MAGLASweetser

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ALBERT H. SWEETSER 1848-1889

Junior Grand Warden, 1885

MEMORIAL

From Proceedings, Page 1889-118:

"Albert Henry Sweetser was born in Cliftondale, Saugus, May 24, 1848. His father was Hon. Geo. H. Sweetser, a man of sterling qualities, greatly respected by all who knew him; and it was mainly through his instrumentality that William Sutton Lodge was organized and constituted, he serving for three years as its first Master. Albert early showed an extraordinary proficiency in mathematics. When he entered school at the age of seven, he had already mastered the first half of Colburn's Arithmetic; and the quickness and accuracy for which he was noted in mature years was fore-shadowed at this early period in his life, — being constantly a delight and surprise to his parents.

"Educated in the schools of his native town; afterwards at Chauncy Hall, where he ranked among the best scholars, securing the second gold medal, and, just as the first was in his grasp, breaking down in health; he was sent to Middietown to recruit, finally graduating at Wesleyan Academy, Wilbraham. He then associated himself with his father in business, and upon the death of his' father, in 1870, succeeded him. He subsequently engaged in the insurance business; but, at the time of his death, was cashier of the Maverick Oil Company, — a responsible and congenial position. His fellow-townsmen so appreciated his abilities and the purity and integrity of his character that he was solicited to hold many public offices; but he could seldom be induced to accept them, holding only the office of member of the school committee, and auditor in his native town, and representing his district one year in the Legislature. He united himself very early in life with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was a constant and faithful member, serving as class-leader, trustee, Sunday School superintendent, and member of the Official Board. His interest in the advancement of the prosperity of his church never failed; while he was always ready to materially aid in the cause of Christianity.

"He was initiated in William Sutton Lodge, Dec. 28, 1871, and raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason, March 14, 1872. The first Masonic office held by him was that of Senior Warden, to which he was elected Dec. 11, 1873, serving in that. position two years. In December, 1875, he was elected W. Master, which office he filled in a very satisfactory and dignified manner. In December, 1879, he was appointed Senior Deacon, and in December, 1881, Chaplain of the Lodge. The latter office he held for two years. Again, in December, 1886, he was called upon to serve as an officer, being elected Secretary.

"He was appointed by Grand Master Lawrence as District Deputy Grand Master of the Seventh District, where he served two years. After the re-districting of the State he was appointed by Grand Master Howland as Deputy for the present seventh Masonic District. In December, 1884, he was elected Junior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts. His connection with William Sutton Lodge was to him a never-failing pleasure, from his initiation as a youth to his installation as Master, culminating in the hour when, by special permission, he was allowed to wear the Past Master's jewel that had once been worn and prized by his honored and beloved father. His connection with the Grand Lodge was a source of pride and pleasure. The meetings were always anticipated and recalled with delight,— his heart going out with love and affection to all the Fraternity, while he was constantly, endeavoring to live the life of an upright Mason.

"In 1871 he was united in marriage with Anna P. Jordan, daughter of Hon. Ichabod D. Jordan, Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge % of New Hampshire. His married life was very felicitous. He found in his chosen companion one possessed of a sunny disposition, and ready at all times to enter with zest upon any of'his undertakings, cheering and enlivening him in his home, and in his last days ministering, with his dearly loved mother, to his comfort. Five sons also survive him.

"Possessed of a modest and retiring disposition, his life was full of rich deeds and loving words. His example was so pure that it may well be said of him, that the world is better for his having lived in it. A dutiful and loving son, an affectionate and exemplary husband, a fond and indulgent father, an upright and honorable citizen, — his loss is deeply felt by his many friends; while the members of William Sutton Lodge feel that they have lost a wise and prudent counsellor, and a kind and faithful Brother.

"In the early spring of 1888 his health began to fail to such an extent as to fill the hearts of the home circle with sad forebodings; and in spite of his own indomitable courage, and all that loving hearts and willing hands could do, his form gradually wasted, and the spark of life grew dimmer and dimmer, and at last expired, and he passed from earth July 9, 1889, at the age of forty-one years. At his own request, he was borne to his last resting place by the Brethren of the Lodge he had so deeply loved; and there in the quiet dwelling-place of those that sleep their last sleep, they joined with one whom they held in high esteem, in the sad and impressive ceremony of the Masonic burial service; while Nature, as if in sympathy with the bereaved, melted in tears of rain which descended softly and gently, and mingled with the tears of the sorrowing. And the Brethren, while depositing the sprig of acacia,—emblem of hope beyond the grave,—softly and sweetly sang his requiem.

HENRY J. MILLS,
DANA J. FLANDERS,
CHARLES S. ROBERTSON,
Committee.


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