Difference between revisions of "GMPDean"

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PAUL DEAN 1783-1860

Deputy Grand Master, 1835-1837
Grand Master, 1838-1840

TERM

1838 1839 1840

NOTES

MEMORIAL

From Proceedings, Page VI-364:

The committee to whom was referred the subject of the death of a very highly valuable member of the Order to which we belong, beg leave to submit the following.—

With unfeigned sorrow the G. Lodge deplores the death of one of the most worthy and devoted of the ancient brotherhood of Masons, the Rev. Paul Dean, a Past Grand Master of this oldest of the Masonic institutions in America. The solemn event occurred Oct 1. 1860.

From his earliest connections with Masonry, and through all the trials and persecutions which the fraternity passed through during the vigor of his manhood, in this city, — this Commonwealth, and this country,— Bro. Dean stood forth a pillar of strength—a safe counsellor an unflinching and reliable friend of an institution he both honored and adorned.

He was a man of enlarged views, whose gentle nature, spotless reputation and moral dignity gave lustre to his Masonic character. He loved mankind and practised what he taught, both by precept and example, — universal benevolence and universal charity. Full of years, revered, beloved and honored, this good Brother has been taken from us, to be raised to higher degrees in the Lodge above, where the weary are at rest.

In view of this painful event to us, it is a fitting occasion for contemplating the happy results of a well-spent life, as exemplified in the calm, Christian course of our recently deceased Brother.

Resolved, therefore, that while we deplore the loss of one who was useful — so devoted and so thoroughly imbued with the genuine spirit of true Freemasonry, it behooves us to profit by the lesson of his unblemished career, that we may live as he lived, everywhere respected; that we may die as he died — everywhere lamented.

Resolved, That the M. W. G. Master be requested to address a letter of condolence to the bereaved family of the late Bro. Dean communicating the foregoing sentiments. And may God sanctify to them this dispensation of His righteous providence.

J. V. C. SMITH. Chairman.

BIOGRAPHY

(From 1916 Proceedings)

Brother Dean was born in Barnard, Windsor County, on the 28th of March, 1783, where he passed his youth in agricultural labors, in attending school, in academic and biblical stuclies, and in school teaching. In 1806, he entered upon the duties of the Christian ministry at Montpelier, Vt.; from thence, in 1810, he removed to New Hartford, N. Y., and in 1813 he came to reside in Boston. He was for many years the pastor of the First Universalist Church in Boston, and, subsequently, was settled over the Bulfinch street church, where he officiated until by reason of his age and infirmities he was compelled to relinquish his pastorate for a less laborious and responsible field. In later years he resided principally at Framingham, employing his time in study, the cultivation of a small garden, and making himself generally useful, as occasion offered. He early became a life-member of the American Bible Society and also of the American Colonization Society.

As a Mason his record is full and well made up. He was initiated in Centre Loclge, at Rutland, Vt., during the winter of 1805, and received the degrees of the Chapter at New Hartford, N. Y., in 1811. The degrees of Royal and Select Master, of the Encampment, and of the Ancient and Accepted Rite to the 33° inclusive, were conferred upon him in Boston. He was admitted to honorary membership in Columbian Lodge, Boston, and officiated as Chaplain of that body from 1817 to 1836, inclusive. He was also Chaplain of the Grand Lodge for several years; District Deputy Grand Master for the First District for three years from 1831; Deputy Grand Master in l835, 1836, and 1837; and Grand Master in 1838, 1839, and 1840. He was a member of St. Paul's Chapter, over which he presided as High Priest for some years. He has also filled the offices of Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of this State, and of the General Grand Chapter of the United States; Prelate of the General Grand Encampment; and President of the Convention of High Priests of Massachusetts. And in all these various stations he acquitted himself with honor and to the entire acceptance of his Brethren.

He was a true Mason - ever firm, consistent, and faithful, in all places, and under all circumstances. Few Brethren filled a larger place in the Masonic heart and affections. He died of paralysis at his residence in Framingham, on October 1, 1860, in the seventy-seventh year of his age, and was buried fro the residence of his son-in-law in Boston, on the third day of the same month.

CHARTERS GRANTED

None.

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