as to-day they echo and re-echo your grateful thanks for the fidelity, zeal and courage of its founders.

AT HALL DEDICATION IN GARDNER, FEBRUARY 1897

From Proceedings, Page 1897-24:

MY BROTHERS: By the offices' and ceremonials of our Order this Hall has been dedicated, according to ancient usage, to Freemasonry, to Virtue and to Universal Benevolence. Henceforth it becomes to you a most interesting place. To it your hearts will turn with pride and delight; to it you will come, and away from the distracting cares and employments of life, apart from all partisan, sectarian or extraneous influences, meet in happy fraternal communion.

Here new duties and obligations will be assumed, and new associations and fraternal ties be formed, which time can neither weaken nor break. Here the best teachings of our ancient Institution will find their proper expression. Here men will be induced to review their daily walk and conversation, new and greater opportunities will be opened to them, and they will be encouraged to meet all the duties of life with fidelity and zeal.

The selection and preparation of these apartments testify to your attachment to our brotherhood and to. your purpose to make it a means of great good in this community, a conservator of those high moral principles which promote the welfare and happiness of all who come within their influence. They are also a witness to your material prosperity and commend you as an example to your Brethren.

That this happy condition may long continue, we most sincerely hope and desire; but to make it secure will require^ as you all know, fidelity and zealous endeavor on the part of every member.

No institution or society can live of itself, — there must be a vital force within it, to direct and maintain it. In our Institution this force or power is the loving spirit, the harmonious, united effort and the willing hand of those who have its welfare and interest truly and deeply at heart. And this leads me to suggest that you should be particularly careful whom you admit to fellowship in this great brotherhood, closing your doors against all whom you may deem unworthy, remembering always that great numbers are not absolutely necessary to great achievement, and that the best and most permanent results to our Institution have come from Brethren possessing sterling qualities of character, such, as I see about me here to-day; and hence it is, as we believe, that this Lodge has grown, prospered and attained its present enviable position.

But, my Brothers, because of your present happy condition do not become indifferent or careless, nor live upon the reputation which the labors of others have acquired for you, however brilliant it may be. Strive to make for yourselves a name. and record of honor, justice, truth and zeal in promoting whatever may be for our common welfare. Be faithful in directing and aiding every sincere seeker after light, before whom lie great possibilities for good, and whom you should not leave at the very entrance to your Lodge-room, nor forsake at any "time during his novitiate; but by examples of decorum, of fidelity to obligation and loyalty to the Order, awaken within him a broader, deeper realization of the duties which rest upon him as a man, and of what it means to be a FREEMASON.

I think a conformity to these few suggestions will promote the interest and welfare of your Lodge and secure to you the commendations of the entire Fraternity.

I bring to you the sincere congratulations of the Grand Lodge upon this happy occasion, and would express the hope that here Freemasonry may find true and loyal support, Virtue be respected and revered, Universal Benevolence be truly and wisely practised, and that this Lodge may continue to stand a monument to the fidelity, zeal and intelligence of the Freemasons of Gardner. God speed you on your way!

AT CORNER STONE LAYING IN SPRINGFIELD, JUNE 1897

From Proceedings, Page 1897-67:

YOUR HONOR, LADIES, BRETHREN AND MY YOUNG FRIENDS: With the impressive ceremonies and solemn benediction of our ancient Fraternity, this Corner-stone has now been placed.

Upon it is to be erected an edifice within which the youth of this fair city are to be instructed in subjects which will qualify them to meet with intelligence, probity and zeal the duties of whatever station in life they may be called to fill. Their presence gives additional interest and inspiration to this occasion. What a beautiful spectacle they present! It stirs our hearts and awakens a thousand remembrances of events and incidents which marked our young days, to stand in their presence and hear their cheerful voices. It also leads us to contemplate most seriously the grave responsibility which rests upon this generation. The future welfare of our country will soon be in the keeping and control of the youth of the present; it therefore remains to us to do whatever we can to make it secure, by impressing upon the minds of the children of to-day the importance of properly fitting themselves for the great duties they are to assume, and providing them with every means and opportunity to do so.

It is most appropriate that our honorable Fraternity should be invited to perform this ceremony, for, in its operative character, it has been from time immemorial a teacher and promoter of the arts and sciences, and has left its impress upon every age of the world's history, in those great works which to-day, notwithstanding so many years have passed since their construction, are still a study, and command the attention and admiration of all who come within their shadow. In its speculative character also it is one of the great conservators of education, and by its symbols morally demonstrates the force and power of discipline of the mind, and draws it forth to range the large field of matter and space, to display the summit of human knowledge — our duty to God and to man.

We do not mean by this' that Masonry is religion; that it is religious and the handmaid of religion, none can deny. It is true that it is not the exponent of any particular creed or dogma, but it requires that all who enter its portals should express a belief in God, leaving it to every one to worship God in accordance with the dictates of his conscience.

Nor is it in any sense partisan. It is not bound to any school or system of politics; but strives to break down the barriers which partisan or sectarian influences erect between men, and teaches in its fullest, broadest sense the spirit of toleration.

Hence it is that it gives its sanction and approval to the public school system of our Commonwealth, whose benefits and privileges the youth of all nationalities and creeds can equally enjoy.

Hence it is also that we are pleased to bring to you the service and duty of the Grand Lodge upon this happy occasion, and offer you its aid in disseminating those great principles which affect the law-making and administrative agencies of your city — education, good morals, true and upright living — without which no community can be prosperous, no people truly happy, nor truth, honor and justice be respected and revered.

The time appointed for this service could not have been more appropriate, when all thoughts turned to memories most dear, to a land blessed with peace, and a people united in the bonds of friendship. Our great Fraternity mourns the loss of many noble Brothers fallen in the great struggle for the preservation of our national union; and in testimony of its true loyalty to the laws of our country, joins with loud acclaim in hailing its honored flag which floats so proudly over us, the' ensign of a nation's power and glory. And as it shall float from the highest pinnacle of the building to be erected here, may the youth who shall sit beneath its folds be taught to regard it not as a symbol of war; let it not speak to them of the marshalling of armed force, of ruthless carnage, but of order under constituted authority, of an heritage in a country blessed above all countries, of peace and love and that harmony in thought and deed which is the very cement and support of all government.

Our work is done. It remains for you, my friends, to carry to completion the object and purpose of. these rites, which are not merely the erection and occupying of this building; these would represent only the operative character of our Institution; but rather recognize its speculative character by requiring that from this place shall emanate the influences and principles which control the intellectual and moral life of this community; that your youth lie taught to reverence God, love the truth, be obedient to the laws under whose protection they live, and never lose sight of the allegiance due to their country.

AT CENTENNIAL OF BRISTOL LODGE

From Proceedings, Page 1897-110:

W. MASTER: It is a pleasant privilege to receive your cordial welcome on this interesting occasion, and to join with you in the festivities of the hour. We tender you our heartiest congratulations, and bring to you the fraternal regards and good-will of the whole Fraternity.

It is an occasion of which you have reason to be proud; an event which all the Masons of. our jurisdiction delight to recognize as proving, in some degree, the perpetuity of our Institution, and the value of the principles which are the basis of its usefulness and power.

Contrasting the condition of our Fraternity at the time this Lodge was founded, with its present condition, we can hardly realize the great strides it has made in material prosperity and growth.

It is an Institution which grows with the growth and strengthens with the progress of the times, so that to-day. it is in full sympathy with every true and earnest effort which is made to improve the condition of mankind. The broad spirit of toleration which characterizes it enables it to command respect, and assert its power at all times and in all places. In this respect, it stands to-day without a rival. It can, and many times does, exert an influence over minds which even religion cannot effect; and although we regard it as the handmaid of religion, it exists where Christianity has not gone, and exerts its beneficent influence in the most distant portions of the earth, and is an effective means for promoting progress and civilization.

It was a great factor in the management of civil affairs about the time this Lodge was formed. Very many of its most prominent and ardent supporters had been officers in the American Army during the Revolution, and received the degrees in Army Lodges. The war being over, they made the Lodge the rendezvous where old and dear friendships were renewed and "enjoyed. What an inheritance of precious memories this Lodge must be to you, my Brothers! What a priceless legacy has come to you, " with not a marble fractured, not a pillar fallen!"

The lesson of to-day, it seems to me, is fidelity to duty and obligation; for through these only it is that you are permitted to enter into and enjoy these festivities which constitute the local crowning Masonic event of the century.

As history, teaching by example, is the surest and safest guide, holding out in one direction cheering signals of safety, and in another, beacons of warning, I would ask you to review the history of your Lodge, and from it and the incidents of this day, gather strength and inspiration for the future; keep the fires of charity and brotherly love burning brightly upon your altar; preserve the purity and vigor of Masonry; be true and faithful in every duty, so that your Lodge may stand here as a monument to your fidelity and loyalty to the great principles of our venerable Institution.

AT CENTENNIAL OF FELLOWSHIP LODGE

From Proceedings, Page 1897-118:

W. MASTER AND BRETHREN: I am pleased to receive the welcome which. you have so cordially extended to me as the representative of the Grand Lodge, and in recognition of your loyalty to it and to the cause of Masonry, would express my full appreciation of the same, and offer to you and this Lodge my personal congratulations and those of the whole Fraternity.

It is no little honor to have stood in a community for one hundred years and receive the encomiums of your Brethren as you are doing to-day. And, my Brothers, these expressions of good-will are emphasized by the fact that you merit them.

Could we trace the unwritten history of this Lodge, we should find, undoubtedly, that it has made its impress upon this community by the comity and deeds of charity of the men who have been its best and truest exponents; in fact, that the great underlying principles of our Fraternity have controlled the friendly and neighborly intercourse and communion between man and man, and thus have shown to this community that they are a power for good.

If our Institution fails to be of benefit to a community, it is not the fault of the Institution nor of its precepts, but because of the indifference and laxity of those to whom it is given to illustrate them and make them effective.

This occasion is evidence that the Brethren of this Lodge have been zealous and indefatigable in preserving and transmitting the valuable tenets of our profession, exemplifying its teachings, and therefore have been true and faithful in all the relations of life. Were it otherwise, there could have been no occasion for this anniversary. The past at least is secure to you, and you have only to be constant in your duty in order to insure a continuance of the prosperity which has hitherto attended you. If you are ever doubtful of the future of this Lodge, if clouds arise to darken your pathway, and you despair of realizing your hopes for its success and prosperity, recur to the incidents of this hour, look upon this venerable document, your Charter, gather new inspiration and greater courage, and press on with quickened zeal and earnest effort to emulate the example of the founders of this Lodge and their successors who have made it possible for us to celebrate this day.

Let us, then, take the Institution as we have received it, wisely enlarge its scope and functions, improve its aims, broaden its organization and energies, expand and heighten its charities, preserve and secure its rituals and forms, and thus transmit it to our successors purer and better than we found it. If each generation of Masons shall accomplish a work like this, all care and anxiety as to the future life of the Institution may be thrown aside, for it will surely live as long as the affections, the hopes, the faith, and the charity of man shall live, to demand, receive, and spread its beneficence.

CHARTERS GRANTED


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