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BABCOCK, MALACHI 1802-1882

From Liberal Freemason, Vol. VI, No. 8, November 1882, Page 252:

Malachi Babcock, a respected citizen of Natick, died Monday morning, November 6th, of heart disease. Mr. Babcock was born in Sherborn, Mass., Dec. 17th, 1802, and was nearly eighty years of age. He represented the town of Sherborn in the General Court of Massachusetts in the year 1855. He was also one of the oldest Masons in the State, having been made a Master Mason in Middlesex Lodge, A. F. and A. M., of Framingham, Mass., in June, 1827. At the time of his death he was an Honorary Member of Meridian Lodge, F. and A. M. of which he was also Worshipful Past Master, Parker Royal Arch Chapter, and Natick Commandery, Knights Templars. Brother Babcock was one of the seventeen in the town of Sherborn, who signed the Declaration of the Freemasons in 1831, though we do not find his name reported in the list of survivors, in Grand Lodge Proceedings of 1881.

BACON, FRANCIS L. 1837-1859

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XVIII, No. 6, April 1859, Page 191:

Lowell, March 26, 1859.

Bro. C. W. Moore — The enclosed Resolves were adopted by Pentucket Lodge at meeting held March 17th, 1859, and which by vote of Lodge, I was instructed to send to you for publication in your Magazine.

Yours fraternally, C. E. A. Bartlett, Secretary, Pentucket Lodge.

  • Whereas, in the Providence of the Grand Architect of the Universe our beloved young Brother, Francis L. Bacon, has been called to his home in the spirit land, whereby the long cherished hopes of his parents have vanished, and they now mourn his departure, and in sorrow consign his once lovely, but now mouldering form, to the quiet sleep of death; therefore
  • Resolved, That we tender to the mourning family our sympathy and heartfelt sorrow in this hour of bereavement and affliction, and especially to our Brother, the father of the deceased, in his many afflictions, and to his worthy companion, that she may be sustained in her weakness and restored from her prostrated illness. Upon all relatives and friends we invoke the blessing of him who hath power to wipe tears from all eyes, and through whose power we trust they will finally be reunited in love, to part no more forever.
  • Resolved, That though as Masons we mourn the loss of this young Brother from our Lodge, we rejoice in the blissful thought, that with the eye of faith we can see his spirit in that Grand Lodge above, where the Supreme Ruler of the Universe forever reigns."
  • Resolved, That by this affliction we are forcibly taught the great uncertainty of life, and of the vast importance of a more strict observance of the elevating principles and requirements of our beloved Institution and of the Christian religion.
  • Resolved, That the furniture and Jewels of Pentucket Lodge be draped in mourning for thirty days.
  • Resolved, That the Secretary send these Resolutions to Brother C. W. Moore for publication in the Freemasons' Magazine, and that he furnish the bereaved family a copy.
  • Whereas, in the dispensation of events, it has pleased our Supreme Grand High Priest, to remove from among us by death, our worthy and highly esteemed Companion, Francis L. Bacon; in view of his many virtues we cannot forbear to publicly express our deep sorrow at this affliction in the loss of one who became early impressed with a favorable opinion of Order, and ever continued to evince a high regard for it. In this bereavement the community has lost a worthy and exemplary young man; the parents a dutiful and obedient son, and this Chapter and the fraternity, a zealous and faithful Companion and Brother — therefore
  • Resolved, That the members of Mount Horeb R. A, Chapter have received with grief the announcement of the death of Companion Francis L. Bacon, a worthy member of this Chapter.
  • Resolved, That this Chapter will manifest its respect for the memory of the deceased, and its sympathy with his bereaved friends, by draping the Chapter-room in mourning thirty days.
  • Resolved, That the Secretary be requested to forward a copy of these Resolutions to the father of the deceased, and to the editor of the Freemasons' Magazine, for publication.

A True copy of preamble and resolutions adopted by Mount Horeb R. A. Chapter at a meeting held at Lowell, Mass., on Monday evening, March 14th, 1859.

AttestWm. F. Salmon, Secretary.

BACON, HORACE S. 1869-1915

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From Proceedings, Page 1915-93:

R. WOR. HORACE S. BACON was born in Lowell, October 29, 1869, and died at his residence in Lowell April 8, 1915.

He received his early education in the schools of Lowell and passed the bar examination after pursuing a course of study at Boston University. He practiced law for a number of years. He was appointed Register of Deeds of Middlesex County suceeding the late Captain Thompson, and served out his term of office.

Brother Bacon was Recording Secretary of the Lowell Historical Society, a member of Old Middlesex Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution, and of the Vesper Country Club.

Brother Bacon received the degrees in Freemasonry in Kilwinning Lodge, Lowell, in 1896, and was its Master in 1904 and 1905. He served as Grand Pursuivant in the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts in 1906 and was District Deputy Grand Master of the Eleventh Masonic District in 1908 and 1909. He was a life member of Mother Kilwinning Lodge of Scotland, also a member of the Committee on Curiosities of the Craft eight years from 1908 to 1915. He was exalted in Mt. Horeb Royal Arch Chapter of LoweII, June 8, 1896, and was its High Priest in 1911, and District Deputy Grand High Priest of District No. 9, in 1914. He took the degrees of Ahasuerus Council of Royal and Select Masters in Lowell in 1897. He received the orders of Knighthood in Pilgrim Commandery, K.T., of Lowell, in 1897 and was its Eminent Commander in 1911 and 1912. He was its Recorder from October, 1912 to his decease. He was a member of the Lowell Lodge of Perfection, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, of the Lowell Council, Princes of Jerusalem, and was Most Wise Master of Mt. Calvary Chapter of Rose Croix; also he was a member of Massachusetts Consistory 32°.

I quote the language of his life-long friend, R.W. Brother Stevens:

"As we sat in the house of mourning on Sunday last around the casket which contained all that was left of one of the noblest of men, we could. not help thinking how much it would have pleased Horace S. Bacon if he could know the place he held in the hearts of friends and associates, both old and young, who had gathered there to pay tribute to his memory. How it would have gratified him could he have been conscious that in the genuine manliness and generosity of his life he had so deeply touched the humane nature of hosts of people whom he had met in a business and in a social way. Perhaps in the divine economy of things his spirit was cognizant of the strength of the bonds of affection we cherished for him and the sorrow we feel that we shall see him no more."

From New England Craftsman, Vol. X, No. 7, April 1915, Page 253:

One of the saddest events that we have been called to record in a long time is the death of Brother Horace S. Bacon, a well known citizen and active Freemason of Lowell, Mass.

Brother Bacon committed suicide Thursday, April 8th, Apparently he had everything to live for, a comfortable financial condition, a good home with wife and two children, an educated mind and expectation of a long and active life, being only forty-six years old. In our present issue we print a contribution from his pen. He was a valuable friend in this direction, sending us with frequency, items of information and news. It is said that he had suffered for the past few months from nervous trouble which had become acute, though his friends did not suspect, from his appearance, that he was under such a mental strain.

BACON, JOEL LYMAN 1937-1906

From New England Craftsman, Vol. I, No. 7, April 1906, Page 234:

Brother Joel L. Bacon died Sunday morning, February 25, at his late residence, Jamaica Plain. He was born in Barre, Aug. 15, 1837. The greater part of his life was spent in Boston. He was employed by the city government, ten years as head farmer at Deer Island, and nine years as superintendent at the almshouse, Austin Farm. For the past eighteen years he had been in business in Roxbury, being the senior member of the firm of Bacon & Tarbell, stable keepers, on Warren Street. Last fall he sold out his interest in the firm and purchased a periodical store at Woolsey Square, Jamaica Plain. He was a member of Joseph Warren Commandery, Knights Templars. He was active in political matters, being vice-president of the Alliance for two years. For more than a year he had been in failing health. The immediate cause of his death was heart disease. He leaves a widow, a daughter, Mrs. Albert N. Pond oi Bridgewater, one grandson, and two brothers, George E. Bacon of Bridgewater and David Bacon of Athol.

BAGLEY, EDWARD C. R. 1875-1937

From Proceedings, Page 1947-127:

Right Worshipful Brother Bagley was born in East Boston July 22,1875, and died in Winthrop August 8, 1937.

Brother Bagley was left fatherless at the age of six. Supporting himself largelv by his own exertions, he managed to secure a substantial education in the East Boston schools. He studied law for a time, but gave up professional aspirations to enter the wholesale clothing business. He served in the Boston City Council from 1904 to 1906, in the House of Representatives from 1906 to 1908, and in the Senate for the four years following.

Brother Bagley's distinguished service was as Deputy Director of Prisons in the Department of Correction, to which post he was appointed in 1916. Here he made a national reputation. as a penologist. He was very successful in dealing with prisoners, basing his work on a conviction that regeneration could be brought about more successfully by scientific approach than by abstract moral appeals. He added to wide sympathy a keen appreciation of human nature and a firm and upright character.

Right Worshipful Brother Bagley was Raised in Baalbec Lodge March 7, 1905, and was its Master in 1920. He was also a Charter member of Everett C. Benton Lodge. He was District Deputy Grand Master for the Third Masonic District in 1922 and 1923, by appointment of Most Worshipful Arthur D. Prince and Most Worshipful Dudley H. Ferrell.

His great accomplishments made him an outstanding and respected figure in the community, and his thoroughly lovable character won hosts of devoted friends. In his passing the state loses a useful citizen and the Fraternity a shining ornament.

BAILEY, CHANDOS LOUREE, III 1958-

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BIOGRAPHY

From TROWEL, Spring 2003, Page 15:

A friend, when asked about his impression of Masonry, he said he thought it was a bunch of foolishness with all the guys in aprons walking around the altar all night long. He showed no further interest, but after a couple of years of being introduced to many other friends in the Kiwanis who were Masons, he finally asked his father-in-law. Brother Manuel Rubin, what it was all about. From that moment, Wor. Chandos L. Bailey III, took to Freemasonry like he was born into it. and never looked back.

Bro. Bailey was raised in Satucket Lodge in East Bridgewater in 1991. He liked what he saw and experienced, and became an officer in the Lodge. He was installed Satucket Lodge"s Worshipful Master in November 1997 by Rt. Wor. Arthur Richardson, who first asked him what he thought of Freemasonry.

Since his year in the East of his Lodge, he has made Masonry a major part of his life. He served as District Awareness Officer under Rt. Wor. Richard T. Austin in 1999 and 2000. During a combined district project with the Brockton 29th and Plymouth 18th Masonic Districts, he was instrumental in the reconstruction of the Peacedale Village at Edaville Railroad in Carver. He also assisted Wor. Francis Foster in the production of 28 programs under the banner of "What It Means to be a Mason" for the East Bridge-water and Whitman Cable Television channels.

Bro. Bailey became active in the Child Identification Program (CHIP) and assisted in the production of a training video for the state. Following his deep commitment and dedication in the program, he was appointed Assistant State Director in June 2000. He also was instrumental in the training of many Brothers from the Grand Lodge of Connecticut when they were in the process of getting their CHIP program launched.

In addition to his extensive Masonic activities, he is active with the local Rainbow Girls and initiated the first Camp Cleanup in the spring of 2000. He is also active in the East Bridgewater Kiwanis Club, having served on its board of directors for three years and received their Spiritual Leader Award in 1994. He is also a participant in the local Veterans Administration Hospital Visitation program in Brockton.

Masonically, he is an affiliated member of Wampatuck and Fellowship Lodges; the Worshipful Masters Association of the South Shore; and the York Rite Bodies of the Satucket-Pilgrim Royal Arch Chapter, the Brockton-Abington Council of Royal and Select Masters, and Bay State Commandery No. 38.

Originally from Canton, Ohio, he attended Western Michigan University and is employed by D'Andrea Foods of East Bridgewater. He is married to the former Parnel Rubin and resides in East Bridgewater.

Brother Bailey's philosophy on Freemasonry is simple, and comes from his Dad who told him at an early age "If you join an organization, don't just sit on your butt and do nothing. They would be better off without you." He feels you should "...just go about your business to do right and live your life, and people do notice what is going on." He believes Masonry afforded him a "niche." He thinks that after going through life searching for a venue to serve, he has found it in CHIP. He fully believes in the program and what it stands for. Providing this service to our kids is "being part of the solution rather than part of the problem." This, he says, is what gives his life meaning. Coincidentally. as a child his nickname was Chip.

Worshipful Chandos L. Bailey III exemplifies the very best of what a Mason can do for his community when given an opportunity. He is truly a MAC Mason.

BAILEY, GOLDSMITH FOX 1823-1862

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From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXI, No. 7, May 1862, Page 255:

At the Regular Communication of Aurora Lodge, at Fitchburg, Mass., on Monday evening, May 18, after appropriate exercises on the death of Hon. G. F. Bailey, who was a member of the Lodge, the following preamble and resolutions were unanimously adopted :—

  • Whereas the Supreme Architect of the Universe has been pleased, in his wisdom and mercy, to remove our worthy and much beloved Brother, the Hon. Goldsmith F. Bulky, from the cares and trials of earth, to meet Him in the Grand Lodge above, where toil and pain shall cease, — Therefore be it by us
  • Resolved, That we deeply mourn the departure of our worthy Brother, the late Hon. Goldsmith F. Bailey, whose high integrity of character commands the respect of all who enjoyed the happiness of his friendship while living, and for whose Masonic faithfulness, the members of Aurora Lodge will fondly cherish his memory in death.
  • Resolved, That in the demise of our worthy Brother, the community has lost an exemplary citizen, the legal profession a bright and shining light, the Commonwealth a true and faithful Representative in Congress, society a social friend, and Masonry one of its most endeared members.
  • Resolved, That we tender our warmest sympathies to the family and friends of our deceased Brother, sod would especially commend them to Him who has promised to be a father to the fatherless, and the widow's God, and ask permission to mingle our grief with theirs, over our lost and loved Brother.
  • Resolved, That as a token of respect and esteem for our Brother, and as a faith-fed testimonial of our grief at his loss, the Jewels and Furniture of the Lodge be draped in mourning for the space of thirty days.
  • Resolved, That a copy of this preamble and accompanying resolutions, be furnished the bereaved family, placed upon the records of the Lodge, and published in the Masonic Magazine.

BAILLARGEON, ROBERT GEORGE 1956-1990

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MEMORIAL

From TROWEL, Fall 1990, Page 33:

DAD BOB BAILLARGEON DIES

When the sad news of the death of Bro. Bob Baillargeon reached Grand Lodge June 27 a respectful silence was felt throughout the building for the remainder of the day. An illness of two years had finally cut the brittle thread of life of a personable young man whose outstanding work in Massachusetts DeMolay had later been reason to appoint him Director of Administration for the state In the fall of 1986 he accepted a challenge that sent him to The International Supreme Council for the Order of DeMolay in Kansas City. Missouri. There he assumed the Director of Operations office until he was stricken with an illness that forced him to resign and return to Watertown. Massachusetts with his wife Debbie. He had fought the good fight since his return and DeMolay and Masonry had shared prayers for him.

A past Master Councilor of Watertown Chapter, State Master Councilor in 1966-67, and a member of Pequosette Lodge of Watertown, he had been the Executive Secretary for the DeMolay Foundation and it was during his administration that DeMolay Update and the Massachusetts DeMolay News were developed and published. Bob and Debbie J. (Boulanger) were an inseparable couple during their DeMolay years in Boston and they were married when he went to Kansas City.

The devoted son of Albert J. and Hasmig (Soukeassian) Baillargeon, he is also survived by a brother Steven A. Baillargeon and his wife Maria, his maternal grandmother Mrs. Helen Soukeassian, an uncle and aunt and many, many DeMolay and Masonic friends who had a love and respect for one of the finest young men Trowel Editor Bob Williams has ever known. Bob held membership with Boston Valley of Scottish Rite and Aleppo Temple of the Shrine.

BAITLER, MAURICE HERMAN 1909-1983

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1984, Page 32:

Ill. Maurice Herman Baitler, 33°
Born in Gardiner, Maine, May 24, 1909
Died in Wilbraham, Massachusetts, November 27, 1983

Ill. Brother Baitler graduated from Kennebunk (Maine) High School in 1926. He came to Springfield, Massachusetts in 1927. In 1942, he received his law degree from Northeastern University and was admitted to the Massachusetts bar in 1943. He also received a Master of Laws degree in taxation from Boston University. Brother Baitler was admitted to practice before the United States District Court, Tax Court of the United States, Court of Claims, Interstate Commerce Commission and the Department of Justice. He was a member of various associations relating to the practices of law and accounting. Most recently, he had been associated with the law firm of LaCroix, Fuller and Brogan.

Ill. Brother Baitler became a member of York Lodge #22 in Kennebunk, Maine in 1933 and he received his 50 year veterans' medal there earlier this year. He was a member of the Royal Arch Chapter and Springfield Council of Royal and Select Masters. He was a member of all Scottish Rite Bodies in the Valley of Spring­field, Massachusetts, a recipient of the Meritorious Service Award in 1972, and served as Commander-in-Chief of the Connecticut Valley Consistory 1978-1979. He was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, Honorary Member of the Supreme Council on Septem­ber 24, 1980 at Cleveland, Ohio.

He joined Melha Temple in 1946 and served in many capacities including: President of the Military Band; Aide; Chairman of Wills, Gifts and Bequests; and General Counsel for Melha. He was ap­pointed to the Divan in 1968 and served as Potentate of Melha Tem­ple in 197 5. He was also an Emeritus member of the Board of Gover­nors of the Springfield Shriners Hospital.

He passed away on November 27, 1983, at home, leaving his wife of 49 years, Rebekah (Mitchell), who was a schoolmate of his in Kennebunk.

A Memorial Service was held in his honor at the First Unitarian Universalist Church in Springfield on Saturday, December 3, 1983.

"The consciousness of being loved softens the keenest pang, even at the moment of parting; yea, even the eternal farewell is robbed of half its bitterness when uttered in accents that breathe love to the last sigh."

BAKER, HAROLD WILLIAMS 1898-1985

From TROWEL, Winter 1985, Page 19:

A Fitting Tribute to a Beloved Mason

On Feb. 1, 1985, R.W. Harold W. Baker, Secretary of Plymouth Lodge, was called to the Celestial Lodge above.

Bro. Baker was born on April 4, 1898, in South Yarmouth, MA. He spent his early years in the area, graduating from South Yarmouth High School. His first employment was with the Post Office Department in Boston; later he served as a grocery clerk in Arlington Heights, and still later as manager of a grocery store in Plymouth.

Bro. Baker served the Town of Plymouth as tax collector from 1938 to 1972.

Raised April 30, 1931, he was elected Master in 1948, serving a three-year term. He was elected and installed as Secretary in 1953 and served until his death.

He was appointed D. D. G. M. of the Plymouth 27th Masonic District for the years 1956 and 1957. On October 16, 1972, he received the Joseph Warren Medal. Bro. Baker's other Masonic accomplishments included service as High Priest of Samoset Royal Arch Chapter of Plymouth. He was for several years Deacon of the Church of the Pilgrimage (Congregational) of Plymouth.

BAKER, RICHARD W. 1837-1878

From Liberal Freemason, Vol. II, No. 2, May 1878, Page 64:

The funeral of the late Richard W. Baker occurred this afternoon, April 15th, from his residence on Andover Street, in Tewksbury, and there was a large attendance of friends. Rev. Mr. Seward of the Unitarian Church conducted the exercises, which included a fitting eulogy of deceased. Quite a numher of floral tributes were tastily arranged on and about the casket. The members of Ancient York Lodge F. & A. M., attended the funeral in carriages. The bearers were Sir Knights S. T. Lancaster, James W. B. Shaw, Atwell F. Wright, Charles R Kimball, George E. Evans, and Horace B. Bacon, of Pilgrim Commandery, and ex-mayor Jonathan P. Folsom had general charge of the funeral. The remains were interred in the family burial lot in Tewksbury. There was the usual Masonic service at the grave, under direction of W. M. Arthur G. Pollard.

Brother Baker was Civil Engineer of the City of Lowell, for a period of fifteen years. He received the degrees in Ancient York Lodge, in 1861, and was its Secretary for ten years. He was also Secretary of Mt. Horeb Chapter for the same period, and was a member of Ahasuerus Council, and Pilgrim Commandery. He was only forty years of age at his death, but he had endeared himself to a large circle of friends, by whom he was known for his sterling integrity.

BAKER, RUEL d. 1848

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From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. VII, No. 4, February 1848, Page 128:

We deeply regret the duty which a sudden visitation of an all-wise Providence has imposed upon as, of mourning the loss of an esteemed friend and excellent Mason, by the death of W. Bro. Ruel Baker. He died at his residence in this city, on Monday afternoon, Jan. 17th, of pleurisy and lung fever, after an illness of one week.

At the time of his death, Br. Baker was the G. M. of the Grand Encampment of Mass. and Rhode Island, and D.G.H P. of the Grand Chapter of this State. He was also one of the Stewards of the Grand Lodge, and Treasurer of the Boston Encampment, and of Columbian Lodge. His funeral took place on the 30th ult. at the Hollis street church, where public ceremonies were performed, in the presence of a large assemblage of Brethren and friends. The body was then taken to Mount Auburn.

The deceased was a warm-hearted and zealous Brother, and his loss will be severely felt by the Fraternity iu thia city, by whom his funeral was generally attended. We regret that our room does not, this month, admit of a more extended notice.

BAKER, STEPHENS 1791-1883

  • MM 1816, St. John's #1, Wilmington, NC
  • Charter Member 1824, Liberty

From Proceedings, Page 1883-228:

Bro. STEPHENS BAKER was born in Beverly, November 14, 1791. He received the first three degrees in Masonry in a Lodge in Wilmington, N . C , in 1816, and was a member of Amity Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, in Beverly, at the time of his death. He died September 27, 1883, aged ninety-one years, and ten months, and was the last survivor of the signers of the Protest living in Beverly.

A signer of the Declaration of 1831.

BAKER, WILLIAM LIONEL 1875-1906

From New England Craftsman, Vol. II, No. 2, November 1906, Page 78:

Brother William L. Baker, a prominent young Boston attorney and club man, died at his home in Brookline, Nov. 3d., after a week's illness. Mr. Baker was born in Syracuse, N. Y., Aug. 13, 1875, son of former Mayor Baker of that city. He was educated in the New York public schools, the University of New York and the New York law school, subsequently taking a postgraduate course at the Harvard law school. He was admitted to the bar in 1897, and had up to the time of his death been engaged in the practice of his profession in Boston. He was an officer in Beth-Horon Lodge, a member of St. Paul's Chapter and Boston Commandery.

BALCOMB, FRANK WIPPICH 1902-1983

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1983, Page 31:

Ill. Frank Wippich Balcomb, 33°
Born in Salem, Massachusetts, June 18, 1902
Died in Melbourne, Florida, March 8, 1983

Ill:. Frank Wippich Balcomb, 33° was the son of Frank Leslie Balcomb and Elizabeth Ann Wippich Balcomb. He was educated in Salem, Massachusetts and was graduated from Boston University­-BBA; Harvard University-EDM; Suffolk University-LIB; Portia Law School-UM; and Suffolk University-JD. He was a teacher at City of Boston Junior College now named Boston School of Law before retiring in 1962.

On April 14, 1932 he married Edyth Marion Dovett who survives him. There were no surviving children.

Upon his death, the Craft lost a man who had given it more than 50 years of service. During this entire period he maintained the re­spect and admiration of his Brethren. The Fraternal orders to which he belonged were many, yet he still had time to spend in amateur photography and was a well known tuba player in the Cape Ann Symphony Orchestra.

Illustrious Brother Balcomb was raised a Master Mason in Jordan Lodge, A. F. & A.M. Peabody Massachusetts on February 26, 1924 and served as its Worshipful Master in 1936. He affiliated with Car­roll Lodge #S7, Freedom, N.H. in 1981. He also served as Worship­ful Master of the 28th Lodge of Instruction from 1937 thru 1941 and was Grand Lodge Representative to Luxembourg in 1968.

Illustrious Brother Balcomb's Scottish Rite affiliations were Perfection, Princes and Rose Croix in the Valley of Salem where he served as both Sovereign Prince and Most Wise Master. He was also a member of Massachusetts Consistory, Boston, Massachusetts. He was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33° Honorary Member of the Supreme Council on September 24, 19S2 in New York City.

In York Rite, he was a member and past head of the following bodies:

  • Washington Royal Arch Chapter, Salem, Mass. 1934
  • Salem Council Royal and Select Masters, Salem, Mass. 1942-1943
  • Winslow Lewis Commandery, Salem, Mass. 1941-1942-1946 Milford Council, R. & S.M.
  • Melbourne Chapter #59, R. A. M.
  • Melbourne Council #38, R. & S. M.
  • Melbourne Commandery #41, K. T.
  • Member and Past Prior of Massachusetts Priory, Knights of York Cross of Honor - 1968
  • Past Sovereign, St. Matthew's Red Cross of Constantine.

Illustrious Brother Balcomb also served as Most Illustrious Grand Master of the Grand Council of Mass. in 1965-67 and Grand King of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter in 1963. He was also attendant on the following appendant bodies, Order of White Shrine of Jerusalem (Past Watchman of Shepherds), Order of Amaranth (Past Royal Patron), and Order of Eastern Star in both Peabody, Mass. and Freedom, N.H. (Past Patron in Peabody). He was a member of Aleppo Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S. since 1924 and also Azan Temple in Melbourne, Florida.

Illustrious Brother Balcomb was also very active in the Odd Fel­lows being Past Noble Grand of Holton, I.O.O.F., Past Patriarch of Summer Encampment of Mass., Major in Canton Fells of Lynn, Mass. and Past Grand Patriarch of the Grand Encampment of Mass. A Memorial Service was held on March 13, 1983 with burial in the Masonic Section of Florida Memorial Cemetery, Melbourne, Florida.

BALDWIN, BENJAMIN D. 1786-1867

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXVI, Vol. 10, August 1867, Page 319:

The deceased died at the residence of his daughter, in Saugus, on Wednesday, July 24th, aged 81 years, and was buried at Mt. Auburn on the 26th. The funeral was largely attended by relatives and friends, and the ceremonies of interment were performed by St. Andrew's Lodge, of this city, assisted by the officers of William Sutton Lodge, of Danvers. The masonic services were read by R.W. Br. Parkman, of the former, in the Chapel of the cemetery.

Brother Baldwin was the senior member of St. Andrew's Lodge, having been admitted to membership in 1820. He was also a member of St Andrew's Chapter, and of the Boston Encampment, and has always been a zealous active, and useful Mason. He was much beloved by the members of his Lodge, and highly respected by all who knew him.

BALDWIN, JOSIAH d. 1853

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XII, Vol. 8, June 1853, p. 253:

The following resolutions, offered by the R. W. Br. Winslow Lewis, in token of respect for the memory of the excellent Brother whose decease they record, were unanimously adopted by the Grand Lodge of this State, at its communication in March last.

  • Resolved, That this Grand Lodge, while in the heartfelt demonstration of respect for the memory of one of her permanent members, is not unmindful of the loss of him who in the humble capacity of Tyler of this body, has faithfully and devotedly served the cause of Masonry for a period extending to the life of a generation.
  • Resolved, That the late Josiah Baldwin has left to us, and to his family, the inestimable legacy of a good name. The trait most conspicuous was uniform and consistent conscientiousness, exemplified in his long devotion to duty. He reverenced its dictates in the smallest as well as the greatest things; and was thus entitled to the commendation of his Great Master, "well done, thou good and faithful servant! thou has been faithful over a few things, I will make thee a ruler over many. Enter thou into the joys of thy Lord."
  • Resolved, That we condole with the bereaved family in the loss of their respected and venerable head. May the mantle of his devotion to duty and conscience fall especially upon him who is connected with us and with them, and though neither wealth nor high station may be the result here, the better wealth, the more glorious place, will be gained hereafter.

BALLARD, HARLAN HOGE 1853-1934

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MEMORIAL

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1934

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1934, Page 63:

Ill. Bro. Harlan Hoge Ballard passed away at Pittsfield, Mass., February 18, 1934. And thus another grand old man and Mason has laid down the working tools of his profession and entered the Celestial Lodge above.

Ill. Bro. Ballard was born in Athens, Ohio, on May 26, 1853, the son of Rev. Addison and Julia Perkins (Pratt) Ballard. In 1879, he married Bishop Pike who survives him. He is also survived by three children, H. Ballard, Mrs. Elizabeth Crofut, and Lucy Bishop Ballard.

Ill. Bro. Ballard was educated at the public schools in Ohio and at Williams College, in Massachusetts, from which he graduated in 1874, where he was a member of Phi Beta Kappa. In 1877 he received his of Master of Arts from the same institution. From 1874 to 1880, he was principal of Lenox High School in Massachusetts, and of Lenox Academy, a leading preparatory school, from 1880 to 1886. He was appointed Librarian of the Pittsfield, Mass. Library in 1888, a position he fulfilled without interruption until his death. Ill. Bro. Ballard was an earnest worker and member of the First Congregational Church in Pittsfield.

Ill. Bro. Ballard was clever with the pen. He has published numerous ks among which the best known are A Translation of Vergil's Aeneid to English Hexameters, and The Adventures of a Librarian. The translation has been highly commended by prominent educators. Other published works were, Three Kingdoms, World of Matter, Open Sesame, and The Tiler's Jewell, the latter an excellent Masonic novel. He was also a joint author of American Plant Book and “One Thousand Blunders in English.

Bro. Ballard has served as President of the Massachusetts Library Association. He was the oldest member of the Monday Evening Club of Pittsfield. One of his most significant activities was the organization in 1895 of the Agassiz Association for the study of Nature, which at one had over 1000 branches and 30,000 members. While the Association ceased to be active, the influences which it had on many a boy and girl were lifelong. He was secretary of the Berkshire Historical Society and was considered an authority on this subject.

Ill. Bro. Ballard was raised a Master Mason in Crescent Lodge of Pittsfield, Mass., on April 19, 1887 and served his lodge as Master in 1892 and 1893.

He was a member of the Berkshire Royal Arch Chapter and the Berkshire Commandery No. 22 of Knights Templars in Pittsfield.

I11. Bro. Ballard was active in forming the Scottish Rite Bodies in Pittsfield and was a charter member of Onota Lodge of Perfection, Pontoosuc Council, Princes of Jerusalem, and Pittsfield Chapter of Rose Croix. He was a Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret 32° in Massachusetts Consistory, Boston. I11. Bro. Ballard served as Thrice Potent Master of Onota Lodge of Perfection and was the first Senior Warden in Pittsfield Chapter of Rose Croix.

The Thirty-Third Degree and Honorary Membership in the Supreme Council was conferred upon I11. Bro. Ballard on September 16, 1913.

Masonry has always been near to the heart of 111. Bro. Ballard and he was constantly in demand as a speaker on Masonic occasions. He practiced in life the virtues intolled in our Ritual and his passing leaves a pang of bitter regret to those who knew him and loved him. He always the gentleman:— Scholarly, refined, dignified, but with a friendliness that reached out to all who came in contact with him. With a cultured mind, trained both in science and in literature, and with a understanding of the needs of young and old in the community, I11. Ballard devoted the best service of his life as a teacher and a guide.

“The Record Of A Generous Life
Runs Like A Fragrant Vine Around His Memory.”

Irvin H. Farrar, 32°,
Robert A. Walker, 32°,
Howard A. Wheeler, 32°,
Committee

BALLOU, ADIN 1803-1890

AdinBallou.jpg

From Liberal Freemason, Vol. XIV, No. 6, September 1890, Page 183:

Among the clergymen of New England who have had large influence in religious circles, the Rev. Adin Ballou was conspicuous, and notwithstanding his advanced age, he preserved to the last a lively interest in all that tended to the support of the Christian religion. His fidelity in this respect characterized his Masonic life, and this must remain as a fine example to the brethren of the fraternity, encouraging them to unite the highest kind of a Christian life, with the mental and moral qualities of a truly Masonic one.

Our venerable brother's home was in Hopedale, Mass., where his death occurred, August 5, 1890. The Milford Daily Journal said of him, "that he entered into 'Life Eternal' without pain or reluctance, as peacefully as the sunset leaves the western sky."

For days this had been foreseen by himself, as well as by his family and friends, Snd he met it with an unaffected gladness as he might greet a newly found dear friend. "His life was gentle, and the elements so mixed that Nature might stand up and say 'this is a man.'

The family data and personal life facts of the late Rev. Adin Ballou, are so fully and yet so modestly set forth in his sketch of himself in the biographical part of the History of Milford, that we should but trespass on the integrity of that narrative, were we to do more than to give in this connection the general current of his life.

He was of Huguenot ancestry, who settled first in England about 1640, and soon after in Rhode Island, where in 1803, April 23, on the original paternal settlement of "The Gore," Cumberland, the deceased first saw the light. There can be little doubt, on reviewing his absolute devotion to the spiritual development of those about him, that he inherited a religious bent from his race, strengthened by the home culture of his mother, Edilda, herself possessed of deep religious convictions. Probably his father, Ariel, justified his cognomen by spiritual fancies, more or less religious, which in turn shaped the mental growth of the deceased.

The subject of this sketch had few opportunities of early education. The scanty resources of the district school, but sparsely added to the rudiments acquired at home; but he had a "literal burning for the sun of knowledge," and greedily pursued every means thereto, resting not in his search for education and learning — a search he never relaxed. He as steadily set his face toward his life work from earliest youth. As early as eleven years, he had an "impressive religious experience." At twelve, he was baptized by immersion, and united with the church of Christ at Cumberland, R. I. When seventeen years old, he preached a sermon before his mates, and at eighteen formally adopted the ministry, after an intense spiritual vision in which he believed himself, not unreluc-tantly, called of Cod. He united with the Connecticut Christian Conference in September, 1821, having preached his first discourse in the old Daniel Ballou meeting-house at "The Gore" when but eighteen. His tract reviewing a sermon of Rev. Hosea Ballou on "The New Birth" drew him gradually into a long and sharp controversy of the destiny of humanity, as a result of which he unequivocally embraced the doctrine of universal salvation. He could not bring himself to believe that "a majority of his fellow-beings were predoomed to eternal torment."

Commencing in 1823, he preached to Universalist congregations in Belltngbam, Medway, Mendon and Boston, in 1824 becoming pastor of the Universalist Society in Milford, where he officiated up to 1831, except six months' pastorate in New York. From 1827 to 1831, he wrote many controversial pamphlets relating to prevailing theology, which resulted in a schism in the Universalists in the State and in Milford, and Mr. Ballou retired from the pastorate of the Milford Church. He was immediately called as pastor of the Mendon Congregational Church, where he remained until 1842. Here his literary and controversial labors may be spoken of as incessant, for, aside from his theological warfare, he assailed every species of society evil — intemperance, war, slavery, business dishonesty, etc., with all the vigorous ability of press and pen. During this period he published and edited a religious weekly, the Independent Messenger, beside many other volumes.

In 1842, with others, he removed to Hopedale, where the attempt to found a Christian Community was long and persistently tried. That it was not the success in the direction Mr. Ballou longed and worked for, is no discredit to either his purity of motive or devotion to humanity, and it may be safely said that to the.Community work and its members is due much of the present prosperity of the village of Hopedale.

For about forty years Mr. Ballou was the resident pastor of Hopedale, although the Community was dissolved, so far as joint ownership in property was concerned, in 1856, and the Liberal Christian Parish organized in 1867. into which the Community gradually merged, the legal conveyances of 1873 forming the closing act.

Mr. Ballou acted as the pastor until advancing years led him to resign, April 23, 1880. He retained a deep interest in the parish work, and has devoted much of his time to the preparation of the History of Milford, the History of the Hopedale Community, and his own autobiography; the last two are yet unpublished. He had completed all but part of the closing chapter of the last when taken ill.

His domestic and private life was singularly pure and unostentatious. He married Miss Abigail Sayles, January 17, 1822, who died of consumption, February 20, 1829. She left a daughter, Abigail, now wife of Rev. William S. Heywood, and a son who died when ten years old. For a second wife he married Lucy, daughter of the late Pearley Hunt, March 3, 1830, and who survives him. Of two sons, by this latter marriage, neither reached maturity, Adin A. dying in his nineteenth year — a young man of marked ability and promise.

It is doubtful if there is in all New England another clergyman who has entered so many homes as a comforter, to whom it was given to personate so becomingly the loveliness of eternal truths. About his ministrations clustered the spiritual lives of thousands ; under his tender offices grew the solemn links of life — the hours of birth, the hours of christening, of marriage and of mourning, until his mild presence breathed a perpetual benediction and his steps brought peace. Few in all this section but have known his tender offices, whether the hour was of nuptial joy, of tremulous rejoicing for nativity, of life dedication in uprightness, or binding the hearts of bereaved mourners in the hour of desolation.

A gentle minister to all grief, a partaker of all comely joy, he is a part of the innermost life of thousands, like a sacred experience, something to remember and revere.

Mr. Ballou was made a Master Mason in Charity Lodge, A. F. and A. M., Milford, in 1824; was made a Royal Arch Mason in Mount Lebanon Chapter in Milford, in 1825; was knighted in Worcester County Commandery, Worcester, in 1825; was Worshipful Master of Charity Lodge in 1826; was made an honorary member of Milford Commandery in 1860, and an honorary member of Montgomery Lodge, A. F. and A. M., in 1888.

As an instance of the intense activity of the deceased, we give the following: He has preached over 4,000 sermons, delivered nearly 3,000 addresses on various secular and religious occasions, united in marriage 2,398 persons, and attended 2,603 funerals. The number of christenings reaches nearly 1,500, and he has written nearly 500 pamphlets, books, etc., without including his editorial labors.

Mr. Ballou came to Milford to reside in 1824, and boarded with Ebenezer Sumner, grandfather of A. J. Sumner. He taught school two winters in a little red school-house at North Milford, standing just opposite the John Cheney brick house. Here Milford's well-known citizen, A. J. Sumner, went to school to him sixty five years ago. Mr. Ballou afterwards kept a private school in the George Pierce house, standing S0Uth<0! and across Main Street from the E. G. Cook house, corner of Main and Sumner Streets. There are probably others now living who went to his private school.

The last time Mr. Ballou appeared in public was on Sunday, June 29, at the Masonic observances in Milford Music Hall, where he made a most impressive and appropriate prayer, the fervency of which was much commented on at the time.

The first reference to a Ballou, so far as Mr. Ballou was able to trace, was Guineboud Balou, a Norman French marshal of William the Conqueror, who accompanied the latter in his English invasion and conquest. As was customary, Marechal Balou was given his share of the fair English land, and many of his descendants inherited estates in Sussex and Devonshire, southern counties of England. Later, owing to the frequent civil wars, the main branch died without issue, and the lineage was continued by collateral branches, from which came the American branch. Maturin Ballou, the founder of this branch, is first known on these shores on January 19, 1646, when he was associated with Roger Williams,in the founding of Rhode Island.

Mr. Ballou's funeral was from the Hopedale Church on Friday, August 8, under Masonic auspices, E. D. Bancroft of Hopedale having charge. The bearers were: A. B. Edmunds, S. C. Sumner, J. B. Bancroft, F. J. Dutcher, Geo. A. Draper, E. S. Draper.

BALLOU, HOSEA 1771-1852

HoseaBallou.jpg

BIOGRAPHY

MOUNT LEBANON BY-LAWS, 1867

From Mount Lebanon By-Laws, 1867, p. 81:

Rev. Hosea Ballou was the son of a Baptist clergyman of Richmond, N. H., where he was born the 30th of April, 1771. He united with the Baptist Church in his native town when in his nineteenth year. He soon after embraced the doctrines of Universal Salvation; was excluded from the Baptist Church, and began to preach in the autumn of 1791.

In 1796, he married Ruth Washburn, who survived him. He was first settled as a preacher in Dana, Mass.; subsequently in Barnard, Vt.; then in Portsmouth, N. H.; afterwards in Salem; wbence he removed to Boston in 1817, and became the first pastor of the Universalist Church and Society in School Street. He continued here a period of thirty-five years, built up a large and respectable society, and was honored, respected, and beloved by his people, and departed this life on Monday, 7th June, 1852, in the 82d year of his age. His funeral was attended on the 9th of June, from the church where he had so long ministered, amid a large concourse of his parishoners and friends.

Rev. Bro. Ballou was admitted an honorary member of the Lodge on the 27th of October, 1817, and appointed its Chaplain in December following. A firm and consistent member of the Order, he was ever regarded with respect and veneration by the Brotherhood.

Bro. Ballou was emphatically a self-educated man; possessing by nature a strong mind and retentive memory, by his industry and perseverance he became one of the most distiuguished divines of the denomination to which he belonged; and although Ile may have differed with some of his friends iu his religious belief, no one ever doubted the sincerity of his faith or the honesty of' his intentions. He was honored and respected by all classes of his fellow-citizens.

NORTHERN LIGHT, 1977

From Northern Light, April 1977, Page 6:

Early American Leader Of the Universalists
By Gerald D. Foss, 33°

Hosea Ballou (1771-1852) was one of the most influential men in American religious life of the 19th century. He preached the love of God for all men, not only for a chosen few. His teachings, though not accepted by all denominations of the Christian religion, mitigated the harsh features of the religion of America in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The doctrine of Calvinism, which provided among other theories that only a few of God’s children were elected to be saved, was strongly entrenched in Protestant denominations of early America. The impact of Ballou’s teachings forced other denominations to take a more liberal position especially on eternal punishment.

What inspired this young man to challenge orthodox religion as practiced in his youth? His father, Maturin Ballou, was a stern Calvinistic Baptist preacher. Like most Baptist ministers of that time, he did not receive any formal theological education. He preached on the Scriptures as he understood them. Like most Baptist ministers, he did not accept any salary. He earned his living with his hands. He owned and operated an 80-acre farm in Richmond, N. H.

During the 18th century a new denomination of Christianity was founded. Its doctrine provided salvation for all mankind but it retained the belief in the Trinity. John Murray was the founder of this denomination in America having brought it from England in 1770. He won admiration of prominent laymen and hostility of orthodox clergy. The first Universalist Society in America was established by him in Gloucester, Mass., in 1779.

Ballou is frequently named as the founder of Universalism in America. He was not. More appropriately, he has been given the title of “Chief Architect.” Born April 30, 1771, in Richmond, N.H., Ballou was the 11th and last child born to Maturin and Lydia Ballou. His mother died when he was two. His father and elder sisters accepted the responsibility of his youth. Even though his father remarried, Hosea formed a deep attachment for his father which endured throughout his long life.

As there were no public schools in Richmond, N.H., his education was restricted to that which could be obtained at home. He learned to read and write. His father had only a few books but one was the Holy Bible. Hosea read the Bible over and over again.

Like all children reared on a farm, Ballou was assigned chores to do. He liked outdoor activity. When farm chores were done, Ballou walked the hills and dales of that beautiful valley.About 1790, the Quakers opened a private school in Richmond. He attended a few months, studied hard and realized how little he knew. He knew he must have more education. With small savings earned from work on other farms, he paid his tuition for a term in Chesterfield Academy. The certificate of proficiency received from that institution entitled him to teach schools in that area. His formal education was completed.

He moved to Hardwick, Mass., later called Dana. There he taught schools in that part of Massachusetts; he also preached when not engaged in school.

An event took place in 1789 which may have enforced the doubts in his mind on Calvinism. Two Baptist evangelists arrived in Richmond. Hundreds were converted and became members of that faith among whom was Hosea Ballou. He was baptized by immersion in ice-cold water in mid-winter. Baptism and conversion did not quiet his restless mind especially on salvation. He would not accept the belief that only an elect few were chosen to be saved. Thus, in less than a year, the Baptist Church of Richmond officially excommunicated him and stated in its action that they found no fault with him except that he believed God would save all.At 20, Ballou commenced preaching to any audience which would listen. He had talent; he was adept at debate. He was persuasive and gifted with powerful logic. He was aware of his talents and equally aware of his lack of formal education which would cause him problems throughout his life. His achievements were made in spite of this deficiency.

In September 1791, Ballou went to Oxford, Mass., to attend the General Convention of Universalists. The movement was new with only a few Universalist preachers in the United States. John Murray attended from Gloucester. Ballou met him for the first time but was not familiar with his theological doctrines. Ballou taught school for the next few years in Massachusetts and Rhode Island and continued to preach as often as he could to improve his skill. He did not read his sermons from manuscript.

In 1794, Ballou attended the General Convention of Universalists being held in Oxford, Mass. He had gained a good reputation in the past three years and had won the acclaim of some ministers, especially one Elhanan Winchester. As Winchester was preaching the sermon on the last day, he summoned young Ballou to the pulpit and there proceeded to ordain him a minister of this denomination. As his services were in much demand, he ceased teaching school and devoted all his time to ministering to groups in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and southern Vermont.

One day in Hardwick, Rev. Caleb Rich invited Ballou to accompany him to Williamsburg, Mass. There he met a young girl named Ruth Washburn. They were married September 15, 1795. To them would be born nine children. Their happy companionship survived nearly 55 years when he died.In the early part of 1803, he was invited by four groups of Universalists to become their minister in Vermont. All towns were near Woodstock. He accepted and with his wife and three children made their home in Barnard, Vt. He met with some strong opposition from established churches there which only served to strengthen his belief.

While he resided there he began to write pamphlets and books. At least 65 were published. Some contained hundreds of pages—some were only sermons, but his biographer said the total pages would probably fill 100 books. His Notes on the Parables of the NewTestament was written in 1804 and remained popular for several years.His masterpiece, Treatise on Atonement, was written in 1805. This 216- page book has been reprinted many times. It contains some of his best work and is filled with homily illustrations and pungent wit.

In 1809 it was time to move on. A Universalist Society had been established in Portsmouth, N.H., in the 1770’s. Noah Parker was its first minister but he died in 1787. Reverend George Richards was invited to be pastor in 1793. When he arrived, there

were only a few members. When he departed for Philadelphia in 1809, there was a beautiful new edifice on Pleasant Street and a large congregation. Ballou was invited to succeed Richards and accepted. This parish was the first for him where he had only one church to serve, and it was a full-time job. He, his wife, and their five children moved to Portsmouth in November 1809. His relations were friendly with his fellow ministers. He made friends in both the town and parish until the beginning of the War of 1812. President Madison called for a day of national humiliation and prayer. Ballou responded by preaching a forthright sermon August 20, 1812, in favor of the President and the war. As the war was unpopular in this seaport town, his sermon made him many enemies in his parish. Some members withdrew their support from the church to attend another. Ballou was now forced to supplement his income by teaching school.

He invited his grandnephew of the same name, Hosea Ballou 2nd (1796- 1861), to come to Portsmouth to assist him. The young Ballou studied theology while there, later to serve as minister to a number of parishes in Stafford, Conn., and Roxbury and Medford, Mass. He became the first president of Tufts University in 1854 and remained in that office until his death. Young Ballou became a member of Thomas Lodge, Monson, Mass., while at Stafford, Conn., later affiliating with Washington Lodge, Roxbury, Mass.

The Universalist Church at Salem, Mass., invited Ballou to be its pastor in 1815. He remained two years when he received a call from the Second Universalist Society, Boston. Here he made his fame and a small fortune for that time. He continued to preach to large crowds three times each Sunday. He was invited to New York, Philadelphia, and Akron, Ohio, as well as many other places between 1817 and 1852. Not only did he preach, but he wrote regularly for many years. His royalties from his books supplemented his salary well.

During the period 1818-21, he was editor of The Universalist Magazine, the first such publication in America. Later with his grandnephew, he was co-editor of The Universalist Expositor. He attended all the General Conventions of the Universalist Society during his 60 years as a minister. He spent May 30, 1852, at Woonsocket, R.I., where he preached in the morning and afternoon. The next day he returned home making plans to attend the Massachusetts Convention scheduled for June 2 in Plymouth. Upon arising that morning, he did not feel well and remained at home. He died at home June 7, 1852, his wife surviving him by nine months. A largely attended funeral service was held from the Second Church on School Street, June 9, 1852. His remains were buried temporarily on the Common at the corner of Boylston and Tremont Streets. Later they were removed to the Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge. There a statue was erected by Universalists showing Ballou in a preaching posture.

The principles of Freemasonry attracted Ballou as a young man. He liked the idea of the Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of God. Walter E. Flister, Secretary of Mount Zion Lodge, now located in Barre, Mass., but formerly in Hardwick, Mass., certifies from the minutes of that lodge that Ballou was listed as a Visiting Brother first on August 20, 1800. He visited on two other dates in 1801 and 1802 but the minutes fail to reveal the lodge of which he was a member. He paid the evening fee of 1 sh. 6 p. Although extensive search has been made through the Grand Lodges of all New England, except Maine which was not organized until 1820, the lodge in which he received his degrees has not been located. Soon after moving to Vermont in early 1803, the records of the Grand Lodge of Vermont show him as Senior Warden of Federal Lodge No. 15, Randolph. In 1804 he was elected a member of a new lodge, Warren No. 23, Woodstock, Vt., where he became its Worshipful Master December 23, 1807, and served during the year 1808. According to an article appearing in The Master Mason for March 1929, written by Herbert H. Hines, Ballou was recorded as present at least three times each year from 1804 to his installation as Worshipful Master, when he presided over his lodge eight times in 1808. He was recorded present twice in 1809 prior to leaving for his new pastorate in Portsmouth, N. H. He also represented his lodge at the Annual Meeting of the Grand Lodge of Vermont in the summer of 1808, for which he was reimbursed $7.73 for expenses.

Ballou delivered several sermons before various Masonic lodges in Vermont and New Hampshire to observe the Feasts of St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist. Among those published were one delivered before Mount Moriah Lodge at Wilmington, Vt., June 24, 1805; another before Aurora Lodge at Montpelier, Vt., December 27, 1805, and another before the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire and St. John’s Lodge No. 1, Portsmouth, N. H., June 24, 1810.

Soon after his arrival in Portsmouth in the fall of 1809, Ballou is recorded as a visitor to St. John’s Lodge No. 1, January 3, 1810. He is recorded as Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire at the Annual Meeting held in Portsmouth, April 25, 1810. At this meeting he was appointed Junior Grand Warden by Most Worshipful Clement Storer. He was among some influential men, for Storer was in Congress; Michael McClary, famed Revolutionary War officer, was Senior Grand Warden; Elijah Hall, Grand Treasurer, a veteran of the Continental Navy having served on the Ranger under John Paul Jones, was now a member of the Governor’s Council; and Dr. Lyman Spalding, prominent physician, was Grand Secretary.

The feast of St. John the Baptist was celebrated at the Universalist Church, Portsmouth for the first time, June 26, 1810. Proceeded by the Portsmouth Band of Music, the Masons of Portsmouth marched through Court Street to Pleasant Street to the new church opposite the home of Governor John Langdon where Ballou preached a sermon based on the Gospel according to St.Luke 3:6, “and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.” It was a favorite theme throughout his ministerial career. Ballou continued to serve as Junior Grand Warden and Senior Grand Warden until he departed for Salem, Mass., in May 1815. During this period there is no evidence that he affiliated with any New Hampshire lodge. He presided once as Grand Master pro tem July 23, 1812, and his name was recorded in attendance at St. John’s Lodge at least once a year.

After he removed to Boston, he affiliated with Mount Lebanon Lodge. He was elected an honorary member October 27, 1817, and appointed Chaplain December 1817. He remained a member until his death.

BANCROFT, AMOS 1768-1848

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. VII, No. 10, August 1848, p. 319:

Pepperell, June 26, 1848.

Sir Kt. Moore,—"A great man hath fallen in Israel." Died in Boston, July 12th, Dr. Amos Bancroft, of Groton, Mass., in the 82d year of bis age. While crossing near the head of State street, he was knocked down by a horse and carriage, the approach of which, being very deaf, he did not hear—and the injury thus received resulted in his death within a few hours. He was a son of Capt. Edmund Bancroft, of Pepperell—the man who sent his sons and journeymen to fight the battles of their eountry, for the sacred cause of freedom. Amos, being quite a lad, and not old enough to wield a musket, was kept on the farm. One day, while riding a horse to plough, the horse took fright, mad went at the top of his speed, with the plough attached to him, until he came to a high fence, and stopping suddenly, threw him a number of feet on a heap of rocks. He was taken up for dead, but by skillful treatment, soon recovered.

To this incident in his life be owed his education. He graduated at Harvard College in 1791; studied medicine under Dr. Oliver Prescott, sen., of Groton, and Dr. Hurd, of Concord; practised in that profession at Westford and at Weaton; removed to Groton in 1811, where he lived until death summoned him from the terrestial Lodge below, to repose ou the bosom of his Maker in the celestial Lodge above. He received the degrees of Freemasonry in Middlesex Lodge, Framingham, Mass. He always spoke in the highest terms of the Masonic Institution, and during the antimasonic excitement, he stood like a lower of strength in defence of the Masonic flag. Thanks be given to the Almighty Architect, that nag is still floating on the battlements, where it will remain until the consummation of all things. As a Physician, for judgment and skill in the healing art, be had not a superior in New England. He was for many years a counsellor in the Massachusetts Medical Society. A large circle of relatives and friends are left to mourn his sudden death:

" Catch, oh catch the transient hour,
Improve each moment as it flies;
Life's a short summer, man a flower—
He dies—alas! how soon he dies!"

Yours, fraternally, Luther S. Bancroft.

BANCROFT, EDMUND DANA 1821-1896

DanaBancroft.JPG

MEMORIAL

GRAND MASTER'S ADDRESS, DECEMBER 1896

From Proceedings, Page 1896-219:

Wor. Edmund Dana Bancroft, of Ayer, a Grand Lecturer of this Grand 'Lodge for thirteen years, died on Wednesday afternoon, August 12th last, from the effects of sunstroke. He was nearly seventy-five years of age. He was present at the last Communication of this Grand Lodge, and took part in its debates. No subject of importance came before this Grand Body in which Bro. Bancroft did not take deep interest. It was this intense interest which caused him to write me a letter of ten pages under date of July 4, 1896. It was upon the subject of music, which was before this Grand Lodge for consideration at the Communication in June last. He concluded by speaking very kindly of the present condition and work of our Grand Lodge, and said: Writing you has made this fourth of July very delightful to me. He was a conservative, judicious and zealous Mason.

From Proceedings, Page 1896-221:

There is nothing idle or unmeaning in the words of our ritual which impress upon us thoughts of mortality. The hour-glass and scythe are no longer emblems, but stern realities, as we pause at the graves of those who have walked beside us and whose voices we can still hear uttering words of friendship, of encouragement and of inspiration.

In. the death of Wor. Bro. Bancroft, the Grand Lodge and the Fraternity lose one of their most loyal members. For more than a generation he has been a regular attendant upon our Communications, and during all that period he has been an office-bearer in this Body or in one or more subordinate Lodges.

Edmund Dana Bancroft was born in Pepperell, Sept. 6, 1821. He received a common-school education, and was a teacher for some years in his native place and in towns adjoining. In 1858 he entered the employ of the railroads meeting at Groton Junction, now Ayer, as station-master, holding the position twelve years. He was next in business as an insurance agent, representing his district in the Legislatures of 1871 and 1872, and was State Senator in 1879. He was postmaster from 1883 to 1887, and for a time an officer of U.S. Customs.

His Masonic life dates from his initiation in Aurora Lodge, Sept. 8, 1856. He was elected to membership in St. Paul Lodge in November, 1857, and became its Worshipful Master less than two years later, holding the office for three years. At the time of assuming the Chair in St. Paul Lodge, he ha,d concluded a year as Master of Trinity Lodge, U.D., and had been for six months the Master of Excelsior Lodge, U.D., afterwards chartered as Caleb Butler Lodge. In October, 1865, he was appointed Master of Charles W. Moore Lodge, U.D., and upon the granting of its charter, he withdrew from membership in St. Paul Lodge to serve two years more in the East of Charles W. Moore Lodge. He was dimitted from this Lodge in 1870, was again elected to membership in St. Paul Lodge, and was its Worshipful Master from 1872 to 1874. In 1876 he was Master of Boylston Lodge, U.D. This record shows that in the early part of 1859 he was presiding over two Lodges under dispensation, that in the latter part of that year he was placed at the head of a chartered Lodge while still Master of a Lodge under dispensation, and that in all he was the Worshipful Master of five Lodges. In addition to this, he was in charge of the work of Caleb Butler Lodge for some months while its Master was absent at the time of the Civil War. In 1874, retiring from the East of St. Paul Lodge, he was elected its Secretary, and continued in that office until his death.

He was Junior Grand Steward in 1861, and Grand Lecturer from December of that year to the close of 1874. By election as proxy, he held a seat in the Grand Lodge during the remainder of his life. The importance of his services can hardly be overestimated. He was a prominent figure in his section of the State during the revival of Masonry there. His gravity of deportment, manifesting itself in thought, speech and action, and his untiring, energetic enthusiasm exerted a decided influence, and in his intercourse with the Craft as Grand Lecturer he received the respect due to one who in addition to these traits gave evidence of being a careful and conscientious student of the ritual. He was entitled to the highest praise for his labors in retaining the true work and resisting the introduction of innovation in the years preceding the authoritative establishment of the ritual by the Committee of 1874.

Wor. Bro. Bancroft received the Chapter degrees in Thomas Chapter in 1858, and held for a year the office of King. He was the first Eminent Commander of Jerusalem Commandery, and had received the thirty-third degree in the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite.

In 1845 he married Mary Park Morse, who died in 1860. Four daughters, the children of this marriage, survive him: Mrs. M. J. Tucker, of Boston; Mrs. Jacob P. Hazen, of Shirley; Mrs. Anna Richardson, of Washington, D.C.; and Mrs. James A. Beatley, of Roxbury. In 1861 he married Phoebe Bridge Barrett, who died in 1895. His domestic life was a happy one. It seemed to be pervaded by that music in which he delighted, and which was his contribution to public worship as the organist for many years of the Unitarian Church. He believed in music and song as an essential feature at all Masonic gatherings, and his whole life was a song in harmony with his surroundings. His mental faculties were not obscured by age. His latest work was as a collaborator in the preparation of a centennial history of St. Paul Lodge, to which he was devoting a regular part of each day. This undertaking he left unfinished. He died Aug. 12, 1896.

His death was induced by the severe heat of the second week in that month, and the fatal attack occurred while on his way from Ayer to Shirley, to bring home his children and grandchildren, who had been absent for the day. His Brothers of the Mystic Tie assisted in paying the last sad offices to his remains. His funeral was held at the Unitarian Church, in Ayer, and he was buried at Shirley.

The limits of this sketch will not permit of an extended analysis of his character, even if we considered ourselves qualified to place it on record. All who knew him can testify to his ability, to his unswerving integrity, and to the acquired habit of self-watchfulness which he had so made a part of himself that it dominated and controlled his every word and act. But those who were admitted, to closer familiarity with him like to recall something more: the spirit of loyalty he always manifested to his Brethren and friends, his kindly affection towards them, even while he grieved at times over their differences of opinion, and the eagerness with which he sought the opportunity to reconcile such differences. They love to remember that, even after death had laid his hand upon him, his last conscious efforts were in trying to complete the work he had undertaken to do for others.

We can say no more than to express our belief that when he began his new life as the youngest Entered Apprentice in the Celestial Lodge, he might justly have been greeted by the same words he had so often addressed to others, and told that he stood in that presence a just and upright Mason.

Respectfully submitted,
THOS. W. DAVIS,
ALBERT J. ATWOOD,
HOWARD M. DOW,
Committee.

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, JULY 1897

From A. A. S. R., Council of Deliberation, 07/03/1897:

Ill. Bro. Edmund Dana Bancroft was born in Pepperell, Mass., Sept. 6, 1821. He was educated in the public schools, and was a teacher several years in his native place and in towns adjoining. In 1S58 he entered the employ of the Fitchburg Railroad Company as station master at Groton Junction, now Ayer, holding the position twelve years. He was next in business as an insurance agent, and was postmaster of Ayer from 1883 to 1887. He represented his district in the Legislatures of 1871 and 1872, and was State Senator in 1879. For a time he was an officer of the United States Customs in Boston.

Brother Bancroft was raised a Master Mason in Aurora Lodge, Fitchburg, Oct. 21, 1850, and was elected to membership Jan. 5, 1857. He was elected a member of St. Paul Lodge, Groton, Nov. 30, 1857, and Oct. 17,. 1859, was elected its Wor. Master, holding the office three years. When dispensations were granted to Trinity Lodge. Clinton, Sept. 23, 1858, Excelsior Lodge, constituted as Caleb Butler Lodge, Ayer, March 25, 1859, Charles W. Moore Lodge, Fitchburg, Oct. 10. 1865, and Boylston Lodge, West Boylston, Feb. 8, 1876, Wor. Bro. Bancroft served as presiding officer under the several dispensations. Upon the granting of a charter to Charles W. Moore Lodge, he withdrew from St. Paul Lodge Sept. 24, 1860, to serve two years in the East of Charles W. Moore Lodge He dimitted from this Lodge Dec. 20, 1870, and affiliating again with St. Paul Lodge served as its Wor. Master from October, 1872, to Oct. 19, 1874, when he was elected secretary of the Lodge and continued in that office nearly twenty-two years until his decease. He was elected an honorary member of St. Paul Lodge Sept. 24, 1860. He conferred the degrees on one hundred and thirty-five candidates.

In the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts he was appointed Junior Grand Steward Dec 27, 1860, and Grand Lecturer Dec. 27, 1861, serving thirteen years to Dec. 29, 1874.

He was exalted in Thomas R. A. Chapter, Fitchburg, Sept. 22, 1858, and served as King in 1863 and 1865.

He received the degree of R. and S. Master in Hiram Council, Worcester, May 12, 1859.

He was knighted in Pilgrim Commandery, Lowell, May 4, 1859. He served as Em. Commander of Jerusalem Commandery under the dispensation dated March 8, 1864. Under its charter, dated May 5, 1805, he was installed as its first Em. Commander, Oct. 13, 1865, serving two years. He was Grand Lecturer in the Grand Commander; of Massachusetts and Rhode Island in 1865 and 1866, and from Oct. 27, 1871 thirteen years to Oct. 31, 1884. He conferred the orders of knighthood on fifty candidates.

In the A. A. Scottish Rite he received the degrees in Lowell Lodge of Perfection, Lowell Council of P. of J., and Mt. Calvary Chapter of Rose Croix March 3, 1863, and the degrees in Massachusetts Consistory, then of Lowell, April 2, 18U3. He was created a Sov. Grand Inspector-General, 33°, and an honorary member of the Supreme Council of the Nor. Mass. Jurisdiction in Boston, May 19, 1865.

Ill. Bro. Bancroft was married in 1845 to Mary Park Morse, who died in 1860; their four daughters are still living. In 1861 he married Phoebe Bridge Barrett, who died in 1895. His mental faculties were unimpaired by age. His latest work was as a co-laborer in the preparation of a centennial history of St. Paul Lodge, to which he devoted a regular part of each day, and which he left unfinished. He died Aug. 12, 1896, his death being induced by exposure to the severe heat while on the way from Ayer to Shirley.

From the record of his Masonic career it will be apparent that Brother Bancroft was a devoted Mason, and through a long period of years gave much time and attention to the prosecution of Masonic work. Everything which came to his hands was thoroughly done, and his personal influence was widely and most favorably felt in Masonic circles. He was a man of unimpeachable character, much respected and beloved in the community in which he lived, and his virtues as a man and citizen were recognized wherever he was known.

Respectfully submitted,
B. W. Rowell,
Theo. H. Emmons,
Seamus Bowen,
Committee.

BANCROFT, JONATHAN 1761-1848

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. VII, No. 4, February 1848, p. 125:

Died Dec. 10th, Col. Jonathan Bancroft, in the 87th year of his age.

Col. Bancroft served his country during the war of the American Revolution. He enlisted when quite a lad, under Lieut. Edmund Bancroft, of Pepperell, (his oldest brother,) as his waiter. His brother soon died in Charlestown, of the small pox, and was buried on the west side of Bunker Hill. After this heart-rending scene, young Jonathan bad to take his pack and gun, without the instructions of an affectionate brother. He was stationed at West Point at the time of Arnold's treason. Two of his brother soldiers belonging to the same company helped row Arnold down the Hudson river, and put him on board the British sloop of war Vulture. He witnessed the execution of the accomplished Major André, the pride of the Royal Army, and has stated that he was the handsomest man that he ever saw. He had the honor to hail the great Washington, when on sentry on the banks of the Hudson, and order him to give the countersign, at the bayonet's point. He was soon selected to join the Light Infantry commanded lby the darling child of France, the magnanimous La Fayette; and during their toilsome marches through the Carolines and Virginia, when they were pressed by the British Army under Lord Cornwallis, LaFayette would address his soldiers in language like this: "O! my brave Light Infantry! I must Adjutant you a little tonight." He was at the taking of Lord Cornwallis and his army at Yorktown, and was stationed near the American flag when a grape-shot from the British cannon, cut the staff and it fell on to him and Cprl. Hart, of Lynn, then a brother sergeant with him in the army. One says to the other, "Who has got it?" "Both," was the answer. They placed it on the breast-work, and the terrible pas de charge was heard from the right to the left wing of the American army. They penetrated through the British lines and carried them at the point of the bayonet.

It is meet for us, as Masons and patriots, to remember the deeds of such men. The last man who belonged to the flower of Washington's Army, in this section of the State of Massachusetts, has gone. God, and Washington, were on his lips while his senses remained.

"How sleep the brave who sink to rest
With all their country's honors blest!"

Yours, fraternally, Luther S. Bancroft.

BANCROFT, LUTHER 1771-1854

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XIV, No. 1, October 1854, Page 9:

Dear Sir Kt. and Br.— I wrote yon a few days ago, a short obituary notice of my father, but I did not see the notice in the last number of the Magazine. Will you have the goodness to insert the following?

Brother Luther Bancroft died suddenly, September 22, 1854, aged eighty-three years and five months. Br. Bancroft was the youngest son of Capt. Edmund Bancroft, of Pepperell, — the man who belonged to the Provincial Congress, at Watertown, in the days that tried "men's souls." Every son of his, old enough to wield a musket, had to fight for liberty under such commanders as Col. William Prescott, of Pepperell, and Washington!! On the never to be forgotten 19th of April, 1775, my father, being only four years old, remembers seeing Mr. William Tarbell (the nearest neighbor of his father.) coming into the house hastily and saying " Captain! the regulars have arrived at Concord! Where is Edmund?" "He has just set out to go down East," said my grandfather, (to what is now called the State of Maine, as he owned a lot of land there.) "Go, Jonathan," he says to his next oldest son, "and call him back — he has not got out of hearing." Jonathan soon came within hailing distance. His Brother, with a tiger bound sprang for his equipments at the house — bid farewell — and joined Capt. John Nutting's company of minute-men of Pepperell.

That company, seventy-five in number, arrived at the Foot of the Rocks, so called, in Lexington, on the same day, before sundown. They did not get the news in Pepperell until nearly 3 o'clock, P. M. On the memorable 17th of June, 1775, his father was aiding and assisting in conveying refreshments and ammunition to Col. Prescott's forlorn hope, on Breed's Hill, until the British landed and made their first charge. He was then ordered to retire and keep out of danger. His oldest son, Edmund, was there, and was appointed a Sergeant Major by Col. Prescott.

On the day of my father's death, he exhibited a powder horn, to a gentleman of Pepperell, bearing date 1737, carved with curious devices, and the initials E. B., a present to his father, from Mr. Robinson Lakin, of Pepperell. His oldest Brother carried it by his side, at the battle of Bunker Hill! He related to the reverend gentleman a thrilling incident, of that birth day of our liberty, about his eldest Brother and Lieut. John Mosher, of Capt. John Nutting's company of minute men. After the third charge of the British, orders were given by Colonel Prescott for "every man to take care of himself. A great many of our men did not bear the order, and fought with the butts of their muskets until they were nearly surrounded by the enemy. Lieut. Mosher, and Edmund, left the redoubt at the same time side by side ; they had proceeded but a short distance, when Mosher says to Edmund, "let us separate, — one or both are soon dead men!"' "Do you see that British grenadier beside of a post, bringing his musket to a level?" "My gun is not loaded," says Lieut. Mosher. "Mine is," says Edmund, who in an instant placed his death sight upon his musket and the grenadier was no more!

The above was related to my father by Lieut. John Mosher, after the close of the revolutionary war. The gun which his Brother Edmund had in the battle of Bunker Hill shows the marks of hard usage — it is kept as a precious relic of that never to be forgotten day. His oldest Brother was commissioned as a lieutenant in the Continental Army, and was soon appointed a captain, but fell a victim to that awful scourge the small pox, which raged in the American camp, June 25th, 1777, in the twenty-ninth year of his age. His body slumbers near the vicinity of Bunker Hill, without a stone to mark the place of its lone rest. His writings of those days are very interesting. I obtain from them what I cannot from history. Jonathan, his next oldest Brother, was his waiter when he died — he served during the war of the American Revolution, as has been mentioned in a preceding number of this Magazine. Thomas Bancroft, the next Brother in order, was an enterprising farmer, in Pepperell. Amos Bancroft, the next Brother in order, was a distinguished Physician. He resided in the town of Groton, Mass., and was accidentally killed in State Street, Boston, a few years since — this name will be found in a preceding number of the Magazine. Luther Bancroft, the youngest, and last Brother, was an operative, as well as a speculative Mason! He received a severe injury from his sister by a hatchet, when about three years old, which severed the two middle and forefingers from his right hand.

He learned to spread "that cement, which unites a building into one common mass." Many an edifice in Boston and the New England States, will tell of his work when that hand has returned to the dust. We cannot conceive how this exquisite specimen of creative omnipotence should be limited in its existence even for a few years, when monuments of human art survive the shock of ages.

He was initiated into our holy Order of Freemasonry in 1797, and took the three degrees the same year, in St. Paul's Lodge, Groton, Mass., Rt. W. M. James Brazer, presiding. He wore the regalia of the Order when the Lodge was consecrated, — and he fondly hoped to attend our last annual meeting, which happened a few days after his death. One solitary pillar was there with us, — Br. John Walton, of Pepperell, — the other, Br. Jonathan Loring, of Groton, was not able to attend. Only two yet linger on the verge of the grave to tell us of that auspicious day. During the rage of Anti-Masonry, Br. Bancroft was true to the institution, as the rays of the sun, are true to tangent lines. I trust his soul has been raised by the "Lamb that was slain from the foundation of the world," to that blissful Lodge above where death can never enter — and there, with kindred spirits, to spend a happy eternity! The four Brothers lived, each one of them, to see between eighty and ninety years, In calling the names of our Brethren at our annual meeting, the answer comes from the Tyler of Eternity — gone home!

Yours fraternally,
Luther S. Bancroft.

BARBER, JOHN 1767-1818

From Mount Lebanon Lodge By-Laws, 1867, p. 80:

John Barber was born in Boston, December 24, l767; was a tailor by trade; at one time kept a grocery store in Ann Street, near Cross Street; afterwards carried on the tailoring business at No. 34 Prince Street. He died on the 7th of December, 1818, aged 51.

Bro. Barber was one of the original members of this Lodge, and its first Secretary; he held the office of Warden three years, and was elected Master in 1807.

One who knew him well, says: "He was thoroughly versed in his Masonic duties, and faithful in their performance, and also a pious, good man."

BARCLAY, STANTON DeWITT 1899-1992

From TROWEL, Spring 1993, Page 26:

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A Mason for All Seasons
by Robert Dustin

On November 30, 1992, Bro. Stanton Barclay, founder, benefactor, general manager and counselor of the Charlton Railroad died. He was 93.

Bro. Stan was a member of Norumbega & Brookline Lodge in Newtonville. The Lodge has a program called "The Mason for All Seasons." The recipient best exemplifies the tenets of Brotherly love. Relief and Truth not only in the Lodge and among his Brethren, but in all his transactions with Mankind. Bro. Stan, a 65-year veteran, was one of the first to be recognized.

As a member of Newton Rotary, The First Baptist Church in Newton, Palestine Chapter #114 O.E.S. and founder and president of the Barclay Chemical Company - to which he went to work every day, he had ample opportunity to take an active role in the community and contributed generously in both time and money where he thought there was a need.

Bro. Stan was married to his beloved Edith for 57 years. Their son, Stan Jr. is also a member of the Lodge.

His affection and fascination with railroads, especially the steam locomotive, started at a very young age, but it took a while to come to fruition, to say the least. In 1979 at the age of 80, Bro. Stan acquired a 1 ton live steam locomotive. 
With his brothers Ken and Charles they proceeded to make a portable railroad. Offered for use to churches, schools, and civic events, the Barclay Railroad operated from the Cape to Vermont for the next 10 years.

In 1983 the Grand Master's Fair was added to the schedule. By now the railroad had grown to three engines and 17 riding cars which Bro. Stan himself built. In the Fall of 1989, Bro. Stan donated the entire collection to the Grand Lodge. At Charlton his railroad had found its permanent home. But. this did not put an end to his involvement.

When the Charlton Railroad Association was formed, Bro. Stan was elected the General Manager. He underwrote the cost of the station and diesel locomotive. Planning meetings were held Friday mornings at his office. Bro. Stan's knowledge and engineering experience (he held an M. E. in engineering and Doctorate of Letters) and his intuitive leadership offered the resources needed to build the railroad.

Bro. Stan's office is an inviting clutter of 93 years of memories. Among the awards and diplomas, the autographed photos of famous personages and drawings by the grandchildren hangs a somewhat fading black and white 8 X 10 taken sometime in 1919. It shows a stout young apprentice with the gaze of confidence straight into the camera his foot placed for balance against the pilot of a Pennsy K4 Pacific. Bro. Stan had the job of hostler on the enginehouse crew in his summer college days. It was, he said, "The best damn job anyone could ever have."

Generous and compassionate, paying heed to the needs of others. Brother Stanton DeWitt Barclay was, indeed, A Mason for All Seasons.

BARKER, RICHARD MANNING 1823-1875

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From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ, 1876, Page 29:

Ill. Bro. Richard Manning Barker was born in Boston Oct. 9, 1823. He may be said to have inherited a predilection for Freemasonry from his father, who attained the Royal Arch Degree. At all events, his attention was drawn to it in his early manhood; for we find him making application for the degrees in St. John’s Lodge, Boston, in 1847, when as only twenty-four years of age.

He was initiated an Entered Apprentice Nov. 9, 1847; passed to the degree of Fellow Craft Dec. 6, 1847; raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason Feb. 7, 1848; and was elected a member of St. John’s Lodge May 1, 1848.

He entered at once into the spirit of the institution, becoming from the first an active working officer; for we find him the choice of his Lodge as Senior Steward in 1849, and Junior Deacon for the years 1852 and 1853.

He was one of the leading spirits in Boston Lodge of Instruction, a school whence graduated so many bright Masons, who went forth into the Fraternity, and by their zeal, and knowledge of the ritual, diffused a flood of light among their brethren that has done much towards rendering Massachusetts Masons distinguished among the craft.

Having easily mastered the work and lectures, he soon became an acknowledged authority in the ritual. His proficiency and capacity for imparting knowledge caused his services to be greatly in request. At a time when accuracy in the ritual was not deemed so essential as at present, to meet the deficiencies then existing, he was employed in giving instruction to the officers and members of St. Paul’s Lodge in South Boston. He was not long in imbuing the minds of the brethren with a sense of the beauty of good work; thus creating an interest in Freemasonry, which, never strong, had long been languishing in that part of the city. A renewed life and vigor seemed to be the result of his labors, led by the old, revered by the young, he was the central figure among whom clustered a number of young Masons, who, on the 13th of March, 1855, petitioned for and received a Dispensation for the establishment of Gate of the Temple Lodge, of which he served as W. Master during the year of Dispensation. When the charter was issued, March 3, 1856, he received a dimit from St. John’s Lodge, and was elected Worshipful Master of the new Lodge, in which capacity he served during the years 1S56 and 1857.

Those of us who received their first Masonic light and knowledge, and became associated with him in his Masonic labors, in those the days of his manly prime and beauty, feel that his more recent acquaintances, who beheld him wrecked in body and mind, can form no adequate idea of the correctness of his work, the stateliness of his presence, and the dignity and impressiveness of his manner, while he officiated as Worshipful Master of Gate of the Temple Lodge. In recognition of his valuable services, he was, on leaving the chair, elected an honorary member of the Lodge. Jan. 12, 1869, he was one of the petitioners for a Dispensation; thus becoming one of the founders of Rabboni Lodge, South Boston, and one of its charter members, Jan. 12, 1870, at the same time taking his discharge from active membership in Gate of the Temple Lodge. He was Worshipful Master of Rabboni Lodge during the years 1869 and 1870, giving to that Body the benefit of his great experience, and performing the duties of his office with marked ability.

He was exalted to the Sublime Degree of Royal Arch Mason Dec. 5, 1848, in St. Paul’s Royal Arch Chapter; and became a member of that chapter Dec. 19, 1848. He was one of the founders of St. Matthew's Royal Arch Chapter, South Boston, in 1863. He served that chapter as its Captain of the Host during its year of Dispensation; and, possessing a perfect knowledge of the ritual, he was able to impart that knowledge which enabled his companions to perform their official duties. Being created an honorary member of this chapter in consideration of his services, he was content to decline promotion after seeing St. Matthew’s Chapter established upon a firm basis. He then returned to active service in St. Paul’s Chapter, being elected as its Excellent Scribe for the years 1865 and 1S66, and holding the office of Excellent King for the year 1867.

He received the Degrees of the Cryptic Rite in Boston Council Royal and Select Masters. The Royal and Select Masters' Degrees were conferred upon him in January, 1854, and that of Super-Excellent Master, March, 1854, becoming a member of the Council April. 1854. He was elected Sentinel October, 1855, and again in October, 1856.

He received the Orders of Knighthood in Boston Commandery of Knights Templar, being created a Knight of the Red Cross Nov. 16, 1854, and Knight of the Temple and Malta Nov. 29, 1854. He was elected a member of Boston Commandery Dec. 20, 1854. If the name of our deceased Brother does not appear with prominence upon the rolls of that Commandery, it must not be taken as evidence that he was at all wanting in interest in the welfare and prosperity of that renowned and powerful body of Masons. Nor is it to be supposed that he had no desire to earn fame and distinction, or, what is better, to be useful in the noble orders of Knighthood. It was a matter of especial pride with him that he was a member of Boston Commandery. Being a lover of and proficient in military drill, his skill was frequently put into exercise whenever it was necessary to prepare the Sir Knights for a public parade.

But the most active, earnest, and distinguished services which have been rendered by our Illustrious deceased Brother have been exemplified by his connection with our beloved Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite.

He received the Degrees in this Rite, being created a S. P. R. S., 32°, Nov. 21, 1862. On the same day he received the 33°, being created Sovereign Grand Inspector-General and Honorary Member of the Supreme Council.

He was a petitioner for and a Charter Member of Lafayette Lodge Perfection, 14°; Giles F. Yates Council of Princes of Jerusalem, 16°; Gourgas Chapter of Rose Croix, 18°; and De Witt Clinton Consistory, S. P. R. S., 32°. It may be observed, that, with the opportunity for personal advancement which was now open to him, he thought of nothing but what would promote the best interests of the Rite. To him chiefly belongs the credit of organizing these four Bodies, and seeking out and bringing forward the men who would perform the duties of maintaining these organizations, and doing the work creditably. “We are making history,” he would say; and he realized the fact that more to him than any one else did his Brethren look for counsel and advice, and all his powers were enlisted in what he believed to be a great work. In recognition of his labors in their behalf, he was created an Honorary Member of these four Bodies.

Dec. 13, 1866, he was advanced to active membership in the Supreme Council of Sovereign Grand Inspectors-General, 33°, for the Northhern Jurisdiction, U. S. A. In 1869 he was elected Treasurer of Lafayette Lodge of Perfection, Giles F. Yates Council of P. of J., Gourgas Chapter of Rose Croix, and DeWitt Clinton Consistory. He remained Treasurer of the Consistory until Feb. 15, 1871, when that Body surrendered its Charter, and united with Massachusetts Consistory. He was Treasurer of Gourgas Chapter of Rose Croix till April 18, 1871, when it merged with Mount Olivet Chapter. He remained Treasurer the Council of P. of J. and of the Lodge of Perfection till Dec. 11, 1874, when he was elected M. E. S. P. G. Master of Giles F. Yates Council of P. of J. In these capacities, having in charge the receipts and expenditures of all of these four Bodies, be it remembered, that although sickness and adversity laid their heavy hand upon him, and although poverty overtook him, so that stern necessity compelled him to ask for that assistance which belongs to the distressed worthy Brother, he was faithful to his trust, accounting, like the honest man that he was, for every dollar which had come into his hands in his capacity of Treasurer.

When he was elected as presiding officer of Giles F. Yates Council of P. of J., in the December preceding his death, it was understood among his immediate friends to be intended as a compliment for his past services, and as an encouragement to him under the depressing influences which, from troubles, sickness, and adverse fortune, had been bearing heavily upon him.

No one appreciated this mark of the confidence of his Brethren nmr than he, and no one could have set himself at work with greater resolution, and promise of success, than he. He had mastered the work, and trained his officers, so that they were all in readiness to perform their duties; but, when the time came to confer the Degrees, his mind and memory had forsaken him: the result was an entire failure, showing that the fine organizing mind was a total wreck beyond the hope of recovery.

From this time he lingered through a long period of pain and suffering till at length, with the morning of the 14th of August, 1875, death c.u and relieved him from all his pains and sorrows, and he rested in peace.

Whoever hereafter recalls the memory of our departed Brother will do so in reference to his Masonic capacity. His station in life was a subordinate one, holding no position in what the world calls society; his education was limited; and, being without training, his rule of life seemed to be to follow to a large extent his own impulses and inclinations, which were fortunately intelligent and generous. Notwithstanding these blemishes and disadvantages, it was almost marvellous to see how his innate, strong, masculine common sense, his never-failing, good-natured forgetfulness of self, his persevering pursuit of any end he had in view, having for its object the advancement of the interests of Freemasonry, would hide them all, commanding alike the respect and affection of all with whom he became associated, and their co-operation in any undertaking in which he was engaged.

His services to Masonry cannot be measured simply by the offices which he held from time to time, although they were many. His services in a private capacity were far greater, and of more value to the craft. How utterly barren of any good result are the official terms of many an aspiring and ambitious Brother! Of vastly more importance are the endeavors of an earnest Brother upon the floor of the Lodge. Those who are accustomed to presiding in Masonic bodies can alone express the yearning which they feel towards just such a Brother, who in an unofficial capacity, divested from the cares and dignities of office, becomes a leader among his Brethren, relieving the presiding officer, who alone can fully appreciate his services. Ill. Bro. Barker was singularly unselfish and unambitious in his Masonic aspirations. Rather than advocate what might seem to be his own claims, he preferred to seek out some other Brother qualified for a position, and be instrumental in his advancement; and no one can have done more towards the preferment and promotion of his Brethren than he.

Ah, the blessed memories that clustering around that central figure now prostrate in the dust, resting in the bosom of its own mother-earth, the fervent friendships, true offspring of a common cause, and bring back to the mind the social festivities, the convivial meetings, the ardent zeal in the practice of our splendid Rites, that hallow the recollections of Nassau Hall!

We shall miss our dear Brother. We shall miss his beaming countenance, his cheerful voice, his cordial greeting, his warm and friendly grasp of the hand, through which we felt the beating of his honest heart. We shall remember these. We shall remember the great services which has rendered, greater in the sphere of action, in which he chose to labor than those of any of us.

He leaves us the example of an honest, earnest worker in the Temple of Freemasonry, showing us what may be accomplished by a man without the advantages of position and education, who loves the institution, and is willing to work for the advancement of its interests. Thus the stone, which, from its unknown and unpolished state, is rejected by the builders yet, possessing merits which they do not recognize, becomes the chief stone in the corner.

Respectfully submitted,
Benjamin Pope, 33°,
William Ellison, 33°,
James A. Fox, 33°,
Committee

BARNABEE, HENRY CLAY 1833-1917

HenryClayBarnabee.jpg

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XXXII, No. 4, December 1936, Page 79:

Henry Clay Barnabee (1833-1917) won fame for himself both as an actor and as a singer. His early life was devoted to industry, but in his later years he was able to devote his time to his two great loves, the drama and music. He is best remembered in the part of "Ihe Sheriff of Nottingham" in Robin Hood, a part he sang and enacted more than 1900 times. He was a member of Columbian Lodge, St. Andrew's Chapter, DeMoiay Commandery, and Massachusetts Consistory, all in Boston.

BARNARD, GILBERT 1818-1858

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XVII, No. 9, Page ---:

Died in Andover, Mass., on the 5th day of June, Brother Gilbert Barnard ; and at the first regular communication of St. Matthew's Lodge, of which he was a member, the following resolutions were unanimously adopted :—

  • Whereas, The Brethren of St. Matthew's Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, learn with deep regret the demise of our lamented Brother, Gilbert Barnard, that he has been called from earthly labor to partake, we trust, of the blessings of the celestial Lodge, whose Great Master ever liveth; and while we deplore his loss amongst us, be it
  • Resolved, That the same heartfelt sympathy experienced for our departed Brother be extended to his bereaved family, who have thus sustained an irreparable loss; and that in our condolations we would assure them that his memory is an evergreen planted in our hearts; and of our hope, that like as the holly survives the frosts of winter, so he surmounts the decay of nature, and stands among the accepted before the throne of God, where we all hope to meet.
  • Resolved, That these resolutions be published in the Freemasons' Monthly Magazine, and a copy transmitted to the family of our deceased Brother.

M. Sands, Sec'y St. M. L.
Andover, June 24th, 1858.

BARNES, EDWIN 1801-1877

From Liberal Freemason, Vol. I, No. 9, December 1877, Page 274:

Lodge of St. Andrew, A. L. 5877, October 11.

Worshipful Master and Brethren:- A part of our business this evening is solemnly commemorative. The rare event in this Lodge has occurred, of the death, at near times, of two aged and respected members of St. Andrew's. On the brink of the changing season, while the grains were turning for the harvest; in the soft light of autumn, when Nature puts on her gorgeous many-colored tints, gathering her robes for the end of summer, these Brethren bade us farewell. So near was their departure that to the same committee of the oldest Masonic associates of the deceased has been entrusted the presentation of this memorial to the Lodge. Indeed, it seems fitting, since the Almighty Architect took them together to be living stones in a temple not made with hands, that they, associated in this city for half a century, in the same neighborhood, in similar walks of life, for earthly competences, in calm, uneventful careers, should together be joined in final record upon our archives.

Edwin Barnes, Senior, Worshipful Past Master of St. Andrew's Lodge, was born in Middletown, Conn., 1801, and died in Chelsea, at low twelve, September 15, 1877. Henry Davis was born in North square, Boston, April 1, 1803, and died at his residence in West Somerville, September 8, 1877.

Worshipful Brother Barnes was a tailor; he came to Boston in 1823, where, October 1, 1823, he married Miss Betsey Lincoln, who survives him, with children. He seems early to have been attracted to Freemasonry, and on the fifteenth of July, 1824, was raised to the Master's degree in St. John's Lodge of this city. On the sixth of April, 1825, he was exalted to the "Royal Arch", in St. Andrew's R. A. Chapter, of which he was Past High Priest, an honorary and the senior member.

Brother Barnes became a member of this Lodge January 14, 1836; he was its Master in the years 1839, 1840 and 1841. He was a Knight Templar of the Boston Encampment, and one of the best Junior Wardens of that body.

. . . In the case of our late Brother Barnes is a fact significant of the changed circumstances of this ancient Lodge, also complimentary to the man himself. Brother Barnes, with that sterling Mason, our late Brother Bradford, and the loving honored, Nichols, now Senior Past Master and oldest member, were selected as good Craftsmen from the young Masons of Boston to recuperate the ranks of old workmen and were admitted on the same evening together, Jan. 14,1S36, thus invited to membership in Saint Andrew's Lodge. Brother Barnes' death removes the last of that noble band of "St Andrew's" men who bore honored parts in the Anti-masonic warfare; he was the last of this Lodge's signatures to the noted Declaration of 1831. After holding appointed and elective offices, Brother Barnes was chosen Master. Serving the usual term in this post, he proved an excellent presiding officer and unusually skilful workman, conducting in all functions with dignity and precision; he may be styled as of that special few whom of late years Lodges are more and more regarding as best adapted for Lodge positions, and this accuracy, with fine address, he held in the Royal Arch and Commandery. In all relations he was gentlemanly, agreeable, and moved by an abiding sense of the credit of the Order. To most of the present members the opportunity has not been afforded of witnessing our late Brother's aptitude for work; but all remember his courteous bearing and gentle demeanor. We shall miss his fresh memories of old, interesting historical Lodge incidents, personal narratives of by-gone members, his cotemporaries. If there was a blemish on the record of this venerable Brother, St. Andrew's Lodge knew it not.

. . . Brothers, let us gather into resolves our testimony upon these bereavements : —

  • Resolved, That in the death, at advanced age, of two of our associates, Worshipful Brother Edwin Barnes, Senior Past Master of this Lodge, after upwards of forty years' membership, and of Brother Henry Davis, after upwards of thirty years' membership, a steadfast, trusty man and Freemason, "St. Andrew's" loses members whose length of useful and unexceptionable Masonic services are exemplary. The one was a Past Master of commendable excellence in the ritual of the Order; the other filling well his place; both Brethren corner-stones, plumb and square, in their respective spheres, illustrating what can be done for Masonry, and what Masonry can do.
  • Resolved, That as we have followed to the grave, with solemn rites, so shall we mourn the loss of these Brothers; that we extend our sympathy to the widows and families of both deceased; that we shall remember our pleasant intercourse so prolonged with these Brethren; and that our sorrow is mingled with thanks, in the knowledge that to the Lodge of St. Andrew's tender regards in their declining years, has been added bountifully the better care, the unstinted devotion of loving, faithful wives.

HAMILTON WILLIS,
SMITH W. NICHOLS,
ROBERT N. KALLOCK, Committee.

BARNES, CHARLES LORISTON 1921-2000

  • MM 1947, WM 1955, Athol

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 2000, Page A-xiv:

Ill. Charles Loriston Barnes, 33°
Born in Athol, Massachusetts, August 23, 1921
Died in Orange, Massachusetts, March 11, 2000

Illustrious Charles Loriston Barnes, 33°, was the son of Loriston L. and Lydia (Graves) Barnes. He attended Athol schools and graduated from Athol High School in 1940. He lived in Orange for the past 47 years.

Brother Barnes worked as an electrician at Union Twist Drill in Athol, Rodney Hunt Company in Orange and the Walter E. Fernald School in Templeton for many years, retiring in 1986.

He was a member of the Starrett United Methodist Church, the Orange Senior Citizens Club, the Athol Golden Agers and Tully Lodge, I.O.O.F. As a young man, he attained the rank of Eagle Scout. He served in the U.S. Navy and the Seabees during World War II in Okinawa and Saipan.

Ill. Brother Barnes is survived by three sons, Charles, Larry, and David; a daughter, Jean Whitmore; two brothers, Loriston and Fred; and two sisters, Ruth Miller and Ethel Landon. His wife of 46 years, Barbara (McKenney) Barnes, died on January 24, 2000.

Ill. Brother Barnes was raised a Master Mason in Athol Lodge on March 19, 1948, serving as Master in 1955 and as District Deputy Grand Marshal in 1982 and 1983. He joined the York Rite Bodies of Orange and Greenfield which later moved to Athol. He served as the presiding officer of all and was a past District Deputy Grand High Priest in the Grand Royal Arch Chapter and Past Grand Principal Conductor of the Work for Grand Council, Royal and Select Masters.

Charles was a member of K.Y.C.H., Red Cross of Constantine, King Phillip York Rite College, Aleppo Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S., and Past Patron ofThemis Chapter, O.E.S .. Our Illustrious Brother joined the Scottish Rite Bodies in the Valley of Greenfield, completing the Degrees on January 14, 1949, and went on to Connecticut Valley Consistory, Valley of Springfield. He served as presiding officer of the three bodies of the Valley of Greenfield. He was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, on September 28, 1966, and continued to serve the Scottish Rite faithfully.

Masonic services for Brother Barnes were conducted on Tuesday evening, March 14th, by Star-Athol Lodge and a funeral service was held the next afternoon with burial at the Silver Lake Cemetery in Athol.

He was a very dedicated Mason and a friend to all.

BARNETT, WILLIAM ROBERT 1938-

Brother Barnett died in March 2019. N

BIOGRAPHY

From TROWEL, Summer 2001, Page 11:

It may have taken him a little longer than most to discover the meaning of Masonry, but once he did, R. W. William R. Barnett has certainly been changed by Masonry, and he, in turn, has made a difference in his Lodge and community. He was 43 when he joined Vernon Lodge in Belchertown. He had served two years as its Master and other positions in the Palmer 19th District before being appointed District Deputy Grand Master in 1998-1999.

He had been introduced to Masonry years earlier while teaching in the 1960's. He had studied the Morgan Incident and had lectured many times about it. But it was his exposure to the Brethren of Vernon Lodge that peaked his curiosity and he quickly became a "convert." His life has not been the same since.

He is active in both York and Scottish Rites and Melha Temple Shrine as a member of the bagpipe band and a director of the Melha Highlanders Degree Team. He was also an advisor and member of the Pioneer Class of the Masonic Leadership Institute. In Scottish Rite, he was Thrice Potent Master of Evening Star Lodge of Perfection from 1998-2000.

Professionally, R.W. Bro. Barnett holds degrees from Colby College and Boston University and had completed all course and exam requirements for a doctorate degree. In 1993, after two successful careers, one teaching and a second in securities investments, he decided to enter the public sector as Belchertown's town clerk, treasurer and collector. He enjoys the challenges of helping to make policy and to see the town thrive.

His philosophy on Masonry centers on the "great good it offers society and that we must continue to tell the story. Masonry contains the tools to help an individual develop a philosophy of life and the means with which to deal with the enormous complexities of life. It blends itself so well with most of the great religions of the world that it becomes an ally and a source of strength in the practice of those religions. But, like in marriage, it must be nurtured - it cannot stand still. It must become a learning experience in which the tenets of our Craft, in conjunction with each individual's faith, form the basis to bring meaning to our lives. It is only through this search for meaning that we can bring contentment to our lives and improvement to our society. Whatever religious philosophy a man acknowledges. Masonry will always be there to help strengthen and develop that philosophy. It is that tool that helps give our religious life more meaning and our lives more accomplishment."

BARRETT, CHARLES 1788-1885

From Proceedings, Page 1885-120:

COL. CHARLES BARRETT died at the residence of his son, at Ashburnham, Mass., at the ripe old age of ninety-seven years. His name appears as Senior Warden of Social Lodge, October, 1826. Temperate, industrious, gentlemanly, he lived a vigorous life, and retained his mental faculties to a remarkable degree. He died highly honored.

BARRETT, CHARLES BENJAMIN 1824-1906

From New England Craftsman, Vol. II, No. 4, January 1907, Page 155:

Brother Charles B. Barrett, of Boston, died suddently December 15, from a complication of diseases made acute by the effects of an automobile accident which happened last November.

He had been a member of De Molay Commandery, K. T. for many years, which body conducted his funeral service at his late residence.

Mr. Barrett was one of the oldest members of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company in point of membership. He also belonged to the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanics Association, and the Unitarian Society. He had been in business at 15 North Market street for about fifty years.

BARRON, FRANK T. 1852-1931

From Proceedings, Page 1931-24:

R.W. Brother Barron was born in Boston June 13, 1852 and died at his home in Malden February 1, 1931. Brother Barron's business life was spent in the coal business. At the time of his death he was sales manager for the City Fuel Company.

Brother Barron was Raised in Henry Price Lodge February 23, 1887 and was its Master from 1899 to 1901. He was a Charter nember of the The Lodge of Stirling in 1911. He was District Deputy Grand Master for the Third Masonic District in 1910 and 1911 by appointment of M.W. Dana J. Flanders. Brother Barron held membership in the several bodies of the York and Scottish Rites. He was constant in his service in Grand Lodge where his constant presence as Proxy for Henry Price Lodge and a member of the Committee on Records made him a familiar figure among us. We shall deeply miss his kindly presence.

BARROWS, WILLIAM H. 1863-1933

WilliamBarrows.jpg

MEMORIAL

FROM PROCEEDINGS, 1933

From Proceedings, Page 1933-438:

Right Worshipful Brother Barrows was born in Pittsfield, March 13, 1863, and died there September 20, 1933.

Brother Barrows was educated in the Pittsfield schools. For many years he was the Pittsfield agent of the American Express Company. In 1906 he entered the employ of the Berkshire County Savings Bank, and in 1911 was made manager of the Massachusetts Savings Bank Life Insurance Department of the Berkshire County Savings Bank, remaining in that position for the rest of his life.

Brother Barrows took his degrees in Crescent Lodge in 1891 and was its Master in 1900. He was a Charter member of Pittsfield Lodge in 1927. ln 1921 and 1922, he was District Deputy Grand Master for the Sixteenth Masonic District, by appointment of M. W. Arthur D. Prince.

Brother Barrows was a member and Past High Priest of Berkshire Royal Arch Chapter, a member and for many years Recorder of Berkshire Council, Royal and Select Masters, and a member and Past Commander of Berkshire Commandery, Knights Templar. Brother Barrows was also a member and past presiding officer of each of the three Scottish Rite bodies in Pittsfield, and a member of Connecticut Valley Consistory. He was coronetted an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council 33°, in 1914.

Brother Barrows was widely known among Masons and deservedly popular wherever known. For many years he was a tower of strength to the Fraternity in Berkshire County, and he will be deeply mourned and greatly missed.

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1934

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1934, Page 59:

Illustrious Brother Barrows was born in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, March 13, 1861, the son of Warren D. and Ellen Strong Barrows. He received his education in the public schools of Pittsfield. For a number of years he was agent for the American Express Company. In 1906 he entered the employ of the Berkshire County Savings Bank and in 1911 assumed charge of the insurance department of that institution. This position he held at the time of his death, which occurred September 20, 1933. Brother Barrows always took a keen interest in local politics and served in the City Council in 1904 and 1905.

Brother Barrows received the Symbolic Degrees in Crescent Lodge in 1891 and served as its Worshipful Master in 1900 and 1901. He was Secretary of Crescent Lodge from 1909 to 1916 and was District Deputy Grand Master for the Sixteenth Masonic District, by appointment of M. W. Arthur D. Prince.

He received the Capitular Degrees in Berkshire Chapter R. A. M. in 1894-1895, and was its Excellent High Priest in 1899-1900. He also served as District Deputy High Priest from 1902 to 1904. The Cryptic Degrees were conferred upon him in Berkshire Council R. and S. M. in 1903 and he served as the Council’s Recorder from 1904 until the time 1of his death. He was knighted in Berkshire Commandery K. T., June 3, 1895. He served as its Recorder from 1902 to 1913 and was elected Eminent Commander in 1913-1914., In the Scottish Rite he received the Fourteenth Degree in Onota Lodge of Perfection, April 4, 1906. He was Thrice Potent Master 1910-1911 and served as Secretary from 1912 to 1917. He was a member of Springfield Council Princes of Jerusalem, Springfield Chapter of Rose Croix and Massachusetts Consistory. He took his demit from these bodies and was a charter member of Pontoosuc Council Princes of Jerusalem, Pittsfield Chapter of Rose Croix and Connecticut Valley Consistory. He served Pittsfield Council as Sovereign Prince in 1917 and Most Wise Master of Pittsfield Chapter of Rose Croix. Illustrious Brother Barrows was crowned an honorary member of the Supreme Council, September 5, 1914.

Brother Barrows took a very deep and sincere interest in Masonry and his wide service in all its branches made for him a host of friends. He will be long remembered for his genial, sympathetic and understanding nature and his going has left a void that will be hard to fill. For many years he worked for the best interest of Masonry in all its branches throughout the district and now that he has laid aside the working tools of his profession, with the kindest thoughts we leave him to the rest he so well earned.

George B. Sturgis, 32°,
J. Howard Fryer, 32°,
Herbert M. Lasch, 32°,
Committee.

BARSS, WILLIAM RAYMOND 1884-1943

From Proceedings, Page 1943-18:

Brother Barss was born in New Germany, Nova Scotia, on February 15, 1884, and died at his home in Belmont, Massachusetts, on January 20, 1943.

He was educated in Pictou Academy and Acadia University in Nova Scotia, the University of Toronto, Yale University and the Yale Graduate School. In the latter, he received the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Physics, and was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and Sigma Psi Fraternities.

After serving as Instructor in Physics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology for a period of fifteen years, he entered the firm of Barss, Knobel and Clark as Acoustics Engineer. Among the many notable structures on which he acted in the latter capacity is the Hatch Memorial Shell on the Charles River Esplanade, Boston.

He was raised in Wooster Lodge No. 79 of New Haven, Connecticut, on March 15, 1911, and dimitted on August l0, 1921, to become a Charter Member of Richard C. MacLaurin Lodge of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He served that Lodge as Master in 1926.

He served as District Deputy Grand Master of the (Cambridge) 2nd Masonic District in 1937 and 1938, by appointments of Most Worshipful Grand Masters Claude L. Allen and Joseph Earl Perry.

He was a member of all the Scottish Rite Bodies in Boston. Since February 1940, he was Superintendent of the Boston Masonic Temple and also Director of Education of the Grand Lodge, two unrelated positions, but both of which he filled with marked ability and success.

Quiet and unassuming, soft spoken and mild of manner, yet withal ever willing and eager to serve his fellowman! It was a rare privilege to be associated with him and to receive his ever ready and excellent advice. The many messages of condolence which came to us upon his passing were proof indeed of the place he held in the affections of his Brethren.

"Sleep on, dear friend, such lives as thine
Have not been lived in vain,
But shed an influence, rare, divine
On lives that here remain."

BARTHELMES, JOHN HENRY, JR. 1914-1997

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1998

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1998, Page A-vi:

Ill. John Henry Barthelmes, Jr., 33°
Born in Everett, Massachusetts, February 10, 1914
Died in Worcester, Massachusetts, September 27, 1997

Illustrious John Henry Barthelmes, Jr., 33°, was the son of John Henry, Sr., and Olah (Niles) Barthelmes. He was educated in the public schools and attended Worcester Polytechnic Institute, School of Industrial Management.

He began his working career as an apprentice machinist, methods engineer, and tool engineer - eventually becoming an Industrial Engineering Supervisor. He was a member and Chairman of the Society of Carbide Engineers, Local No. 2, and served as Education Chairman of the National Society of Carbide Engineers.

On April 5, 1935, at Worcester, Massachusetts, he was united in marriage to Irene Mary Gingras, who survives along with two sons, John Henry, Ill, and Robert Bruce; and a daughter, June Ellen.

He was a member of Greendale People's Church, Worcester, where he served as Deacon for six years.

Ill. Brother Barthelmes was raised a Master Mason in Morning Star Lodge, A.F. & A.M., on September 22, 1942, and served as Master in 1953 and, later, as Lodge Secretary for a number of years. He served the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts as Secretary of the Sixth Lodge of Instruction for fourteen years, Grand Representative for Santa Catarina Grand Lodge of Brazil near the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts and a member of the Education Committee for many years. He was a recipient of a Certificate of Merit from the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts.

He completed the 4th through the 18th degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Valley of Worcester in December 1953 and served as Most Wise Master of Lawrence Chapter of Rose Croix in 1962-1963. He completed the consistorial degrees in Massachusetts Consistory, Valley of Boston, on December 21, 1953. He served as Secretary of the Valley of Worcester from 1975 to 1981. On September 27, 1972, he was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, Honorary Member of the Supreme Council at Boston.

Interment was in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton.

BARTLET, DAVID GARDINER 1860-1918

From Proceedings, Page 1918-273:

R. W. DAVID GARDINER BARTLET was born in Newburyport, Mass., April 9, 1860, and died suddenly at his home in Lynn September 28, 1918. He received the Masonic degrees in Olive Branch Lodge, No. 16, of Plymouth, New Hampshire, in 1883. Having removed to Lynn, he affiliated with Golden Fleece Lodge of that city May 20, 1895. He was appointed Marshal of that Lodge in January, 1899, and, after continuous service, was its Master in 1910 and 1911. He was District Deputy Grand Master of the Eighth Masonic District in 1913 and 1914. For some years he served as an Associate Member of the Board of Masonic Relief and was a member at the time of his decease.

In 1913, under the direetion of M.W. Everett C. Benton, R.W. Brother Bartlet was advised to make an effort to interest some of the Brethren in Swampscott relative to the formation of a new Lodge in that town. December 8, 1913, he visited the home of Brother Clarence B. Humphrey where, with seven good Brethren, the real foundation of Wayfarers Lodge was laid. December 19, 1913, a second visit was made by him and twenty-two Brethren assembled in the interest of a new Lodge. February 19, 1914, he placed the petition for a Dispensation for Wayfarers Lodge in the hands of the Grand Secretary. March 5, 1914, with Brother Harry E. Stilphen as Marshal, he went to Swampscott and duly Instituted Wayfarers Lodge by delivery of the Dispensation to the petitioners. He wrote, "Among my many pleasant duties as District Deputy Grand Master my relations with Wayfarers Lodge stand most pronounced."

I narrate these facts in detail because they are taken from an aceount written by R.W. Brother Bartlet himself. Of his early life we have no information. In Lynn he was first engaged as a car conductor and, after a short service, became a member of the police force of that city; at the time of his decease he was Deputy Chief of Poliee.

When the decease of Brother Bartlet became known to the City Government the flags on the city buildings were placed at halfmast: the City Council was convened: resolutions of respect and sympathy were adopted by the Council and heartfelt eulogies were made by the members. It was well said that Brother Bartlet's "personality endeared him to all who knew him. He combined great fidelity to duty with a singular kindness of manner in all his dealings." "He was big in body and large of soul." "He was always ready to do something good for everybody."

Such has been our own experience with Brother Bartlet. He was a devoted husband and father, a true friend, a faithful officer, just and sympathetic, who always stood for the best interests of the eommunity. He was a grand type of a true Freemason, studious, zealous, workful. His Masonic influence - because of his Masonic ability and character - was far-reaching and brought added honor to the Fraternity. The last summons came like a flash, but it found him prepared to go leaving a clean and honorable record.

BARTLETT, CHARLES A. 1852-1913

From Proceedings, Page 1913-75:

CHARLES A. BARTLETT was born in North Bridgewater, Jan. 9, 1852, and died at his home in Lancaster, March 30, 1913.

He received his education in the public schools of Templeton where he went in 1862 to live with his grandfather. He resided in Clinton from 1871 to 1905. In 1884 he was appointed on the police force of that town, and in 1888 was appointed by the high sheriff of Worcester County a deputy sheriff. He held this position continuously until his death, except during three years. In 1905 he removed. to Lancaster and occupied his newly bought farm. He served Lancaster three years as a member of the Board of Health.

Brother Bartlett became a member of Trinity Lodge of Clinton in 1863, and served as Master in 1886 and 1887. He was District Deputy Grand Master of the Twelfth Masonic District in 1890 and 1891. He had also been High Priest of Clinton Royal Arch Chapter of Clinton, and Eminent Commander of Trinity Commandery, K. T., of Hudson.

He was a member of the Church of the Good Shepherd, Episcopal, for many years, and served as a vestryman, warden, clerk, and treasurer. He has also been a delegate of the parish to the diocesan conventions. Thus Brother Bartlett spent the days of a very busy life. The Church, the State, the County, and our Fraternity received his conscientious efforts for progress and peace. He loitered not by the way, but was active and earnest in his manifold duties. He is worthy to receive the welcome response: "Well done, good and faithful servant."

From New England Craftsman, Vol. VIII, No. 7, April 1913, Page 236:

Deputy Sheriff Charles A. Bartlett died recently at his home in Lancaster, Mass., after a year of failing health. He was born January 9th, 1852, at North Bridgewater. He lived in Clinton many years. In 1905 he moved from Clinton to Lancaster and had served Lancaster for three years as a member of the board of health, and for four years had been on the Republican town committee. Mr. Bartlett became a member of Trinity Lodge of Masons when he was twenty-one years of age. He afterward held all the offices in the lodge. He had been High Priest of Clinton Royal Arch Chapter and Eminent Commander of Trinity Commandery, K. T., of Hudson, and had been the Deputy of the Grand master in the Twelfth Masonic District. He was a member of Hiram Council, Royal and Select Masters, Worcester Lodge of Perfection, Goddard Council, Princes of Jerusalem; Lawrence Chapter, Rose Croix, and the Massachusetts Consistory, 32d degree. He had been member of the Church of the Good Shepherd (Episcopal) for many years, and had served as a vestryman, warden and clerk and treasurer. He was an original member of the Clinton Historical Society, which he had served as curator. For twenty years he was a member of the Clinton Choral Union and its treasurer for eighteen years.

BARTLETT, CHARLES LESTER 1881-1912

CharlesLBartlett.jpg

From New England Craftsman, Vol. VII, No. 11, August 1912, Page 368:

Brother Charles Lester Bartlett, one of the most popular young men and a Mason of Marlboro, Mass., lost his life by drowning, July 20. As has been said the accident "was the heartbreaking terminal of a merry outing." Brother Bartlett, with a friend was in a canoe which was overturned by a gust of wind and both were thrown out. Both coming up grasped the canoe but were forced to let go by another gust which overturned the canoe the second time. Brother Bartlett attempted to swim to the shore but he did not reach it. His companion clung to the canoe until he was rescued.

Charles Lester Bartlett was the son of the late ex-Mayor and Mrs. Emily Chadwick Bartlett and was born in Marlboro, Feb. 10, 1881. He attended the public schools and was graduated from the Marlboro high school, class of 1898. Even at school he was a favorite and leader and took a leadin; part in the class play produced at the high school assembly hall. His death is the first in the class of '98.

After leaving school he attended a commercial college in Boston and began work for a grain dealer of South Acton. He later worked as bookkeeper at the First National Bank. He entered the employ of Rice & Hutchins 11 years ago and gradually worked into the position of assistant superintendent, a position he filled with satisfaction to the firm and with the good will of the help. He was a member of United Brethren Lodge. Houghton Royal Arch chapter and Trinity Commandery. He was master of the lodge when the organization celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1909. He was excellent king in Houghton Royal Arch chapter and warden in Trinity commandery. He also belonged to the Union club. He is survived by a mother and brother, Fred M. Bartlett.

No one has ever died in the town whose death has cast greater gloom. The local paper paid tribute to his Lrorth in most generous terms saying:

The old proverb that true royalty needs no crown, found an example in his case. If he was invested in the ■deepest purple or laden with the most lavish riches, greater praise could not be given him.

In the general feeling of sorrow Iwhich overhung the city since the announcement of his death, hardly any person spoke only in terms of the highest enconiums.

Rich and poor, young and old, men land women, all loved to speak in [terms of endearment about the young man. He was so modest, so generous, so courteous to everybody that it seemed that the entire city wept.

Many a story was told of his good qualities, some little incident was repeated and then the tear would moisten the eye and visit the cheek.

He was a sturdy, robust specimen of physical development, and was a young man of happy disposition. When he had power, he used it with discretion.

He was faithful to those for whom he worked and those who worked for him. He was honest, brave and true. If he had a fault, it was far in the background.

The funeral of Brother Bartlett was held on the following Thursday in the Congregational church which was filled to the doors by relatives and friends. The Masonic burial service was performed at the graveside by Past District Deputy Grand Master George H. Hall, who was master of the lodge when Brother Bartlett was initiated.

BARTLETT, FREEMAN CHARLES 1869-1942

From Proceedings, Page 1942-233:

Brother Bartlett was born in Bowling Green, Virginia, on October 6, 1869, and died in Yarmouth, Massachusetts, on April 30, 1942.

He attended the schools of New York City and Davenport, Iowa, and soon after graduation entered the employ of Charles H. Davis, Civil Engineer, Yarmouth, continuing there for a period of fifty-three years.

He took an active interest in town affairs, serving as a member of the Advisory Board and Finance Committee for a period of twenty years. He was also active in church work and in the Boy Scout movement.

He was made a Mason in Howard Lodge of South Yarmouth on November 10, 1906, and served as Worshipful Master in 1914 and 1915. He also served as Treasurer from 1928 until his retirement in 1941.

He was High Priest of Orient Chapter, R. A. M., in 1923 and 1924 and served as Chaplain from 1926 until his death.

He was a charter member of the Past Masters' Association of the Thirty-second Masonic District and served as President in 1923.

In Grand Lodge, he was appointed District Deputy Grand Master of the (Hyannis) 32nd District in 1939 and 1940 by Most Worshipful Joseph Earl Perry.

Masonic burial services were conducted in the Hyannis Federated Church on Sunday, May 3, 1942, by the officers of Howard Lodge.

Of a quiet and unassuming personality, Brother Bartlett won the esteem of his Brethren and fellow citizens by his faithful service and ready response to every call made upon him and has now but gone on to join

"the choir invisible
Of those immortal dead who live again
In minds made better by their presence."

BARTLETT, LESTER MONDEZ 1860-1935

LesterMBartlett.jpg

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XXXI, No. 1, September 1935, Page 14:

Lester M. Bartlett, prominent in musical and Masonic circles, died Monday, August 10. at his home, 117 St. Botolph street. Boston, after a short illness.

Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock in the chapel of the Forest Hills crematory.

A native of Berlin, he was the son of Ainorv and Sarah J. Sawyer Bartlett. He came to Boston as a youth to study music, in which he was tremendously interested. He had lived here for more than 40 years.

He was for many years leader of the Harvard male quartet, and one of the original members of the Meistersingers. He formerly was choir director at the state prison chapel in Charlestown and was one of the founders of the Aleppo Temple hand. He also was director of vocal music in the Aleppo Shrine as well as director of music in Boston Lafayette lodge of Perfection.

His Masonic affiliations comprised membership in the Doric Lodge, of Hudson, St. Andrews Royal Arch Chapter of Boston. Orient Council of Scmerville. St. Omar Commandery Knight Templars; Boston Lafayette Lodge of Perfection; Giles Fonda Yates council of Princes of Jerusalem; Mt. Olivet chapter Rose Croix; Massachusetts Consistory; and Aleppo Temple of the Mystic Shrine.

Surviving are his widow. Mrs. Nettie Spooner Bartlett and several nieces and nephews, all residents of Detroit, Mich.

BARTON, CHARLES A. 1874-1933

From Proceedings, Page 1934-21:

Right Worshipful Brother Barton was born in Wickford, Rhode Island, October 1, 1874, and died in Worcester, October 20, 1933. Brother Barton was a banker and at the time of his death was President of the Worcester Bank and Trust Company.

Brother Barton took his Masonic. degrees in Solomon's Temple Lodge in 1901 and was its Master from 1905 to 1907. He was District Deputy Grand Master for the Nineteenth Masonic District in 1909 and 1910 by appointment of Most Worshipful Dana J. Flanders. He became a Charter member of Rose of Sharon Lodge in 1929 and held membership in that, as well as Solomon's Temple Lodge, for the remainder of his life.

He was also a member of Saint Elmo Royal Arch Chapter, of Whitinsville, and of Woonsocket Commandery No. 24, K.T., of Woonsocket, R. I.

He will be greatly missed in both banking and Masonic circles.

BARTON, HENRY H. 1793-1874

From Liberal Freemason, Vol. I, No. 11, February 1878, Page 336:

Henry H. Barton was born in Boston, Mass., June 27, 1793, and died in Lyme Centre, N. H., December 12, 1874. He embraced Masonry in early life, and became a member of St. Andrew's Chapter, of Boston, in 1830.

In a note from his widow, a second wife, written shortly after his death, she says: "I will send you a slip of paper that he used to keep as a sort of memorandum, at a time when it was very hard for the poor in Boston. He told me that he used to put by what little money he could every Saturday night, until he got live dollars, and then would send it to some benevolent gentleman or lady to help the needy. He said he never told any one before, but that it was his way to do all he could for every one."

We print a copy of the paper referred to, and submit it to our readers as a commendable example of a good man and Mason, whose old age was frequently cheered by his Masonic Brethren and Companions. It will be noticed that these several sums were given in the same month and year, and indicate how much the donor must have done in charitable contributions.

"Watchman, what of the night?"
Appearances betoken gloom and sorrow for the poor.

Boston, Oct., 1S37.

Respected Sir, — By applying the enclosed sum in alleviating the temporal miseries of any suffering child of Father Adam within the orbit of your benign influence, you will confer a favor on

Yours, with esteem,
One of the Odds and Ends of Mortality.


Rev. Mr. Sargent. $5.00.

"Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my brethren, ye have done it unto me."


Boston, Oct., 1837.

Respected Sir, — By applying the enclosed discount from my charity coffer to the excellent objects of the Farm School, you will confer a favor on

Yours, with respect,
One of the Odds and Ends of Mortality.


Wm. Hales, Esq. $5.00.

"Blest Providence, whose parent power
All being gives, for all provides,
Oh! through yon dark and dripping cell,
Where Sorrow's outcast offspring weep,
Flash, as when Peter's fetters fell,
And bid the woes that grieved them sleep!"


Boston, Oct., 1837.

Respected Madam, — By applying the enclosed rag to the purchase of good cloth for the relief of suffering humanity, you will confer a favor on

Yours, with esteem,
One of the Odds and Ends of Mortality.

Mrs. Dyer, President of the Female Samaritan Society, $5.00.

"Mons. Tonson. Come again!!"
To place his mite on the altar of Charity.


Boston, Oct., 1837.

Respected Sir, — By dispensing the enclosed sum for the temporal relief of suffering humanity, you will confer a favor on

Yours, with esteem,
One of the Odds and Ends of Mortality.


Rev. Jos. Tuckerman. $5.00.

"Now is the winter of our discontent made glorious summer by this" little rag!


Boston, Oct., 1837.

Respected Sir, — By applying the enclosed sum to the temporal relief of some suffering brother or sister, so that they may exclaim as above, you will confer a favor on

Yours, with esteem,
One of the Odds and Ends of Mortality.


Rev. C. F. Barnard. $5.00.

"That thus we may with patience bear our moderate ills,
and sympathize with others suffering more."


Boston, Oct., 1837.

Respected Sir, — By applying the enclosed amount to the temporal relief of some suffering brother or sister of the great family, you will confer a favor on

Yours, with esteem,

One of the Odds and Ends of Mortality.


Rev. F. T. Gray. $5.00.

BARTON, REUBEN 1772-1848

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. VIII, No. 3, January 1849, p. 95:

Died, in Millbury, Oct. 5th, Capt. Reuben Barton, aged 76. Br. Barton was buried on Saturday, the 7th inst., with the usual Masonic formalities. Hie funeral was attended by Olire Branch Lodge, of Sutton, (of which he was a member) and Morning Star Lodge, of Worcester. There were a large number of Brethren present. The Masonic ceremonies were performed in a very interesting and impressive manner by D. D. G. M. Chenery, and appeared to produce a good impression upon the Fraternity, and others, of whom there were many in attendnnce.

Our venerable Brother Barton has long been known as a firm friend and active and zealous member of our ancient Institution; he has stood hy her through evil and through good report; and in- the troublesome times of anti-masonic excitement, when many around him were bending lo the blast of the whirlwind of fanatical fury which was passing over them, he stood like the sturdy oak, unmoved, and unwavering amid the storm. He tins lived through the darkness of the night to see the sun of Masonry again arise in ail its original splendor, and has now gone to his rest, honored and lamented by his Brethren; while others who sacrificed their principles and their honor before the moloch of an unrighteous and misguided public sentiment, live to receive tbe scorn of Masons and all honorable men. He has left us an example of an upright and honest man, a good citizen, and a faithful Mason, which we shall do well to copy. W. B. N.

BASSETT, ISAAC AUSTIN 1843-1907

From New England Craftsman, Vol. II, No. 6, March 1907, Page 236:

Brother Isaac Austin Bassett, well-known in the wholesale business district, a Knight Templar and representative of a family long and honorably known in eastern Massachusetts, died at his home in the Commonwealth Hotel, Boston, February 10, of a fall he received a few days before.

Brother Bassett was born in South Wellfleet March 28, 1843. When about 19 years old, Brother Bassett entered the employ of the Continental Mills Company of Lewiston, Me., and remained with that concern through the ensuing 45 years of his life, being chief accountant in the mill's Boston office at the time of his death.

He was a member of Lafayette Lodge of Masons, Mt. Vernon Royal Arch Chapter and Joseph Warren Commandery, K. T., and other societies.

BATCHELDER, CHARLES H. 1854-1919

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XIV, No. 5, February 1919, Page 157:

Charles H. Batchelder for more than a quarter of a century an awning manufacturer, died suddenly Sunday, February 16th, at his home on Blue Hill Avenue, Dorchester. He was born in Dorchester sixty-four years ago and had lived there nearly all his life. He was a 32d degree Mason, a member of Columbian Lodge, St. Paul's Royal Arch Chapter and Joseph Warren Commandery, K. T., and belonged also to the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company. For many years Mr. Batchelder was prominent in the Order of Pilgrim Fathers, in which he had held all the important offices. He is survived by his widow, two daughters, the Misses Louise and Allison Batchelder, and by a son, Charles H. Batchelder, Jr.

BATES, CHARLES 1812-1852

From Proceedings, Page V-404, 09/08/1852:

Whereas the Supreme G. Master above, the wise disposer of human affairs, has seen fit to remove from us, by death, since the last meeting of this Body, our beloved Bro. Chas. Bates one of the G. Lecturers of the State of Mass, and as this solemn providence carries with it the language of Divine admonition, therefore

Resolved. That in the death of our highly and deservedly esteemed Brother, the Masonic Fraternity at large, and this G. Lodge particularly have experienced a loss of one of their brightest ornaments, and the valuable services of one of their best working officers.

He loved our Institution, and proved that love by the accuracy of his work and his faithfulness at his post, and his death leaves a vacancy in our ranks not easily filled.

Resolved, That while the memory of our departed Brother will long be cherished with the warmest recollections, it is our strong desire to attain a similar Masonic excellence, and to possess those virtues, which adorned his character.

Resolved, That this G. Lodge sympathize most deeply with the bereaved family of the deceased, and devoutly commend them to the protection and fatherly care of him, who has styled himself the God of the widow, and the friend of the fatherless.

For the Com.
STEPHEN LOVELL.

  • MM 1842, WM 1847-1850, Mount Lebanon
  • Grand Lecturer 1851-1852
  • Bio in History of Columbian Lodge, p. 364

BATES, EZEKIEL 1795-1871

EzekielBates.jpg
A portrait which hangs in the Lodge-hall of Ezekiel Bates Lodge

From Moore's Freemasons' Monthly, Vol. XXX, No. 6, March 1871, Page 169:

The venerable and Worshipful Brother, the late Ezekiel Bates, died at his home in Attleboro, March 17, aged seventy-five; and his obsequies were solemnized on the Monday following, with Masonic honors and much circumstance, under the immediate direction of the Bristol and Ezekiel Bates Lodges of that town, assisted by a delegation consisting of nearly one-half of the members of the Lodge of St. Andrew, in which institution at Boston, the deceased had been a member since November 16, 1826; his name standig second on the roll of the living in that Lodge. The interment took place at Mt. Auburn, whence the honored remains were carried by the Brethren of St. Andrew's, acting as a guard of honor.

A Masonic funeral is always solemnly impressive, often exceedingly imposing. Freemasons are ever ready to render these last honors to their dead, with the full performance of all the rites belonging to this beautiful and touching ceremonial of the ancient Order, but adapting their service, with graceful courtesy, to social, private and popular exigencies, as they properly arise from time to time in our growing demonstrative communities, the Fraternity sometimes forbear to press upon the attention on all occasions, the complete sublime Masonic ritual. Such was partially the case at these obsequies, nevertheless, the blending of tokens of popular respect to the memory of Bro. Bates, the interweaving of townsmen's evidences of love and regard into the emblematic thread of ancient ritualistic Masonic ceremonial, did heighten in happy measure the very appropriate whole of an occasion, which it was the privilege of our respected Brethren of Bristol and Ezekiel Bates Lodges to inaugurate and conduct in a most admirably acceptable manner.

On the arrival of the procession, - having in escort the remains, the family and friends of the deceased in carriages, - at the door of the Congregational Church of East Attleboro', the spacious house began to be filled in due order. At this point Rev. Bro. W.H. Cudworth, of Boston, preceding the corpse as it was borne up the broad aisle, recited the burial service; the ninetieth Psalm was then sung, and after prayer Mr. Cudworth read the fifteenth chapter of 1st Corinthians, after which he delivered an extemporaneous address. The pastor of the church next gave out an appropriate hymn. This was followed by the chanting of some scripture selections, and the passing of the audience at large, before the pulpit for a last view of the face of the departed one. Lastly the brethren were called up, and in solemn march deposited each one after the manner of Masons, the sprig of Acacia, - that emblem which reminds us of the immortality of the soul. The remains of Bro. Bates were now formally committed in charge of St. Andrew's Lodge; the procession was reformed, and the cortege bore its way to the railroad station.

The day was clear. The funeral ordering in good taste. Nature seemed to smile beneficently on the bright closed record, the well rounded finish of an upright character, which, in the fulness of years and honors, she has beckoned upward, amid the parting tributes of a whole community, to the perfect Lodge above!

We are wont to feel a certain sense of hallowed exaltation a Masonic funeral occasion in the country. It was eminently so on this Monday in Attleboro', in the presence of those last rites to the memory of our glorious old associate, in the presence also of the profound regard of a community and respected brotherhood to the sterling character of Ezekiel Bates. We had our private griefs too, manifold and quick. Recollection, - the snapping of a tie half a century strong, never sundered till now! All this was vivid, chastening indeed to our thoughts. Another and another is taken, and we remain still as before, the oldest named on the roll.

This article must not close without a mention of the general appreciation with which the eloquent reading of the sublime chapter in Corinthians, and the no less eloquently discriminating address of Mr. Cudworth were received by the entire Fraternity who participated in this ceremony. It was not to be expected that the orator could present all the characteristics of our Bro. Bates as they shone upon his fellows of St. Andrew's; nor in the short acquaintance vouchsafed, know the full measure of his firmness, his judgment, his patience, his tact in softening all asperities from differences of opinion; his invariable good humor, his kindness, his stern fidelity in important and delicate trusts; but for all this, there was a sincerity, a heartiness, a grand fervor with sensibility in the scene before him, displayed by Bro. Cudworth on this occasion, which not only will endear him to the audience who heard him, but its recollection will remain as a tribute to that gentleman's real capacity. Neither shall our whole duty have been done in this connection, if an expression of the thanks of the Boston brethren present at Attleboro' is withheld from Bristol and Ezekiel Bates Lodges, for their considerate hospitality, together with the warm appreciation of the dignified and handsome courtesies extended them from first to last to the brethren and strangers present within their gates.

W. Bro. Ezekiel Bates, on the proposition of the late Bro. Zephaniah Sampson, was initiated in St. Andrew's Lodge on June 9, 1825, passed the same evening, raised September 8, and admitted to membership November 16, 1826. He served as Master of the Lodge for the years 1833-4. Bro. Bates was a member of St. Andrew's Chapter of this city, in which he was admitted a member in November, 1832. Besides his Masonic affiliations, and an unusual interest and activity in numerous organizations, Brother Bates was a member of the Mechanics' Charitable Association, which he joined in 1827, and he was at the time of his death, the sole survivor of three petitioners for the charter of the celebrated Mechanics' Mutual Insurance Company, and continued a Director in that Company until his removal to Attleboro' some twenty years since. He was born at Hanover, Mass., November 5, 1795, and was the youngest of fifteen children, two of whom survive.

From Moore's Freemasons' Monthly, Vol. XXX, No. 8, June 1871, Page 251:

Report on the death of Comp. Ezekiel Bates.
Adopted by St. Andrews Royal Arch Chapter, Boston, April 1st, 1871.

An old man full of years, having more than accomplished the days allotted to the children of men, has passed away! another from the rapidly decreasing ranks-that designate a former generation of Masons, has been taken from us. Comp. Ezekiel Bates departed this for another, and let us trust a better world, at his home in Attleboro, March 17.

Our departed friend received the three degrees in Masonry in St. Andrew's Lodge in 1827 and in 1834 became its Master. In the same year he took the Capitular degree in this Chapter, and in 1862 was made an honorary member thereof.

Although but rarely an officer in the bodies of his affiliation, his interest was as active and his zeal as manifest as though the responsibility of office ever attached to him. lie was not so much noted in the institution as a cunning craftsman, nor did he seek place or preferment, but he practiced in his daily life the teaching's of the institution and by his influence and example, especially in the time of our adversity, when the evil days came upon us, he did much to encourage the strong and strengthen the wavering brethren in breasting the waves of a popular but blinded and malignant prejudice. To many of our older. members of the Chapter he was intimately and affectionately known; but his face of late years has been seen but rarely at our meetings. The accompaniments of declining years admonished him that the day of his active manhood had passed away-and the season was approaching when he too, following the common, destiny of man, should be called hence. Again and again he rallied in his last encounter with the destroyer, but finally yielded, passing tranquilly "through nature to eternity."

"Nor deem that kindly nature did him wrong
Softly to disengage the vital cord;
When his weak hands grew palsied, and his eye
Dark with the mist of age — it was his time to die.

In conclusion your committee beg leave to submit the following resolutions —

  • Resolved, That in the death of Companion Ezekiel Bates we bid adieu to one, who in his day and generation was a faithful servant and lover of this institution; who practiced its tenets and revered its virtues; who believed in the application of its teachings to the duties of life and en-| forced that belief by daily habit and custom.
  • Resolved, That we recall with much satisfaction the many pleasing traits! that characterized our Companion, his frank and kindly greeting, and the genial sympathies that marked his intercourse with his brethren.
  • Resolved, That this expression of our sentiments be entered upon the record of our Chapter and a copy thereof forwarded to the family of our deceased Companion.

WILLIAM W. BAKER,
JOHN McCLELLAN,
MARLBOROUGH WILLIAMS,
Committee.

FindAGrave Memorial

BATES, THEODORE C. 1843-1912

TheodoreBates.jpg

From Proceedings, Page 1912-25:

Wor. THEODORE C. BATES, of Worcester, was born in North Brookfield, Mass., June 4, 1843, and died at his residence in Worcester March 11, 1912.

After graduating from the North Brookfield High School, he attended Pinkerton Academy in Derry, N. H. On leaving the Academy he taught school in his native town and at the age of twenty-three came to Boston, and engaged in the crockery business. In 1876 he entered into partnership with David H. Fanning in Worcester. The firm did an immense business, becoming one of the largest in the United States. He was probably the first large manufacturer in the United States to adopt the system of weekly payments. Brother Bates afterwards became interested in steam and street railways, electric light companies and banks. He was a captain of industry. He was active in civil and political affairs, being a member of the House of Representatives in Massachusetts in 1878 and of the Senate in 1882. He was chairman of the Republican State Committee for six years and a delegate to the Republican Convention in Chicago in 1884.

Brother Bates received the Masonic degrees in Golden Rule Lodge, of Stanstead, Canada, affiliated with Quinsigamond Lodge of Worcester, Aug. 23, 1873, and was Master of that Lodge in 1880 and 1881. He served the Grand Lodge as Corresponding Grand Secretary in 1882 and 1888, and was repeatedly appointed on important Committees. He made the original motion in Grand Lodge for the establishment of a "Charity Fund," which resulted in the formation of the Masonic Education and Charity Trust. He was elected a member of the first Board of Trustees in 1884 and served until Jan. 1, 1903, a period of eighteen years.

An indomitable worker, Brother Bates gave much of his time and influence in early days to the Fraternity. His marked financial ability was actively employed in maturing plans for the reorganization of Grand Lodge finances and the establishment of the Masonic Charity Fund.

BATTIS, EDWARD CLARENCE 1856-1920

EdwardBattis.jpg

MEMORIAL

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1921

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ, 1921, Page 51:

Ill. Bro. Edward Clarence Battis died at his home in Danvers, Massachusetts, Friday, December 31, 1920, in the sixty-fifth year of his age.

He had been in feeble health for some time and manfully struggled against a complication of diseases which at last proved fatal. Brother Battis was born in Salem, Massachusetts, August 20, 1856. He was the only son of John and Mary A. Wilson Battis, and belonged to one of the old time and highly respected families of Salem. His great-grandfather, James Herrick, of Beverly, was an officer in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.

Brother Battis was educated in the Salem public schools and studied law in the office of the late Judge Nathaniel J. Holden, after which he entered Boston University and was graduated in 1880 with the degree of LL. D. He was admitted to the Essex Bar in 1881 and finally became a partner in the law office with the late Hon. John M. Raymond, under the title of Raymond & Battis.

He was appointed second Associate Justice of the first District Court of Essex County, by Gov. Curtis Guild, and held the position until his death. Judge Battis was chairman of the Salem Board of Registrars for seventeen years, member of Salem Common Council from Ward 2 in 1880, and was always a Republican in politics.

He was a member of Fraternity Lodge of Odd Fellows, ex-president of Old Salem Chapter, Sons of the Revolution, also secretary of the society, at the time of his death, a member of the Society of Colonial Wars and of the Bunker Hill Associates. He was a member of the Second Unitarian Society of Salem and also a member of the Massachusetts Unitarian Club since 1883.

Illustrious Brother Battis was raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason in Starr King Lodge A. F. & A. M., Salem, May 3, 1886, and served as its Worshipful Master during the years 1891 and 1892. Received the fourteenth degree of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite in Sutton Lodge of Perfection, Salem, April 6, 1888, and was elected to the office of Thrice Potent Master during the years of 1898, 1899 and 1900, and was Trustee of the Permanent Fund for several years. Was a member of Giles F. Yates Council, Princes of Jerusalem, having joined December 14, 1888, and received the seventeenth and eighteenth grades in Mt. Olivet Chapter of Rose Croix, December 21, 1888. Received the thirty-second grade, Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret, in Massachusetts Consistory, February 22, 1889. He was crowned as an honorary member of the Supreme Council thirty-third and last degree, September 18, 1906.

In 1897 Brother Battis married a niece of the Rev. DeWitt Talmadge, D. D., of New York City. They resided on Lafayette Street, Salem, until the great Salem fire of June 25, 1914, which swept their home and all their Household treasures from off the face of the earth. After the fire they moved to Whipple Hill, Danvers, where Brother Battis died.

He is survived by a widow, Mrs. Marie Talmadge Battis, and one son, Joseph Woodruff Battis, of Springfield, Mass. Brother Battis was buried with Masonic honors from the Second Unitarian Church, Salem, January 3, 1921, Rev. Alfred Manchester, D. D., officiating as pastor. The burial services were performed by the Worshipful Master and officers of Starr King Lodge, assisted by the Schubert Quartette. There were present a large number of Masonic brethren and members of the Bar.

The passing of Judge Edward C. Battis from among us marks another milestone on the road to Eternity. One by one we are losing those sturdy men of Old New England stock, descendants from the Pilgrims and the Puritans, whose ideals of liberty and religion have been bequeathed to them from their forebears as a distinctive inheritance, and such a man was Judge Battis, a man of high ideals and great respectability, a student of American history and all that it implies. Socially and in his home life he was kind and affable. As a judge fair and just in his dealings, always reserving his decisions until doubly sure that they were right. As a Mason he loved the Scottish Rite and always attended its meetings except when ill health or some inexcusable event prevented his being present.

After the great Salem fire he seemed to droop and was never the same man as formerly. His friends noticed the change and wondered. But his heart was broken. His beautiful home, splendid library of choice books, antique furniture, manuscripts and paintings, accumulations of a lifetime, were all swept away in a single night, never to be replaced. It preyed upon his health and made him an old man before his time. Sickness after sickness followed and at last he passed away.

Farewell, Brother, thou art gone to that land

"For all the broken hearted.
The mildest herald by our fate allotted
Beckons, and with inverted torch doth stand
To lead us with a gentle hand
Into the land of the great departed.
Into the silent land!

Walter T. Creese, 32°
H. G. Gilman, 32°,
Robt. L. Almy, 32°,
Committee.

BAUCKMAN, WENDELL ROBERTS 1905-1997

WendellBauckman1984.jpg

BIOGRAPHY

‘’From ‘’’TROWEL’’’, April 1984, Page 17:’’

’’’41 Years Newton Alderman’’’

A dedicated Mason and public servant is Worshipful Wendell R. Bauckman, a native and long-time resident of Newton, Mass. Active in the leather business, he was a graduate of Norwich University and is a 50-year Masonic veteran of Dalhousie Lodge in Newtonville. He was first elected to Newton's Board of Aldermen in 1943, commencing a career of uninterrupted municipal service that continues to this day.

Elected to a two-year term as Alderman-at-Large last November, he entered upon his 41st year of continuous office holding, which could be a record for Massachusetts or for the nation. Chosen Vice-President in 1946 and President in 1948, he serves as acting Mayor whenever that official is out-of-town for any reason; and he represents the city on many other occasions requiring the presence of an elected official.

In 1968 a testimonial dinner was held in honor of his 25th anniversary as a municipal official. The General Chairman of the event was his close friend, Worshipful Monte Basbas, then serving as Mayor of the City, and now a judge sitting on the bench; and on the official committee appeared the name of J. Philip Berquist, our junior Past Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts. Also serving on the Testimonial Committee were: the Honorable Sinclair Weeks, Hon. Howard Whitmore, Jr., Hon. Donald L. Gibbs, and Hon. Leverett Saltonstall, representing the elite of Newton and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. It was Brother Saltonstall's official duty to represent the Aldermen Alumni on that occasion.

One of the dignitaries stated that "Brother Bauckman's many years of capable service, largely on a voluntary basis, should well be an example in today's world of materialistic politics."

Worshipful Brother Wendell became a member of the Craft in 1926 at the youthful age of 21. When elected and installed as Master of Dalhousie Lodge, he was one of the youngest so honored. He received the 50-year Veteran's Medal of the Grand Lodge in 1977.

His many friends and Masonic acquaintances in his hometown of Newton express the hope that "Brother Wendell Bauckman will continue to apply the high ideals of Masonry to the necessary performance of public service for many years to come." So Mote It Be! ‘’(Thanks to R. W. Meyer Weker of Major General Henry Knox Lodge of Boston for factual materials and to M. W. Bro. J. Philip Berquist for the photo appearing with this article — Ed.)’’

BAULDRY, LYMAN CARLETON 1870-1942

From Proceedings, Page 1942-24:

Brother Bauldry was born in Bourne, Massachusetts, on April 2, 1870, and died at his home in Fairhaven on January 30, 1942.

As a young man, he entered the employ of the Pairpoint Corporation of New Bedford and remained there until ill health caused his retirement a few years ago.

During the forty-seven years of his residence in Fairhaven, he took an active interest in civic affairs, holding many offices of trust.

He was raised in George H. Taber Lodge on June 2, 1902, and served as Master in 1914. On March 8, 1916, he became a charter member of Abraham H. Howland Jr. Lodge and served as the first Master in 1916 and1917. In 1929 and 1930, Most Worshipful Herbert W. Dean appointed him District Deputy Grand Master of the New Bedford 30th Masonic District, a position which he held with distinction.

He was exalted in Adoniram Chapter, R.A.M., of New Bedford, but dimitted to become a charter member of Fairhaven Chapter, serving later as its High Priest. He was also a member of New Bedford Council, R.&S.M., and of Sutton Commandery, K.T.

He is survived by his widow, one son and two grandchildren.

Brother Bauldry was an earnest and devoted Mason and a very active one until ill health compelled his retirement. His many friends deeply mourn his passing, but rejoice in the memory of a life that was unselfish and inspiring in its service to his fellow man.

BAXTER, IRA 1798-1853

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XIII, No. 1, November 1853, Page 29:

The following resolutions were passed at a meeting of the Fraternal Lodge, Barnstable, Mass.-

Whereas, by a dispensation of the Great Grand Master of the Universe, our Br. Ira Baxter has been raised from this to the Celestial Lodge above, therefore

  • Resolved, That as members of Fraternal Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, we mourn the departure of this our Brother, and sympathize with his afflicted family in the loss they have sustained.
  • Resolved, That as Masons, we submit to this decree of our Great Grand Master, with the fond hope that we shall meet at last in the Great Grad Lodge, where parting shall be known no more.
  • Resolved, That we will endeavor to imitate and practice the virtues of our deceased Brother, and to live as he lived - in peace with all men.
  • Resolved, That as a testimony of our respect for our deceased Brother, we will wear the usual badge of mourning for thirty days.
  • Resolved, That these resolutions be entered in the records of this Lodge, and that the Secretary be instructed to forward a copy of them to the family of our deceased Brother; also, to the Freemasons' Magazine, and to each of the County papers for publication.

BAXTER, SYLVANUS (SYLVESTER) 1799-1861

MEMORIAL

PROCEEDINGS, 1861

From Proceedings, Page VI-402:

Resolved, That the decease of the late Hon. Sylvester Baxter, has removed from this G. Lodge one of its most honored members, whose life was protracted to a mature age of usefulness to his fellow citizens, and to societies with which he was associated, but more especially to this time honored Order.

Resolved, That in the important relation to his masonic brethren as Dist. Dep. Grand Master, he ever manifested an unwearied zeal, and a fidelity worthy of imitation, and that this G. Lodge deplore the loss of one of its most estimable officers.

Resolved, That we sympathize with the Masonic community of the District under his jurisdiction, in this dispensation, which has deprived them, especially of him who was to them a most generous and faithful Bro. and to his bereaved family we tender our condolence, that he, who was its loved Head, has been removed from that home on earth, which his presence ever made happy, but still can rejoice that they, that we, that all who knew him, have the assurance that from his well spent life he has a Home above, "eternal in the Heavens".

MOORE'S FREEMASON'S MONTHLY, 1861

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXI, No. 1, October 1861, Page 23:

This estimable Brother died at his residence in Hyannis, (Cape Cod,) on Wednesday evening, Sept. 25th, aged 62 years. He was at the time of his death District Deputy Grand Master for the 8th Masonic District of this Commonwealth, which office he had held for several years. He was a faithful and earnest Mason, and greatly beloved and respected by the Brethren. "He was," says one who knew him intimately (the Editor of the Barnstable Courier), in his social and business relations, "a man of frank and noble nature, and his acquaintance was quite extensive. For many years a successful shipmaster and shipowner, he long since acquired that competence which enabled him to retire from the profession of his earlier life. He was always respected and beloved, and ever took an active and influential position in every society or association with which he became connected. He will be greatly missed in the Society with which be worshipped—Rev. Mr. Pope's ; nor will his loss be less severely felt by the Masonic Fraternity.

"His funeral was attended from the Universalist Church in Hyannis, on Saturday last, (Sept. 28,) at which time a most impressive sermon was delivered by Rev. R. S. Pope, with whom he had been so long and so well acquainted. His text was from Proverbs, 18th chap. 1st verse:—

"'Boast not thyself of to-morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.'

"Hon. Geo. Marston served as Marshal.

" he ceremonies at the tomb consisted of the Order of the Masonic Ritual, admirably performed by Grand Master W. D. Coolidge, Esq., of Boston, and a prayer by Rev. Mr. Bacon, of Centreville.

"Capt. Baxter bad long been a member of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, and the following gentlemen were present at his funeral as representatives, viz.: William D. Coolidge, M. W. Grand Master; Jesse P. Pattee, as R. W. D. G. M.; William H. Sampson, as S. G. W.; Isaac Cary, as J. G. W.; Jabez W. Barton, as G. Treas.; Lovell Bicknell, as G. Sec.; Z. L. Bicknell, as G. Marshal ; Eben F. Gay, G. Tyler.

"Capt. Baxter has for years held various offices of trust and responsibility, and was recently a member of the Senate of Massachusetts, and at the time of his death was Deputy Collector and Inspector at the Port of Hyannis; and the sympathy for his loss was best attested by the immense concourse assembled at his funeral, which was one of the largest ever attended in this section of the State.

"The representatives from the Grand Lodge remained in town until Monday, and expressed themselves as pleased with their visit to this section, although coupled with duties of so melancholy a nature. They are men distinguished for their intelligence and gentlemanly bearing — noble representatives of a noble association."

At the close of the funeral services on Saturday, the members of Fraternal Lodge met at Masonic Hall in Hyannis, and chose a committee of three to report a series of Resolutions, expressive of the sense of the meeting upon the death of Brother Baxter. The Resolutions were unanimously adopted as follows:—

Fraternal Lodge, Hyannis, Sept. 28, A. L. 1861.

Again has the messenger of Death invaded our Brotherhood. Another member has been suddenly called away. Our dearly beloved and "elder Brother, Past Master Sylvester Baxter, has finished his work, and "entered in, through the gates, into the city" where all good and true Masons shall dwell together forever, in the fullness of Light. In view of this afflictive dispensation, it is therefore

  • Resolved, That in the death of this well-known and honored Brother, the whole Masonic Fraternity of this State, has suffered bereavement.
  • Resolved, That in the decease of this endeared and lamented member, this Lodge has sustained a loss the greatness of which we cannot yet comprehend, and which will be easily recalled, and impressed on our hearts, at every communication and assembly of this Masonic body, for many years to come.
  • Resolved, That even now, in the suddenness of our affliction and the freshness of our grief, we remember his high appreciation of the worth of Masonic labor and learning; his faithful, intelligent and eminent services in many posts of Masonic duty ; his constant, punctual, and patient attendance on all Masonic occasions, and his zeal, fidelity and accuracy as a workman; his sincere and unfailing temper of fraternal affection; the warmth of his friendship, the depth of his sympathy, the benevolence of his heart, the integrity of his character, and his worthy example in all the relations of life.
  • Resolved, That we hereby express to his stricken widow, to his orphaned children, and to the again broken band of brothers and sisters of which he was so cherished a member, our truest and deepest sympathy and condolence.
  • Resolved, That these expressions of our feelings on this sad occasion be entered on our records; and that a copy of the same be transmitted to the family of our departed Brother, and to the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, and to the Boston Encampment of Knights Templars ; and that they be published in the newspapers of the County.

S. B. Phinney,
Geo. Marston,
Geo. W. Doane,
Committee

GRAND CHAPTER PROCEEDINGS, 1861

From Grand Chapter Proceedings, Page ChII-6:

It has been customary from time immemorial to notice by resolves the departure from among us of the good and worthy, that their memories may be embalmed in the hearts of those they leave behind.

Even the untutored savages respect the custom, and by gesticulations and pantomimic show relate the deeds and achievements of the departed warrior as an incentive to the survivors to imitate his heroic example. We also hold to view, by resolutions, the virtues of the departed as an incentive to emulation, giving the assurance that the virtuous dead are not forgotten.

We, of the Masonic Fraternity, feel more closely united to our Brethren, and the tie which binds us together feels more sensibly the shock of separation than that which unites us to the world at large. It is therefore a pleasing, though melancholy, duty to testify our affection for the departed by calling up his many virtues, and placing our acknowledgment of his worth upon our records, that he may still be "a light to our path and a lamp to our feet," and that though dead he may yet speak to us.

We have been called upon during the past year to record the departure of many of our oldest and most devoted Brethren, whose devotion to the interests of Freemasonry could only cease with life.

We are again called upon to record the departure of a true and devoted Brother, a worthy officer of this Grand Chapter, a true Christian, and an upright man. Companion Sylvester Baxter, of Hyannis, died on the 25th of September last, aged sixty-two years, and as a slight tribute to his memory it is

  • Resolved, That in the death of our Companion Sylvester Baxter, we have lost one, who through all his connection with us, was a worthy and true defender of that Banner, upon which is inscribed, "Holiness to the Lord."
  • Resolved, That by his death, Masonry has lost a warm advocate, and a most active disseminator of the sublime principles of the Order.
  • Resolved, That we will ever cherish his memory with a holy affection, and embalm it in the sanctuary of our hearts.
  • Resolved, That we forward a copy of these resolutions to the family of the deceased, with the assurance of our warmest sympathy for them in this sad affliction.

Mark'd as he was by truth and love so well,
He passed with safety through the lusts of earth;
Most excellent 'mong those who did excel,
A Royal Arch now crowns his second birth.

BAYLIES, FRANCIS 1783-1852

220px-Francis_Baylies.png

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly Magazine, Vol. XII, No. 2, December 1852, p. 62:

We announced the death of this distinguished Brother, at his residence in Taunton, last month. His funeral took place on the Saturday afternoon following his decease, from his private residence, with many demonstrations of public sympathy and regard. "The Masonic Fraternity, with which the deceased had been long associated as a zealous member and ardent defender, and whose interest he had been [called to preside in quality of Grand Master, at the death of the late Major Benjamin Russell, took occasion to notice the bereavement in an appropriate manner, and to pay a last and touching tribute to his memory." The services were performed by Rev. Thomas R. Lambert, one of the Grand Chaplains of the Grand Lodge.

Bro. Baylies, as stated above, was elected Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of this state, but circumstances compelled him to decline the honor, and he was never installed. He was, however, a faithful Brother, and his services as a Mason, will long endear his memory to his Brethren. He had been much in public life, - was for several years Member of Congress, and subsequently Minister at Buenos Ayres. He was one of the strong men of the State.

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly Magazine, Vol. XII, No. 3, January 1853, p. 85:

A reader provided the magazine with a report from the New Bedford Mercury.

Upon the annunciation of his death, the bar of the Old Colony then attending the Law Term of the Supreme Judicial Court in Taunton, met and passed the following resolutions, and requested Timothy G. Coffin, Esq., of New Bedford to present them to the Court.

In the discharge of that melancholy duty, Mr. Coffin arose, and thus addressed the Court: -

"May it please your Honors: - Ere the funeral knell of the obsequies of our illustrious brother - the foremost man of all this world - has ceased to sound, we are called upon to listen to the sad intelligence, that another eminent brother has been summoned to the world of spirits. The last evening, the Hon. Francis Baylies, the oldest member at our bar, died, and all that remains to us, is his lifeless corse - his spirit is safely "lodged above these rolling spheres."

"The bar of this County have deeply felt the calamity which has again taken from their side another of their number, whom they loved, esteemed and honored, and as an expression of their feelings, they have adopted resolutions, which they have requested me to present to your honors.

"You will pardon me, I trust, if I obtrude upon your notice, for a brief space, my own opinion of him whose death we all lament. I knew him intimately for many years, and I loved him much. He was truly a gentleman, and every quality which should grace that character, he possessed in an eminent degree. He was a statesman, and while aiding in the councils of his country in our State Legislature, and as a Member of Congress, his course was marked by unexampled industry, and unswerving integrity. His views upon public measures, were clear, sound and conservative. One of the greatest men who has presided over this nation, selected him to represent the sovereignty of his country, at a foreign Court, and while discharging the important duties of that responsible position, he displayed the qualities of a sagacious diplomatist, and the firmness of an honest man.

"He was a scholar. His love of literature was an inherent characteristic of his life, and he has left us the evidence of his untiring application, which will live and endure through time. As the historian of the Old Colony, he has made himself a name that shall never perish, while the name of the Old Colony shall remain - while the memory of things connected with it shall exist, so long will the name of its historian be cherished and honored.

"He was a sound lawyer and an eloquent advocate, and while engaged in the practice of our profession, he was distinguished for his ardent devotion to the interest of his clients - faithfulness to the Court, and courtesy to his brethren. But above all - I again repeat, he was the polished gentleman, the true friend, the affectionate centre of the domestic circle, a firm believer in God and his Christ, an honest man. No man could be taken away whose death would cause a greater void in this community, or whose memory will be more revered.

"But he has gone, and why should we complain? He has left a name that will be cherished in the memory of the living circle of his friends, and honored by each succeeding generation who shall seek to know of the Old Colony through the page of history. Death has claimed the man -

"Death! Thou great proprietor of all, 'tis thine
To tread out empire, and to quench the stars;
The Sun himself by thy permission shines
And one day thou shalt pluck him from his sphere."

"To us who stand within striking distance of this great proprietor of all, the voice which comes from the dead is, "Be ye also ready; for in an hour when ye think not, the Son of Man cometh."

He then read the following resolutions :-

The members of the Bristol Bar, having received with the deepest sorrow, the sad intelligence of the decease of the Hon. Francis Baylies, are desirous of testifying their respect for the memory of their departed brother, and and uniting their sympathies with that of a bereaved family and community; therefore

Resolved, That in his decease we are called upon to mourn the loss of a sincere friend and esteemed fellow-citizen - a patriot and statesman whose public services have reflected high honor upon himself and his country, - an accomplished scholar, who, by his varied acquirements and solid judgment, deservedly ranks among the brightest ornaments of American literature - a gentleman whose generous heart and noble bearing through a long life, have won the love and veneration of his townsmen, of the Bar, and of the Commonwealth.

Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be transmitted to the family of our deceased brother, together with an assurance of our heartfelt and respectful sympathy in their severe affliction.

May it please your Honors, I am instructed by the Bristol Bar, to ask of this Honorable Court, that the resolutions I have now presented, may be entered upon the records of the Court, and laid up among the archives of the County, as a perpetual memorial of their esteem, respect and love for their deceased brother.

The Chief Justice, in behalf of the Court, responded in an appropriate and feeling manner, alluding in terms of respect to the many important civil stations which the deceased had formerly filled, as indications of the confidence reposed in his ability, uprightness and integrity, both by his own State and the nation. The Court cheerfully acceded to the request of the Bar, and ordered the resolutions to be entered on the records of the Court, that the evidence might be forever perpetuated of the high esteem, love and respect entertained towards the deceased, by his brethren of the Bristol Bar.

Note on Timothy Coffin: Raised Union (Nantucket) 1810; Charter Member Star in the East, WM 1840, 1841, signatory of the Declaration of 1831; died 1854).

On Saturday, Oct. 30th, the remains of our distinguished Brother were interred with Masonic honors.

The Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, the Rev. Thomas R. Lambert, was present in full regalia, and performed the funeral services, in a most solemn manner. Brothers J. J. Loring, T. G. Coffin, W. A. F. Sprout, A. Baylies, W. Crossman and F. Phillips, were pall bearers.

Lodges from Taunton, New Bedford, and other towns, assembled to pay the last duty to their deceased Brother. Of their numbers, I cannot speak. But of their sorrow, I can. No heart in that solemn assembly, which was gathered in the Lodge, to wear the cassia and deposit it with their deceased Brother, but felt a renewed and deepened interest in the bond that bound the living to the dead.

We buried our Brother with Masonic honors in due form, and our hearts went out in unison with the ceremonies - and in those ceremonies we meant, what no heart can know or understand, except he be, what the deceased was - a Brother!

Hereafter, I may take occasion to write a memorial of our deceased Brother which may be worthy of your notice. At present, I have only time to give you a short narrative of the honor, which public sentiment and fraternal regard, paid to his memory.

FROM THE 200TH ANNIVERSARY HISTORY OF KING DAVID LODGE, JUNE 1998

Born October 16, 1783, and commencing the practice of law in 1810 - the year he officiated as Register of Probate for the first of seven years - Francis Baylies was raised in King David Lodge November 7, 1810. He was an outstanding orator, writer, produced two volumes of the Plymouth Bay Colony and had handwritten the first history of Taunton that was lost in a printing shop fire that destroyed one side of Main St. in 1838. Lost in the fire at the Court House were early records of births, deaths and marriages that were the property of the First Church and loaned to the town.

He had served a term in Congress and was appointed by President Andrew Jackson and sent to Argentina to settle a fishing dispute with that country and American fisherman. He failed but was summoned by the Grand Master to deliver the eulogy to our Bro. and Gen. Lafayette who had died in 1834. He was given the title of Right Worshipful and in December 1834, was elected Grand Master. When the day for installation of Grand Lodge officers arrived a courier appeared with a note in which Bro. Baylies had given a reason for his refusal to serve. The note was never found but Grand Secretary Charles W. Moore took umbrage to Bro. Baylies and suggested he (Baylies) feared for his political career.

Elected to the House of Representatives of the Massachusetts General Court Bro. Baylies filibustered for two days against a bill at its second reading that had it passed, would have outlawed Freemasonry in the Commonwealth. Nowhere in Grand Lodge records, or in the book Stalwart Builders authored by M. W. Thomas S. Roy, or in the Freemasons' Magazine that was the work of Bro. Charles Moore, can there be found reference to Bro. Baylies talk that saved Freemasonry. Your historian spent some hot summer days in the below-ground level repositories of the State House to read the Clerk's book that recorded that talk by Bro. Baylies. My late friend and once fellow newsman, State Senator John F. Parker made it possible. I have those talks in print. Many state legislators who were Masons heard the talks, but they never reached Grand Lodge for publication or acclaim. They were publicly printed in the Columbian Reporter in its weekly papers of April 22 and 29 and May 6 and 13 of 1835 in Taunton.

The stone cottage that fronts our Lodge room was the home of Francis Baylies from 1836, when he purchased it from Joseph L. Lord, who as Taunton's seventh postmaster had it built in 1831-32. Our Charles R. Vickery was the next appointed postmaster when Taunton had only 6000 inhabitants. Bro. Baylies occupied the stone cottage until his death October 28, 1852. Masons came from great distances to attend his funeral. His daughter, Harriet, lived there a short time until an auction disposed of some of his property. Masons marched through the streets to Plain Cemetery, Broadway for his burial. His grave, in desperate need of care today, is next to that of Samuel Crocker, the last surviving charter member.

BAYLIES, JOHN 1796-1863

JohnBaylies.jpg

From Past Masters of the Masonic Lodges of Taunton, Mass., 1905:

John Baylies was born in Dighton May 19, 1796. He was the son of Thomas S. Baylies and his wife Bethiah Godfrey. Thomas S. Baylies was the son of Nicholas Baylies and his wife Mary Park. Bethiah Godfrey was the daughter of Brigadier-Gen. George Godfrey. Thomas S. Baylies’ brother Hodijah was an aide to Gen. George Washington during the Revolutionary war, and the family occupied a very prominent position at that time.

John Baylies, the subject of this sketch, was a deputy sheriff of Bristol county for thirty years, having charge of the house of correction at New Bedford for ten years. lie was also a county commissioner and a member of the board of selectmen of the town of New Bedford. He took an active part in the old State militia, and was popularly known as the “Colonel.” He married Mary Shaw, removed to New Bedford in 1833. and died in that city Mar. 14, 1863. From the Masonic record of New Bedford we learn that during the anti-Masonic movement many of the prominent and influential men of that town signed a document in which they relinquished all association with Masonry forever, believing it to be of “no further use or value, but at the same time they felt their duty to declare that there was nothing in the character of the institution to justify the fears with regard to it as held by a portion of the community.” Among the signers to this document we find the name of John Baylies. The record further states that the Morgan excitement had a natural death and the “lodge continued in a steady permanent growth." We have no doubt from the records of that old lodge, Star in the East, that Brother John Baylies had an active part in that “steady and permanent growth.” He took an active part in organizing Odd Fellowship in New Bedford, being the first treasurer of the first lodge of that town.

BEAN, HENRY E. W. 1879-1930

From Proceedings, Page 1930-277:

R.W. Bro. Bean was born in Portland, Maine, May 6, 1879, and died in Somerville April 21, 1930. Bro. Bean passed his early years in Claremont, N. H., where he was educated in the public schools. When about twenty-three years of age he came to Boston where he entered the service of the Rand-Avery Supply Company, where he remained for more than twenty-five years. The last years of his life were spent in the service of the Boston Herald where he held a very responsibie position in the department of composition.

Bro. Bean was initiated in Hiram Lodge No. 9, of Claremont, N. H., September 4, 1900, passed December 12, 1900, and raised February 13, 1901. He dimitted from Hiram Lodge No. 9, May 3, 1904 and took membership in Mt. Tabor Lodge October 20, 1904. He served his Lodge as Master in 1916 and 1917 and was in his second year of service as District Deputy Grand Master for the Boston Third Masonic District at the time of his death.

Bro. Bean was an active member of the First Universalist Church of Somerville, and was president of the Men's Club.

Bro. Bean is survived by his widow and one daughter. Bro. Bean was a home lover whose outside interests were confined to his church and Freemasonry, to both of which he gave zealous and faithful service. Quiet and unassuming in manner, he was yet a wise and competent executive. His sudden and untimely death was a grief to his many friends and a distinct loss to the Fraternity.

BEAN, JOHN WESLEY 1833-1933

  • MM 1863, Hughes Army, U. D., Point Lookout, MD
  • Member 1921, Ezekiel Bates

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XXVIII, No. 7, March 1933, Page 187:

Major John W. Bean of Attleboro, Massachusetts, celebrated his 100th birthday on Wednesday, March 8th, 1933.

The venerable gentleman was the recipient of tributes from dignitaries of city, state and nation.

Oldest officer on the retired list of the U. S. Army and commander of a G. A. R. Post of his native city, he attended a luncheon given in his honor on March 7th. where a wealth of encomiums which would have turned the heads of younger men brought smiles of appreciation to one to whom world cares must seem a trivial thing indeed.

Messages of congratulation were received from President Hoover, the governors of three states and Many others. It was an eventful day for one whose life spans twenty-eight presidents and who has seen panics and prosperity and witnessed much of the progress of the nation at first hand.

A peculiar interest in the event to Freemasons lies in the fact that Major Bean is undoubtedly one of the world's oldest Masons, He having been a member of the fraternity for nearly seventy years.

Brother Bean was born March 8, 1833, at KirbY. Vt. He was raised in 1864 in Hughes Army Lodge at Point Lookout, Maryland: later affiliated with Palatha Lodge of Palatha, Florida; and affiliated with Ezekiel Bates Lodge (Mass.). July 16, 1921.

All brethren will wish him continued years of health and happiness as well as felicitating him upon his attainment of the centennial landmark.

BEARD, JAMES FRANKLIN 1849-1906

  • MM 1882, WM 1889-1891, Soley

From Proceedings, Page 1906-107, in Grand Master's Address:

I have also the painful duty of announcing the decease of Bro. James Franklin Beard, Chairman of our Board of Auditors. Brother Beard was born in Reading, Mass., Oct. 1, 1849, and died suddenly at his residence in Somerville, July 2, 1906.

Early in his youth the family moved to Charlestown. He attended the public schools and graduated at the High School in 1867. He entered Dartmouth College in 1868, but was compelled to leave at the end of the second year on account of sickness in his family. The love borne him by his classmates appears in the fact that on the unanimous petition of his class, at their Twenty-fifth Anniversary, the Faculty of Dartmouth College granted him the degree of Bachelor of Arts.

For twenty years he was engaged in mercantile affairs and in 1892 he was elected cashier of the Somerville National Bank, which position he resigned in 1900 to accept the office of Treasurer of the city of Somerville, He held that office at the time of his decease.

Brother Beard received the Masonic degrees in Soley Lodge, Somerville, in 1881-82, and was Worshipful Master of that Lodge in 1889, 1890 and 1891. He was elected a member of our Board of Auditors, Dec. 12, 1900, and was its Chairman at the time of his death. He held various positions in DeMolay Commandery, K.T., and at the time of his decease was Generalissimo of that Body.

Funeral services were held at the Unitarian Church, Somerville, on Friday, July 6. The City Hall, which was draped in black, was closed, and the flags on the public buildings, in the parks, and many private residences were placed at half-mast. The bells were tolled at the fire houses, striking once a minute for fifty-six minutes, the number denoting Brother Beard's age.

The loss which the city of Somerville, his friends, his family and our Fraternity have suffered in his sudden death is very great.

From New England Craftsman, Vol. I, No. 10, August 1906, Page 457:

Brother James F. Beard, City Treasurer of Somerville, Mass. died July 2. He was a past master of Soley Lodge, a member of Somerville Royal Arch Chapter and second officer of De Molay Commandery K. T. His funeral was attended by the city government and hundreds of prominent citizens and friends. He was a man greatly loved by his brethren and highly respected by all who knew him.

From Somerville Annual Report, 1907:

James F. Beard was born in Reading, Mass, October 11, 1849.

Early in his life his father removed to Charlestown, where he received his education. In 1868 he entered Dartmouth Col— lege, but owing to sickness in the family, he was obliged to leave at the end of two years.

In 1874 he took charge of the office and finances of the firm of Harrison, Beard & Co., furniture manufacturers, with whom he was associated for nearly twenty years.

He moved to Somerville in 1879.

In 1887. while still in the furniture business, he was elected secretary and treasurer of the Somerville Co-operative Bank, and at the time of his death he was director of the corporation.

In 1892, when the Somerville National Bank was formed, he was elected cashier, which position he held until his election as city treasurer on August 9, 1900.

In 1886 he was elected to the Somerville school board, and in 1900 was president of the board.

He held from time to time positions of trust and honor in various organizations, all bf which he filled with a faithfulness and honesty of purpose which made him respected by all with whom he came in contact.

His death on July 2, 1906, after a few hours’ illness, came as a great shock to the community, but the memory of his kindness and courtesy to all and his faithfulness to life's duties will always be remembered.

BEARD, JOSIAH 1798-1885

JOSIAH BEARD, of Waltham, died February 6, 1885. He was born in 1798, in Francestown, N.H., and was made a Mason in the town of Dublin, now Peterborough, N.H., in 1821. Becoming a resident of Saco, Maine, he affiliated with Saco Lodge No. 9, at that place, in 1827, serving the Lodge as W.M. in 1828-29. On the 16th day of April, 1856{?}, he became a member of Monitor Lodge, having established his residence at Waltham. During the anti-Masonic excitement of 1830-31-32 he remained with the faithful of the Craft, being one of the twelve signers of Waltham to the Declaration of of the Freemasons in 1831. Bro. Beard was an honored citizen, occupying positions of trust in connection with the financial and municipal interests of the town, and being highly esteemed for his personal and business qualities and unswerving integrity.

Note: Josiah Beard was named Waltham's first Fire Chief in 1844, and the Josiah Beard House is on the National Register of Historic Places.

BEARD, WALTER TABER, JR. 1956-

BIOGRAPHY

From TROWEL, Spring/Summer 2004, Page 16:

WalterBeard2004.jpg

"To Protect and Serve" is the mission of many law enforcement officers. But one Mason takes this to heart, and then some. Bro. Walter T. Beard, Jr. of May Flower Lodge in Middleboro protects the citizens by night as a Massachusetts State Trooper stationed out of the Middleboro barracks. A veteran of more than 20 years of service, he has kept the roads safe and assisted many motorists while patrolling the highways and back roads of southeastern Massachusetts. But his service doesn't end when he parks his cruiser and takes off his badge and uniform at the end of his day. In fact on many days it is just beginning. Bro. Beard's heart is as big as he is.

He has been a whole blood donor for 24 years, and started donating platelets in 2001 through a State Police sponsored blood drive. He has lost track of exactly how many gallons he's donated, but a conservative estimate would be more than 15 gallons of blood and platelets. He continues his commitment by faithfully donating platelets every two weeks at the Middleboro ACS site.

But what has distinguished Bro. Beard even more has been his involvement in a soda distribution project through the local Pepsi-Cola Bottling plant. In late 1995, through a chance meeting at the Taunton warehouse, he was asked if he knew of anyone who would be able to use — at no charge — short-dated or overstocked Pepsi products. While they couldn't be sold, they were still perfectly good for consumption. Through the auspices of May Flower Lodge, which he had recently joined, Pepsi sent 4,000 cases. With the assistance of the Middleboro Rainbow Assembly, calls were made and the product was distributed to needy organizations. Initially, the big obstacle was having enough help on hand to physically move and sort the pallets and cases. May Flower Lodge's Brethren rose to the challenge as did many non-Masons. As a result of their efforts, many of those non-Masons have since become members of the Lodge.

Today, Pepsi sends a 48-foot trailer with 30 pallets loaded with overstocked Pepsi products to Bro. Beard on a regular basis. He in turn distributes them to local nonprofit organizations such as the Boy Scouts, DeMolay, Rainbow Girls, churches, clubs, and other charities such as local food kitchens, Handi Kids, the Breast Cancer Association, and American Cancer Society, just to name a few. He arranged for the local Rainbow Chapter to assist, and with assistance of the Mother Advisor of Assembly #58, the girls learn the benefits of charitable giving and helping needy people in the communities in the greater Middleboro area.

Bro. Beard's involvement doesn't end with the distribution. He and his small group of Masons return to collect the empty cans and bottles. The revenue from them is used to sponsor youth sports teams, and to purchase Beanie Babies which he and other Shriners then distribute to patients at the Shriners Hospital in Boston. But it still doesn't stop there! He removes the pull-tabs from those cans and they are collected and sold separately through the King Philip Shrine Club in Taunton, the proceeds of which are used to help fund the local Hospital Transportation Fund of Aleppo Shrine.

In the ten years he's been directing this program the statistics are staggering. He has received more than 250,000 cases of products from Pepsi—that's over 6 million cans and bottles! He has paid out more than $45,000 to local groups and has also received $3,500 in matching funds from Grand Lodge. In addition, the groups have earned more than $290,000 in can and bottle deposits, and Bro. Beard has collected almost 3,000 pounds of pull-tabs. Through his efforts, the non-profit groups have saved over $1.2 million solely by not having to buy soda. While patrolling our highways as a State Trooper, he sees a lot of people in poor situations and environments, some unable to take care of themselves. He says this project is one way he can give these people assistance by donating the Pepsi products to organizations who are able to help them and other needy individuals and families in southeastern Massachusetts.

Our Brother's philosophy is simple. Although the project may be his, "it's the volunteers and other helpers that make it successful. Without them, the project's dead" he says. Masonry has enabled him to meet many new people and has allowed him to "get involved in fun things from time to time." He says to those who are floundering, "you get what you put into it. If you don't put anything in, you get nothing out."

Because of his tireless dedication and efforts to help the needy, Trooper Beard has been honored by the State Police with a Division Commander's Order for his work with the Pepsi Bottling Company in distributing goods to local charitable organizations. The American Red Cross has also honored him for his blood and Apheresis donations. And Bro. Walter T. Beard, Jr. was presented with the Joseph Warren Distinguished Service Medal in November 2003, with his wife and children present.

Masonry has a long history in his family. Both his grandfather and his father were 50-year members, and his brother and uncle have been Masters. A former sheet metal worker, Bro. Beard became a State Trooper in 1982, and was raised in May Flower Lodge in 1994. His wife and sister are active in Eastern Star, and his daughter is an active Rainbow Girl.

As a protector of the peace, and by his exemplary service to his community, Bro. Walter T Beard, Jr. truly exemplifies the best qualities of being a Mason.

BEATTIE, WILLIAM HENRY 1864-1935

WilliamBeattie.jpg

MEMORIAL

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1935

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1935, Page 55:

William Henry Beattie was horn in Newport, R. I., on April 2, 1864, and died at his residence No. 784 High Street, in Fall River, Massachusetts, on May 10,1935. He was the son of William and Mary (Hamilton) Beattie.

At the age of three, his parents moved from Newport to Fall River, where he attended the public schools, graduating from High School in 1882, and from Brown University in 1886, with the degree of Bachelor of Arts.

After graduating from college, he associated himself with his father in the granite and contracting business until 1895, when he formed a partnership with George H. Cornell, under the firm name of Beattie and Cornell. This firm built many large manufacturing plants, business houses, churches, and private residences.

He was a director in several large corporations, a member of the Quequechan Club, and various other organizations.

He took an active interest in civic affairs, and served as a member of the Board of Fire Commissioners from 1914 to 1917, and was a Lieutenant (J. G.) in the Massachusetts Naval Militia, and Colonel in the 17th Regiment, Massachusetts State Guard. He attended the Church of the Ascension, and served as a member of the Vestry for several years.

His Masonic record is as follows:-

  • Received his degree of Master Mason in King Philip Lodge, June 6, 1905, and served as Worshipful Master in 1909.
  • Received the Royal Arch degree in Fall River Royal Arch Chapter, October 30, 1905; and the degree of Super Excellent Master in Fall River Council of Royal and Select Masters, March 29, 1906; and served as Thrice Illustrious Master of the Council in 1917.
  • He was Knighted in Godfrey DeBouillon Commandery No. 25, K. T., January 24, 1906, and was elected Eminent Commander in 1913, and appointed Grand Lecturer of the Grand Commandery of Massachusetts and Rhode Island in 1915-1916.
  • In the Bodies of the Scottish Rite, he received the degree of Grand Elect Mason in Boston-Lafayette Lodge of Perfection, December 4, 1908: Prince of Jerusalem in Giles Fonda Yates Council, December 11, 1908; Knight of Rose Croix in Mt. Olivet Chapter December 18, 1908; and the degree of Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret in Massachusetts Consistory April 23,

1909.

At the formation of the Scottish Rite Bodies in the Valley of Fall River, Massachusetts, he withdrew his membership in Boston and became affiliated with the new Bodies in Fall River, serving as Senior Warden in Fall River Lodge of Perfection from 1912 to 1915. He was elected Sovereign Prince of Samuel C. Lawrence Council Princes of Jerusalem, December 9, 1912, and held this office three years.

He was made a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, Thirty-Third degree in the city of Boston, September 17, 1918. Honorary member of the Supreme Council of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction of the U. S. A.

He was buried in the Oak Grove Cemetery, Fall River; Godfrey De�Bouillon Commandery conducting the Knight Templar ritual.

Robert N. Hathaway, 33°,
Elmer B. Young, 33°,
Frank L. Carpenter, 32°,
Committee.

BECKFORD, GEORGE PHIPPEN 1873-1935

MEMORIAL

FROM NEW ENGLAND CRAFTSMAN, 1935

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XXXI, No. 4, December 1935, Page 77:

George P. Beckford, of 14 Maxfield Street, West Roxbury, a Boston attorney, who was a member of the state ballot law commission for 12 years, died Friday, December 20. at a Boston hospital, of pneumonia. He had been ill for about a week.

Funeral services were held at his home Sunday, at 2 p. m., with the Rev. H. Arthur Kernen, minister of the West Roxbury Congregational Church, officiating. Burial was in Salem.

His nearest surviving relatives are several cousins and nieces, who live in central Massachusetts. He was unmarried.

George Beckford was graduated from Brown University with the class of 1898. and three years later from the Boston University law school. He was admitted to the bar the same year, and established offices at 53 State Street. where he had been located for the past 37 years.

During the course of his career he handled hundreds of cases before the Suffolk County and United States courts. He had charge of many estates, and had negotiated many important commissions as an attorney.

In 1922 he was appointed a member of the state ballot law commission by Governor Channing Cox, serving for a long period as chairman of the body. He was reappointed by Governors Fuller and Ely. His connection with the commission was severed last August.

Mr. Beckford was a member of the American, Massachusetts and Suffolk County Bar Associations, the Boston Bar Association, the Winslow Lewis Lodge of Masons. St. Bernard Commandery, and Roslindale. Royal Arch Chapter, of which he was past high priest.

BECKWITH, WALTER PARKER 1850-1905

From New England Craftsman, Vol. I, No. 2, November 1905, Page 68:

Brother Walter P. Beckwith, Principal of the State Normal School at Salem, Mass., died Oct. 13. He was a frequent contributor to educational and other papers on matters pertaining to education, and was widely known as a sound and logical writer. He was at one period assistant secretary of the American institution of instruction. He was a member of Berkshire Lodge.

BEERS, ROMANUS E. 1844-1907

From New England Craftsman, Vol. III, No. 4, January 1908, Page 151:

Brother Romamis E. Beers, 66 years told and a veteran of the Civil War, died at his home in Everett, Mass., November 13. Brother Beers was a member of Palestine Lodge, a Royal Arch Mason and a Knight Templar.

BEGG, DONALD FRANCIS ALLAN 1894-1982

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1983, Page 25:

Ill. Donald Francis Allan Begg, 33°
Born in Thurso, Scotland, March 22, 1894
Died in Lawrence, Massachusetts, July 27, 1982

Ill:. Donald Francis Allan Begg, 33°, Honorary member of the Supreme Council and an active member of the Valley of Lawrence passed away in Lawrence, Mass. on July 27, 1982. His passing has created a void in the fraternity, and more especially among his family and friends.

Ill:. Donald F. A. Begg was born in Thurso, Scotland on March 22, 1894, the son of John and Barbara (Allan) Begg.

He received his education in the schools of Scotland, graduating from Miller Academy, Thurso, Scotland. Following his graduation, Brother Begg was employed as an apprentice for five years in The Dry Good Business in Thurso, Scotland.

After emigrating to this country in September, 1913, he accepted the position of Dry Goods Buyer for the A. B. Sutherland Co. in Lawrence, Mass., in which capacity he served for 38 years. He later was employed by the Sceva Speare Co. of Haverhill, Mass. as Mer­chandise Manager, and later as Store Manager for the F. A. Hiscox Co. of Andover, Mass.

On August 7, 1920 our Illustrious Brother was united in mar­riage to Minnie Dunn et Forsythe, who passed away May 31, 1982. This marriage was blessed with two children, Wor. John Begg, Wor­shipful Master of Grecian Lodge in Lawrence, Mass., who is now deceased, and a daughter Mrs. Margaret E. (Begg) Todd, presently of California.

illustrious Brother Begg was an active member of the United Congregational Church of Lawrence, Mass., where he faithfully served as both a Deacon and Moderator, usher and a member of numerous committees.

In Masonry, our Illustrious Brother Begg contributed to all branches of the fraternity. Symbolic - He was raised a Master Mason in Grecian Lodge A.F. & A.M., Lawrence, Mass. on May 5, 1920 and served as Wor­shipful Master during the years of 1949-19 50. After taking a demit from Grecian Lodge, he became a member of John Hancock Lodge of Methuen, Mass., April 21, 1972. Illustrious Brother Begg received his 50-year Veteran Medal in Grecian Lodge on May 21, 1972.

  • Capitular - Exalted in Mount Sinai R.A.C. in Lawrence, Mass. on December 16, 1920 in which he served as High Priest, 1945-1946 and as Treasurer for many years, and later served as District Deputy G.H.P. for the 9th District, 1950-1951.
  • Cryptic - Greeted in Lawrence Council R. & S.M. Lawrence, Mass. on October 27, 1943.
  • Chivalric - Knighted in Bethany Commandery #17 on February 28, 1944.
  • Scottish Rite - Received the degrees in the Lawrence Lodge of Perfection on January 17, 1929 and served as Thrice Potent Master in 1948-1949. He was a charter member of Zion Council, Princes of Jerusalem, in Lawrence, Mass. and held dual membership in Lowell Council, Princes of Jerusalem, taking his degrees there on March 5, 193 7. Brother Begg served as Sovereign Prince of Zion Council in Lawrence during 1964. He received his Rose Croix Degrees in The Valley of Lowell, Mass. on April 2, 1937. He was proclaimed a Sublime Prince of The Royal Secret, 32nd Degree, in the Massachusetts Consistory in Boston, Mass. on April 23, 1937.

Illustrious Brother Begg became a Noble of the Aleppo Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S. on November 28, 1944.

He was also a member of Lawrence Chapter #78, Order of East­ern Star, which he served as Past Patron.

Illustrious Brother Begg had served in the U.S. Army with the rank of Sergeant.

Burial Services for Illustrious Brother Begg were held on July 30, 1982 at the Fredrick Allen Funeral Home in Lawrence, Mass. and interment was in Elmwood Cemetery in Methuen, Mass.

BELCHER, ELIJAH 1776-1857

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XVI, No. 6, March 1857, Page 191:

Whereas it has pleased an all wise Providence to remove by death from among us our much esteemed and worthy Brother Elijah Belcher, aged 81 years. Brother Belcher faithfully sustained his relation to Masonry for more than half a century, being the first one proposed and initiated in Rising Star Lodge, fifty-seven years ago. For many years he was a constant attendant on the regular meetings of the Lodge, but of late by reason of bodily infirmities has not attended. As a Mason he was always uniform and consistent, firm and unyielding, whom no sophistry could beguile or artifice deceive. He was a kind and obliging neighbor, a social friend, and esteemed by all who knew him as an upright and honest man.

In life he was admonished by the Plumb and acted on the Square, but the Grand Leveler, Time, has called him to mingle with his kindred dust: — Be it therefore

  • Resolved, That in the demise of our worthy Brother the community has lost an exemplary citizen, society a social friend, and Masonry one of its most endeared members.
  • Resolved, That although our venerable Brother has passed away on the level of time to that Temple not made with hands, where, when faith is lost in sight and hope ends in fruition, we shall meet him again to part no more forever.
  • Resolved, That these resolutions be entered on the journal of the Lodge as a token of the esteem entertained of our deceased Brother.
  • Resolved, That we extend our condolence to the family of our deceased Brother in their bereavement, and that a copy of these resolves be sent to them, and a copy to the Editor of the Masonic Magazine at Boston, for insertion, signed by the Secretary.

Stoughton, March 6, 1857.
Ansel Capen, Secretary.

BELCHER, JONATHAN 1681-1757

Jonathan_Belcher.jpg

  • MM in England in 1704; first American-born Freemason
  • Member 1736 of First Lodge

BIOGRAPHY, 1868

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXVIII, No. 2, December 1868, Page 33:

In our issue for October last, we spoke of the early history of Masonry in the Province of New Jersey, and incidentally using the name of Governor Belcher, intimated an intention of referring, at an early occasion, to his connection with our Order while a resident of Massachusetts. But before proceeding to do so, we may be allowed to remark generally, that the establishment of the Grand Lodge in Boston in 1733, was an event which seems to have been received with universal favor and encouragement by all classes of the community. It was a popular movement, and the ablest and most distinguished gentlemen of the Province soon began to enroll themselves among its members. And it is a notable fact, that between the date above given, and the closing of the Revolutionary War, the names of a very large majority of the master minds who inaugurated and successfully accomplished that great movement, are to be found in the record-books of the Lodges that had been established in Boston in the intermediate time. We do not undertake to account for this on any other ground, than the high character which the Institution early assumed, and the dignified and unexceptionable manner in which its affairs were conducted. A recital of the names which might be given from the records, in confirmation of this, would be of very little interest to the general reader, unaccompanied by such historical notices as would be necessary to illustrate their individual characters, and to indicate their private and public relations. For such sketches we have neither the leisure, nor the room in our pages to spare.

We may, however, mention such names as Governor Belcher; Jeremy Gridley, the king's attorney and the most eminent lawyer of his day in the country; his brother, Maj. Gen. Richard Gridley, the engineer at the reduction of Louisburg in 1746, and who also constructed the fortifications at Lake George in 1756; was with Wolfe on the Plains of Abraham in 1758; and erected the fortifications at Bunker's Hill in 1775: James Otis, one of the leading and ablest patriots of the Revolutionary period; Gen. Joseph Warren, of imperishable memory; Paul Revere and John Cutler, to whom, and the sturdy mechanics of Boston whom they led, the whole country owe a debt of gratitude, for effective services rendered in the early days of the great struggle which separated us from the oppressions of the mother country; and among the merchants, such men as John Hancock, Thomas Oxnard, John Rowe, and a long list of others equally distinguished among the business men of their profession. But our present purpose is with Governor Belcher.

He was born in Boston in 1681, and was the son of Andrew Belcher, who rendered efficient service in the IndianWars of 1675. He entered Harvard College at an early age. and graduated in 1699; soon after which he went to Europe, where he spent several years. On his return, he established himself in business as a merchant. He, however, engaged early in political life, and in 1729 was sent as an agent of the Province to England, where he discharged the duties of his commission with so much ability, that in the following year he was appointed to the Government of Massachusetts and New Hampshire, which appointment he held for eleven years, when he was superseded. He then again went to England, and so far succeeded in vindicating his official conduct from unfounded charges which had been made against him, as to obtain the appointment of Governor of the Province of New Jersey, where he arrived in 1747, and where he died ten years after, in the 76th year of his age.

In referring to his removal from the office of Governor of Massachusetts, Barry, in his excellent history of the period, says:— "The opposition of Mr. Belcher to the currency schemes of the Province, and his agency in their defeat, rendered him obnoxious to their numerous favorers ; and these, joined to other measures, afforded a sufficient inducement to his enemies to solicit his removal. By forged and anonymous letters, and the help of unscrupulous falsehoods, his friends in England were prejudiced against him; and, as he had failed to fulfill the expectations which had been formed of him, little difficulty was experienced in obtaining the consent of the lords of trade to his displacement. How far he would have succeeded in the management of affairs under the new state of things about, to be introduced, it may be difficult to say. His qualifications for the chief magistracy were certainly as good as those of his predecessors. He was a native of New England, and acquainted with its institutions, and, to a certain extent, imbued with its prejudices. He had early enjoyed the advantages of a good education, which were improved by travel, and by intercourse with intelligent circles in Europe. Graceful in his person, and generous in his hospitality, he was a favorite with all with whom he associated; and ambitious of distinction, he was enabled by his wealth to gratify his taste for public display. Condescending in his manners, he was popular with the masses ; and, though he was a known friend to the prerogative, and a moderate supporter of the claims of the crown, he was not suspected of disloyalty to liberty, or of a want of regard to the welfare of New England."

We are unable to say where or in what Lodge Governor Belcher was admitted into the Masonic Fraternity. His admission, however, took place in 1704; at which time, he was in Europe. But it is evident, from the annexed correspondence, that he early connected himself with the "First Lodge in Boston," and that he took so great an interest in its welfare, as to command the respect and gratitude of its members. The correspondence was occasioned by his being superseded in the office of Governor of the Province :—

"Thrice Worthy Brother,— We, being a Committee appointed by the Mother Lodge of New England held in Boston to wait on you, take this Opportunity to acknowledge the many favours you have always showed (when in Power) to Masonry in General, but in a More Especial manner to the Brethren of this Lodge, of which we shall ever retain a grateful Remembrance.

As we have had your Protection when in the most Exalted Station here, so we think its Incumbent on us to make this acknowledgement, having no other means to testify our Gratitude but this; and to wish for your future Health and Prosperity, which is the sincere desire of us, and those in whose behalf We appear, and permit us to assure you we shall ever remain,

Honored Sir,
Your most Affectionate Brethren and Humble Servants.
Peter Pelham, Secretary, in behalf of the Committee."

To the above the following answer was returned : —

"Worthy Brothers,— I take very kindly this Mark of your Respect.

It is now Thirty Seven years since I was admitted into the Ancient and Honorable Society of Free and Accepted Masons, to whom I have been a faithful Brother, and a well wisher to the Art of Masonry.

I shall maintain a strict friendship for the whole Fraternity, and always be glad when it may fall in my power to do them any services.

J. Belcher."

Mr. Belcher was succeeded in his office as Governor of the Province by Governor Shirley, who appears not to have been a Mason. The Brethren of "The First Lodge," however, having long enjoyed fraternal intercourse with their Brother Belcher, were naturally solicitous to establish similar relations with the new Executive. To this end the following correspondence took place, and was published in the papers of the day. Though not exactly pertinent to the matter in hand, we think it of sufficient interest to justify its insertion in this connection :—

"May it please your Excellency, — We, being a Committee appointed by the Ancient and Honorable Society of Free and Accepted Masons of the Mother Lodge of America, held in Boston, presume to wait upon you with the utmost Sincerity, to congratulate you on your advancement to the Government of this Province, and to assure your Excellency that our Desire is that your administration may be successful and easy.

We have had hitherto the Honour of His Majesty's Governor being one of our Ancient Society, who was a well wisher and faithful Brother to the Royal Art of Masonry.

And, as it has been the Custom for men in the most exalted Station to have had the' Door of our Society's Constitution always opened to them (when desired), we think it. our Duty to acquaint your Excellency with that Custom, and assure you that we shall cheerfully attend your Excellency's Pleasure therein; and as we are conscious that our society are legal and faithful Subjects to his Majesty, so we may reason ably hope for your Excellency's Favour and Protection, which is the Request of Your Excellency's most obedient humble Servants, Peter Pelham, Secretary, in behalf of the Society."

To which his Excellency was pleased to return the following answer : —

"Gentlemen, — I return the ancient and honorable society my thanks for their address, and invitation of me to the mother Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in America: and they may rest assured that their loyalty and fidelity to his Majesty, will always recommend the Society to my favour and protection.

W. SHIRLEY."

This correspondence is marked with great delicacy on both sides. It does not appear, however, that the Governor either then or afterwards, availed himself of the invitation so courteously extended to him. If not personally the rival, he had been elevated to the distinguished place he occupied by the political enemies of Governor Belcher. Between the two there was a radical difference of opinion on important questions of public interest, and in respect to which he had every reason to suppose the Lodge were in warm sympathy with Governor Belcher and his friends. He therefore did that which every sensible and prudent man holding his high position would have done under similar circumstances. The connection would not have embarrassed him, but that he did not know.

On the arrival of Governor Belcher in New Jersey to assume the duties of Governor of that Province, the Grand Lodge forwarded to him the following congratulatory letter : —

"Thrice Worthy Brother, — It was with the greatest pleasure and the utmost Satisfaction We Received the News of your Safe Arrival at your Government of the Jerseys; and from a just Sense of the distinguishing marks of your Esteem shown to the Ancient and Honorable Society of Free and Accepted Masons, when you filled the Chair of Government in this Province (which upon all Occasions we doubt not but you would still Continue,) We cannot but hope the sincere and hearty Congratulations of Our Lodge on your present happy accession, may meet with a favourable acceptance.

You have sufficiently distinguished your adherence to our Three Grand Principles in your Firm attachment to his Majesty's Person and Government, which (with joy we find) has preferred you to a second Commission (an uncommon Instance of Royal favor) and as the weight of so great a Charge must be attended with many concerns, so we heartily wish a happy Concurrence of anything that may Render your Administration satisfactory to your Prince, Advantageous to your People, and Easy to yourself, so that full of Days and full of honor (which but little survives our actions) you may finally meet with a reward of that Honor and Happiness which will be as Internal as inconceivable. —

By Order of the Right Worshipful the Provincial Grand Master of North America, and the Right Worshipful Master, Wardens, and Fellows of the Lodge held in Boston, New England, September 3d, in the year of Masonry 5747, Annoque Domini 1747.

Charles Pelham, Secretary."

To this Governor Belcher returned the following admirable answer : —

To the Right Worshipful Thomas Oxnard Esq., Provincial Grand Master of North America,
The Right Worshipful Master, Wardens, and Fellows of the Lodge of the Ancient and Honorable Seciety of Free and Accepted Masons In Boston."

"Right Worshipful Brothers, — I have with much pleasure received your respectful Congratulation of my Safe Arrival to this Government, dated from your Lodge in Boston ye 3d of last month. — From the Testimonials I carried with me to London from your Lodge, I was Received by the Right Honorable the Grand Master; and at the Lodges where I attended, as a Worthy Brother: I shall always with great Alacrity show Respect and Kindness to any one that may fall in my way, who is a Brother of the Society of Free and Accepted Masons; and I am the more Gratified in the King's Repeated Grace and Favour as it does me double Honor, in Clearing my Character from all Imputation, and sets me at the head of this fine Province, and may Reflect some honor on the Society of Free and Accepted Masons that the King has so publickly justified the Conduct of a Brother in his administration of the Government of two of His Majesty's Provinces In New England for eleven years together.

I am much obliged to the Brothers of your Lodge for their kind Wishes of my welfare and Prosperity in the Arduous affairs of Government, but above all that they extend them to my Obtaining a reward of honor and happiness that shall be Eternal. — I have been received by the Good People here with uncommon marks of Respect and Kindness, which I shall return by all such acts of Goodness in my Power, as may most of all contribute to their Interest, and to their quiet and satisfaction.

May you Right Worshipful Brothers, and all and every one of your Lodge live long in much health and Ease, and in such other Circumstances of Life as you would wish for your Selves, and when this Life must be Exchanged for One that will have no end, May you all be Happy through the Mercy of God in Jesus Christ Our only Lord and Saviour; Amen.

From Kingswood House in the City of Burlington (New Jersey),
this sixth day of October, in the year of Masonry 5747, Annoque Domini 1747.
J. Belcher."

We can follow the Masonic history of our Brother no further; and here his active interests in the Fraternity probably ceased. It could not well have been otherwise, for at the time when he entered upon his new duties, there was not a Lodge in the Province of New Jersey, nor was there one, so far as we are informed, established there until 1762, — five years after his death, — when the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, through its Grand Master, issued the necessary authority for one at Elizabethtown.

As we have already stated, Governor Belcher continued to preside over this Province until his death in 1757. Being highly educated himself, he took a deep interest in the general subject of education, and contributed by his means and influence in extending the usefulness of Princeton College. As a magistrate, he was popular with the people over whom he presided, and at his death left the fragrance of an honorable and useful life.

BIOGRAPHY, 1997

From TROWEL, Spring 1997, Page 5:

Jonathan Belcher was a native of Boston, Massachusetts, born 8 January 1681, and graduated from Harvard in 1699. He was a merchant by trade, and in 1729 was sent to England as agent for the colony of Massachusetts Bay. There he secured for himself the appointment of Governor of Massachusetts in place of Governor Burnet, recently deceased, and held the office from 1730 to 1741.

In 1733 when Henry Price arrived in Boston with a deputation as 'Provincial Grand Master of New England and Dominions and Territories thereunto belonging', Governor Belcher appointed him Cornet in his Troop of Guards with the rank of Major. On 30 July 1733, Henry Price called an assembly of Masons, and brought the Provincial Grand Lodge of Massachusetts into being. He appointed Andrew Belcher, the Governor's son as his Deputy.

It is not known where John Belcher was made a Mason, but his reply to a congratulatory address of 25 September 1741, when visited by a deputation from the First Lodge of Boston, was:

"Worthy Brothers, I take very kindly this mark of your Respect. It is now Thirty Seven years since I was admitted into the Ancient and Honble Society of Free and accepted Masons, to whom I have been a faithful Brother, & well-wisher to the Art of Masonry.

"I shall ever maintain a strict friendship for the whole Fraternity; and always be glad when it may fall in my power to do them any Services.

"J. Belcher."

This implies that he was made a Mason in 1704, and although we do not know where he was made, we do know that he was resident in Europe from 1699 to 1705.

In 1744 he was again in England, and visited the Quarterly Communication of Grand Lodge on 26 September. The minutes describe him as "Bro: Belcher Esq.' late Gov. of New England." The minutes also record the receipt of a letter from the Royal Exchange Lodge at Boston, informing the Brethren of Bro. Belcher's many favours to the Craft in that part of the world, whereat Grand Lodge expressed the highest satisfaction and their sense of the many obligations the Craft in general owed Bro. Belcher, whereupon his health was drunk.

Under date 22 July 1746. the Gentleman's Magazine reports: "His Majesty has been pleased to appoint John Belcher, Esq; to be governor of Nova Caesarea. or New Jersey, in America, in the room of Lewis Morris, Esq: dec." The same source, under date 17 February 1747, reports that the king had appointed Jonathan Belcher Captain General and Governor in chief of New Jersey. He died 31 August 1757, aged 76.

J. W. Reddyhoff
Reprinted from ARS QUATUOR CORONATORUM
Transactions of Quatuor Coronati Lodge, No 2076, Volume 108, for the year 1995

BENEDICT, EDWARD SWIFT 1860-1940

EdwardBenedict.jpg

MEMORIAL

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1940

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1940, Page 55:

Ill. Bro. Benedict was the son of Edward and Fanny (Bates) Benedict. He was born in Brooklyn, New York, January 23, I860, and died at his home, 16 Garrison Street, Brookline, Massachusetts, February 6, 1940, rounding out a full four score years.

Ill. Bro. Benedict came to Boston in 1869 and in 1875 entered the flour business with L. A. Wright & Co., later became a partner in the business, and after the death of L. A. Wright, became the sole proprietor, continuing the business under the old firm name, and was active in this business until a few weeks before his death. He was married October 31, 1883, in Charlestown, Massachusetts, to Emma Leavitt Smith who survives him. There were no children.

He was initiated in Dalhousie Lodge, Newtonville, November 23, 1898; passed December 22, 1898, and raised January 25, 1899. He was its Worshipful Master in 1903.

  • Exalted in Newton Royal Arch Chapter, April 18, 1899.
  • Knighted in Gethsemane Commandery No. 35, Knights Templars, June 15, 1899.
  • Greeted in Boston Council Royal and Select Masters, December 27, 1900.
  • Dimitted from Gethsemane Commandery, and affiliated with St. Bernard Commandery No. 12, K. T. Boston, October 9, 1907.

Received his Degrees in the Scottish Rite Bodies, Valley of Boston:

  • Boston Lafayette Lodge of Perfection, April 7, 1899
  • Giles F. Yates Council, Princes of Jerusalem, April 14, 1899
  • Mount Olivet Chapter of Rose Croix, April 21, 1899
  • Massachusetts Consistory S. P. R. S. 32°, October 27, 1899.

Served as Commander in-Chief of Massachusetts Consistory 1910-1913.

He was coronetted an Honorary Member 33° of the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite for the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction on September19, 1911.‘ Also, he became a member of Aleppo Temple Mystic Shrine, November 1909.

Funeral services, which were held at the Newton Cemetery Chapel, Newton, Massachusetts, on Friday, February 9, 1940, at 2:30 P.M., were attended by many representative Masons of both the York and Scottish Rites. Burial was in the Newton Cemetery.

To those who were members of Massachusetts Consistory twenty or more years ago, 111.'.Bro.'.Benedict will be well remembered for his unexcelled portrayal of “Frederick” in the Twentieth Degree of the Consistory that was conferred at that time. His work in that Degree was outstanding and will be remembered as long as anyone lives who saw him in that character. We believe he felt, as we do, that this was his masterpiece.

His many associates and friends, particularly in the Consistory, will greatly feel his loss. He was a genuine, companionable man who enjoyed his friends keenly.

Frank B. Lawler, 33°,
Joseph A. Bryant, 33°,
Almon B. Cilley, 33°,
Committee

BENNETT, CHARLES W. 1864-1934

From Proceedings, Page 1934-224:

Right Worshipful Brother Bennett was born in Fitchburg, March 2, 1864, and died there September 23, 1934.

Brother Bennett was a descendant of colonial and revolutionary ancestry. The family has been prominent in Fitchburg for generations, and our Brother weil maintained the family tradition. Educated in the public schools of Fitchburg, he entered the shoe manufacturing business, becoming the head of a large concern and continuing there until his death.

His interest in public affairs was very great. He was the President of the Fitchburg Art Center, successfully carrying it through two fires and financing the building of its present home. He was active in the management of the Burbank Hospital, Vice-chairman of the Worcester North Savings Bank, and Past President of the Chamber of Commerce. He was a leading member of the Unitarian Church and first President of the local chapter of the Layman's League. Among his other activities were the presidency of the Fitchburg High School Alumni Association, directorship in the Fitchburg Chapter of the Red Cross, and membership in the Fitchburg Historical Society and several clubs.

Brother Bennett became a member of Charles W. Moore Lodge in 1885 and was its Master in 1894. He served as District Deputy Grand Master for the Thirteenth Masonic District in 1911 and 1912 by appointment of Most Worshipful Dana J. Flanders and Most Worshipful Everett C. Benton. He was a member of Thomas Royal Arch Chapter and a member and Past Commander of Jerusalem Commandery.

His death removes a loved and honored leader in our Fraternity and in the community.

BENNETT, NORMAN WILFRED HECTOR 1908-1993

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1994, Page A-v:

Ill. Norman Wilfred Hector Bennett, 33°
Born in Chatham, England, May 22, 1908
Died in Springfield, Massachusetts, August 25, 1993

Ill. Norman Wilfred Hector Bennett, 33°, was the son of Frederick and Annie Bennett. He came to the United States in 1925 as a member of the Rolls Royce Racing Team. Illustrious Brother Bennett raced throughout this country with this team until Rolls Royce moved out of the country. He then worked for the Indian Motorcycle Company in Springfield, Massachusetts, as a test driver and member of their racing team. In 1932, he co-founded the A.B. Dick Auto Body Company and stayed with them until 1974 when he started the Yankee Auto Body Company. He remained president of this company until his death.

Brother Bennett was the widower of Christina (Simpson) Bennett and Gertrude (Smith) Bennett. He is survived by his wife Avis (Place) Bennett, a son Gordon and three grandchildren. He was a member of Faith United Church in Springfield.

He was active in many civic organizations. He was a member of the Springfield Chamber of Commerce, the Springfield Better Business Bureau, the Southend Business Association and the New England Appraisers Association.

Brother Bennett joined Samuel D. Sherwood Lodge, A.F. & A.M., Springfield, in 1946 and participated in many degrees as a junior officer until he dropped out of the officer line due to personal reasons. He also served for many years as a director of the Springfield Masonic Temple Association.

He joined the Scottish Rite Bodies in the Valley of Springfield, Massachusetts, in 1946. He served as Sovereign Prince of Massasoit Council, Princes of Jerusalem, from 1980 to 1982. He was Captain of the Guard in Springfield Chapter of Rose Croix and Connecticut Valley Consistory from 1951 until his death. He received the Meritorious Service Award from the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation in 1964 and was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, Honorary Member of the Supreme Council in 1988 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was, also, a member of the Royal Order of Scotland. Brother Bennett was a member of Morningstar Royal Arch Chapter, which he joined in 1951, and Springfield Commandery, No. 6, Knights Templar, which he joined in 1970. He joined Melha Temple, A.A.O.N .M.S., in 1950. He was a member and past president of the Arab Patrol. He served in many other positions including Aide, Chief Aide, Potentate's Aide and Chief Ambassador. He was also Liaison Officer to all Melha Shrine Clubs.

Illustrious Brother Bennett was a member and Past Worthy Patron of Springfield Chapter, No. 143, O.E.S.

A Masonic service was held at the Dickinson-Streeter Funeral Parlor on August 27, 1993. Religious services were held on August 28, 1993 at the Faith United Church with interment in the Hillcrest Park Cemetery, Springfield, Massachusetts.

BENT, EUGENE P. 1872-1929

From Proceedings, Page 1929-114:

Brother Bent was born in Belle Isle, Nova Scotia, May 23, 1872, and died at his home in Southviile, May 3, 1929.

Brother Bent came to Massachusetts in his youth and entered the employ of the American Express Company at Chicopee Falls. After some years of service there he removed to Brookline, where he was in the service of the West End Street Railway Company. In 1909, he took up his residence in Southville, where he conducted a successful poultry and egg business for the remainder of his life.

He was married to Miss Mabel Wallace in 1899. Mrs. Bent died in 1927, leaving two unmarried daughters, Eugenie and Marguerite.

Brother Bent was a popular and respected citizen and served a term of three years as assessor for the town of Southborough, of whieh the viliage of Southville is a part.

Brother Bent was raised in St. Bernard's Lodge on December 8, 1915. At the following annual meeting he accepted appointment to a minor office in the Lodge and progressed in its service until he became Worshipful Master in 1920, serving in that office two years. He was District Deputy Grand Master for the Twenty-fourth Masonic District in 1926 and 1927, by appointment of Most Worshipful Frank L. Simpson.

Quiet and unassuming, faithful in the fulfiIment of every obligation and conscientious in the discharge of every duty, he was one of those who make the strength of Freemasonry and of the community.

BENTON, JAY BAYARD 1870-1918

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XIII, No. 9, June 1918, Page 272:

Jay Bayard Benton
Born April 10, 1870; Died May 25, 1918

Not only to do the clay's work well, but to do every day a good deal more than the day's work, seemed to be the chief ambition of Jay B. Benton's life, as we who close to him look back upon it — now that that life is ended as quietly and as bravely as it was passed. In his brilliant and wonderful boyhood, scintillant with talent some of us saw the promise of great things. He was a scholar, really with a wide reading, at eight. At school and at college he strolled through his books as one walks through a pleasant garden. In the attic of the old home at Guildhall he set up a stage, a most ingenious "play theatre," which not only reflected one of his controlling tastes but promised mastery of the drama some time. But it turned out that his only high ambition after all was to grapple faithfully, and with unflagging, indomitable cheerfulness, with that same day's work that holds all our generation in its grasp.

No man ever faced life, whether it brought pain and sorrow or whether it brought better things, with less fuss or complaint than Jay Benton did. He had not a shadow of fault to find with life. Quite the contrary, he took it as a "pleasant institution" for himself and all around him. He made it gay with humor and bright comment, into which not one word of bitterness entered. Never was there in his life any humbug of being misunderstood or of pitying himself. No man ever took a doctor's sentence of death more blithely than he; yet no one ever wanted less to die. His kind of heroism was the every-day heroism, and his great gift to the world was the unfailing smile of spontaneous kindness, which never failed for a moment, even when the hand of death was upon him. He did not reckon that the world owed him anything: he seemed to believe, and always acted on the belief, that he owed to it the service of cheerfulness.

His distractions were of the nature of work, though they also reflected his tastes. His "theatrical work" began when he was about 6 years old, with the theatre in the attic. The interest never failed him. That interest, too, took a workaday form. His connection with the theatres was one of tireless industry, and always characterized by inventiveness of a high order. His great amusement and study for a number of years, aeronautics, revealed in a new way his quiet contempt for danger and a certain yearning for that empyrean into which his mind never soared with the creative work which some of us had expected of him. He was an encyclopedia of knowledge in what work or avocation he was engaged in. As a writer he was forcible, crisp, vigorous but he never cared to write for the sake of writing. As a working journalist he was indefatigable, and joyed so highly in his work that he made it a joy to others. He had not an idle moment, probably, in his whole life, and he begrudged to sleep the few hours that it stole from his activities.

Generosity to his friends, scrupulous fidelity to every duty, honesty and vii't1 and pure gayety and self-denial — these made up his record. "He kept the whiteness of his soul, and thus men o'er him wept."

— Joseph Edgar Chamberlin
in the Boston Evening Transcript

BERGER, MOSES 1844-1914

From New England Craftsman, Vol. X, No. 4, January 1915, Page 136:

Moses Berger, a member and former officer of Germania Lodge of Boston died December 20, at the age of 70 years. He had been clerk in the office of the Assessing Department several years. He was born in Germany and came to this country when a young man.

BERNARD, HUBERT NICHOLAS, JR. 1907-1980

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1981

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1981, Page 26:

Ill. Hubert Nicolas Bernard, Jr., 33°
Born in Boston, Massachusetts, February 26, 1907
Died in Newton, Massachusetts, September 7, 1980

Hubert N. Bernard, Jr., was born in Boston on February 26, 1907 and was the son of Dr. Hubert N. Bernard, a practicing dentist, and Margaret Morgan Bernard. He passed away in the Newton­Wellesley Hospital, September 7, 1980.

He attended the public schools in Winchester and graduated from high school there in 1924. Previous to his graduation he became interested in an organization that would influence his think­ing and set his code of living for the balance of his life, the Order of DeMolay.

At that time Most Worshipful Melvin Maynard Johnson, a Past Grand Master of our Grand Lodge in Massachusetts, was a member of the International Supreme Council, Order of DeMolay, and was active as Deputy for Massachusetts during the formative period of DeMolay from 1922 to 1924. Thus in his formative years it was the good fortune of Hubert N. Bernard, Jr. to be chosen by Most Wor­shipful Brother Johnson as one of the outstanding DeMolay boys to travel with him throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts setting up and chartering new DeMolay Chapters. With his splendid opportunity and the guidance and inspiration of such a great teacher, it is quite understandable why this young. man became such an ardent Mason as time progressed.

Shortly after World War II was over, on February 16, 1946, Hubert N. Bernard, Jr. and Maxcene Mahaffey were united in marriage. As time went on they became the happy parents of two daughters, Susan and Nicole. Mrs. Bernard, the two daughters and three grandchildren survive. Brother Bernard's Masonic affiliations were numerous and impres­sive. At the time of his death he was an active member of the follow­ing:

  • Maugus Hill Lodge, A.F. & A.M., Wellesley Hills
  • Saint Paul's Royal Arch Chapter, Boston
  • Cryptic Council, Royal and Select Masters, Newtonville
  • Saint Bernard Commandery No. 12, Knights Templar,
  • Boston Scottish Rite Bodies in the Valley of Boston. He presided in the following offices:
    • Commander of St. Bernard Commandery
    • Commander-in-Chief of Massachusetts Consistory
  • Potentate of Aleppo Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S.
  • Director of Boston Court No. 103, Royal Order of Jesters
  • Royal Director of the National Court, R.O.J.

He was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33 , Hono­rary Member of the Supreme Council in 1957. He also held the Royal Order of Scotland. He was a member of Massachusetts Col­lege, Societas Rosicruciana and an Active Member of the Legion of Honor, Order of DeMolay. Brother Bernard was also an active Trustee of funds for Massa­chusetts Consistory, the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Massachusetts and Rhode Island and Aleppo Temple.

He was well known in the business world in his chosen profes­sion, investment securities. During his career he had been associated with Paine Webber, J. H. Goddard and Company and at the time of his retirement in 1976 he was an Account Executive with E. F. Hutton and Co. Inc. He also served on the Board of Directors for Macleod Electronics Corporation, was a member of the National Securities Traders Association and a Past President of the Boston Securities Traders Association.

In World War II, he served in the United States Army. After attending Army Intelligence School in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, he was made a Lieutenant in the United States Air Force. He served with Montgomery's 8th Army in Libya and Tunisia and then trans­ferred to an Airborne Division. He participated in paratroop in­vasions of Sicily, Italy, France, Belgium and Holland.

He was then appointed to the Command and General Staff School at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. While in the service of his country, he received three Presidential Citations and two United States Government Decorations including the Air Medal. When the war was over, he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel, U.S.A.R.

Barney, as we all knew him, was a member of the First Con­gretional Church in Wellesley Hills. On Thursday, September 11, 1980, a Memorial Service was held in his church at 2 P.M. The Rev. Craig B. Adams, Pastor of the Church, officiated and was assisted by the Rev. Oscar A. Guinn, Jr., 33 , Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts and also Prior for Massachusetts Consistory.

In his remarks, the Reverend Mr. Guinn spoke very highly of Barney's outstanding service not only to Masonry as a whole but perhaps even more important of his many contributions through the avenues of Masonry to the welfare of his fellow men.

Burial was in Woodlawn Cemetery in Wellesley, Massachusetts.

We all shall miss our worthy Brother. He left the world a little better for his short time in it.

BERRY, HORACE WILLEY 1834-1915

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XI, No. 1, October 1915, Page 30:

Brother Horace W. Berry of Eastport, Maine, a life member of Joseph Warren Lodge died September 27, 1915, at the age of 81 years. He was the pioneer of the piano business in Boston, having established the well known firm of H. W. Berry & Co., 45 years ago.

In his younger days Mr. Berry was a well known singer and often sang with Mrs. Raymond, better remembered as Annie Louise Cary, both being members of th& same quartet. He also had been a member of the Handel and Haydn Society and his ability as a vocalist brought him forward at the time of the Peace Jubilee. Mr. Berry was the last of nine children and was a bachelor.

His funeral was held at Haverhill, Mass., October 1, 1915. A beautiful floral tribute was sent by the lodge. Interment was at Forest Hills.

BERRY, JOHN KING 1854-1927

From Proceedings, Page 1928-37:

R.W. Brother Berry was born in Randolph, November 8, 1854. In early life he removed to Roxbury and during the remainder of his life was a resident of Roxbury, Dorchester, and Cambridge, where he had resided for about ten years preceding his death. He was a graduate of the Roxbury Latin School and Harvard University, class of 1876. He studied law at Boston University but did not take a law degree. Before his course was completed he was admitted to the bar and engaged in practice under the firm name of Berry & Upton, his partner being Right Worshipful Eugene C. Upton. This association was continued until his death, December 18, 1927.

He was entered in Washington Lodge May 18, 1880; passed June 10, 1880; and raised September 9, 1880. He served Washington Lodge as its Worshipful Master in 1887 and 1888, and was District Deputy Grand Master for the Fourth Masonic District in 1903 and 1904, by appointment of Most Worshipful Baalis Sanford. Right Worshipful Brother Berry's active interest in the concerns of his Lodge continued to the end of his life. His advice was constantly sought and was always helpful. Never taking advantage of his position in past rank to intrude himself into the rule and government of his Lodge, he was always ready to render any service that could be asked of him.

Right Worshipful Brother Berry was a useful citizen, a wise and conservative lawyer, and a very true friend to those who were fortunate enough to eome within the circle of his acquaintance.

BEVINGTON, THOMAS 1847-1915

ThomasBevington.jpg

MEMORIAL

FROM NEW ENGLAND CRAFTSMAN, 1915

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XI, No. 2, November 1915, Page 67:

Brother Thomas Bevington, a well known citizen and Mason of Lawrence, Mass., died after a brief illness, Thursday Oct. 28th at the age of 68. He had lived in Lawrence fifty years. He was active in every department of Freemasonry. He was a Past Master of Tuscan Lodge, Past High Priest of Mt. Sinai R. A. Chapter, Past Thrice Illustrious Master of Lawrence Council R. and S. Masters and Past Commander of Bethlehem Commandery, K. T. He was also active in serving the Scottish Rite having been at the head of the Princes of Jerusalem in Lowell. He was crowned an honorary 33° Mason several years ago. He was an effective ritualist and an excellent worker in every Rite. Brother Bevington was highly esteemed in business and as a friend and brother. He was genial and courteous and will be greatly missed by a host of associates.

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1916

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ, 1915, Page 45:

Since list we met amid similar surroundings the Grand Master of the Universe has seen fit to call from his labors below to eternal rest and refreshment above Ill. Bro. Thomas Bevington, 33°, one of our most able and beloved members of this Council of Deliberation, who died October 28, 1915.

There is a mystic borderland that lies
Just past the limits of our work-day world,
And it is peopled with the friends we met
And loved, a year, a month, a week, or a day,
And parted from with aching hearts, yet knew
That through the distance we must lose the hold
Of hand with hand, and only clasp the threads
Of memory. But still so close we feel this land,
So sure we are that these same hearts are true,
That, when in waking dreams there comes a call
That sets the threads of memory aglow,
We know that just by stretching out the hand
In written words of love or book or flower,
The waiting hand will clasp our own once more
Across the silence, in the same old way.

Thomas Bevington was born in Manchester, England, February 9, 1847, coming to America in 1866. He went first to Pawtucket, R. I., where he remained but a few months, leaving there for Lawrence, which city has ever since been his home. For several years he was employed as an overseer in the print works of the Pacific Mills, and in 1875 engaged in the business of insurance and real estate, which he conducted with marked success up to the time of his death. He was also president of the John W. Barlow Co. and president of the Atlantic Co-operative Bank, as well as a director of the Lawrence Duck Co. and of the Merchants Trust Co.

December 20, 1877, he married Miss Alice Barlow, who with three sons and one daughter now survives him.

Illustrious Brother Bevington was for many years prominently identified with the work of the Odd Fellows organization and was also a member of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Boston.

His Masonic career was conspicuous, though of comparatively short duration. His sincere regret, often mentioned by him, was that he did not join Masonry earlier in life, for his appreciation of its teachings and ritual was most keen and sincere. He was raised to the sublime degree in Tuscan Lodge, November 23, 1896, and was its Worshipful Master in the years 1901-2. He was exalted in Mt. Sinai Royal Arch Chapter, January 21, 1897, and served as its Most Excellent High Priest in 1909-10. He completed his cryptic degrees in Lawrence Council, R. & S. M., March 10, 1897, and was its Thrice Illustrious Master in 1905-6. He was knighted in Bethany Commandery, April 27, 1897, and was its Eminent Commander in 1907-8.

Illustrious Brother Bevington was prominent in the Scottish Rite bodies of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. He was a member of Lowell Lodge of Perfection, Lowell Council, Princes of Jerusalem, serving as its Sovereign Prince in 1910-11, Mt. Calvary Chapter of Rose Croix, and Massachusetts Consistory, serving as its Second Lieutenant-Commander in 1910, 1911, and 1912. He was elected to receive the thirty-third and last degree in September, 1908, and was crowned with the highest honors September 21, 1909.

Our good friend and companion justly deserved all the honors he received. His services to the Craft were most conspicuous in the rendering of the ritual, his interpretation being always impressive and instructive, while his manner of delivery, aided by a voice of exceptional quality, served to impress both candidates and brethren with his own sincerity as well as with the truth of our Masonic teachings.

The qualities of his character were beyond reproach, while among his noteworthy personal traits were his kind, even disposition and his care to speak only good of his friends. He had no enemies. Worthy as he was to be called by many titles of rank and distinction, he was content and happy to be called simply “Tom.” His life among us ended with little or no warning. Confined to his home for a few days by what he felt was but a temporary indisposition, he was stricken suddenly October 28th and passed away peacefully in the evening of the same day.

The consolation to us who remain is the thought of his joyous entrance into that heavenly home prepared for such good men as he.

Think of stepping on shore and finding it Heaven;
Of taking hold of a hand and finding it God’s Hand;
Of breathing a new air and finding it Celestial Air;
Of feeling invigorated and finding it Immortality;
Of passing from storm and tempest to an unbroken smile;
Of waking up and finding it Glory.

Most respectfully submitted,
Dean K. Webster,
Harry G. Pollard,
Wm. H. Glover,
Committee.

BICKNELL, J. LEONARD 1890-1940

From Proceedings, Page 1940-218:

Brother Bicknell was born in Weymouth, Massachusetts, on October 20, 1890, and died there on June 16, 1940, following an emergency operation for a ruptured appendix.

In 1907 he entered the employ of Alvin Hollis in the coal business; in 1913 he became a partner, and in 1922 took over the business, continuing until his death. He was very active in all things that concerned the welfare of Weymouth and her citizens. His diligent interest, his ability, and his willingness to be of service won for him the deep respect and affection of all with whom he was brought in contact.

He was raised in Orphan's Hope Lodge on April 16, 1913, and served as Master in 1921-1923. He was elected Secretary in 1936, and served in that ofice until his passing. He was appointed District Deputy Grand Master of the (Quincy) 26th District on the 27th of last December. For his outstanding service to the Craft, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal, and it was presented to him on April 13,1939; by Right Worshipful James S. Collins, District Deputy Grand Master of the 26th District.

He was a member of Pentalpha Royal Arch Chapter, Temple Council, R.& S.M., South Shore Commandery K.T., and of the Scottish Rite Bodies in Boston. In 1921 he became a Charter Member of Wessagusset Lodge. In addition to his fraternal activities, he served in the following organizations: Trustee of the Weymouth Hospital; Trustee of the Old South Union Congregational Church; member of the Boston Commercial Club, Retail Fuel Institute of Boston, South Shore Fuel Dealers Association; Director of the Weymouth Trust Company, and Chairman of the appropriation Committee of the Town of Weymouth.

A loving husband and father, a faithful friend, and a wise counselor, he is mourned by a host of friends.

BICKNELL, LOVELL 1793-1874

From Proceedings, Page 1875-14:

At the Stated Communication of our Grand Lodge, held in Boston on the 29th of December last, the death of Worshipful Brother Lovell Bicknell, Grand Standard-Bearer, was announced by the Most Worshipful Grand Master; and the undersigned were appointed a committee to prepare resolutions suitable to the event. In pursuance of that duty we beg to present the following report: —

Prefatory to the resolutions hereto subjoined, it seems appropriate to give in brief the biography of our deceased Brother — one who for the greater part of his long, useful, and virtuous life was an earnest, faithful supporter of Freemasonry. Lovell Bicknell was born in the town of Weymouth, in this State, where was his home from the time of his birth to his decease. The date of his birth was January 2d, 1793. He was town treasurer for several years, and was always prominent in town affairs. He was not a church member, but his relations were with the Methodists. He with his family attended the Methodist church, and several of its members were of that church's communion. In his younger days he followed the sea, and was, during the war of 1812, captured from an American privateer by a British cruiser and taken into Halifax. Here he found himself a fellow-prisoner with our late Brother "Father Taylor," the Rev. Edward T. Taylor, who was Chaplain of our Grand Lodge in the years 1834, 1835, 1836, 1837, 1840, and 1841.

His death occurred on Monday morning, December 14th, 1874. His sickness was short in duration. On the 9th of that month he attended the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, when he was apparently in as good health as usual. On the following morning, at seven o'clock, he was attacked by the enemy of mortality, — Death. Afterwards, he was unable to speak; though it is thought that at times he was conscious of things occurring around him.

The newspapers published in the vicinity of his residence contain obituary notices which are highly eulogistic of his character; showing how he was appreciated as a man and citizen where he was best known. " The Old Colony Memorial " (published at Plymouth), " The Weymouth Weekly Gazette," and "The Helping Hand" (of East Weymouth), each contributes its testimonial to the worth of our departed Brother. -

Under date of Dec. 17, 1874, " The Old Colony Memorial" thus refers to him: —

"Quite a delegation of Plymouth Lodge A.F. and A.M., went to East Weymouth yesterday (Wednesday) to attend the funeral of Lovell Bicknell, Esq., who died in that town on Monday morning last, at the ripe age of eighty-two years. Mr. Bicknell was an honorary member of Plymouth Lodge, and during the anti-Masonic excitement of fifty years ago was one of the staunchest defenders of the Institution.

"He was a most estimable gentleman, widely known in Masonic circles, and held in the highest respect by the Fraternity in this town, for whom in return he cherished the warmest regard, and seldom failed of being present at their gatherings on public or official occasions."

The following is copied from the "Weymouth Weekly Gazette," of Dec. 18, 1874 : —

"The recent death of Mr. Lovell Bicknell, one of the oldest and most prominent residents of Weymouth, a man who throughout a long life has maintained an honorable and upright character, and whose loss is deeply lamented by an extensive circle of friends, claims a record of respectful and grateful remembrance. His last disease, of which he had some weeks since experienced premonitory symptoms, was paralysis, which attacked him on Thursday, 10th inst., immediately prostrating his strength and depriving him of the power of speech, and the use of a portion of his body. He lingered, gradually failing, until Monday morning, when his strength being exhausted, enfeebled nature yielded, and he sank serenely into the arms of death. The obsequies of the deceased were attended by a large concourse of people, the whole community seeming desirous of paying their last tribute of respect to one so long known among them. For nearly fifty years he was an enthusiastic member of the Masonic Fraternity, and his Brethren of that Order were present, in large numbers, at his funeral on Wednesday last, the following organizations being in attendance: Delegation of Grand Lodge of Mass., Old Colony and South Shore Commanderies and a delegation, from Brockton Commandery, Knights Templars; Orphan's Hope Lodge, East Weymouth; Delta Lodge, Weymouth; and delegations from Plymouth Lodge, Plymouth; Konohassett Lodge, Cohasset; and Old Colony Lodge, Hingham. The services were held in the Methodist Church, appropriate Masonic ceremonies having been previously conducted in the Lodge-room of Orphan's Hope Lodge. The church was filled to repletion with friends and neighbors of the deceased and the various organizations. The body reposed in a rich black walnut casket, and the face of the dead wore a very pleasant and life-like expression. A beautiful wreath of rare cut flowers lay upon the lid of the casket. The services commenced with singing, by the Masonic Choir, of the Psalm, 'The Lord has been our dwelling place in all generations,' followed by the reading of selected portions of Scripture by R.W. Rev. Charles H. Titus. Prayer was then offered by Rev. S. L. Gracey; and, after a chant, ' Thy will be done,' by the choir, the same clergyman addressed the audience, giving a brief general reminiscence of the life and character of the deceased, speaking of him in his various relations as a citizen, a public official and a man.

"An address was then delivered by R.W. Rev. C. H. Titus, Recording Grand Secretary, who rendered a faithful and touching tribute of respect arid affection to the deceased, speaking at length of his personal excellences of character, and especially of his steady and intense devotion to the cause of Masonry, — he having joined the Order at the time the anti-Masonic tornado was sweeping over the land, — his zeal and love for the Institution continuing unabated to the hour of his death. Its principles of liberality, charity and brotherly love were ever exemplified in his life. Beneath his somewhat rough exterior there beat an affectionate and sympathetic heart. He realized that the grand aim of Masonry is 'to relieve the distressed, to soothe the unhappy, to sympathize with their misfortunes, to compassionate their miseries, and to restore peace to their troubled minds;' and these principles he put into practice in his life. He was held in high regard by his Brethren. For some years he had held the office of Grand Standard-Bearer in the Grand Lodge, and his Brethren of that Body will deeply lament the loss of a true and faithful Brother. The speaker concluded by urging upon all the necessity of a preparation for death, and expressing the hope that they might so live as to meet the departed Brother in the celestial Lodge above, where the 'Supreme Architect of the Universe presides.' The services closed with singing by the choir.

"From the church the remains were escorted to the Village Cemetery, where they were consigned to the silent grave. Here the service was solemn and impressive. Past Grand Master William T. Coolidge pronounced a brief eulogy, and the impressive burial service of the Order was performed, and the sacred scroll deposited.

"Thus ended a mortal life of eighty-two years, and thus, in joyful hope of the resurrection of the body, he was committed 'earth to earth,' 'ashes to ashes,' 'dust to dust.' When such men die the wholesome influence of their good example survives them. It becomes an inspiration to the living, stimulating and quickening them to good works.

The sweet remembrance of the just
Shall flourish when he sleeps in dust.'"

From the "Helping Hand," of January 1, 1875 : —

"We cannot allow this issue of our paper to go out without expressing a sorrow, that we felt in common with the entire community, at the death of one of our oldest and most honored citizens, Mr. Lovell Bicknell. His kindness of nature, and genial, cordial manners, and useful life, marked him as a man to be missed from any community. His funeral was attended by the Masonic Fraternity, and our church was crowded to its utmost in accommodating the many friends who desired to attend the public funeral services. We shall miss him from our streets, and the social gatherings in our church."

Thirteen years ago, the deceased made the request of Past Grand Master William T. Coolidge to conduct the Masonic rites over his grave, should the latter be the survivor. It is needless to say that this duty was discharged by Brother Coolidge in a feeling and impressive manner befitting the solemn occasion.

Brother Bicknell was raised in Orphan's Hope Lodge on the 10th of October, 1826, and exalted in Pilgrim Chapter on the 27th of May, 1864. He was admitted into the Order of the Temple, in Old Colony Commandery, on the 9th of September, 1864. The degrees of R. and S. Master were conferred on him in Abington Council, on the 13th of May, 1870. He was Junior Warden of Orphan's Hope Lodge in 1855, 1856 and 1857, but declined another election.

Notwithstanding Brother Bicknell reached the great age of fourscore years and two, his bodily and mental vigor was such as seemed to controvert the psalmist, whose words are: "The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labor and sorrow." . . . That did not appear to be our Brother's experience. He was even boastful of his strength until within a few days of his death. Throughout his life he had been in a remarkable degree exempt from sickness; which denoted a strong physical constitution, which few men enjoy. During the past autumn he was present at most of the Lodge meetings held in District No. 16, for the official visits of the District Deputy Grand Master of that District, R.W. Edward Avery. His Masonic enthusiasm carried him last year to Philadelphia, at the time of the dedication of the magnificent Masonic Temple in that city. Whenever it was possible he made it a point to attend a Masonic celebration on Saint John's day.

We all know with what zest he participated in the celebration of the annual GRAND FEAST of our Grand Lodge. At the Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge held on the 8th of September, 1869, the letter which follows was read: —

M. W. WILLIAM S. GARDNER, ESQ., Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts: —:

DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,—You will please to hand the within bond for one hundred dollars to our worthy Grand Treasurer, as a gift to the Grand Lodge towards cancelling the debt to that amount on our noble Temple.

Yours fraternally,
LOVELL BICKNELL.

The generous gift was acknowledged by a vote of the Grand Lodge. The generosity of the donor is the more striking, because he was not a "rich man" in the common acceptation of the term. Had the spirit which prompted this act pervaded the Fraternity throughout the Commonwealth, "our noble Temple" would have long since been released from its encumbrances; affording us the opportunity to devote the whole of the income from it to the general charities of the Brotherhood.

Brother Bicknell was installed as Standard-Bearer of the Grand Lodge on the 29th of December, 1868. From that time until his decease he was present at all of our Quarterly and Stated Communications, excepting four. So regular an attendance would be creditable to a young man; but that an octogenarian should thus energetically follow the line of his duty affords an example which every Mason, young or old, should endeavor to imitate.

We propose the resolutions following for the adoption of the Grand Lodge: —

Resolved, That the members of this Grand Lodge mournfully realize that in the death of Worshipful Lovell Bicknell they have lost an earnest, faithful and exemplary associate; one who, for half a century, cherished the humane principles of Freemasonry with "freedom, fervency and zeal."

Resolved, That it is with unfeigned satisfaction we contemplate his long earthly career, which affords so many examples of uprightness, kindness, and steady devotion to his duty and principles, worthy of our imitation.

Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be communicated to the family of our late Brother, with an expression of our deeply-felt sympathy in their bereavement. All of which is respectfully presented by the committee.

JOHN T. HEARD,
W. T. GRAMMER,
WILLIAM J. STEVENS,
Committee.

Lovell Bicknell's grave

BICKNELL, THOMAS W. TURPIN 1785-1839

From Past Masters of the Masonic Lodges of Taunton, Mass., 1905:

Thomas W, Turpin Bicknell, son of Thomas and Sabra Dexter Bicknell, was born about 1785. He married, June 27, 1809, at Barrington, R. I., Elizabeth, the daughter of Captain and Brother Benjamin Harris, of Taunton. She died at Norton, Mass., Feb. 27, 1812. He married second, Maria, the daughter of Brother Samuel Crocker. She died in Taunton in 1810. He married third in 1817 in Baltimore, Md., Ann Baker. They had six children, all born in Baltimore.

While in Taunton he was in the employ of Crocker & Richmond. It is supposed he was active in the military matters of the town, as in 1812 he was elected adjutant of the Fourth regiment. He died in Baltimore about the year 1839.

BICKNELL, ZACHARIAH LOVELL 1820-1899

From Proceedings, Page 1899-45:

Since our last Quarterly Communication the Supreme Grand Master has summoned another aged and faithful Brother from his field of useful labors, to that mysterious future which no human eye can penetrate, and from whose bourn no traveller ever returns.

ZACHARIAH LOVELL BICKNELL, our late Grand Standard-Bearer, was born in East Weymouth, Mass., June 28, 1820, and died in the same town May 18, 1899, aged 78 years 10 months and 20 days. He was the son of Lovell and Rebecca (Dyer) Bicknell. His early education was received in the common schools of his native village, supplemented with a few years' study in Derby Academy, Hingham Mass., from which he graduated. He was apprenticed to the trade of a carpenter, and on attaining his majority followed that occupation until the year 1850, when he entered the office of Henry Loud, in East Weymouth, as a bookkeeper, which position he occupied until 1864, when he embarked in business for himself, and continued in a general merchandise vocation for thirty years, when afire destroyed his store and stock of goods. In consideration of his advancing years, and somewhat impaired health, the business was not resumed, but for a few years longer he continued to look after an insurance business which he had conducted for some time as a secondary matter, and this he was compelled to abandon, owing to failing health, about two years ago; since that time the decline has steadily gone on, until death came.

Few men in Norfolk and Plymouth Counties were better known and respected than Brother Bicknell. He was honored by his townsmen with nearly every office in their gift, regardless, of party politics. For nearly twenty years he served on the board of selectmen. He was one of the assessors of the town; was auditor on the school board for several years, a trustee of Tufts Library, and chief of the fire department. He represented the town of Weymouth in the Legislature, in 1861, and again in 1891; was appointed by President Buchanan as postmaster, and under President Cleveland served again in the same capacity, and during the interim acted as postmaster, although not at the head of the department. During the war of the rebellion, from 1861 to 1865, his services were of incalculable value, in filling the town's quota, and looking after the interests of men at the front, and their families at home.

Brother Bicknell was one of the founders of the East Weymouth Savings Bank, and for many years was a member of the board of trustees, board of investment, and president of the bank. He was a trustee of the camp-meeting association at Cottage City. In all these positions of trust and responsibility, by which he was brought into close relations with his fellowmen, he exemplified the principles of charity and brotherly love, and by his genial and unassuming manner, amiable qualities, good judgment and tact, made himself beloved by all who came within the range of his personal influence. His counsel and advice were often sought, and cheerfully given, to those in trouble or affliction, and many a heart has been soothed and comforted by his kind and encouraging words. His religious affiliations were with the Methodist church, with which he had been closely identified, as one of its most efficient workers, for forty-five years, having served in nearly every official capacity known to the church.

But Brother Bicknell was best known to us as a member of our Fraternity; one who was deeply interested in our Institution, and a constant and faithful supporter of the Order, taking an active and prominent part in its affairs, his love for, and interest in, Freemasonry was sincere and heartfelt. He was raised to the degree of Master Mason in Old Colony Lodge, of Hingham, March 9, 1855, from which he was demitted in May, 1856, and was one of the petitioners for, and largely instrumental in, the restoration of the charter of Orphan's Hope Lodge, of East Weymouth, in 1856, and was its first Worshipful Master under the new regime, filling the chair during the years 1857, '58 and '59. He was District Deputy Grand Master by appointment of Grand Master Winslow Lewis, serving for the year 1860, and again in 1861 under the administration of Grand Master Coolidge, his District being at that time No. 5. In 1867, '68, '69 and '70 he again served the Grand Lodge in the same capacity, under Grand Masters Dame and Gardner, two years each, having charge of District No. 16.

June 13, 1877, he was appointed Grand Standard-Bearer by Grand Master Everett, and has continuously filled that position under successive Grand Masters to the time of his decease ; and during all these years, until the tottering, feeble frame denoted that the "silver cord" was about to be "loosed," was a constant attendant at the Communications of the Grand Lodge. His last appearance with us was at the Quarterly Meeting March 9, 1898.

His affiliation with other branches of the Order is herewith recorded. He received the degrees of Capitular Masonry in Pilgrim Chapter, of Abington, Mass., being exalted to the degree of Royal Arch Mason Dec. 16, 1861, and was demitted from Pilgrim Chapter in June, 1870, to become a charter member of Pentalpha Chapter, of Weymouth. The degrees of Cryptic Masonry were conferred upon him by Abington Council Royal and Select Masters in June, 1870. He was a charter member of Old Colony Commandery No. 15, and received the Orders of Knighthood while the Commandery was working under a Dispensation, as follows: Order of the Red Cross Feb. 19, 1864. Orders of the Temple and Malta April 1, 1864. He was elected Eminent Commander March 29, 1869, and served in that capacity until April 24, 1871, taking a demit May 8, 1871, to unite in forming South Shore Commandery, No. 31, at East Weymouth, and serving as its Eminent Commander in 1870, '71 and '72. He was made an honorary member of Old Colony Commandery June 5, 1871. The degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, from the fourth to the thirty-second inclusive, were conferred upon him in Boston Lodge of Perfection, Giles F. Yates Council Princes of Jerusalem, Mount Olivet Chapter of Rose Croix, and Massachusetts Consistory, and he was made a life member of the Consistory March 20, 1863.

Thus, in the fulness of years, in the maturity of a life prolonged beyond the common endurance of human existence, our Brother has passed on, over the dark river, to the Celestial Lodge beyond, leaving to us the rich legacy of a well-spent life, rounded to an honorable close. May the mantle of his devotion to duty and conscience fall upon and abide with us!

The obsequies were held over his remains at East Weymouth, on Saturday, May 20, at the Methodist Episcopal Church, where he had worshipped for more than half a century. Public services were conducted by the pastor, Rev. A. W. Kingsley, assisted by Rev. Lewis B. Bates, D.D., of Boston. The auditorium was filled to its utmost capacity with persons who had been associated with him in mercantile and other circles. Beautiful flowers, tributes of affection from organizations and friends, completely covered the body; and his immediate family, though shrouded in cypress, could smile as they looked out through their tears, at the garlands of regret which these his Mends, plaintively placed upon his bier. Business was suspended throughout the village, flags on public buildings were at half mast, and evidence of mourning was seen on every hand. The whole community joined with the bereaved family in paying the last sad tribute to the memory of an honored citizen, a kind husband and indulgent father, a worthy Christian and an enthusiastic Mason. His rest will be sweeter and the crown brighter for his life of faithfulness and duty. The Masonic burial service then followed, conducted by the Worshipful Master of Orphan's Hope Lodge (Bro. Joseph Chase, Jr.) , assisted by Bro. M. E. Hawes, Chaplain. The Grand Lodge was represented by a delegation consisting of R.W. Sereno D. Nickerson, Past Grand Master ; R.W. Henry K. Dunton, Senior Grand Warden; R.W. William H.H. Soule, Past Junior Grand Warden; W. Bro. D. J. Strain, Grand Steward; and R.W. Frank D. Thayer, D.D.G.M. of the 25th District and suite. At the conclusion of these services, the body of our departed Brother was taken from the church, and under escort of South Shore Commandery, Orphan's Hope Lodge and other organizations, was conveyed to Fairmount Cemetery, and tenderly laid to rest in the family lot. A widow and three married daughters survive him. Thus one by one are the members of the Grand.Lodge gathering home, passing

"Out of the shadows of sadness
Into the sunshine of gladness,
Into the light of the blest;
Out of the land very dreary,
Out of a world sad and weary,
Into the rapture of rest.

" Out of to-day's sin and sorrow,
Into the blissful to-morrow,
Into a day without gloom;
Out of a world filled with sighing,
Land of the dead and the dying,
Into a land without tomb."

Fraternally and respectfully submitted,
BAALIS SANFORD,
FRANK D. THAYER,
JOSEPH CHASE, Jr.,
Committee.

BIGELOW, GEORGE C. 1831-1859

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XVIII, No. 9, July 1859, Page 287:

At a communication of Morning Star Lodge, held at Masonic Hall, May 10th, 1859, the following resolutions were accepted and adopted :—

  • Resolved, That in the death of our beloved Brother, Geo. C. Bigelow, Morning Star Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons is deprived of the presence and counsel of one of its most esteemed, efficient, and worthy members.
  • Resolved, That while we bow reverentially before the inscrutable decree which thus early closes a useful and an honorable life, we cannot but deeply deplore the loss sustained by the Craft in the extinguishment of one of its bright and shining lights. Honoring Masonry, as he did, by his true and faithful observance of its teachings, illustrating its sacred precepts in all his transactions with his fellow-men, and keeping ever in view the truly Masonic discharge of "his duty to God, his neighbor, and himself," we learned, in the general estimation of his daily life, that Goodness is beauty in its best estate; and that while, with the deep sorrow which wrings the heart when the good and the true are cut off from among those who knew and loved them, we mourn, as Brothers mourn, his early death; we grieve for him — not as for one dead, but only gone before!
  • Resolved, That we share the deep affliction now resting upon the household of our departed Brother, and that we tender to them in this, their hour of grief, to the widow, the parents, the brethren and kindred, an assurance of our heartfelt sympathy and grief for their bereavement, while we would respectfully remind them, as among the consolations which death affords, of the blameless tenor of the life of him they mourn, of his fidelity to every trust, public and private, and consequent love and honor and troops of friends which on earth attended him — that to such as him Death is the crown of life! opening the portals to that immortal life to which he trustingly and humbly looked forward.
  • Resolved, That, in token of our respect for the memory of our deceased Brother, now, as we devoutly trust, free and accepted among the hosts of the celestial Lodge above, the jewels of this Lodge shall be draped in mourning for the term of sixty days from the date of our next regular communication.
  • Resolved, That the Secretary be instructed to present to the family of the deceased a copy of these resolutions.
  • Voted, That the above resolutions be offered to the daily papers of this city, also to the Masonic Magazine for publication.

John Field, Secretary p. t. Worcester, May 15, 1859.

BIGELOW, W. JONATHAN 1825-1907

From Proceedings, Page 1907-157:

W. Jonathan Bigelow, Past Master of Mount Olivet Lodge, Cambridge, and District Deputy Grand Master of the Second Masonic District in 1879, 1880 and 1881, was born in Conway, Mass., Jan. 1, 1825, and died in Boston, May 12, 1907. After leaving school, he established himself in the shoe business in Boston in 1845, which he carried on for about ten years, when he engaged in the fruit and produce business. He continued in this over fifty years. He was a member of the House of Representatives of this State in 1887 and was also a member of various social and political clubs. He.was a zealous Mason, a sympathizing friend, and a citizen ever loyal to the best interests of the City, the State and the Nation.

BILLINGS, HARRY LeROY 1885-1943

From Proceedings, Page 1944-23:

Brother Billings was born in Worcester, Massachusetts, on December 15, 1885, and died in Cambridge on December 1, 1943.

In 1909 he received the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania and practiced in that State for a short time, later removing to Cambridge, where he continued his practice until his death.

He was raised in Mizpah Lodge of Cambridge on November 11, 1918, and served as Master for the years 1934 and 1935. He was appointed District Deputy Grand Master of the (Cambridge) Second District by Most Worshipful Joseph Earl Perry and thus served during the years 1939 and 1940.

His services to Dental Societies and to Masonry were untiring and his own personal interests and convenience never prevented him from rendering full service to any call made upon him. His life should serve as an example to his Brethren in Masonry to live up to the tenets oftheir profession and to render unselfish service.

We shall miss our Brother, but his memory will ever live in our hearts, who mourn his untimely passing.

"Sleep on, O friend, until the waking day,
And ever we, who loved thy presence here,
Will keep for thee, through changes manifold,
A tender memory, growing with the years."

BIRD, BENJAMIN COOLIDGE 1825-1915

BenjaminCBird.jpg

From New England Craftsman, Vol. X, No. 6, March 1915, Page 216:

Brother Benjamin C. Bird, probably the oldest tyler of a Masonic lodge in Massachusetts, died Friday, March 19, at Derry N. H. Brother Bird was a member of Union Lodge, Dorchester, Mass., and had served tyler of that body more than 50 years, also officiated in the same capacity for other Masonic bodies. In Derry, where he resided at the time of his death, simple services were conducted by Rev. George W. Farmer, pastor of the Congregational Church, after which the body was brought to the Masonic Chamber, Dorchester, and Worshipful Master Fred C. Murfeldt and officers of Union Lodge conducted the ritual for their comrade, more than 200 taking part in the ceremony. There was singing by a quartet and a reading of Bird's Masonic record by the Master of the lodge. The ushers and pallbearers were members of the lodge.

Mr. Bird was born Oct. 15, 1825, and until two years ago was a resident of Dorchester. He was the only Massachusetts Mason who owned a tyler's jewel, presented him by Union Lodge under special dispensation from the Grand Lodge. So far as known, he was the oldest tyler in point of service in in the United States.

He was a member of Rabboni Lodge, Dorchester Royal Arch Chapter and St. Stephen's Royal Arch Chapter, which were represented at the services. Mr. Bird, as an officer in the Boston Protective Company, took an active part in the great Boston fire of 1872.

BISSELL, WASHINGTON 1820-1923

see Boston Herald April 24, 1921 on membership card

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XVI, No. 7, May 1921, Page 214:

Bro. Washington Bissell of Great Barrington, Mass., oldest college alumnus, oldest Freemason, and one of the oldest, if not the oldest, person in Massachusetts, was born in Rochester, N. Y., April 17, 1820. He has just passed the one hundred and first anniversary of his birth in comparative health and contentment. He graduated from Union College in New York in 1846, and the degree of LL.D. was conferred upon him by that college in 1920. He is a lawyer by profession, having been admitted to the bar in New York in 1848. He said to a Craftsman reporter recently, "I have smoked and smoked and it never seemed to hurt me. In fact, I think it has helped me to live and enjoy life for more than a century." His memory is very acute concerning public men and events of nearly a century ago. But once (last year) has he missed voting for a whig or Republican candidate for President since 1844. His first Presidential ballot was for James Knox Polk.

Bro. Bissell received his Masonic degrees in Cincinnatus Lodge, Great Barrington, Mass., in 1859, and on the 101st anniversary of his birth he was visited by Bros. Sanford, Church and Collins for the purpose of conveying the best wishes of the Fraternity and a bouquet of flowers.

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XVIII, No. 7, April 1923, Page 213:

Washington Bissell, aged 102, said to be the oldest Mason, oldest college graduate and oldest retired lawyer in the United States, died at Great Barrington on March 23. He would have been 103 years old April 16.

He was graduated from Union College, Schenectady, N. Y., in the class of 1846 and practiced law in New York State and Connecticut.

Mr. Bissell recently said that he had smoked since he was 12 vears old and figured it helped prolong his life. He used liquor moderately.

BLACK, ALEXANDER WILLIAM DYSON 1909-1977

BlackAW.jpg

COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1977

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1977, Page 30:

Illustrious Brother Black died in Beverly Massachusetts, Tuesday, January 25, 1977. His death was sudden and a shock to all who knew him. He was employed for many years as a sales engineer by the Litton-Butterfield Division of the Union Twist Drill Co. in Vermont, retiring in 1972.

He was born in Andover, Massachusetts, February 7, 1909, the son of the late Ill:. William H. Black and Helena (Dyson) Black.

He was raised a Master Mason in Liberty Lodge A.F. & A.M., Beverly, Massachusetts, on May 26, 1930. He served as its Worshipful Master in 1941. He was Secretary of Liberty Lodge at his death and had served in that office for over 27 years.

He received his Scottish Rite Degrees in the Salem, Massachusetts Bodies in 1942-45. He served as Thrice Potent Master of Sutton Lodge of Perfection from May 1957 to May 1960. He received his Consistory Degrees in Massachusetts Consistory, Boston, Massa­chusetts, in February 1946.

He was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33° , honor­ary member of the Supreme Council N.M.J. on September 28, 1960. He was an honorary member of the Constitutional Lodge #294 of Beverly, England, and an honorary member of Alexandria Washing­ton Lodge #2, Alexandria, Virginia.

His other memberships included "Clan Wallace", Beverly Sports Club. He was a charter member and first President of the Beverly Lions Club and served as its Secretary for more than 25 years. He served as a member of the City of Beverly, Massachusetts Planning Board for several years. He was a graduate of Boston University, Class of 1931. He was a member of the First Federated Church, Beverly Cove, Massachusetts.

He married Jean D. Hodsdon on April 25. 1935. and is survived by his widow.

Funeral services were held on Friday, January 28, 1977. at the Lee, Moody, Russell Funeral Home in Beverly. Masonic services were held Thursday evening by the Officers of Liberty Lodge. There was an overflow attendance of many Brother Masons, friends and family.

Interment was in the North Beverly Cemetery. Beverly, Massachusetts.

BLACKIE, JOHN 1835-1907

  • MM 1863, Libanus Lodge, Somersworth, NH
  • Member 1882, St. John's (Boston)

From New England Craftsman, Vol. III, No. 5, February 1908, Page 193:

Brother John Blackie, a well known Mason of Boston, and member of St. John's Lodge, Boston Council and Boston Commandery, died December 12.

BLAKE, JAMES STONE 1845-1927

JamesStoneBlake1928.jpg

NEW ENGLAND CRAFTSMAN, 1927

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XXII, No. 8, June 1927, Page 494:

One of the best beloved members of the Masonic fraternity in Massachusetts, James Stone Blake, died at a hospital in Atlantic City early Tuesday morning, June 11th, where he was attending a convention of the Mystic Shrine. He was taken ill at an early hour in the morning, and died soon after of a heart attack at a local hospital to which he was taken.

He was born in Newburyport Oct. 18, 1845, and had been engaged in the jewelry business during most of his life. He lived in Brookline for many years, but spent a large part of each summer at his cottage at Allerton. Early in his life he became associated with the firm of Kettelle & Blake, becoming a member of the firm after the death of his father. At the time of his death he was still active in business. For eight years he was president of the Boston Jewelers' Club, and was a member of the Massachusetts Retail Jewelers' Association.

Brother Blake was for 20 years high priest and prophet of Aleppo Temple of the Mystic Shrine, and was past potentate and one of the representatives to the imperial council; past high priest of St. Paul's R. A. Chapter, past commander of Boston Commandery, past thrice potent master of the Boston Lafayette Lodge of Perfection, a member of Columbian Lodge, A. F. and A. M., past president of the Massachusetts High Priests' Association, and in 1922 was unanimously elected right eminent grand commander of the grand eommandery of Massachusetts and Rhode Island Knights Templar. He was also an associate member of E. W. Kinsley Post, G. A. R., an honorary member of Oriental, Cairo, Lulu and Roumi Temples of the Mystic Shrine. He was married twice and is survived by his second wife.

Funeral services were held in the Arlington Street Church Sunday afternoon, June 19. Boston Commandery, headed by its commander, Eminent Sir Frank O. Clark, and the Boston Commandery band, marched from the Masonic Temple to the church, escorting the members of the grand eommandery of Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

The honorary pallbearers were James A. Gunn, Harry G. Pollard, Dr. Charles R. Hunt, Clarence M. Dunbar, Frederick H. Briggs, Francis H. Appleton, George H. Nutting, Josiah Long, Leon M. Abbott, Frederick H. Appleton, Samuel F. Hubbard, Edward G. Graves, Marcel Smith, Albert Kerr, George H. Shackford, Walter W. Morrison, Fred E. Bolton, William Spottiswood, Ahuon B. Greenleaf and Clarence J. McKenzie. The active pallbearers were Maj. H. S. Cushing, James Ray, George Still, Axel Magnusson, Louis F. Miller, Sherman Pulsifer, Percy A. Brigham and Everett W. Jacocks.

The ushers were Almon B. Cilley, Frederick C. Graves, George U. Bauer, Olin D. Dickerman, Roy A. Faye, Samuel C. L. Haskell, Gardner R. P. Barker, Herbert F. Hartwell and Robert D. Webster. Burial was at Hingham.

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1928

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ, 1928, Page 45:

Born October 18, 1845. Died June 14, 1927.

Illustrious James Stone Blake, 33°, passed this life on June 14, 1927, at Atlantic City, N. J., while attending the Annual Session of the Imperial Council, A. A. O. N. M. S. While Illustrious Brother Blake had not been enjoying the best of health for several years, still his passing came as a great shock to his many friends.

He was born in Newburyport, Mass., where he spent his early years and in which place he began his business career as a clerk with Nathaniel and Thomas Foster, later coming to Boston and entering the employ of the jewelry firm of Crosby, Morse & Foss, with whom he remained until 1878, when he associated himself with J. V. Kettell, whose death in 1896 left him at the head of the firm of Kettell & Blake, which position he occupied until his death.

Illustrious Brother Blake was twice married — in 1866 to Hannah Johnson, who died in 1890, and in 1892 to Harriette F. Chick, who survives him. He leaves no children, as a child by his first wife died in infancy.The Masonic record of Illustrious Brother Blake covers a period of nearly fifty years, for had he lived until April 4, 1928, he would have celebrated his fiftieth year of Masonic Life, having been raised in St. John’s Lodge of Newburyport, Mass., April 4, 1878. In February, 1886, he demitted and became a member of Columbian Lodge of Boston.

He was Exalted in St. Paul’s Royal Arch Chapter June 18, 1889, and served as High Priest of that body in 1902-3.

In 1914 he was honored by the Grand Royal Arch Chapter by being elected Deputy Grand High Priest.i He became a member of Boston Council, Royal and Select Masters, May 18, 1891, and its Thrice Illustrious Master in 1900.

On March 18, 1891, he was Knighted in Boston Commandery of Knights Templars and was Eminent Commander in 1908-9.

In 1923 the Grand Commandery of Massachusetts and Rhode Island elected him Right Eminent Grand Commander. He also served as President of the Past Commanders’ Association in 1920.

He joined the four Scottish Rite Bodies in Boston in 1887, serving as Thrice Potent Master of Boston Lafayette Lodge of Perfection in 1901-2-3; as First Lieutenant-Commander of Massachusetts Council of Deliberation in 1903, and on September 15, 1903, was Crowned an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, Thirty-third Degree.

He became a member of Aleppo Temple of the-Mystic Shrine May 12, 1887, and was Potentate of that body in 1903-4-5.

He became a member of the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanics Association and an Associate Member of E. W. Kinsley Post, G. A. R., also for a number of years a member of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company.

By nature he was jovial, whole-hearted and everybody's friend — ever of even temperament — always ready to do his bit in what he believed to be for the best interest of Freemasonry,— always an unrelenting but forgiving foe to any form of injustice. No one ever received his hearty handclasp, no one ever came within the sound of his genial “Hello,” who will ever forget them.

“There is a word which couples life and death,
Sweet as a love song, solemn as a knell;
It, breathes a blessing while it chokes the breath,
And eyes smile tears when lips repeat, Farewell!

Fraternally submitted,
Harry G. Pollard, 33°,
Jesse E. Ames, 33°,
J. J. Van Valkenburgh, 33°.

BLAKE, JOHN WALDRON 1925-1995

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1995

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1995, Page A-viii:

Ill. John Waldron Blake, 33°
Born in Buffalo, New York, December 12, 1925
Died in Lynn, Massachusetts, March 18, 1995

Ill. John Waldron Blake, 33°, the son of the late George and Marion (Morse) Blake, was born in Buffalo, New York on December 12, 1925, and died at home in Lynn, Massachusetts, on March 18, 1995. He had been employed by the Coca-Cola Bottling Company and later for 15 years by the General Electric Company in Lynn, Massachusetts. He retired in 1988.

Ill. Brother Blake was a graduate of Lynn English High School in 1944 and was an active member of the Trinity Methodist Church in Lynn where he served as a Past President of the Methodist Mens Club.

On September 13, 1947, he married Marjorie F. Stone, who survives him along with four children, two daughters, Mrs. Linda Smith of Lynn and Mrs. Cathy Ellis of Essex, and two sons, Steven B. Blake and John I. Blake, both of Lynn; a brother Richard I. Blake of California and five grandchildren.

During World War II, John was a Sergeant in the U.S. Army Air Force from 1943-1946 and served as a Flight Engineer.

Ill. Brother Blake was very active in the affairs of his community. He started in the Boy Scouts of America in 1936, receiving the Eagle Scout award in 1942 and the Silver Beaver award in 1966. He was, also, a former member of the Rotary Club, a Trustee of the Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Building and Museum in Lynn and a member of the Civil War Round Table Association and the Sons of the Union Veterans Association.

Ill. Brother John was raised a Master Mason on June 19, 1953, in Bethlehem Lodge, A.F. & A.M., Lynn, Massachusetts, and served as Worshipful Master in 1968 and Secretary from 1968 until his death. He served the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts as District Deputy Grand Secretary in 1971-72; Junior Grand Deacon in 1980; Master of the 29th Lodge of Instruction in 1968-69; and a member of the Grand Lodge Education Committee from 1970 until his death. In 1981, he received a Grand Lodge Letter of Commendation. He was also a Past Secretary of the Lynn and Salem 8th District Past Masters Association, the Secretary's Association of Massachusetts and the Hickham Square and Compass Club of Hawaii.

In York Rite Masonry, he was exalted on January 5, 1972, in Sutton Royal Arch Chapter, Lynn, and served as High Priest in 1980; greeted in Zebulun Council Royal and Select Masters, March 18, 1972, and was Illustrious Master in 1982 and knighted in Olivet Commandery, No. 36, Lynn, on March 9, 1972, and served as Commander in 1977, since which time he has served as Captain of the Guard. He was a member of the York Cross of Honor, Priory 52, and Mayflower York Rite College No. 105.

Ill. Brother Blake completed the degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Valley of Salem in January 1973 and in Massachusetts Consistory in April 1975. He was a very active member and served as Most Wise Master of Emmanuel Chapter of Rose Croix in 1989. He was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector, 33°, Honorary Member of the Supreme Council on August 31, 1993, at Boston, Massachusetts.

He was also a member of Aleppo Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S., Wilmington, Massachusetts, and a member of the North Shore Shrine Club.

A Masonic service was held for Brother Blake on Wednesday evening, March 22, 1995, by Bethlehem Lodge. Funeral Services were held on Thursday, March 23, 1995, at the Richardson Funeral Home in Lynn. Interment was in Pine Grove Cemetery, Lynn, Massachusetts.

After living a full life, Ill. Brother Blake has left an indelible mark on his community and the Masonic fraternity which he so dearly loved.

BLANCHARD, CLIFTON AURELIUS 1827-1879

From Liberal Freemason, Vol. III, No. 7, October 1879, Page 209:

Capt. Clifton A. Blanchard, Superintendent oi the Chelsea Postal Station, died at his residence Tuesday morning, Sept. 23d, after a long and painful illness. Brother Blanchard was born at Searsport, Me.. July 13th, 1827, and was aged at the time of his decease, 52 years 2 months and 10 days. The deceased came to Boston in 1852, at the age of 25, and engaged in the shipping and commission brokerage business, and continued in that business until he enlisted as first lieutenant of Company C, 35th Massachusetts Regiment, Aug. 18th, 1862, serving in that capacity until January 1st, 1863, when he was commissioned captain, and assigned to Company B. Resigned June 26th, 1863, and recommissioned captain, June 30th, 1863. In Nov., 1863, he was appointed acting Provost Marshal of Brigade.

He was wounded in the left side when near Petersburg, July 39, 1864. Resigned and discharged November 28th, 1864. After his return to Chelsea, in 1864, he re-engaged in his former occupation, and continued till 1870, when President Grant appointed him Postmaster of the Chelsea office, and continued as such for five years, when the office was consolidated and made a branch of the Boston office, and he was appointed to the office of Superintendent of the Chelsea Station, in which he continued until his decease.

He was a member of Theodore Winthrop Post 35, G. A. R., being the second commander elected, and was twice subsequently re-elected, holding the position for three consecutive years. Brother Blanchard was a member of the Star of Bethlehem Lodge, Shekinah Chapter, Napthali Council, R. and S. M., and the Palestine Commandery. In each of ihcse bodies he was modest and unassuming, but always a genial and faithful member. While defending: bis nation's flag, Capt. Blanchard received a wound in the left lung, the ball passing through, and was taken out under his right arm. The wound ever since has troubled him, causing intense suffering, and produced malignant cancer and heart disease, which were the immediate cause of his death. He bore his sufferings with true Christian fortitude, of which he was noted when a soldier, was a most indulgent, kind an and faithful husband and father, and was respected by all who knew him. During the last two months of his life, Capt. Blanchard was unable to leave his bed, and in the meantime lost his articulation power. Being fully aware that his time on earth was but brief, he longed to meet his Maker, and passed quietly away as though going to sleep.

He leaves a faithful wife and adopted daughter to mourn his loss. The funeral service was on Thursday afternoon following his death, at his late residence, and under the charge of Palestine Commandery. His remains were interred at Mt. Auburn.

BLANCHARD, FRED MILLIKEN 1877-1944

From Proceedings, Page 1944-205:

Brother Blanchard was born in Chelsea, Massachusetts, on May 8, 1877, and died in Boston on September 15, 1944.

His business career of over half a century was spent in the wool trade, and as an active member of the Boston Wool Trade Association, he served as a director of the National Wool Association.

He was raised in Dalhousie Lodge on November 20, 1907, and served that Lodge as Master in 1913. In 1920, feeling that there was need of another Lodge in Newton, he took an active interest in the formation of Norumbega Lodge, of which he served as Master U.D., and also in 1921.

He was a member of Newton Royal Arch Chapter, Cryptic Council and Gethsemane Commandery, serving as Eminent Commander in the latter body in 1920.

In the Grand Lodge, he served as Junior Grand Steward in 1915, and as District Deputy Grand Master of the 5th Masonic District in 1922 and 1923, by appointment of Most Worshipful Arthur D. Prince.

He served as president and treasurer of the Newton Masonic Association, holding the latter office at the time of his death, and was a moving factor in the successful effort to clear the indebtedness of the Newton Masonic Temple.

He was an active and efficient worker in the Central Congregational Church of Newton, serving as Deacon and Moderator for many years.

His Masonic career was one of keen interest, always working for the benefit of the Craft and its high ideals. His host of friends will miss the warmth of his smile and his understanding personality.

"We mourn his loss.
His works are his memorial."

BLANCHARD, WILLIAM C. 1833-1878

Presented by William Salmon, Proxy for Ancient Landmark Lodge of China; Proceedings, Page 1878-79:

Bro. Blanchard was born in Charlestown, Mass., July 1, 1833, and went to Lowell when sixteen years of age. He and I were young men together, and I knew him well before he sought his fortune across the sea. He was always wide awake and full of energy. Somewhat impulsive, he sometimes gave offence, but seldom made enemies, for his large heart would soon make amends for the hasty word. He took great interest in our Institution, and as a Mason has left a bright record.

He was initiated in Ancient York Lodge, Lowell, in the fall of 1855, and made a Royal Arch Mason in Mt. Horeb Chapter, two years later. In 1859 he engaged with Olyphant & Co. of China, and remained in Shanghai until his decease, serving for the last few years of his life as a pilot. His mark upon Masonry in China will remain for many years, and his memory long be cherished by those for whom he so zealously labored.

The Dispensation for Ancient Landmark Lodge of Shanghai was issued by the M.W. Grand Master of this State, in Dec., 1863, Bro. Blanchard being its first Senior Warden, and its second Master under charter. He for several years held the office of Deputy for China under this M.W. Grand Lodge, and at the time of levying the "Temple Tax" worked so earnestly that the full commutation fee for every member of Ancient Landmark Lodge was collected and sent home. He took a prominent part in the formation of Keystone R.A. Chapter (U.S. jurisdiction), and was High Priest thereof. In 1867 he received the Order of Knighthood in Celestial Encampment of Shanghai (English jurisdiction), and in 1870 held the office of Eminent Commander. In 1874 he received the degrees of the Scottish Rite, as appears from a diploma issued by the Supreme Council of Scotland.

Last Friday I received, through the mail, from the U.S. Consulate at Shanghai, the Masonic diplomas and certificates issued to Bro. Blanchard, some twenty in number, showing the position he held among his Brethren in China, being an active or honorary member in all the Bodies there. His great interest, however, centred in Masonry under American control, and he was in correspondence with me touching the formation of a Commandery with an American charter.

Such is the brief record of one who has caused Masonry to thrive in the "heathen land," and who, though poor in worldly possessions, has by his zeal and, energy laid up a rich, enduring treasure, and left the imprint of his work to redound to the credit of this M.W. Grand Lodge that he loved so well.

BLATCHFORD, HOWARD PENNEY 1921-2010

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 2010, Page 25:

Ill. Howard Penney Blatchford
Born in Gloucester, Massachusetts, on February 24, 1921.
Died on May 15, 2010.

Ill. Howard Penney Blatchford, 33° was the son of Frank and Margaret (Penney) Blatchford. He was educated in the Gloucester public schools. He served his country in the United States Army Air Corps as a Sergeant from 1942 to 1946. Professionally, he retired from the United States Postal Service after many years of service. On January 17, 1954, at Gloucester, Massachusetts, he was united in marriage to Priscilla Mayo. From this union were born two sons, Howard P. Jr. and John N. Blatchford.

He was a member of the Independent Christian Universalist Church, where he served as member and past president of the board of stewards and board of managers. Civically, he was a member of the American Legion, and president of the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery Association.

Ill. Brother Blatchford was raised a Master Mason in Acacia Lodge A.F. & A.M. on March 26, 1947, and served as Master in 1955. He also served as Master of the 28th Lodge of Instruction from 1972 to 1973.

He completed the 4th through the 18th degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Valley of Salem in November of 1948 and served as Sovereign Prince of Jubilee Council, Prices of Jerusalem in 1986. He completed the consistorial degrees in the Valley of Boston in February of 1949. On September 27, 1988, he was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33° Honorary Member of the Supreme Council at Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was a member of Aleppo Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S.; Cape Ann Shrine Club; Martha Washington Chapter No. 21, Order of the Eastern Star; and the Cape Ann Chapter, Order of DeMolay.

BLISH, GEORGE W. 1837-1906

From New England Craftsman, Vol. I, No. 9, July 1906, Page 401:

Brother George W. Blish, a member of St. Andrew's R. A. Chapter of Boston and for many years one of the best known teachers of elocution in Boston, died May 23d in Plymouth, N. H., at the Emily Balch Cottage Hospital, of kidney trouble. For many vears he conducted the Blish School of Oratory in Boston. He was a native of La Salle, Ill., and served in both the army and navy in the civil war.

Prof. Blish established the earliest school of elocution in Boston. He belonged to Boston Commandery, K. T., and was also a member of Benjamin Stone, Jr., Post 68, G. A. R.. of Dorchester.

BLISS, HAROLD BROOKS 1894-1970

COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1970

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1970, Page 26:

Ill. Harold Brooks Bliss, 33°, was born in Peabody, Massachu­setts, on August 2, 1894 and died in Salem, Massachusetts, January 17, 1970. He had attended local schools and graduated from Pace Institute, majoring in accounting.

In 1920, he started with the Shreve, Crump and Low Jewelry Firm, later became its Treasurer and at the time of his retirement in 1964 was a member of the Board of Directors.

He was raised in Jordan Lodge in 1921 and its Worshipful Master in 1947. He presided over all three York Rite Bodies. In Scottish Rite he belonged to the Valley of Salem and Massachusetts Consistory and was Most Wise Master at the time of his passing. He was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector Gen­eral, Thirty-third Degree, Honorary Member of the Supreme Coun­cil, October 1, 1969, while still a patient at Salem Hospital.

BLODGETT, ALBERT NOVATUS 1848-1923

From Proceedings, Page 1923-313:

R.W. ALBERT NOYATUS BLODGETT closed a long life of quiet usefulness on the third day of July, 1923. He was born in Guilford, Vt., February 18, 1848. His active life was spent in the practice of his profession as a physician in Roxbury.

He was Initiated in Lafayette Lodge, September 3, 1880, Crafted October 11, 1880, and Raised November 8, 1880. After passing through the several offices he served Lafayette Lodge as Worshipful Master in 1887, 1888, and 1889. He was appointed District Deputy Grand Master for the Fourth Masonic District by M.W. Charles C. Hutchinson, and served in 1897 and in 1898. He brought to the duties of this office the faithfulness and efficiency which distinguished all that he did.

His interest in the affairs of Lafayette Lodge remained unabated until the end of his life. He was Historian of the Lodge at its fiftieth anniversary, June 1, 1915. The careful and painstaking history which he prepared on that occasion is a mine of valuable information concerning Masonic men and matters in that part of Boston during the period covered. It was later prepared for print and will be found in the appendix to the printed Proceedings for 1919.

Dr. Blodgett's life was the uneventful life of the general practitioner in medicine, a life whose service is not conspicuous and is crowned neither by fame nor great reward, but brings comfort and happiness to a wide circle of those who are favored by its ministrations. The last few years of our Brother's life were clouded by ill health and during that period he was little seen among his Masonic Brethren, but his memory remains undimmed.

BLOOD, COLBURN 1789-1860

  • MM 1814, Pentucket
  • Involved in the reorganization of the Lodge in 1845

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XVIII, No. 8, June 1860, Page 255:

At a Stated Meeting of Mount Horeb Royal Arch Chapter, held at Masonic Hall, in Lowell, March 30th, 1860, the following resolutions were adopted :—

  • Whereas, it hath pleased the Supreme Architect of the Universe, to remove, by death, our worthy Companion Col. Colburn Blood, Therefore
  • Resolved, That it is with emotions of profound sorrow, that the members of Mt. Horeb Chapter recognize the solemn dispensation of Divine Providence, which has deprived them of one of their oldest and most valued associates, by the decease of our Past High Priest, Comp. Colburn Blood.
  • Resolved, That the exalted character which he ever sustained and exhibited through life, as an upright Mason, and a good and useful citizen, has endeared his memory to the Masonic Brotherhood, as one who has prominently honored the institution, of which he was an ardent friend and ornament.
  • Resolved, That the Members of Mount Horeb Chapter, respectfully tender to the bereaved family of their lamented friend and Companion, the deepest and most heartfelt sentiments of sympathy and condolence, on the present mournful occasion.
  • Resolved, That these resolutions be placed on the Record of the Chapter, and that the blank page immediately following be inscribed with the name, time of death, and age of our departed Companion.
  • Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions, attested by the Secretary, be forwarded to the family of the deceased, and to the Masonic Magazine for publication. A true copy.

Attest, I. E. Short, Secretary.

BLOOM, ANDREW RUDOLPH 1871-1913

From New England Craftsman, Vol. VIII, No. 8, May 1913, Page 272:

Brother Andrew Bloom, a well known Mason and resident of Hyde Park, Mass., died April 12 at the age of 42 years.

In his associations with the Masonic Fraternity he was a member of Hyde Park Lodge, A. F. and A. M., Hyde Park Council, R. and S. M., Norfolk R. A. Chapter, and Cyprus Commandery, K. T., of Hyde Park; Boston Lafayette Lodge of Perfection, Giles F. Yates Council, P. of J., Mt. Olivet Chapter of Rose Croix, Massachusetts Consistory, 32d degree, A. A. S. R. He was also enrolled in Aleppo Temple of the Mystic Shrine.

BODFISH, DAVID LOUIS 1864-1942

From Proceedings, Page 1943-17:

Brother Bodfish was born in Wareham, Massachusetts, on January 19, 1864, and died in the Wesson Hospital, Springfield, on December 29, 1942.

After graduation at the Wareham High School, he entered the mercantile field and remained in that line of business in Wareham, Bridgewater and Palmer until 1910. In his later years he became Superintendent of State Highways in the Falmer District and held that position until his retirement in 1935.

He was raised in Social Harmony Lodge of Wareham on October 9, 1885, and dimitted on February 12, 1892; affiliated with Fellowship Lodge of Bridgewater on February 22, 1892, and dimitted November 12, 1892. Removing to Palmer, he affiliated with Thomas Lodge on November 26, 1894, and served as Worshipful Master in 1897 and 1898.

He was appointed District Deputy Grand Master of the old 17th Masonic District by Most Worshipful Baalis Sanford.

BOLSTER, SOLOMON A. 1835-1907

From Proceedings, Page 1907-20:

W. Solomon A. Bolster, for twenty-one years justice of the Roxbury Court, died at his residence in Roxbury, Feb. 28, 1907. He was born in Paris, Me., Dec. 10, 1835. He read law with his cousin, William W. Bolster, in Dixfleld, Me., and graduated at the Harvard Law School in 1859. In September, 1862, he enlisted in the Twenty-third Regiment of Maine Volunteer Infantry and was commissioned a Lieutenant. Upon the expiration of his term of enlistment, he settled in Roxbury and resumed the practice of law. He was an able and impartial justice ; a faithful and zealous Freemason. He held various Masonic offices, the duties of which he discharged with fidelity and ability. At the time of his decease he was the Standard-Bearer in this Grand Lodge and a Commissioner of Trials.

From Proceedings, Page 1907-21:

Amid the active and strenuous duties of our lives we pause now and then to mourn the loss of one of our number who has fallen out of the ranks, call attention to his death, indulge our grief and express our sorrow, love and esteem:

"To drop a sympathetic tear
And lay a flower upon his shrouded bier."

Brother Bolster died at his home on Cobden street, Roxbury, on the twenty;eighth day of February after a lingering but painless illness, and the funeral was held on Sunday, March 3d, in the Walnut Avenue Congregational Church, attended by a large concourse of citizens, soldiers, Masons and the general public. Rev. Dr. Plumb, pastor of that church, paid a glowing and eloquent tribute to his character .as a man and public spirited citizen.

Brother Bolster was born in Paris, Me., Oct. 10, 1835, and was educated in the public schools of his native town, and the Oxford Normal Institute. Afterwards he attended two terms at the Chandler Scientific School of Dartmouth College. His law studies were pursued in the office of his cousin, Wiliiam W. Bolster in Dixfield, Me., and in the Harvard Law School, where he was graduated with the regular degree of LL.B. in 1859. and was admitted to the Bar that year at Paris, Me., and to the Suffolk Bar, in this city, April 24, 1862.

In September, 1862, he enlisted for nine months in the Twenty-third Regiment Maine Volunteers, and on November 15th was commissioned second lieutenant of his company. After the war he became connected with the Massachusetts militia, and was appointed Judge Advocate June 29, 1867, with the rank of Captain of the First Brigade; March 22, 1870, he was commissioned assistant inspector general, with the rank of Major; Aug. 15, 1876, he was commissionecl assistant adjutant general with the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel.

Upon his return from service in the Civil War be resumed the practice of law in Roxbury, and rapidly rose to an established position in his profession. He first held court as a special justice May 30, 1867, and prior: to that he was clerk pro tem, many times; for many years, during the long illnesses of Judge Wheelock, he held court between 1872 and 1885. He was appointed Justice of the District Municipal Court in Roxbury in April 1885, to succeed Judge Henry W. Fuller and from that time until within a few months of his death was an able, impartial and upright administrator of the law.

Brother Bolster was prominently identified with various organizations as a member. He was Past Commander of Post 26, G.A.R.. and belonged to the Massachusetts Military Older of the Loyal Legion. He was also president of the Roxbury Military Historical Society in 1893 and 1894, and president at the time of his decease of the Joseph Warren Monument Association. He was also Past Commander of the Old Guard of Massachusetts.

Brother Bolster's Masonic career commenced in South Paris, Me., where he was initiated, and raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason in Paris Lodge, No. 94, Aug. 3, 1863. He was admitted to membership in Washington Lodge, Roxbury, Jan. 21, 1864, and was Worshipful Master of that Lodge in 1877 and 1878. He was D D.G.M. of the Fourth Masonic District in 1890, 1891 and 1892. He was appointed Grand Standard-Bearer of this Grand Lodge in 1906 and 1907 and Commissioner of Trials for the same years.

He was exalted to the degree of Royal Arch Mason in Mount Vernon Chapter of Royal Arch Masons May 5, 1870, and was High Priest in 1876 and 1877. He was advanced to the degree of Royal and Select Master in Roxbury Council May 21, 1877, and was Thrice Illustrious Master in 1888 and 1889. He was knighted in Joseph Warren Commandery of Knights Templar Jan. 22, 1871, and was Eminent Commander in 1879 and 1880. He received the thirty-second degree of the Ancient and Accepted. Scottish Rite Feb. 22, 1889. He also was a member of the Masters Association of the Fourth Masonic District.. He was D. D. G. H. Priest of the Grand Chapter in the years 1886 and 1887.

As an officer in the military service of our country during the Civil War and afterwards in the militia of our Commonwealth; as an honest and able counsellor, as an honorable and upright Judge, as a Mason actively interested in the good works of the Fraternity as a generous patron of everything that stood for the promotion of morality, education and patriotism, and as a citizen who was ever ready to do his full share for the advancement of all that tended towards a higher and a better standard of Citizenship, Brother Bolster's life was marked by a sincere desire to be serviceable to his fellow-men.

He lived the life of a consistent, earnest and honorable Christian gentleman. His private charities were extensive, and he gave freely, wisely and unostentatiously. No one will ever know the full extent of this work, but many a household, many a good cause, and many a worthy individual mourns the loss of a kind, generous and sympathetic friend.

Such a life, such a character, is indeed a loss to the whole community. He has left a place that can be but partially filled. His labors here are finished, and he has entered into the higher life beyond, hut his memory and his influence remain with us, and are still potent. He has passed through the gateway that separates mortality from immortality.

We extend to his wife and family our deepest and most sincere sympathy; participating in their joy for what he was and in their sorrow for their loss. It is not necessary for us to know mole than this, that he is still under the protecting care of our Heavenly Father.

"There is no death! What seems so is transition;
This life of mortal breath
Is but a suburb of the Life Elysian
Whose portal we call death."

Submitted by the Committee,
JOHN CARR,
JOHN A. McKIM,
EDWIN H. OLIVER.

From New England Craftsman, Vol. II, No. 7, April 1907, Page 275:

Judge Solomon A. Bolster, for the past 22 years justice of the Roxbury, Mass. municipal court, died Feb. 28, at his home, 10 Cobden Street, Roxbury.

Early in August Judge Bolster was taken ill with enaemia, and since that time has been confined to his home.

There was no more familiar or better known resident of Roxbury than Mr. Bolster. His law practice and his long experience on the bench in the Roxbury District made him wonderfully familiar with the conditions of the poor and unfortunate in Roxbury, and his decisions and his dispensation of justice, tempered with mercy and an understanding of all the poor had to deal with, made him very popular.

Solomon Alonzo Bolster was a native of Maine, born in Paris, Oxford County, December 10, 1835. He was educated in the public schools and at the Oxford Normal Institute in his native town. His law studies were pursued in the office of his cousin, William W. Bolster, in Dixfield, Me., and at the Harvard law school, where he graduated in 1859. He was admitted to the Maine bar in Paris the same year. Shortly afterward he was admitted to the Missouri bar at Palmyra, Mo., and in 1862 to the Suffolk bar.

In September, 1862, he enlisted for nine mouth's service in the civil war, joining the 23d regiment, Maine volunteers, being commissioned as second lieutenant. Upon his return he resumed his law practice in the Roxbury district and early acquired an established position in the profession. He was appointed to the bench as justice of the Roxbury district court in April, 1885.

After the war he became connected with the Massachusetts militia, in which he served for many years through various grades. He earned the rank of captain of the 1st brigade, on March 22, 1870, was appointed assistant inspector-general with the rank of major, in 1876 was made assistant adjutant-general with the rank of lieutenant-colonel.

He was a member of many fraternal organizations, a member of Thomas G. Stevenson Post 26, G. A. R., Order of the Loyal Legion, and the Pine Tree State Club. He was a past master of Washington Lodge, past high priest of Mt. Vernon chapter, past master of Roxbury council and past commander of Joseph Warren Commandery. K. T. He was a 32d degree Mason in Scottish Rites and had been district deputy grand master in the 4th Masonic District and District Deputy Grand High Priest of the First District. He was also a member of the Grand Chapter.

BORDEN, ERNEST WESLEY 1892-1976

COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1976

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1976, Page 40:

Ernest Wesley Borden, 33°
Born in Fall River, Massachusetts, February 13, 1892
Died in Fall River, Massachusetts, April 14, 1976

Illustrious Ernest W. Borden was the son of Frank L. Borden and Mary (Gordon) Borden. He was educated in the Fall River Public Schools and was a graduate of B.M.C. Durfee High School and the former Bradford Technical Institute, now Southeastern University. He was an Army veteran of World War I. He was married to Elizabeth A. (Starling) Borden in 1915 who predeceased him in 1967. He leaves one daughter, Mrs. Walter E. (Elizabeth) Burbank of Somerset, Massachusetts and four grandchildren.

His career was spent in the cotton mills of Fall River and at the time of his retirement was Assistant Superintendent of the Verney­-Shawmut Mills in Fall River.

His Masonic record is as follows:

  • Symbolic: He was raised a Master Mason in Narragansett Lodge, A.F. & A.M. January 8, 1920. Worshipful Master in 1934.
  • Capitular: He was exalted in Fall River Royal Arch Chapter, March 15, 1920. High Priest, 1928, 1943 and 1944. Grand King of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Massachusetts, 1959. Benjamin Hurd, Jr. Medal presented March 4, 1957. Fifty-year emblem pre­sented June 8, 1970 by M:.E:. Emmett B. Baker, Grand High Priest. Member of Massachusetts Con­vention of High Priests, March 12, 1929.
  • Cryptic: Greeted Fall River Council, Royal and Select Masters, June 2, 1920. Illustrious Master 1932-33. Grand Captain of the Guard, 1944.
  • Chivalric: Knighted Godfrey de Bouillon Commandery K.T., #25, April 28, 1920. Eminent Commander, 1935.
  • Scottish Rite: He received the Degrees in the Fall River Lodge of Perfection; Samuel C. Lawrence Council, Princes of Jerusalem, Saint Andrew Chapter of Rose Croix in 1922 in the Valley of FaH River and Massachusetts Consistory in the Valley of Boston in 1922. He was head of all the bodies in the Valley of Fall River, including Commander-in-Chief of Old Colony Consis­tory in 1967. He was instrumental in founding Old Colony Consistory in I 953. He was Secretary of the Scottish Rite Bodies in the Valley of Fall River for many years. He received many honors including the Meritorious Service Award from Massachusetts Council of Deliberation. He received the Thirty-third Degree in Boston, Massachusetts, September, J 945, and served as Grand Seneschal until 1970, being Emeritus until his death.

He was a member of Aleppo and Palestine Shrines and was Past Monarch of Azab Grotto. He was past President of the Masonic Club of Fall River and was Chairman of the Committee which organized the Freedom Shrine.

He was a member of Central Congregational Church for many years. He was an ardent worker in all branches of Masonry. Demand­ing perfection in securing the best possible work from his associates but demanding no less for himself.

Funeral services were held at the Waring Home for Funerals in Fall River on April 17, 1976. Bearers were all Thirty-third Degree Masons - Ill. Laurence E. Eaton, 33°, Deputy for Massachusetts; Ill. Norman M. Gay, 33°, Grand Seneschal; Ill. Albert W. Canedy, 33°; Ill. James J. Brown, Jr., 33°; Ill. Thomas A. Booth, 33°; Ill. Earle D. Wilson, 33°; Ill. Chester S. Deplitch, 33°; Ill. Howard B. Peck, 33°; Ill. George M. Jackson, 33° and Ill. Carl R. MacPherson, 33°.

He was buried in Oak Grove Cemetery in Fall River. His standards of excellence will be difficult to meet and his passing will leave a void that only time can fill.

BORGHARDT, HANS HEINRICH MAX 1869-1937

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XXXII, No. 5, January 1937, Page 97:

The funeral of Hans H. M. Borghardt, prominent Mason, who died Friday at his home, 18 Lindsey Street, Dorchester, was held at 2:30 Sunday, Jan. 2, at the Forest Hills chapel. Burial in Forest Hills cemetery. His widow, Mrs. Hans Borghardt, survives.

He was a member of Rabboni Lodge of Masons of Dorchester, a past High Priest of Dorchester Royal Arch chapter, recorder of the Boston Council, member of Boston commandery, K. T.; Aleppo Temple, Omar Grotto Chapter of Dorchester and all Scottish rite bodies; the Episcopal Club of Massachusetts and a past commander of the Signal corps, first brigade of Massachusetts.

BORGIA, CARMEN D. 1943-

CarmenBorgia2000.jpg

BIOGRAPHY

From TROWEL, Spring 2000, Page 25:

New Grand High Priest and Grand Royal Arch Officers

On December 7, 1999, at the Annual Meeting of Grand Chapter the election and installation of new officers for the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Massachusetts took place at the Masonic Building in Boston. Installed as Grand High Priest was Most Excellent Carmen D. Borgia. The new Deputy Grand High Priest is Right Excellent Nelson C. Pratt, Jr.. Grand King is Right Excellent Arthur M. Pappas and Grand Scribe is Right Excellent Joseph M. Kurey.

Most Excellent Carmen Borgia has just completed his term as District Deputy Grand Master of the Natick 23rd Masonic District. Previously he served as District Deputy Grand High Priest of the 4th Capitular District followed by a term as the Grand Scribe of Grand Chapter.

He was born in Oneida. NY and attended school there and in Utica. He attended Utica College and was graduated from the Boston Conservatory of Music as a Violin Major. He has since gone on to earn a Master's Degree in Math/Computer Science from Worcester State College. He taught in the public schools for twelve years and is now Manager of Information Systems for Eastern Enterprises.

His wife, Valerie, and he have three grown children. They attend St. Stephens' Episcopal Church in Westborough. He is a charter member and Past President of the Westborough Civic Club.

M. E. Borgia's other Masonic activities include beina a Past Master of Siloam Lodge and Past High Priest of Mt. Lebanon Chapter. He is the presiding Illustrious Master of Milford Council. In addition to being Marshal of Mayflower York Rite College, he is also a member of St. Matthew's Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine.

BOURCHIER, HUGH PLUNKET d. 1885

From Proceedings, Page 1885-122:

R.W. HUGH PLUNKET BOURCHIER, of Valparaiso, Chili. Under date of May 11, 1885, R. W. David Trumbull, D.D., District Deputy Grand Master for the District of Chili, announces the death of R.W. H. Plunket Bourchier, a member of Bethesda Lodge, at Valparaiso, Chili, and thrice its Worshipful Master. He was D.D. Grand Master of the District during the years 1874 and 1875. Bro. Bourchier was one of the most prominent members of the Craft in Chili, esteemed in foreign and native circles and Lodges. Tributes of respect and sympathy were forwarded from many sources. His loss will long be felt in Masonic and other circles. Bro. Bourchier was a native of Gibraltar, and was forty-eight years of age.

BOUVÉ, JAMES HENRY 1829-1888

From Liberal Freemason, Vol. XII, No. 8, November 1888, Page 245:

This Brother was the second son of John and Lucy Bouvé, of Scituate, Mass., where he was born on the 9th day of October, 1829.

The possibilities of the town were not over-tempting to a young man of energy, good ability and a natural ambition to advance beyond them, and when about twenty-six years of age he entered into the employ of what is now the Boston National Bank, where he remained until his death, which occurred October 27, 1888. It is sufficient to say of his integrity and uprightness of character that he was promoted from trust to trust in the Bank until he became its President, by choice of the Directors.

Our Brother was made a Mason in Winslow Lewis Lodge, Boston, receiving the three degrees in March, April and May, 1861. He was exalted to the Royal Arch Degree in St. Matthew's Chapter, South Boston, in 1864, but subsequently applied for and was admitted to membership in St. Andrew's Chapter in Boston, December 4, 1867, a relationship which he ever after sustained.

The Orders of Knighthood were conferred upon him in South Shore Commandery of Knights Templars, in East Weymouth, in May and June, 1876, and in this body he remained a member.

With the improved surroundings of his business life, new spportunities offered, and he established a summer home in Cohasset, where he became actively identified with the interests of Konohassett Lodge established in 1865, and of which he was Senior Warden in 1865-6, and Master in 1867-8-9. between this last date and 1878, he served the Lodge as Secretary most of the time. In the Grand Lodge he was Junior Grand Steward for three years, under Grand Master Nickerson. A personal acquaintance of many years with Brother Bouvé confirms the opinion of many friends, that he was a consistent Freemason, aid conscientious brother. Kind in manner, gentlemanly in deportment, cheerful in his intercourse with the brethren, the feeling of sadness which pervades the circles that knew him best, is a just and expressive tribute to the memory of one who was loved by his brethren.

The funeral services, first for the family, were performed at his late residence in Boston, after which the remains were taken in charge by Konohassett Lodge, F. and A. M., and escorted by South Shore Comniandery, K. T., were conveyed to the Unitarian Church in Cohasset. The services consisted of a prayer by Rev. Joseph Osgood, for many years the pastor of the deceased, followed by the Masonic burial service, conducted by W. M. John O. Hall, of Konohasset Lodge, with Rev. J. W. Savage as Chaplain, and music by the Mendelssohn Quartette. The remains were then escorted to the family lot in the Central Cemetery, where the interment was made with the last Masonic rites. The floral offerings were many and beautiful. The past officers of South Shore Commandery acted as pall bearers.

Brother Howard M. Dow composed the following lines, in memory of his friend, and set them to music, intending to have them sung at the funeral, but was not able, for lack of time, to secure a proper rehearsal.

Regretfully the intention was abandoned, and we now present the words to our readers:

IN MEMORY OF BROTHER JAMES H. BOUVÉ.

When on earth our life is ended, and our labor here is o'er,
When we cross death's rapid river, when we reach the Heav'nly shore,
There we'll meet thee, O our Brother, free from ev'ry care and pain.
There we'll meet in bliss forever, nevermore to part again.

When we leave this earthly dwelling, to our Heavenly Home attain,
Where we're freed from ev'ry sorrow, and "to die we count as gain,"
There we'll meet in sweet communion; there we'll sing in glad accord,
And with voices never ceasing, chant the praises of our Lord.

In that fair and blessed country, free from ev'ry stain of sin,
We shall dwell in Heav'nly mansions where no sorrow enters in.
We shall see our Lord and Master, who for love of Man hath died,
And secure 'neath his protection, we shall evermore abide.

Then, "let not our hearts be troubled," as earth's journey we pursue,
Pressing onward, arm'd with courage, strive the Master's work to do,
Ever ready for the summons, at life's closing hour we'll sing,
"Where O grave, is now thy vict'ry? Where, O death is now thy sting."

BOWDITCH, ALEXANDER GRANVILLE 1838-1935

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XXX, No. 8, April 1935, Page 228:

Columbian Lodge. Boston, Feb. 26, 1864.
Veterans Medal 1927.
Died January 14, 1935.

"To be successful and original in business, in music, in friendship and to have lived on the whole happily for ninety-six years is no small accomplishment. All that is best in the New England character was exemplified by Alexander Granville Bowditch. He took a justifiable but withal modest pride in his career, in his trusteeship of no less than eight estates without the loss of a penny. Almost invariably he> had something kind and pleasant to say of others—a charming trait. He loved children. Though stern, he was a just, kind and considerate head of a household. Keen and interested in every day affairs, he was a wonderfully accurate judge of men and events to the very last. He was religious and among other manifestations of this quality sometimes when alone in his room could be heard praying aloud for his father and mother, a prayer indescribably touching to hear from this venerable man.

"He liked and enjoyed in honesty and temperately all the good things of life. In person he was unusually handsome, his hair abundant, his features regular and manly, he was slender, his carriage pleasantly jaunty and cheerful. We, his friends, shall miss him. To quote from Hawthorne his life "betokened the cheeriness of an active temperament finding joy in its activity and therefore rendering it beautiful; it was a New England trait — the stern old stuff of Puritanism with a gold thread in the web." - G. M. S.

BOWDITCH, CHARLES ALBERT 1841-1939

BIOGRAPHY

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XXX, No. 1, September 1934, Page 28:

Beth-Horon Lodge, of Brookline. Massachusetts, has a very interesting member in Wor. Bro. Charles A. Bow-ditch, of whom they are extremely proud, and who is about the streets of Brookline every day. He was born in Braintree, Massachusetts, October 15, 1841 (93 this year), was raised in Revere Lodge May 8, 1864 (70 years a Mason). He affiliated with Beth-horon Lodge January 8, 1878; was its Worshipful Master 1885 and 1886, and Secretary for 32 years, from 1898 to 1930. He has been Secretary emeritus of Beth-horon Lodge since December 9, 1930. He has received the Henry Price medal, the Veteran's Medal, and is a life member of the lodge.

After he was 90, he raised a candidate, and gave an excellent charge to candidates at that time. His attendance at meetings would be regular now, but for two long flights of stairs to the lodge room.

BOWEN, GOMER ELWOOD 1925-2006

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 2007, Page 23:

Ill. Gomer Ellwood Bowen, 33°
Born in Morris Township, Pennsylvania, on April 29, 1925
Died in Massachusetts, on June 11, 2006

Ill. Gomer Ellwood Bowen, 33° was the son of Thomas and Mary (Dixon) Bowen. He was educated in the Phillipsburg Public Schools. He was employed as a Maintenance Control Supervisor and a Fire Restoration Supervisor. He retired from the United States Air Force as a Chief Master Sergeant after serving in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. On April 7, 1947, at Bigler, Pennsylvania, he was united in mar­riage to Pauline Louise Meas, who survives along with their three children, LaRue, John and Gomer; four grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; a brother; and two sisters.

Ill. Brother Bowen was raised a Master Mason in Brigham Lodge A. F. & A. M., on February 28, 1961 and served as Master in 1965. He served the Grand Lodge as District Deputy Grand Master of the Chicopee 18th Masonic District in 1969-70. He was exalted in Morning Star Chapter, RAM; greeted in Springfield Council R. & S. M.; and knighted in Springfield Commandery No. 6, KT. He com­pleted the degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Valley of Springfield on December 9, 1965, and served as Most Wise Master of Springfield Chapter of Rose Croix in1978-79. On September 28, 1983, he was cre­ated a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33° Honorary Member of the Supreme Council at Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

He was a member of Melha Temple, AAO.N.M.S. and served in the Clown Unit. He was also a member of the James Hannum Chapter No. 150, Order of the Eastern Star; King Philip York Rite College No. 160; St. Matthew's Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine; and Cairo Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S. in Brattleboro, Vermont.

Private Services were held at the Veterans Cemetery in Agawam, Massachusetts. On June 27, 2006, a Masonic Memorial Service was conducted at Brigham Lodge, A. F.& A. M., Ludlow, Massachusetts.

BOWEN, SERANUS 1840-1899

SeranusBowen.jpg

MEMORIAL

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1900

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ, 1900, Page 45:

Ill. Brother Bowen was born in Abington, Mass., Feb. 14, 1840. He came to Boston in early life, and for a short time worked at the trade of gold-beater; he was afterwards employed in a picture store, and for a considerable time was a clerk in bookstores.

He was made a Mason in St. John’s Lodge, Boston, and became a member in 1865; he withdrew from the Lodge in 1873 At the time of his death he was a member of Washington Lodge, Roxbury, with which he affiliated in 1885. He was exalted in St. Andrew’s Royal Arch Chapter, and admitted to membership Feb. 6, 1867. He filled various offices in that body and was its High Priest in 1893 and 1894. He was admitted a member of Boston Council of Royal and Select Masters in 1867, and was its Most Illustrious Master In 1870. He was Knighted in Boston Commandery Knights Templars, and became a member in 1867. He soon withdrew from that body, and was a member of Joseph Warren Commandery at the time of his death. He had received all the degrees of the Scottish Rite, including the 33°, which was conferred on him Sept. 15, 1896. He was Grand Secretary of the Grand Chapter from June 9, 1891, until Dec. 8, 1896, when he was elected Grand High Priest. He was again elected Grand High Priest at the following Annual Convocation, but was unable to perform the duties of the office. He was Most Illustrious Grand Master of the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters in 1885, 1886, 1887, and was Grand Recorder of the same body from May, 1891. until December, 1898.

It did not fall to the lot of Companion Bowen to receive a liberal scholastic education, but his naturally refined tastes and love for the good and the beautiful in nature and art gradually and steadily led him onward and upward, through mechanical and clerical occupations, to higher aims, studies and duties. He was finally attracted to the noble profession of medicine and, after a thorough course of study, he began its practice in 1875 and continued in active work until the winter of 1897, when illness brought his professional career to a close.

As a man he was manly; he had a strong, sturdy, well-knit frame and conveyed the impression of a self-reliant, though modest and unassuming gentleman. This impression was no illusion. He was slow and careful of speech, but his expressed opinions bore the evidence of careful thought, and his statements naturally had the weight which can only come from mature reflection and lengthy consideration of all sides of the subject at issue.

His tastes were for the noble, the beautiful and the pure. He loved to read and descant upon the masterpieces of literature by the great writers of the English tongue. He had a very retentive memory and delighted to quote at length from Shakespeare, Dickens and other eminent poets and prose writers.

He was an ardent admirer of what was good and great on the theatrical stage, and his reminiscences and opinions of celebrated actors were always Interesting and expressed with excellent judgment.

His fondness for art was probably fostered many years ago during his apprenticeship in the store of Williams & Everett in Boston, and he ever preserved an interest in and love for good paintings and choice specimens of sculpture and ceramics.

It was his good fortune at one time to be the medical adviser of a gentleman of abundant means and to be his companion and professional attendant during a prolonged tour of the continent of Europe. This charming experience came at a time of life when, in the full vigor of manhood, his mind was ripe to enjoy to the fullest extent the varied scenes of travel and residence in the great capitals of the Old World, lie never tired of recalling the pleasing incidents through which he had passed, and his auditors never wearied of his recital of the varied details of his journeyings from the sea-girt isle of Britain through sunny France, ancient Home and still more ancient Egypt and the Holy Land.

As a physician in general practice lie was careful and industrious, and in later years devoted his attention almost exclusively to life insurance examinations, in which branch he was a conspicuous figure.

His career in Freemasonry was most notable in the Capitular and Cryptic Rites. As Grand Lecturer of the Grand Chapter he was a bright and shining light for many years, and Ids ardent zeal and critical accuracy can never be forgotten by those of us who have so often witnessed the Annual Exemplifications of the Work and Lectures, under his painstaking guidance. As a ritualist he was very correct, and the delivery of his lines was characterized by plain effectiveness without attempt at florid oratory. As Grand Secretary, Chairman of Committee on Foreign Correspondence and Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter, he devoted his best energies to the performance of his duties, and was a worthy successor to the saintly Dadmun and the lamented Chapman. His long service in the office of Thrice Potent Master of Boston Lodge of Perfection doubtless marked him for elevation to the thirty-third degree of the Scottish Rite, which was an honor well deserved by him.

His family ties were most pleasant. With a wife whom he loved and an only son whom he idolized, his cup of domestic happiness was full.

Around the social board he showed the same old-time dignity and politeness which marked his deportment in all Ids intercourse with his fellows.

His mortal end was inexpressibly sad. What a shock it was to those of us who witnessed, in December, 1897, the manifestations of mental failure which had lain dormant for many months and were thenceforward to march on slowly but inexorably for many more weary months to the fatal termination! Yet he knew it not, and it is indeed a blessing that the clouded mind is rarely aware of the subtle ravages which are being made upon the emotions, volition and judgment by the encroachments of insidious mental disease.

And then death came, and the end was peace.

Answer me, burning stars of night!
Where is the spirit gone,
That past the reach of human sight
Even as a breeze, hath flown?
And the stars answered me— "We roll
In light and power on high,
But, of the never-dying soul,
Ask things that cannot die!"

Ye clouds that gorgeously repose
Around the setting sun,
Answer! have ye a home for those
Whose earthly race is run?
The bright clouds answered — "We depart,
We vanish from the sky;
Ask what is deathless in thy heart
For that which cannot die."

Speak then, thou voice of God within!
Thou of the deep low tone?
Answer me through life's restless din,
Where is the spirit flown?
And the voice answered — "Be thou still!
Enough to know is given;
Clouds, winds and stars their task fulfil,
Thine is to trust in heaven."

Thomas Waterman, 33°,
Albert T,. Richardson, 33°,
Thomas Kellough, 33°,
Committee.

BOWERS, VERNON SISSON 1920-2002

VernonSBowers1991.jpg

Necrology, 2003

MEMORIAL

TROWEL, 1991

From TROWEL, Winter 1991, Page 8:

Calling it the crown of his Masonic achievements which are many and varied. Most Illustrious Vernon Sisson Bowers was installed to his third year as the Grand Master of the Grand Council of Massachusetts, Royal and Select Masters. A member of more than 50 Masonic organizations, including six symbolic Lodges, Bro. Bowers' three years in Grand Council have increased his knowledge of Masonry and gained him many more friends who have enriched his life. All that from a fellow who could have easily been turned off from Masonry because of the lack of instruction received and a lack of warmth among men when he first saw light in the Craft in 1955. So he is not without advice.

"From personal experience, active participation and involvement in Masonic activities and the knowledge gained, there are in my opinion two major problems about which I am concerned: education and communication. I experienced this when I was conducted into the Lodge room as a candidate. I did not get involved until four years after my Raising, because I was not properly instructed, and it still happens. It is imperative that we properly educate new members."

Brother Bowers is a native of Fall River where his roots are deeply planted in the city once famous for its port and textile mills. He recalls how in the third grade of school, he was addressed by Miss Coombs by the first names of his father and three uncles. "So, I answered to all four and my own."

Three Bowers brothers came to this country from England in the mid-19th century; two settled in Brooklyn, NY. and one, his grandfather, found a home in Fall River. They were all associated in the textile industry as designers of printed cloth. His maternal grandfather. Thomas V. Sisson, was a direct descendant of Richard Sisson who was born in England in 1608 and died in Dartmouth, MA in 1684. Vern is the son of Frederick Bowers and Grace Alma (Sissons) Bowers. When Vern was age nine, the family, including a brother Frederick Jr.. moved to Quincy to relieve the long train rides his father took daily to and from the State House where he was employed in the Department of Natural Resources.

Although he always had a baseball glove on one hand or hanging from his belt, at North Quincy High the football coach tried to get Vern involved, but he preferred wrestling, and he learned the various holds and techniques in Joe Beston's gym in Quincy Square. His was legitimate wrestling, not the circus we see today in arenas and on television. In 1937, he applied and was accepted into the Norfolk County Agricultural High School in Walpole where he learned landscaping and floriculture. During the months when the grass is green. Vern may be seen Wednesdays caring for the lawns and gardens of the First Baptist Church of Fall River, not far from the Somerset home he kept with his dad, who recently passed away.

On April 30, 1942, he enlisted in the Army at Fort Devens. He received his basic training at Fort Eustis, Virginia, then at Camp Davis in No. Carolina where he was assigned to Battery D of the 514th Coast Artillery, Anti-Aircraft. The group was separated, and he became attached to the 217th Anti-Aircraft Battalion, a part of Battery D. Much of his duties included the training of the Officer Candidates. In January of 1944, they traveled to Long Island where they set up guns in defense of aircraft factories and New York City. Two months later he was at Camp Edwards on Cape Cod. That location made it easy to visit his Wollaston home on weekends. When the outfit pulled out for the Boston Port of Embarkation the train passed by that home. They boarded a Liberty ship, U.S.S. Sea Porpoise, and on Good Friday, 1944. the ship joined in a convoy that took them to Newport in Wales, England. Moving to Llandmartin, Wales, it was pointed out that it was the site of filming the picture How Green Was My Valley. Moving again, the group finally reached Dorset where they experienced their first air raid in Plymouth.

At 2000 hours on June 25, 1944, 19 days following D-day, the group went aboard LST 292, LCT 832 and LCT 801 for Utah Beach in Normandy. Four days after hitting the beach they moved on to a camping area where the waterproofing was removed from guns. As part of the First Army they then proceeded to Cherbourg, then to St. Lo. The former city was used throughout World War II as a port for Allied Forces, and St. Lo was used as a major communications center, captured from the Nazis July 18, 1944. On August 2, a day after Avranches was secured by the U.S. 12th Army Group and Lt. Gen. George S. Patton's Third Army, the Avranches corridor was used by the 4th and 6th Armored Divisions to break out from Normandy. "We'd be stopped by the Military Police who asked where we thought we were going because the town hadn't been taken. That's when everybody learned about Patton. We passed through towns in which the enemy was firing at us from buildings on both sides of the streets.

On Dec. 30, 1944, they were at Arlon, Belgium, one mile southwest of Bastogne. "The ground was frozen, we were frozen, and the Germans began shelling our area for 16 days and nights. It was foggy for two weeks, so the Air Force couldn't fly in with supplies. Finally the fog lifted and supplies were dropped. We moved on through Belgium." They crossed into Germany and reached the river across from which was Braunau. the home where Adolph Schickelgruber, alias Hitler, was born. Bowers travelled to Berchtesgaden. a town in the Alps of southern Bavaria, the site of the fortified mountain chalet of Adolph Hitler. Bro. Bowers was privileged to visit the beautiful Koenig Sea. which is a lake high up in the mountain with waterfalls coming down all around the lake. His outfit took part in five battles in its march across Europe, and in September, 1945. he boarded the ship America to arrive at Fort Dix. New Jersey where he was mustered out of military service. A year in a Sharon tool company was followed by attending Fenner Technical School in Boston where he majored in mechanical drafting. A short stint in a Wollaston industry, then a layoff inspired Vern to reenlist in the Army. It was May 3. 1949. and after attending the Artillery Forward Observers School at Fort Sill, OK. he found himself aboard a ship headed for Japan. In June of 1950. the North Koreans invaded South Korea, and when stationed at Fukuoka, the southern Island of Japan, he witnessed many cargo planes coming in from Korea with families of the relatives of the military that were stationed in Japan.

In May of 1953, he returned to the states and was stationed at Fort Niagara. He returned to Wollaston and applied for Freemasonry in Wollaston Lodge but received only the Entered Apprentice Degree. He received the Fellow Craft Degree in a Lodge at Lewiston. NY. Two years later, he was home and was raised by his uncle. Wor. Alfred D. Pearson, who had been Master of King Philip Lodge. Fall River, in 1941. "That's when I knew I had made a mistake. I should have been Raised before I went into the service. It often made a difference."

His first four years in the Craft were far from exciting, but he received the Royal Arch degrees in St. Stephen's Chapter. Quincy. and that turned him on. He was High Priest when the Chapter celebrated its 100th year. R. W. Frank E. Nelson influenced Vern to affiliate with St. Paul's Lodge, and he served as Master in 1970 and 1972. He was Marshal to R. W. William A. Wood of the South Boston Fourth District. He now holds membership in the Major General Henry Knox Lodge of Boston, Overseas Lodge and the Daylight Lodge of Cranston. R. I. and inspired the Metacomet Daylight Lodge at Taunton to charter. He has joined all the York and Scottish Rite Bodies, holding membership in the Valley of Boston and Southeastern Massachusetts, was Eminent Prior of the Massachusetts Priory No. 52. Knights of the York Cross of Honor, and he received the Order of the Purple Cross from the York Rite College of North America in Calgary. Canada in 1985.

He is a member of Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2076 of London. England, recognized as the premier research Lodge of the world: the Maine Lodge of Research; Goose and Gridiron Club of Seattle, WA; the Philalethes Society; United Masters Lodge No. 167 of Auckland, New Zealand, American Research Lodge of New York, Iowa Research Lodge, Masonic Order of Bath, Ye Ancient Order of Corks. Narragansett Bay No. 14, National Sojourners of Rhode Island. Aleppo Temple. Taleb Grotto of Quincy, the Masonic Veterans Association of Rhode Island, The Missouri Lodge of Research, and holder of honorary memberships in Lodges. Chapters, and Councils, and others too numerous to list. For a fellow who was slow to adapt to the Craft, his participation is second to none. "But we must educate our newly admitted Brothers in order to keep them." he warns.

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 2003

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 2003, Page 37:

Ill. Vernon Sisson Bowers, 33°
Born July 5, 1920, in Fall River, Massachusetts
Died December 17, 2002, in Fall River

Illustrious Bro. Bowers was the son of Frederick and Grace (Alma) Bowers. At the age of nine his family moved to Quincy, Mass­achusetts. He attended the public school system in Quincy, includ­ing North Quincy High School. In 1937, he was accepted into the Norfolk County Agriculture High School in Walpole, where he was taught landscaping and floriculture.

Illustrious Bro. Bowers enlisted in the United States Army in 1942, was trained in Costa! Artillery Defense, and eventually was attached to the 217th Anti-Aircraft Battalion as a Trainer of Officer Candidates at Long Island, New York, and Edwards Air Force Base, Cape Cod. He was sent to Europe where the Unit was assigned to Lt. General George S. Patton's Third Army. Sergeant First Class Bowers served the remainder of WWII with distinction, taking part in five battles while in Europe.

In 1945, he returned home and worked for the Sharon Tool Company. He then attended the Fenner Technical School in Boston, majoring in mechanical drafting. After brief employment and then layoff, Bro. Bowers re-enlisted in the Army. After attending Artillery Forward Observers School at Fort Still, Oklahoma, he was sent to Fukuoka, the southern island of Japan, where he provided training and support for the Korean Conflict. In May of 1953 he returned to the United States and was stationed at Fort Niagara, New York.

Illustrious Bowers was a member of the First Baptist Church of Fall River and the Sunday Evening Club. He took great pride in tending the church gardens and lawns during the summer months. He was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and also enjoyed his memberships in the International Order of Old Fellows, United Commercial Travelers, and the Historical Society of West­port, Massachusetts.

In 1953 he began a long and distinguished career in Masonry. He took his Entered Apprentice Degree in Wollaston Lodge AF & AM in Quincy. His Fellow Craft Degree was taken at a Lodge in Lewiston, New York; two years later he was raised a Master Mason in Wollaston Lodge by his Uncle, Wor. Alfred D. Pearson. Bro. Bowers was a Past Master of St. Paul's Lodge AF & AM in Braintree, Massachusetts, and a member of Major General Henry Knox Lodge of Boston, Overseas Lodge, and Daylight Lodge of Cranston, Rhode Island. He was the Charter Member primarily responsible for the inspiration to charter Metacomet Daylight Lodge AF & AM of Taunton, Massachusetts. He was awarded the Joseph Warren Medal by the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts in 1992. He served as District Deputy Grand master of the Taunton 28th Masonic District in 1995-1996. Illustrious Brother Bowers was a member of Quatuor Lodge No. 2076 Research Lodge in London, England; the Maine Lodge of Research; Goose and Gridiron Club of Seattle, Washington; the Philalethes Society; United Masters Lodge No.167 of Auckland, New Zealand; American Research Lodge of New York; Iowa Research Lodge; the Masonic Order of Bath; Ye Ancient Order of Corks, Narragansett Bay No. 14; and the National Sojourners of Rhode Island. Bro. Bowers served St. Stephen's Royal Arch Chapter of Quincy as High Priest. He was appointed by the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Massachusetts to serve as Grand Master of the Third Veil. He also served on the Grand Royal Arch Exemplification Degree Team from 1974-1979. He was appointed Grand Representative of the Grand Chapter of Italy. In 1972 he was awarded the Benjamin Heard Meritorious Service Award from the Grand Royal Arch Chapter.

Illustrious Bro. Bowers was a member of Temple Council of Royal and Select Master Masons in Massachusetts, and served as Illustrious Master in 1965. He went on to serve the Grand Council of Royal and Select Master Masons in Massachusetts as Grand Steward, Grand Principle Conductor of the Work, and Grand Representative to the Grand Council of Maine. From 1989-1991, Bro. Bowers served the Grand Council of Royal and Select Master Masons as Illustrious Grand Master. He was presented the Abraham A. Dame Medal in 1980, and received the Cryptic Mason of the Year Award from the General Grand Council of Royal and Select Masons in 1984.

He served as Eminent Commander in Quincy Commandery No. 47 in 1967; South Shore #155 as Grand Tall Cedar in 1968; Colonial Council Knight Mason #19 as Excellent Chief in 1978; Mayflower York Rite College #105 as Pre-eminent Governor 1986-1987; received the Order of the Purple Cross from the York Rite College of North America in Calgary, Alberta in 1986; and served as Eminent Prior of Massachusetts Priory #52, Knights of the York Cross of Honor in 1982.

He was a member of Aleppo Temple A.A.O.N.M.S., Taleb Grotto of Quincy, the Masonic Veterans Association of Rhode Island; and the Missouri Lodge of Research. He was a holder of many honorary memberships in Lodges, Chapters, Councils, and others too numer­ous to list.

Illustrious Bro. Bowers joined all four bodies of the Valley of Boston, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, in 1958, and affiliated with the Valley of Southeastern Massachusetts in 1976. He served Samuel C. Lawrence Council, Princes of Jerusalem, as Sovereign Prince from 1984 to 1986. For many years he provided candidates with valuable and timely instructions. On September 27, 1988, Bro. Bowers was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General 33°, Honorary Member of Supreme Council in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

A Masonic Service was held by St. Paul's-Algonquin Lodge AF & AM on December 19, 2002, at the Cherry Place Home of Waring­Sullivan Funeral Home in Fall River, Massachusetts. Interment was at the Oak Grove Cemetery Fall River, Massachusetts.

BOWKER, JOHN HENRY 1853-1935

JohnBowker.jpg

MEMORIAL

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1936

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1936, Page 43:

  • Born in Wilmot, N. S., April 28, 1853.
  • Raised in Joseph Warren Lodge, A. F. & A. M., June 21, 1887.
  • Exalted in St. Paul’s R. A. Chapter, November 29, 1887.
  • Greeted in Boston Council Royal & Select Masters, January 28, 1888.
  • Knighted in Boston Commandery, Knights Templars, February 15, 1888.
  • He received the Degrees of the Scottish Rite:
    • Boston-Lafayette Lodge of Perfection, March 26, 1888;
    • Giles F. Yates Council, Princes of Jerusalem, April 13, 1888;
    • Mount Olivet Chapter of Rose Croix, April 20, 1888;
    • Massachusetts Consistory, April 27, 1888.
  • Died in Cambridge, Massachusetts, July 5, 1935.

Brother Bowker was a man of sterling qualities, and striking appearance. Positive in his opinions, and independent in thought and action, ic never hesitated in his loyalty to what he believed to be right and just, and no man valued more his old associations and friendships, than did he.

For nearly half a century, Brother Bowker was an enthusiastic Mason, and devoted his time and energy without stint, to the various Bodies of which he was a member. Masonry was always regarded seriously by him, and in the many official positions he filled in the various Masonic bodies, their well-being and prosperity was ever in his mind.

  • He served St. Paul’s R. A. Chapter as High Priest in 1895-1896.
  • He was Thrice Ill. Master of Boston Council, also in 1895-1896.
  • He was Thrice Potent Master of Boston Lafayette Lodge of Perfection, 1898-1901.
  • He was Eminent Commander of Boston Commandery, K. T., in 1901-1902.
  • In the Grand R. A. Chapter of Massachusetts he served as Grand Captain of the Host in 1899-1900.
  • In the Grand Council of Royal & Select Masters, he was Deputy Grand Master in 1900.
  • He was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General of the 33d id last Degree in Boston, September 18, 1900.
  • He served with distinction in many other Masonic Offices.

He was married in 1879 to Clara May Cosgrove. Two children were born of that marriage, of whom a daughter, Miss Mabel E. Bowker, survives, Mrs. Bowker having passed away some fifteen years ago. He was non sectarian in his religious beliefs, and contributed to and attended the local churches.

A man of clean speech, honest purpose and deeply religious convictions, he found his greatest satisfaction in his contact with his brethren and as the years drew on, their passing from him, one by one, saddened and aged him.

“Now the laborer’s task is o’er
Now the battle day is past
Now upon the farther shore
Lands the voyager at last
Father in thy gracious keeping
Leave we now thy servant sleeping."

Frank B. Lawler, 33°,
Jesse E. Ames, 33°,
Harry P. Ballard, 33°,
Committee.

BOWMAN, SELWYN Z. 1840-1928

MEMORIAL

FROM PROCEEDINGS, 1928

From Proceedings, Page 1928-303:

R.W. Selwyn Z. Bowman was born May 11, 1840, and died September 30, 1928. Brother Bowman was raised in John Abbot Lodge May 2, 1865, and was its Worshipful Master from 1870 to 1872. At the time of his death he was probably the senior living Past District Deputy Grand Master. He served as District Depnty Grand Master for the old 2nd Masonic District in 1873 by appointment of M.W. Sereno D. Nickerson, and again in 1878 by appointment of M.W. Charles A. Welch. Of late years owing to his great age and infirmities he has not been active in Masonic circles although preserving his interest to the last.

He was educated in the public schools of Charlestown, and in Harvard University from which he was graduated in the class of 1860. He immediately began the study of law and practiced that profession actively until within a few years of his death. He had lived in Somerville sinee his graduation from college, and in 1872 was the first City Solicitor. He was elected to Congress in 1877 and served two terms. He had also served in the State Legislature as a Representative and as Senator. In all his activities as a citizen, as an Attorney, and as a Legislator, as well as in his Masonic relations, he was an eminently useful and valuable member of the Community. He came to the end of a very long life full of service and honors.

BOWSKI, GUSTAV 1872-1942

From Proceedings, Page 1942-168:

Brother Bowski was born in New York City in December 6, 1872, and died in the Santa Maria Hospital, Santiago, Chile, on April l4, 1942.

As a young man, he left New York for business in South America and located permanently in Santiago in 1919, as representative of the Bristol Myers Company. He took a deep interest in the American Society of Chile and in the American Chamber of Commerce, serving as Secretary of each organization for many years.

Brother Bowski was raised in Ezel Lodge No. 732, Brooklyn, New York, on March 8, 1917, and dimitted on January 28, 1926. He affiliated with Huelen Lodge of Santiago on February 12, 1926, and served as Master in 1930 and 1934. He was appointed District Deputy Grand Master of the Chile District in 1940 by Most Worshipful Joseph Earl Perry and served in that position until his death.

Masonic funeral services were held at his late residence in Santiago on April 15, 1942. The following excerpt from a tribute appearing in The South Pacific Mail of Santiago shows the esteem in which he was held by his fellow citizens: "The American colony of Chile has lost one of its most valuable and best beloved members. America has lost one of its staunchest and truest citizens."

Freemasonry too has lost an able and faithful member, a worthy leader of his Brethren. His example will certainly inspire his Brethren to close ranks and go forward in the good work.

BOYD, JOHN P. 1791-1871

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXX, No. 10, August 1871, Page 318:

John P. Boyd, Esq., died in Portland, Maine, July 20, aged 80. He was the last surviving member of the class of 1812 of Bowdoin College, and with one exception the last survivor of the Grand Lodge of Masons at its organization in 1820. In early life he was an able lawyer, and later cashier of the Casco Bank, and afterwards president of the Canal Bank.

BOYDEN, ARTHUR C. 1852-1933

From Proceedings, Page 1933-100:

Right Worshipful Brother Boyden was born in Bridgewater September 27, 1852, and died there March 15, 1933.

He was educated in the public schools of Bridgewater, Bridgewater Academy, and Amherst College, from which he was graduated in 1876. After teaching for three years in the Chauncy Hall School in Boston, he joined the staff of the Bridgewater State Normal School, of which his father was Principal. He remained in the service of that school until his death, succeeding his father as Principal in 1906.

Brother Boyden took his Masonic degrees in Fellowship Lodge in 1882 and was its Master in 1896. He served as District Deputy Grand Master for the Twenty-fourth Masonic District in 1902 and 1903, by appointment of Most Worshipful Charles T. Gallagher and Most Worshipful Baalis Sanford.

Brother Boyden was emphatically, to use an old phrase, "a scholar and a gentleman." He was widely known and highly esteemed as a leader in his profession. Firm when firmness was called for, he was kindly and sympathetic, and was loved as well as respected by the thousands of scholars who passed through his hands. In the Lodge he was always a wise adviser and a trusted leader. Passing in the fulness of years, he leaves a splendid record of a useful life.

BOYDEN, GEORGE ELBRIDGE 1840-1885

GeorgeBoyden.jpg

MEMORIAL

FROM LIBERAL FREEMASON, 1885

From Liberal Freemason, Vol. IX, No. 9, December 1885, Page 270:

In Massachusetts Consistory, October 23d, 1885.
By Alfred F. Chapman.

"Why will ye call it 'Death's dark night'?
Death is the entrance into Light;
Behind its cloudy purple gates
The Everlasting Morning waits."

On the 19th day of October, 1885, George Elbridge Boyden was borne by Death through that entrance, and behind those "purple gates." The going was not altogether unexpected, the return can only be made when the grave shall give up its dead. For some months it had been seen that his health was less sound than formerly, and narrowing into weeks, the hour of his dissolution was recognized to be all too soon in coming.

His place as Ill. Second Lieut. Commander in Massachusetts Consistory made him a familiar figure to most of its members, and now that he can come no more, his absence emphasizes the keen sense of loss. Sympathy for his bereaved family we feel and would express; hope for their consolation and our comfort is found in the melancholy pleasure that good words only are said of him.

He was born in Athol, Mass., August 29th, 1840, went with his family to Worcester when four years old, where his home has been continued, and where he secured popular respect and esteem, and where his Masonic history was established.

He became a Mason, March 3d, 1863, in Montacute Lodge, and was its Senior Warden during the last year of his life. He was exalted to the Royal Arch Degree in Worcester R. A. Chapter, December 29th, 1865, became a Charter Member of Eureka Chapter, May 25th, 1871, was its second High Priest, and was Grand Scribe of the Grand R. A. Chapter of Massachusetts in 1879. He received the degrees in and was admitted to Hiram Council R. and S. Masters, May 13th. 1869, and was Thrice Ill. Master in 1875, '76. He received the Orders of Knighthood in Worcester County Coramandery, K. T., June 1st, 1869, and was Eminent Commander in 1884.

In the early revival of the A. and A. S. Rite in Massachusetts, he became an interested actor, and received the Ineffable degrees in Worcester Lodge of Perfection, April 14th, 1864, and was T. P. Grand Master from 1878 to 1885. We are unable to say when he received the degrees in the Council of Princes of Jerusalem and Chapter of Rose Croix, but he was M. E. Sov. P. G. Master of Goddard Council from 1879 until the year of his death. He was a Charter member in these two last-named Bodies.

On the 17th of June, 1864, he received the degrees to the 32d in Boston Consistory, afterward united with Massachusetts Consistory, and in this Body his usefulness has been known to officers and members.

For sufficient reasons he found favor in the Supreme Council, and on September 23d, 1884, at the Session of that Body held in Detroit, Mich., was elected to receive the 33d and last degree in that Rite.

Our deceased Brother bore his honors meekly, largely because his character was cast in that form. His social and family relations were winning and attractive, his business education as an architect, had been strengthened by study in Europe, and in association with his father, surviving, were happily established. The ties incident to all these have been sundered, a happy home clouded in grief, social bonds broken, fraternal intercourse overthrown, and in this so general sorrow we look upon the emblems of mourning with subdued regret.

"Here let us leave him:
For funeral lamps he has the planets seven,

 For a great sign our brother love shall go

Between his grave and Heaven."

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1886

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ, 1886, Page 439:

The heavy hand of Death, with sharp and crushing blow, has taken from our sight one who hath been very dear to us in the varied relations of life. We look to-day in vain, as we shall continue to look in the days to come, for the presence of him who hath been with us in our councils and deliberations, who never withheld his guidance and instructions in the work and labors of the Subordinate Bodies of our Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite. So constantly have we been accustomed to see him in the various gatherings of the Fraternity, and especially of this branch of our Order, so much have we relied upon him for every phase of service, that we shall instinctively look as we meet together, for our friend and brother, and failing to find him, more and more as the days go by shall we realize our loss, and understand our indebted�ness to him for the enterprise, and untiring zeal and energy manifested by him in our behalf. We owe it to those who shall come after us, to place on record a tribute to his virtues, that his example may be imitated by those who never knew him. Be it ours to perpetuate the evidence of his worth, and to testify with sad but loving hearts to the regard and affection which we have borne him.

George Elbridge Boyden was born at Athol, Mass., Aug. 29, 1840. At the age of four years he removed to Worcester with his father’s family, and has since resided there. He was educated in our public schools, and on leaving these studied at the Lawrence Scientific School of Harvard University. Having a taste for architecture, and deciding to make that his profession, he spent some time abroad, preparatory to entering the firm of E. Boyden & Son, architects, of which firm he was a member at the time of his decease. His connection with that firm, and his natural fitness for the position, caused him to be selected as one of the first teachers of the drawing schools established by the Worcester County Mechanics’ Association, of which he had become an active member. His methods and his system of teaching contributed very largely to the success of this pioneer school; and because of its reputation and work, similar schools were soon established in other cities and towns. He also served two terms of three years each on the Board of Trustees of that Association, and in every place rendered valuable and practical service.

He was quite prominently identified in the interests of the city of Worcester, and was a member of the Common Council in 1876, 1877, 1878, 1879. After one year’s service in that body he was chosen president of that body, to which position he was subsequently twice unanimously re-elected. The “Obituary” in the Worcester Daily Spy says of him in this connection:

“As the president of the Common Council he was affable, courteous and generous, but always firm in his rulings, and particular in the preservation of the dignity of the body and in the protection of the members in their individual rights. He had the faculty of so enforcing the rules of the body, and in deciding the various parliamentary questions, as to be able to prevent even temporary unpleasantness, and no one ever retired from the office more generally and more highly esteemed than he. It was mainly through his efforts that weekly payments for the laborers were adopted, and in this direction Worcester was the first to take favorable action.”

Brother Boyden was at one time clerk of the Worcester Continentals. He was also a member of the Worcester Lodge of Odd Fellows. He held an honorable position in the community as a man of business and as a citizen, and enjoyed fully the confidence and respect of his neighbors. But while distinguished among his fellows for the characteristics which make a man to be beloved, respected and trusted by all who knew him, he was more generally known and honored for his zeal, energy and labors in the Masonic Fraternity.

At the age of twenty-one years, Brother Boyden made application to Montacute Lodge A. F. and A. M., and received the degrees therein conferred, having been raised to the sublime degree of M. M. on March 3, 1863. He filled several subordinate offices in that Lodge, viz., Senior Steward, Secretary, and Junior and Senior Deacon. He passed through the Junior Warden’s chair, and was Senior Warden at the time of his death.

He was exalted in Worcester Royal Arch Chapter, Dec. 29, 1865, and was a charter member of Eureka Chapter, and Past High Priest of the latter body. He received the degrees in Cryptic Masonry, and after filling several offices in that body, was elected thrice Illustrious Grand Master of Hiram Council Royal and Select Masters.He was created a Knight Templar, in Worcester County Commandery K. T., June 1, 1866, and held various offices in this Order up to and including that of Eminent Commander.

The beautiful grades of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, and their brilliant ceremonies, early attracted Brother Boyden’s attention. His attachment to this Rite was conspicuous, and he spared no personal exertion to build it up and perfect it. He received the 14° on April 14, 1864, and the 32° on June 17, 1864. He was a member of Worcester Lodge of Perfection, and for a long time its Thrice Potent Grand Master, Member, and the Most Equitable Sovereign Prince Grand Master of Goddard Council of Princes of Jerusalem, at the time of his death; member of Lawrence Chapter of Rose Croix, in which he had held important positions, and member of Massachusetts Consistory S. P. R. S., 32° and Ill. Second Lieut.-Commander at the time of his decease.

Brother Boyden also received the honorary grade of Sov. Gr. Ins. Gen. of the thirty-third and last degree, and was enrolled as Honorary Member of the Supreme Council for the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction of the United States, at Detroit, Mich., Sept. 23, 1884.

There is no doubt Brother Boyden did more to increase the interest in the Lodge of Perfection than any other member of the Fraternity in Central Massachusetts. For years he gave his time largely to the growth of our local Lodge, and probably no one brother in this jurisdiction has done more than Brother Boyden to increase the membership in the Scottish Rite.We cannot close this record of service and honor without referring to the relation which our departed brother sustained to the Masonic Mutual Relief Association of Central Massachusetts as its secretary from its inception to the time of his death, and through that Association to the Fraternity at large. Well do the directors say in their “Resolutions of Sympathy,” that the success of the Association is largely due to the service of our brother, which he has always performed with singular fidelity, systematic accuracy, and invariable courtesy.

Brother Boyden was specially honored and beloved by his brethren as a zealous and upright Mason, and he sustained all the honors conferred upon him with credit to himself and to the advancement of the Order. Devotedly attached to the Masonic Institution, he served the Craft faithfully, and having, received the "highest honors his brethren could confer, he has passed to the reward which is promised to the true laborer.

In all his transactions he was found upright, honorable, and trusty, and his memory is without a blemish.

As our beloved brother had lived, so he died, bravely and well He saw the end coming, yet, with nervous system, shattered, and tortured by severe and agonizing pain, he fearlessly approached his transition in the full possession of his mental faculties, and trusting his soul to the God he worshipped, he calmly and peacefully went to his rest.Though dead he still speaks and bids us each and all —

“So live that when thy summons comes to join
The innumerable caravan which moves
To the pale realms of shade, where each shall take
His chamber in the silent halls of death,
Thou go not like the quarry-slave at night,
Scourged in his dungeon, but, sustained and soothed
By an unfaltering trust, approach thy grave,
Like one that wraps the drapery of his couch
About him, and lies down to pleasant dreams.”

Theodore C. Bates 32°,
Henry C. Willson 32°,
Charles W. Moody, 14°
Committee

BOYDEN, WALTER W. 1839-1907

From New England Craftsman, Vol. II, No. 12, September 1907, Page 471:

Brother Walter W. Boyden, member of Gate of the Temple Lodge and St. Matthews's R. A. Chapter, So. Boston, and a member of Boston Commandery K. T. more than 42 years, died July 26. He was an earnest Mason and a regular attendant at the meetings.

BOYNTON, HAROLD RAYMOND, JR. 1920-1999

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1999

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1999, Page A-x:

Ill. Harold Raymond Boynton, Jr., 33°
Born in Lawrence, Massachusetts, on January 13, 1920
Died in Rockport, Massachusetts, on March 20, 1999

Illustrious Harold Raymond Boynton, Jr., 33°, was born in Lawrence, Massachusetts, and attended the Lawrence Public Schools. He joined the family business, The Boynton Press, Inc., of Lawrence. He became owner of the business and worked there until his retirement.

For many years, he was a resident of North Andover with his wife, Dorothy Peterson Boynton, and his five children. His wife, Dorothy, predeceased him. He was active in the activities and programs of the Lawrence YMCA. Devoted to Boy Scouting, he participated in their camping program and all other services. He was a long-time active member of the North Andover Methodist Church. He served in the US Army in the Pacific Theatre from 1942 to 1945.

Ill. Brother Boynton was raised a Master Mason in Cochichewick Lodge, A.F. & A.M., on March 14, 1958. He served as Master of that Lodge in 1968 and Secretary of the Lodge from 1969-1987. He was District Deputy Grand Master of the 11th Masonic District in 1978-1979. He was a member of the Scottish Rite Bodies of Lawrence, Lowell and Boston. In Lawrence, he was Thrice Potent Master of the Lawrence Lodge of Perfection. On September 27, 1982, he was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, Honorary Member of the Supreme Council.

At the time of his death, he was a resident of Rockport. He was a member of the Rockport Methodist Church. He is survived by his second wife, Betty, five children, nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

A Memorial Service was held at the Rockport Methodist Church on March 22, 1999. Interment was in Ridgewood Cemetery in North Andover.

BOYNTON, LEVI 1804-1854

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XIV, No. 2, November 1854, Page 62:

Pepperell, Oct. 31, 1854.

Br. Moore — Brother Levi Boynton, a Past Junior Warden of St. Paul's Lodge, Groton, Mass., died at Pepperell, Oct. 26th, aged 50 years. Brother Boynton had resided in the island of Cuba for a number of years, where he had accumulated a handsome property by his industry. On his return to his native town, Pepperell, he applied for admission into our holy temple — was unanimously received, and has been ever since an active member, until a few months before his death. On his death-bed he wished to have his remains transferred to the house of silence with Masonic honors — not that it would affect his immortal soul, but that our solemn ceremonies would have a tendency to make men better. His wishes have been granted by obtaining a dispensation from the M. W. Grand Master, Rev. George M. Randall.

His remains were conveyed into the Unitarian Church, by his request, under the escort of St. Paul's Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, clothed in the regalia of the Order, with suitable mourning, where the funeral services, in part, were performed by the W. M. Luther S. Bancroft, in a solemn and impressive manner ; after which the Rev. Charles Babbidge, clergyman of the parish, offered a suitable prayer for the occasion. The remainder of the Masonic services were performed at the grave, where a large collection gave attention to what was said by the W. Master. The grave! What is it? The door to the celestial Lodge where our Brethren and Divine Master, are waiting to receive us, with songs of transport; and where the soul will be at liberty to range the beautiful universe of God. Bro. Boynton leaves no wife; she died a few years ago. An only son, a lad about 10 years old, is left without a father or mother to guide him in the way he should go; "God be merciful to him and bless him." Let Brother Masons have an eye to him - be a father to him - it is our duty.

Yours fraternally, A Brother Mason.

BRACKETT, SILAS WELLINGTON 1856-1906

From New England Craftsman, Vol. II, No. 1, October 1906, Page 39:

Brother Silas W. Brackett died at his home in Roxbury, Mass., September 24. He was a past eminent commander and held several other high offices in masonic bodies. He was a member of Washington Lodge and Mt. Vernon Chapter of Masons, Joseph Warren Commandery, Knights Templar; Roxbury Lodge, R. & S. M., and The Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company.

BRADLEY, ALBERT EMERSON 1848-1929

From Proceedings, Page 1930-67:

R.W. Brother Bradley was born in Danville, N. H., April 15, 1848, and died in Hyde Park November 29, 1929. Brother Bradley was a direct descendant of one of the original settlers of Danviile in 1640. He was educated:in the district and private schools of Danville and then went to the New Hampton fnstitute, from which he was graduated in 1871. After a period of district school teaching he moved to Boston and engaged in the leather business. In 1877 he beeame a teacher in the Bryant and Stratton Commercial School where he remained thirty-two yearB retiring in 1919.

In 1874, Brother Bradley married Kate Evelyn Cole, of New Hampton, N.H., who, with five children and five grandchildren, survives him.

Brother Bradley was a very active worker in the Hyde Park Methodist Church, serving as Secretary and Treasurer: of the parish for more than thirty years.

He found his diversion in music, being an aceomplished singer and cello player, and active in the llandel and Haydn Society and the Hyde Park Orchestral CIub.

Brother Bradley received. his Masonic degrees in Gideon Lodge No. 84, of Kingston, N. H., in 1869. In 1876 he affiliated with Merrimack Lodge and in 1883 he took a dimit and affiliated with Hyde Park Lodge. He was Master of Hyde Park Lodge in 1889 and 1890 and was District Deputy Grand Master for the Twenty-second Masonic District in 1894 and 1895 by appointment of M.W. Otis E. Weld and M.W. Edwin B. Holmes.

Brother Bradley was a member and Past High Priest of Norfolk R. A. Chapter and Grand King in 1900. He was also a member of Hyde Park Council and Cyprus Commandery No. 39,.K. T.

This brief sketch shows the genial and amiable qualities of this good man and Mason, qualities which endear his memory to many hearts.

BRAGG, SAMUEL AYER BRADLEY 1825-1889

From Liberal Freemason, Vol. XIII, No. 5, August 1889, Page 156:

This Brother was born in Maine, Nov. 2, 1S25, but came to Boston when a boy, where he became well knownl to a large circle of friends and well-wishers. He was a member of the Common Council in 1860, and was at one time active in city affairs. At the time of his death, which occurred July 17, 1889, he was Superintendent of Mt. Hope Cemetery, an office he had held, at two different periods, for about sixteen years. He was made a Mason in Massachusetts Lodge something like twenty-five years ago and gained distinction as a faithful Brother, officer and Master of the Lodge. He was a member also of St. Paul's R. A. Chapter. His funeral on July 19th was largely attended, including representatives of the city, the trustees of the cemetery, the Masonic and other organizations in which our Brother was interested.

BRAY, JOHN 1761-1829

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XVIII, No. 12, October 1859, History of St. Andrew's Chapter; Page 364:

Major JOHN BRAY was born in Boston, on the 4th of August, 1761. He was by occupation a cooper, and served his apprenticeship at Boston and Charlestown. He was a culler and packer of fish, having at one time eighteen journeymen and apprentices. His place of business was on Spear's Wharf, which he owned. As one of the three weighers and gaugers in the Boston Custom House, who where then paid by fees, he has been heard to say that his share, on one occasion, was $750 for a month. After General Lincoln resigned the office of Collector, Major Bray was removed by his successor for his political opinions, and afterwards lived at his ease on bis income. In his youth he had but small advantages of acquiring an education. Tbis he often lamented and gave his children (twelve in number,) opportunities for obtaining knowledge that were denied to him.

In August, 1823, Major Bray, in company with his wife, was robbed on the Medford turnpike, by the notorious Michael Martin, of fourteen dollars in money and his gold watch. This last led to his discovery. Martin rode up to his chaise, on horseback, presented a horse-pistol to his breast, and demanded his money and watch, which were given him. Mrs. Bray wore a gold watch also, and asked if be wanted hers, when he replied that he only robbed gentlemen.

The only civil office which Major Bray ever held was that of Selectman of the town of Boston. He was more conspicuous in the military line, being a member of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company ; Ensign in 1793, and lieutenant in 1798. He was one of the founders of the Columbian Artillery ; elected its first Senior Lieutenant, and succeeded Col. R. Gardner as Captain, and afterwards promoted to the office of Major of the Sublegion of Artillery. He accumulated a valuable property, and died on the 12th of August, 1829, aged sixty-eight.

Companion Bray was received as a member of the Chapter, December 24, 1800. He was also a member of the Rising States Lodge, and at one time its Master. He was an open hearted man, a firm and lasting friend, and distinguished for his many acts of benevolence and sympathy.

BRAYTON, BYRON ALBERT, JR. 1920-1995

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1995

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1995, Page A-xi:

Ill. Byron Albert Brayton, Jr., 33°
Born in Fall River, Massachusetts, December 4, 1920
Died in Somerset, Massachusetts, April 25, 1995

Ill. Byron A. Brayton, Jr., 33°, was born in Fall River, Massachusetts, on December 4, 1920, the son of Byron A. Brayton, Sr., and Gertrude (Pike) Brayton. He was educated in the public school system in Fall River, graduating from B.M.C. Durfee High School in 1939. As a youth, he was a member of Pioneer Chapter, Order of DeMolay.

He served his country during World War II as a member of the United States Coast Guard. He was an agent with the Metropolitan Life Company for 38 years before retiring 16 years ago. He married Florence Marsden and two children were born of this marriage, Byron A. Brayton, III, of Viewtown, Virginia and Nancy Brayton of Hull. The family had resided in Somerset for 47 years.

Masonically, he was raised in King Philip Lodge of Fall River on November 24, 1942, and was a holder of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts 50 year Veteran's Medal. He was a member of Weetamoe Chapter, No. 57, Order of Eastern Star, and was a Past Patron of the Former Star of Bethlehem Chapter, No. 151. At the time of his passing, he was Secretary­Treasurer of Fall River Masonic Associates.

He held membership in Fall River Royal Arch Chapter; Fall River Council, Royal & Select Masters; Adoniram Council, No. 8, Royal & Select Masters of Rhode Island; Godfrey DeBouillon Commandery, No. 25; and Aleppo Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S.

His most extensive Masonic activity, however, was in Scottish Rite. He joined the then Valley of Fall River and Massachusetts Consistory in 1943. He affiliated with Old Colony Consistory when it was chartered in 1953. For nearly fifty years, he was an officer and ardent degree worker, participating in the Rose Croix Degree the night before his passing. He was a Past Sovereign Prince of Samuel C. Lawrence Council, Princes of Jerusalem; Past Most Wise Master of St. Andrew Chapter of Rose Croix; and Past Commander-in-Chief of Old Colony Consistory. He was also a Past Minister of State of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation.

He received the Meritorious Service Award on October 28, 1985, and on August 29, 1989, was created a 33° honorary member of the Supreme Council, N.M.J.

In other activity, he was a member of the Advisory Board of the Fall River unit of the Salvation Army and a Past Chairman of that group. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Fall River and during his lifetime had held positions as Deacon, member of the Board of Trustees and Assistant Treasurer.

Besides his wife and children, he is survived by a brother, Dana M. Brayton of Orlando, Florida, two sisters, Barbara Smith of Westport and Marjory Wood of Dallas, Texas, four grandchildren and two great­grandchildren.

Masonic Services were conducted at the Hathaway Community Home for Funerals, 900 Buffinton Street, Somerset, on Friday evening, April 28th by King Philip Lodge.

Funeral services were held at the Funeral Home on Saturday, April 29th at 2:00 p.m. Interment was in Nathan Slade Cemetery in Somerset.

Those of us who were associated with him over a long period of time will remember him as faithful, dependable and honest, a good family man, one who was dedicated to the causes for which he labored and one who did his work quietly and efficiently without a lot of fanfare. Truly an excellent example of the type of man every Mason should be.

BRECK, CHARLES 1798-1893

From Liberal Freemason, Vol. XIV, No. 4, July 1890, Page 124:

Charles Breck. — A crayon portrait of this venerable and worthy Freemason, has recently been hung in the Lodge-room by Rural Lodge, in Quincy, Mass., and this in token of the fact, as we are informed, that he is the oldest living member of the Lodge, and a Past Master. Brother Breck is ninety-three years old, and must be in the front rank of aged members.

It is not the purpose of this item to give a biographical sketch of our brother, but to speak of him briefly. In a narrative sketch of Union Lodge in Dorchester, it is said that "At the first meeting in the new era of Masonry in Dorchester, six members and seven visitors were present, the latter including Brothers Breck, Todd and Philander Ruggles." This was early in 1846, and at the March Meeting Brothers Breck, Thomas T. Wadsworth and Robert M. Todd were elected members. Of these three, Brother Wadsworth was Junior Warden, in 1850-51, Brother Todd was Senior Warden in 1847-49, and Master in 1850-51, 1855-56; Brother Breck was Senior Warden in 1850-51, and Master in 1852-53, and the three were subsequently made honorary members.

Assuming that Brother Breck was made a Mason in Rural Lodge, he is on record as being a visitor in Union Lodge, March 21, 1826, and his later affiliation with it was in consequence of its earlier revival from the blight of anti-masonry. Union Lodge had preserved its charter, by much struggle, but Rural Lodge had surrendered its charter, and thus it was that the narrative alluded to tells us that in 1858, it was "made evident that Brother Breck had taken a contract to resuscitate Masonry in Quincy, as he had assisted in doing in Dorchester. He seems to have made up his mind that there was nothing more for him to do in Union Lodge, now that it was floating joyously along on the tide of prosperity; . . . for he asked to be discharged from his membership, on account of his connection with Rural Lodge of Quincy. He was made Master of that Lodge, to revive it as he had aided in reviving Union."

Our brother was made a Royal Arch Mason in St. Andrew's Chapter in Boston, Mass., February 7, 1827, and has been horne upon its honorary roll since April 1, 1868. His home is in Milton, Mass., where he is beloved and respected by friends and neighbors, whose wishes are kindred to those of his Masonic brethren, and to the effect that his days may be long-continued in comfort, and end in the quiet of enduring peace.

BREWER, CLIFFORD M. 1872-1940

From Proceedings, Page 1940-220:

Brother Brewer was born in Portland, Maine, on April 15, 1872, and died in Nerrton, Massachusetts, August l, 1940. He was educated in the public schools of Portland, and in a business college of that city. After five years in the employ of a banking house in Portland, he came to Boston and becime connected with Kidder, Peabody & Company, Bankers, where he remained until the time of his death.

For the past ten years he had been a resident of Newton, but prior to that time he resided in Medford, where he took an active interest in local affairs. He served Medford in several minor offices, finally as Alderman and then as Mayor. He was a Trustee of the Lawrence Memorial Hospital, Medford Savings Bank, and a Director of the Medford Cooperative Bank. For many years he took an active part in the Lawrence Light Guard of Medford, and was an Honorary Member at his death.

He was a member of the Second Congregational Church, West Newton, and funeral services were held there August 3, 1940.

He was raised in Mount Hermon Lodge on March 2, 1905, and served as Master in 1915-1916. He was Disrict Deputy Grand Master of the 6th Masonic District in 1917 and 1918. He was also a rnember of Mystic Royal Arch Chapter, Medford Council, R.& S.M., Boston Commandery, and the Scottish Rite Bodies of Boston.

His varied and prominent activities well show that he was a man who was interested in whatever would advance the wellbeing of his fellow men.

BREWER, WILLIAM DADE 1825-1905

From New England Craftsman, Vol. I, No. 1, October 1905, Page 31:

Brother William Dade Brewer, died at his home in Newton, Mass., April 15, 1905. He was a member of Ml. Lebanon Lodge of Boston in which he was initiated June 14, 1858. He believed in the usefulness of Freemasonry and warmly advocated its principles. He demon strated his faith in the institution by bequeathing $5000 to the charity fund of his lodge.

BRIDGMAN, PAUL R. 1872-1934

From Proceedings, Page 1934-22:

Brother Bridgman was born in Belchertown, August 12, 1872, and died in Springfield, January 31, 1934.

Brother Bridgman became a member of Eden Lodge in 1897, being then Assistant Post Master at Ware. He was Master of Eden Lodge in 1904 and served as District Deputy Grand Master for the Nineteenth Masonic District in 1911 and 1912, by appointment of Most Worshipful Dana J. Flanders and Most Worshipful Everett C. Benton. Brother Bridgman left Ware for Springfield in 1927, and dimitted from Eden Lodge. He did not affiliate elsewhere.

BRIGGS, FREDERICK HUNTINGTON 1866-1936

FrederickHBriggs.jpg

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XXXI, No. 3, November 1935, Page 57:

Funeral services for Frederick H. Briggs, 69. president and trustee of the Boston Penny Savings Bank and president of the Oliver L. Briggs & Son Company, who died unexpectedly Tuesday night, Feb. 25, at his home, 449 Beacon Street, Boston, were held in Trinity Church at 2:30 p.m. the following Saturday. The Rev. William E. Gardner, assistant rector, officiated.

He was born in Boston in 1866, attended Chauncy Hall with the class of '81 and was graduated from Brown University in 1889. He then became associated with his father, Oliver L. Briggs, billiard and pool table manufacturer. At the letter's death in 1910 he became president ofthe company.

For 30 years he was chairman of the relief committee of the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanics Association and treasurer of the Educational Foundation of the National League of Masonic Cubs. A golf enthusiast, he was the founder and firstpresident of theSharonCountry Club 30 years ago. President since 1921 of the Penny Savings Bank, he contributed much toward that institution's growth. He had also been president of the Savings Bank Officers Club.

Last October, he and Mrs. Briggs, the former Ada L. Langley. whom he married in Boston in 1891 and who survives him, returned from a 17,000 mile. 31-day air journey in South America, the first persons ever to buy a round-trip ticket of such length from Pan-American Airways.

He was one of the best-known Masons in Massachusetts, a 32d degree Mason, Grand Commander of Knights Templars of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, Past Master of Joseph Warren Lodge, past high priest of St. Andrew's Royal Arch Chapter and past commander of Boston Commandery K. T. He was also Wambalaski or Chief White Eagle of the Sioux Indians, the title being conferred on him in 1931 when he led Templars on an excursion and convention in the Middle West.

BRIGGS, OLIVER LEONARD 1833-1917

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XII, No. 10, July 1917, Page 357:

Oliver Leonard Briggs, a well known business man and Freemason died on Friday, July 6th, after a prolonged illness. He was a member of Boston Commandery, K. T., and in the present issue of this publication will be found an account of a presentation of a State flag by himself and son to that body. Brother Briggs was 84 years old, but despite his advanced age had continued to conduct his business affairs until a short time before his death. He suffered from heart disease for more than a year.

Born in Westmoreland, N. H., Mr. Briggs received his early education there, and at a commercial school in Boston where he came in 1850. He became a bookkeeper for James B. Dow, the publisher, and in. 1861 entered the book business himself, opening a store at the corner of Washington and Essex streets. He remained in the book trade about ten years and then began the manufacture of billiard tables with which his name became prominently identified. For more than, half a century Mr. Briggs had been engaged in the manufacture of billiard and pool tables at 68 Essex Street.

He is survived by a son, Frederick Huntington Briggs.

BRIGHAM, DANIEL TAYLOR 1840-1908

From New England Craftsman, Vol. III, No. 11, August 1908, Page 399:

Worshipful Daniel Taylor Brigham, charter member and past master of the Joseph Webb Lodge Boston, died June 17th.

Brother Brighanj was born in Lancaster. Mass., May 30, 1840. He was educated in the public schools of his native town and in a private school. He also received an academic course. lie was a dentist by profession and located in Boston, but retired from practice about five years ago. He was made a Mason in Adelphi Lodge, South Boston, in 1875. He held several offices in Joseph Webb lodge and was Worshipful Master in 1870. He was always interested in his lodge and added much to its welfare. His funeral was attended by his lodge.

BRINE, DEXTER DENNISON 1916-2001

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BIOGRAPHY

From TROWEL, Winter 1992, Page 12:

In 1934 Dexter Denniston Brine, then a member of Belmont Chapter of DeMolay. was named a Chevalier, DeMolay"s second highest award for meritorious service. In April 1942, he became a member of Beaver Lodge of Masons in Belmont. MA. Due to Brine joining the United States Navy, in the interest of time, he was Raised as a courtesy candidate in the former Isaac Parker Lodge in Waltham, MA. Fifty years later in May, 1992, R. W. Ralph I. Sewall of the Brighton 5th Masonic District presented him with his Veteran's Medal.

While in the Navy. Brine served as a Chief Petty Officer with a "'Killer Group" patrolling the far North Atlantic and Mediterranean. At a time when the vessel was tied to a repair ship in the Mediterranean. the engineering department needed a part. An officer and a motor machinist mate were denied the part. Brine got the part when the crewman, in the parts section, recognized his distinctive Chevalier ring.

Following his discharge. Brine returned to his employment as a news reporter for the Boston Globe. He was assigned to the Middlesex Superior Court, and other county superior courts, for the final 33 years of his employment. While at the Globe, he was president of the Masonic Club for one year and secretary-treasurer for 12 years.

In 1947 he joined Belmont Royal Arch Chapter and received an appointment to the DeMolay Advisory Board, he was secretary of that Board for 8 years. In 1954 Bro. Brine joined DeMolay Commandery. Three years later he was installed High Priest of Belmont Royal Arch Chapter. M. E. Eugene Carver appointed him to a position in the Grand Royal Arch line. He joined Belmont Chapter Order of the Eastern Star in 1958 and served three times as Worthy Patron.

In 1960 The General Grand Royal Arch Chapter had its triennial session in Boston with 1500 delegates from many parts of the world. Brine was named a committee chairman. A column-long advance story printed in the Globe was the clincher to have Governor Volpe and Mrs. Volpe accept a request to participate at the dinner.

M. E. Stanley F. Maxwell, in 1962. appointed Brine a District Deputy Grand High Priest to the former Royal Arch 15th District.

Belmont Royal Arch observed its 50th anniversary in 1970 for which Brine wrote the 50-year history for the occasion. This was followed by the presentation of the Benjamin Hurd Medal for meritorious service. Having joined Cambridge Council of Royal and Select Masters in 1970. Brine was installed Illustrious Master in 1984. He became a member of Aleppo Temple of the Shrine in 1990 and was recently accepted to do publicity for the Brass Band.

He says, "whatever I did on behalf of the Craft was a memorable effort."

BROCK, ALBERT GARDNER 1862-1938

From Proceedings, Page 1939-69:

Albert Gardner Brock was born in Nantucket March 6, 1862, and died there December 15, 1938.

Right Worshipful Brother Brock's first employment was as a clerk in the post office. After a short service there he became a clerk in the Pacific National Bank with which he remained throughout the remainder of his life. He became Cashier at the age of twenty-four and President in 1915. He built up a large insurance business and, with other citizens, took over two struggling gas and electric companies, combined them, and built up a strong and flourishing concern. He was for forty-eight years a Trustee of the Nantucket Institution for Savings and served also as Treasurer of the Nantucket Atheneum and President of the Coffin School Corporation. Although he never held public ofice, he was universally recognized as the leading citizen of Nantucket.

He became a member of Union Lodge in 1884 and was its Master in 1893 and served as District Deputy Grand Master for the Twenty-seventh Masonic District in 1901 and 1902 by appointment by Most Worshipful Charles T. Gallagher. He was awarded the Joseph Warren Medal in 1934.

He was a member of all the Bodies of both the York and Scottish Rires, serving Isle of the Sea Royal Arch Chapter as Secretary for fifty-four years. He was active in numerous social and civic organizations.

The local paper said of him, "His removal from earthly life is a great loss that will be felt by the financial institutions of the town, by the many who have for years gone to him for advice and counsel, and by thousands of Islanders and summer residents who have had the privilege of his friendship and associations."

His life was a fine example of sturdy American manhood and vital Masonic principle. The whole Fraternity is the poorer for his passing.

BROOKS, ASA 1800-1864

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XVIII, No. 2, December 1863:

Blackstone, Nov. 23d, 1858.

At the Annual Communication of Blackstone River Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, Nov. 16th, 1858, the following preamble and resolutions were unanimously adopted ; —

  • Whereas it having pleased the Grand Master of the Universe to remove to that "bourn from whence no traveler returns," our late Brother Asa Brooks — therefore
  • Resolved, That in the death of our beloved Brother Asa Brooks, Blackstone River Lodge has lost one of its most faithful members.
  • Resolved, That we tender our deepest sympathy to the widow and friends of our departed Brother.
  • Resolved, That as a mark of our esteem for the deceased, the jewels of this Lodge be draped in mourning for the space of three months.
  • Resolved, That the Secretary furnish the family of our deceased Brother, with a copy of these resolutions, and that they be offered to the Freemasons' Monthly Magazine, and Woonsocket Patriot for publication.

Attest,
J. P. Pillsbury, Sec.

BROOKS, JOHN 1752-1823

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MAJOR GENERAL JOHN BROOKS
By Prof. Gilbert Patten Brown, D. C., Ph.D., LL. D.

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XVII, No. 10, July 1923, Page 306:

To the lover of history, romance and Anglo-Saxon valor the land of the Pilgrim and Puritans is held most dear. Its sons have been brave and its daughters fair.

At the will of kings and priests and other "divine rulers" the soil of the old world has been stained by the blood of patriots. Here in the new world an altar has been raised for the oppressed of all races, nations, creeds and tongues. It was the fathers of the Revolution that gave us that altar. Those men were Master Masons. Their deeds are their most fitting monuments.

There are a kind of men on this old planet of ours that occasion make. In all ages those men have been considered great by their contemporaries. Not always have those men been born leaders. The subject of this sketch is one of those rare men who would have made good in spite of circumstances.

Born at quaint Medford, Mass., May 31, 1752, John Brooks until 14 years of age worked on his father's farm and at irregular intervals attended the village school. Then he was apprenticed to Dr. Simon Tufts, the family physician, to be educated for the medical profession. In 1773 he began the practice of medicine at Reading, Mass. He was a son of Caleb Brooks and Ruth Albree, his wife, whom he had married on March 1, 1750. She was born Mar 17, 1718 at Medford, Mass.

The paternal emigrant ancestors of John Brooks was Thomas Brooks, who settled in old Watertown, Mass., in 1031 and was made a freeman in 1030. John, Brooks In 1771 married Miss Lucy Smith, an orphan and most charming and beautiful.

Gen. Brooks was a school mate of the eminent Count Rumford, Col. Loami Baldwin was also one of his early associates. He was at the battles of Concord and Lexington as a captain of local militia. Maj. Gen. John Brooks, M. D. the eleventh Governor of Massachusetts who succeeded Bro. Caleb Strong was made a Mason in American Union Lodge of the American Revolutionary Army Aug. 20, 1779, in the dress of his rank, then a lieutenant-colonel. In 1779 Washington sent him to Boston to get recruits for the regiments already in the service. When there he obtained from the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts a charter to form a lodge in the Continental Army. The American Union Lodge had been chartered by this old and honorable grand lodge and was the second lodge to be instituted in the American troops.

"Washington Lodge, No. 10," founded by Col. Brooks was the 4th Masonic body to be chartered in the patriot forces. Its charter bore the date of Oct. 6, 1779.

At the following March meeting of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts which fell on the evening of the second, met at Free Mason Hall. Col. Joseph Webb was in the East and Lieut. Col. Paul Revere in the West, no Tories were present and every chair was filled by a patriot. Col. Brooks was escorted to the East and introduced as the "Master of Washington Lodge." A portion of the records of that meeting read:

"Brother Col. John Brooks laid before the Grand Lodge a list of the officers and members of Washington Lodge for this year." In the Revolutionary Army it was commonly called "Washington Lodge No. 10." Gen. John Greaton, Gen. John Paterson, Col. William Hull and other eminent New England patriots assisted Col. Brooks in his Masonic activities in this lodge during the evening of the American Revolution. Lei us look at him as a soldier.

When news came of the march of the British to Lexington he ordered out a company of militia that he had been drilling for some months, and led them at the Battles of Concord and Lexington. Here he distinguished himself.

He received a major's commission in the provincial army for his bravery in battle. On the evening of June 16, 1775, he assisted in fortifying Breed's Hill, but was not present at the battle of June 17th. being sent on foot with a message from Colonel Prescott to General Ward.

Dr. Brooks was made Lieutenant Colonel of the 8th Massachusetts Regiment in 1777 and took an active part in all the battles of the Northern army, which brought about the surrender of Gen. Burgoyne. He also saw service with Gen. Washington and was at Valley Forge.

A colonelcy was given Major Brooks in 1778 and he again distinguished himself in June of that year at the Battle of Monmouth. He was second only to Gen. Baron Steuben as a tactician, and after the latter came Inspector General of the Continental Army Colonel Brooks was associated with him in establishing a uniform system of drill in the army.

When the war ended Colonel Brooks settled In Medford and resumed the practice of medicine. For many years he was a Major-General of the Massachusetts militia.

In 1788 he was a member of the State convention that ratified the Federal Constitution. President Washington appointed him Marshal of the district and Inspector of Revenue in 1795.

From 1812 to 1815 Colonel Brooks was Adjutant General of the state and in 1816 he was elected to the governor's chair. After being elected for seven consecutive terms he declined to serve longer.

Gen. John Brooks succeeded Gov. Bro. Strong. He was governor from 1816 to 1823. He was in command of a regiment at the Battle of Saratoga in 1777 and after the battle wrote a friend, "We have met the British and Hessians and have beat them; and not content with this victory, we have assaulted their entrenchments and carried them. At the Battle of Monmouth after he had wintered at Valley Forge in 1777-1778 he acted as adjutant-general of the Continental Army and rendered invaluable service. At Newburgh near the close of the war after having received and obeyed an order from the Commander in-chief, Gen. Washington, Col. Brooks said, "Sir. I have anticipated your wishes and my orders are given." The red-headed old General with tear filled eyes grasped the hand of the Massachusetts Colonel and said, "Col. Brooks, this is just what I expected from you."

In the ten Masonic Lodges in the army, Col. Brooks was very active during the latter part of the war. In 1780 In delivered a most noteworthy Masonic oration while the army was yet at West Point and when Col. Joseph Webb (Grand Master of Massachusetts Masons) was in command of that encampment, and Gen. Washington and many other officers were present.


The degrees of LL. D. and M. D. were given him by Harvard University in 1816. He was president of the State Medical Society from 1817 till his death, which occurred March 1, 1825. His library was bequeathed to the society.

General Brooks published an oration delivered before the Massachusetts Society of Cincinnati (1787); a discourse before the Humane Society (1795); a eulogy on Washington (I860); and a discourse on pneumonia (1808).

The writer has visited the old graveyard at historic Medford, Mass., where sleeps Major General John Brooks, M. D., who like his military and Masonic associate, General Henry Dearborn, M. D., had rather be on the firing line than giving out drugs to the wounded patriots. He was one of General Washington's most trusted friends. His memory was of a high order.

At the encampment of Valley Forge Col. Brooks and Lieut. Colonel Dearborn were close in Masonic circles. Lieut. Col. Dearborn had recently been made a Master Mason in St. John's Lodge No. 1 of Portsmouth. X. H. in the dress of his rank. They frequently attended the meeting of the St. John's (Regimental) Lodge and of the American Union Lodge in the snow bound camps at Valley Forge. They were termed by Gen. Peter Mulhenberg (also an army made Mason) as the "Two Doctor-Colonels, John and Henry." Gen. Dearborn rests without an epitaph in Mount Auburn Cemetery, Watertown, Mass. and no Masonic Lodge bears his name. There should be a lodge of Freemasons in Massachusetts named in honor of John Brooks. The family has figured in all of our American wars. Lieutenant John Brooks, U. S. N. a son of Gen. Brooks was killed by a cannon ball at the Battle of Lake Erie, Sept. 18, 1813 under Commodore Oliver H. Perry. U. S. N. He was buried on an island in Lake Erie and his remains were finally removed to Fort Shelby, in the City of Detroit, Michigan. When a "Solemn and sublime" procession followed the body to its last resting place.

We read in biography that at the death of George Washington, Gen. Brooks was "sad at heart" and that on the title page of a well known journal appeared this language. "An Eulogy on General Washington, delivered before the inhabitants of the town of Medford. agreeably by vote, and at the request of the committee, on the 19th of January, 1800. By John Brooks, A. M. M. M. S., and A. A. S. printed by Samuel Hall, No. 58 Cornhill, Boston."

On June 16, 1905 the Massachusetts Society of the Sons of the American Revolution placed a tablet to memory of John Brooks on the savings hank building in old Medford, Mass., to mark the spot where once resided this great man, reading as follows, "On this site stood the house of John Brocks, born 1752, died 1825, Distinguished Citizen, Physician, Patriot, Captain and Major 1775-1776, Lieut.-Col. 1776-1783 in the American Revolution. Brigadier-General 1792-1796 United States Army. Major-General 1786-1796. Adjutant-general, 1813-1816. Massachusetts Militia. Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts 1816-1823, Honorary A. M., M. D. and LL. D. Overseer, Harvard College."

This tablet placed by the Massachusetts Society Sons of the American Revolution in 1905. Historic Medford, Mass., is a pleasing place to visit in merry summer time. Many of the pioneers of the Republic lived there in the dim old long ago. It was a prosperous ship-building place half of a century ago. The families of Fitch and Poole were tanners there in the late days of the Colonial period. There today the romping little children are pleased to tell the story of John Brooks to all tourists. It is a household name in that beautiful, cultured and Anglo-Saxon City on the historic river Mystic.

BROOKS, NORMAN EDGAR 1918-1979

COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1980

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1980, Page 31:

Ill. Norman Edgar Brooks, 33°
Born in Lowell, Massachusetts, November 23, 1918
Died in Lowell, Massachusetts, October 22, 1979

Illustrious Norman Edgar Brooks, 33°, was born in Lowell, Massa­chusetts on November 23, 1918, the son of Edgar and Lily (Sheard) Brooks.

Educated in the Lowell schools, he further attended Bentley Col­lege and received the Bachelor of Arts Degree from Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts.

His banking career was with the Union National Bank in Lowell, Massachusetts. At his passing, he was Assistant Cashier in charge of the Safety Deposit Section.

During World War II he served his country in the United States Navy. Brother Brooks was raised in William North Lodge in Lowell and served the Lodge as Master 1958-1960. At his passing, he was the Treasurer of his Lodge - a position he held for many years.

Brother Brooks was an active member of the Scottish Rite and the York Rite of which he was a member of Mt. Horeb Royal Arch Chapter.

He received the Degrees in Lowell Lodge of Perfection, of which he served as Thrice Potent Master 1967-1969; the Lowell Council Princes of Jerusalem; Mount Calvary Chapter of Rose Croix and Massachusetts Consistory. He also was a member of the Aleppo Temple in Wilmington.

On September 24, 1969, he was created a Sovereign Grand In­spector General, 33°, Honorary Member of the Supreme Council A.A.S.R.

Brother Brooks, at his passing, was a Trustee and Chairman of the Charity and Legacy Committee of the Lowell Masonic Associa­tion and Treasurer of the Scottish Rite Bodies, Valley of Lowell.

He was a member of Mathews Memorial Church of Chelmsford - serving his Church as Head Usher, Collector and as the Librarian of the Sunday School. Brother Brooks passed to the Celestial Lodge Above on October 22, 1979 at Lowell. Services were held at Mathews Memorial Church of Lowell on Friday afternoon, October 26th, which was largely attended by his many friends, associates of the Bank, and his Masonic Brethren. Interment took place in Westlawn Cemetery.

He is survived by cousins of London, England; Buffalo, New York; Cooperstown, California, and Salem, Massachusetts.

An esteemed friend and Brother, his good works continue.

BROUGHTON, RALPH DOUGLAS 1915-1972

COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1973

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1973, Page 32:

Ralph Douglas Broughton, 33°
Born in Peabody, Massachusetts, April 3, 1915
Died in Peabody, Massachusetts, October 12, 1972

Ill. Ralph Douglas Broughton, 33°, was the son of Winn E. and Jennie C. (Bickford) Broughton. He received his education in the Peabody public schools and graduated from Peabody High School and the Essex Agricultural School at Hathorne, Massachu­setts.

Our Illustrious Brother was united in marriage to Edna Elvira on October 6, 1933, at Danvers, Massachusetts. To this union were born two sons, Ralph D., Jr., and David Alan. Mrs. Broughton and their two sons survive along with six grandchildren.

Ill. Brother Broughton was in the Dairy Products business for many years. He was a member of and moderator of the Second Congregational Church of South Peabody. He was a member of the Board of Cemetery Commissioners of the City of Peabody.

Ill. Brother Broughton was raised a Master Mason in Jordan Lodge, A.F. & A.M., Peabody, on May 31, 1944, and served as Worshipful Master in 1952, and was a Trustee. He served as Dis­trict Deputy Grand Marshal for the years 1959-1960, in the Lynn Eighth Masonic District.

He received the degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Valleys of Salem and Boston in the years 1945 and 1946, and served as Thrice Potent Master of Sutton Lodge of Perfection from 1967-1970. He was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33° , Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, on September 24, 1969, at Boston, Massachusetts.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, October 14, at the Second Congregational Church, South Peabody, Massachusetts. Interment was in Cedar Grove Cemetery in Peabody. The church was filled with relatives, friends, and Masonic Brethren, including many Hon­orary Members who came to pay final tribute to an outstanding citizen and Mason.

BROWN, ALEXANDER 1863-1906

From New England Craftsman, Vol. I, No. 11, September 1906, Page 473:

Brother Alexander Brown, aged 43, died September 3 at the Auburndale Inn, of which he had been manager for the past five years. He was, for ten years previous to taking charge of the Inn, superintendent of the B. A. A., the occupancy of which position gained him a wide acquaintance among club men throughout the country. He was a member of Germania Lodge, A. F. and A. M., and Aleppo Temple, Mystic Shriners.

BROWN, BENJAMIN 1795-1865

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly Magazine, Vol. XXIV, No. 7, May 1865, p. 216:

This venerable Brother died at Nantucket on the 16th .Match. The end event was appropriately noticed at a meeting of Union Lodge, by the W. Master, Chas. H. Jaggar. Esq., as follows:—

Brethren:—It has again pleased the Almighty Disposer of events, to call from our midst our venerable friend and Brother, Benjamin Brown, who died on Thursday, March 16th, at 11 o'clock, A. M., at the age of nearly seventy-five years, after a protracted illness of many months.

Our old and much esteemed Brother was made a Mason, in Union Lodge, in the year eighteen hundred and eighteen, and has consequently been identified in word and work, with our Organization for nearly half a century, and has ever been noted during that period, for his unselfish interest in all that related to the welfare of his own Lodge, as well as for that of the Order throughout the length and breadth of the world. To our Grand Lodge he was wholly devoted, always being ready and willing to inculcate the wise precepts which emanated therefrom. During his connection with our Order he has filled many offices of trust with singular fidelity and zeal, and with an eye to the best interests of our Masonic Institution. Our deceased Brother was at one time, District Deputy Grand Master, and has represented us in various communications of the Grand Lodge, in a manner highly creditable to himself and his constituents. We may safely say that he has been one of the great lights of our Institution, always ready by word and precept, to carry forward our good cause. To him we are largely indebted for the high order and standing of onr individual with her mother and sister Lodges. We have been wont to look up to him for instruction and advice, and can safely say that we have derived from him a valuable fund of Masonic information, with which his mind was so well stored ; always finding him ready and willing to impart the same to benefit an individual Brother or his Lodge; and to all such it seemed to be his chief delight to afford assistance in learning the arts and mysteries of Masonry, and in enabling them to become masters of their profession, and Masons in word as well as deed.

Our lamented Brother was a worthy member of the Supreme Council, R. A. Chapter, and various other Masonic Bodies; and by his death they have sustained the loss of one of their lime honored members. During his long illness his mind dwelt constantly on the Institution of which he had been so long a member and bright ornament. His chief regret was that he could not again visit his Lodge, to join in its stated assemblies—and participate in our proceedings. Almost up to his last moments he made inqniries of his Brethren, what was done at the Lodge at the last meeting. To the cause of Masonry almost his whole life, heart and soul have been dedicated and devoted. I think he was one of the original few whose names are on the renewed Charter under which this Lodge exists. He was one of those who, in the dark days of Masonic history, stood firm and steadfast to his faith and allegiance; and he has enjoyed the happy satisfaction of seeing its sure rise and progress from the depression which attended its course, to a favorable standing among the useful institutions of our own country and the nations of the world. Of the ancient history and laws which have governed our Order, from almost its first foundation, he had a lively, a vivid recollection. In thus taking leave of our departed friend and Brother, we sincerely commend his spirit to the care and keeping of that Great and Supreme Architect of the Universe who forever presides, and forever reigns, in that Celestial Grand Lodge above.

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly Magazine, Vol. XXIV, No. 7, May 1865, p. 223:

Union Lodge, Nantucket, Mass., March 23d, 1865.

  • Resolved, That rejoicing in the overruling hand of Divine Providence, we commend our Brother to the Great and Supreme Architect of the Universe.
  • Resolved, Whereas it has been the will of the Great Architect of the Universe, to remove from time to eternity, our venerable friend and Brother, Benjamin Brown, esteemed not only as a noble and useful citizen, but as a worthy Brother, whose cardinal principles, not only in profession, but practice, were Friendship, Morality and Brotherly Love.
  • Resolved, That in an unspotted Masonic life of nearly half a century, he has presented us an example worthy of our emulation, and an exhibition of the influence of the sublime principles of the Order in the character of a consistent Christian Mason.
  • Resolved, That while as Masons we deeply mourn his absence from our Lodge, we rejoice in the hope that, though his body lies mouldering in the dust, hit spirit blooms in endless day,—" in that Grand Lodge above, where the Supreme Architect of the Universe forever presides, forever reigns."
  • Resolved, That while we mourn his loss, it is not without the happy reflection, that his Masonic teachings have produced a lasting influence on the members of Union Lodge.
  • Resolved, That in the death of our late Brother, a bright and shining light in Freemasonry has been extinguished.
  • Resolved, That this Lodge, and the Masonic Fraternity in general, deeply deplore this melancholy dispensation of the Divine hand.
  • Resolved, That the Jewels and Furniture of Union Lodge, be clothed in mourning for the usual period of time.
  • Resolved, That the Secretary present a copy of these Resolutions to the family of our deceased Brother.
  • Resolved, That a copy of these Proceedings be transmitted to the editor of the Freemasons' Magazine, respectfully requesting that the same may be published.

Attest, Chas. P. Swain, Secy.

BROWN, BENJAMIN FRANKLIN 1828-1908

From New England Craftsman, Vol. III, No. 11, August 1908, Page 399:

Brother Benjamin F. Brown an old merchant and manufacturer of Boston died June 13. He was a member of Winslow Lewis Lodge and its treasurer for many years, he was associated in office in Mount Olivet Chapter Rose Croix and died on the same day and buried from the same church as Brother William H. Guild whose death is reported in this issue. (Note: the church was not mentioned in the Guild memorial.)

BROWN, B(ENJAMIN). WESLEY 1857-1918

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XIII, No. 6, March 1918, Page 186:

B. Wesley Brown, assistant superintendent of the Boston Masonic Temple, died at his home, 9 University Road, Brookline, in his 61st year.

Mr. Brown for many years was tyler for St. Andrew, Columbian, Winslow Lewis and Eleusis lodges. He was associated with the staff of the temple superintendent for 20 years. He is survived by his wife and a brother.

Floral tributes from the Boston Masonic Temple associates, Pequossette, Columbian, St. Andrew, Eleusis and Winslow Lewis lodges, as well as others from personal friends, surrounded the bier at the funeral in Mt. Auburn Chapel, Sunday afternoon, February 24. He was Past Master of Pequossette and Tyler of the other four Masonic bodies.

Rev. George J. Prescott, rector of the Church of the Good Shepherd and Past Master of Columbian Lodge, officiated. The Masonic burial ritual was conducted by Worshipful Master Willie1 W. Norcross and Chaplain Cornelius C. Hodges, with responses by the membership of Pequossette and others of the Craft. There were no bearers.

In the large assemblage were Grand Master Leon M. Abbott, Past Grand Warden Oliver A. Roberts, District Deputy Grand Master George H. Dale, Senior Grand Deacon George T. Wiley, Supt. George W. Chester of the Masonic Temple, Worshipful Master Elmer C. Read of Columbian Lodge, Past Masters John C. Hurll of St. John's Lodge and Philip T. Nickerson of Winslow Lewis Lodge, in addition to many from lodges of the 5th Masonic District.

BROWN, CHARLES E. 1851-1932

From Proceedings, Page 1932-110:

Brother Brown was born in Concord in 1851 and died there April 3, 1932.

Brother Brown was educated in the Concord public schools and at Comer's Commercial College in Boston. He was in the dry goods business for twenty-five years. Later he was treasurer of the Middlesex Institution for Savings, at Concord, and a director of the Concord National Bank. He served the town as Selectman, Town Treasurer, and Town Clerk, and represented the Concord district in the Massachusetts Legislature in 1897 and 1898.

He was initiated in Corinthian Lodge April 7, 1873, passed May 12, 1873, and raised June 30, 1873. He was Master of Corinthian Lodge in 1880, 1881, and 18B2, and served as District Deputy Grand Master for the Eleventh Masonic District in 1883 and 1884, by appointment of Most Worshipful Samuel C. Lawrence and Most Worshipful Abraham H. Howland, Jr..

He was a member of Walden Royal Arch Chapter and of Boston Commandery, Knights Templar.

His death, full of years and honors, removes a prominent and venerated figure from the life of his native town and from the circle of our Masonic fellowship.

BROWN, EARLE AMIDON 1885-1973

COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1973

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1973, Page 37:

Earle Amidon Brown, 33°
Born in Millers Falls, Massachusetts, October 11, 1885
Died in Greenfield, Massachusetts, February 8, 1973

Ill. Earle Amidon Brown, 33°, was the son of Emory William and Rose Annie (Amidon) Brown. He attended the local public schools, and graduated from Greenfield High School. He also attended Amherst College, where he became a member of Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity.

On August 28, 1907, Ill. Brother Brown married Rose Annie Miller, who survives, together with a son, Lovell Miller, and two granddaughters.

On February 8, 1906, he.entered the employ of the Millers Falls Company where he rose to paymaster, head of the accounting de­partment, and was assistant treasurer for many years. He retired in 1962, having completed over 56 years of continuous service.

He was past president of both the Millers Falls Congregational Brotherhood, and the Franklin County Federation of Church Brotherhoods and Men's Oubs; treasurer of the Millers Falls Fire and Water District for 55 years; treasurer of the Highland Cemetery; and past trustee and clerk of the Crocker Institution for Savings.

Ill. Brother Brown was raised a Master Mason in Bay State Lodge, A.F. & A.M., Montague, on April 26, 1915, and served as Worshipful Master from 1919-1921, and District Deputy Grand Master for the Greenfield Fourteenth District in 1944-1945. He re­ceived the Grand lodge 50 year Veteran's Medal in 1965 and the Grand Lodge Past Master's Certificate in 1969.

He was exalted in Franklin Royal Arch Chapter, Greenfield, on February 11, 1925, and served as High Priest in 1931-1932, and was District Deputy Grand High Priest in 1942-1943; greeted in Titus Strong Council Royal and Select Masters, Greenfield, on November 24, 1933, and served as Illustrious Master in 1948, and was Grand Principal Con­ductor of the Work in 1949; and was knighted in Connecticut Val­ley Commandery No. 23, K.T., Greenfield, on December 18, 1934, and served as Eminent Commander in 1939-1940.

Ill. Brother Brown received the degrees in Greenfield Lodge of Perfection on October 31, 1916, and was Thrice Potent Master in 1940-1943; Greenfield Council, Princes of Jerusalem, on April 30, 1921, and was Sovereign Prince in 1931-1933.; Greenfield Chapter of Rose Croix, on May 20, 1921, and was Most Wise Master in 1927-1929; and became a member of Connecticut Valley Consistory on April 27, 1922. He was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, at Cin­cinnati, Ohio, on September 24, 1947.

He was a member of Massachusetts Priory No. 52, Knights of the York Cross of Honour in Boston, and a charter member of St. Mathews Conclave Knights of the Red Cross of Constantine in Springfield.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, February 10, at the Millers Falls Congregational Church with the Reverend David Wells, pastor, officiating. Burial was in Highland Cemetery.

BROWN, EMERSON FRANKLIN 1921-2010

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 2010, Page 23:

Ill. Emerson Franklin Brown, 33° MSA
Born in Marblehead, Massachusetts, on December 17, 1921.
Died on February 22, 2010.

Ill. Emerson Franklin Brown, 33° was the son of Mortimer and Anna Christine (Peach) Brown. He was educated in the Marblehead public schools and attended Burdett College in Lynn, Massachusetts. He served in the United States Army as a Sergeant in the Medical Corps from 1941 to 1945.

On February 9, 1952, in Searcy, Arkansas, he was united in mar­riage to Betty Jean Turnage, who survives along with their two daughters, Sabrina and Gail. He was predeceased by a son, Timothy.

He was a member of the Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as head usher. In the community, he was a member of the Marblehead Water and Sewer Commission and corporator for the Marblehead Savings Bank, both for over 20 years. Civically, he was a member of the Marblehead Elks; American Legion; the Tuesday Club; Gerry #5 Fireman's Club; Oko's Fireman's Club; and Knights of Pythias.

Ill. Brother Brown was raised a Master Mason in Philanthropic Lodge, A.F. & A.M. in Marblehead, Massachusetts, on December 14, 1943, and served as assistant tyler and treasurer. He was the recipi­ent of the Joseph Warren Medal. He was exalted in Sutton Chapter R.A.M. and greeted in Zebulum Council R. & S.M., both in Lynn, Massachusetts. He completed the 4th through the 19th degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Valley of Salem on May 25, 1945, and the consis­torial degrees in the Valley of Boston on June 1, 1945. He was award­ed the Meritorious Service Award from the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation. On September 27, 1994, he was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33° Honorary Member of the Supreme Council at Cleveland, Ohio.

He was a member of Aleppo Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S., where he served as chief fezzer, and a member of the North Shore Shrine Club, where he served as treasurer for 29 years. Masonic Services were held at the Eustis and Cornell Funeral Home on Thursday, February 25, 2010. Funeral Services were con­ducted on Friday, February 26, 2010, at Grace Community Church in Marblehead, Massachusetts.

BROWN, FREDERICK REMINGTON 1868-1935

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MEMORIAL

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1936, Page 65:

In the passing of Frederick Remington Brown, Springfield loses one prominent in its civic and fraternal life, and his associates a genial companion and host.

He was the son of Charles Edwin Brown and Elizabeth (Crane) Brown. His father had long been established as a wholesale grocer in Springfield, where he maintained a large warehouse and offices. Illustrious Brother Brown became associated with him in this business shortly after graduating from High School, and continued its operation after his father’s death. His employees respected and loved him as a keen but kindly executive.

In politics he was a staunch Republican, and served his city for ten consecutive years as Councilman, Alderman, and Chairman of the Water Commission.

Brother Brown was a member of the Board of Governors of The Shriners’ Hospital for Crippled Children, which activity held deep interest for him. He was Potentate of Melba Temple, Order of The Mystic Shrine in 1916. He was an enthusiastic member of the Rotary Club, and its third President, serving in that capacity in 1916.

His Masonic record follows:

  • He was raised to the degree of a Master Mason in Hampden Lodge of Springfield, January 24, 1902, and was a Charter Member of Esoteric and Samuel Osgood Lodges in this City.
  • He received the Capitular Degrees in Morning Star Chapter, September 26, 1902; the Cryptic Degrees in Springfield Council R. & S. M. January 28, 1905; and was Knighted in Springfield Commandery, December 22, 1902.
  • In The Scottish Rite, he gave his best, both of time and service. He received his degrees in Evening Star Lodge of Perfection, October 30, 1902, and was Thrice Potent Master in 1914 and 1915. He joined Massasoit Council Princes of Jerusalem, December 18, 1902, and was its Sovereign Prince in 1916 and 1917. He was made a Knight Rose Croix in Springfield Chapter of that Order, January 15, 1903, and was its Most Wise Master in 1918 and 1919. He became a member of Massachusetts Consistory 32°, April 24, 1903, and was a Charter Member of Connecticut Valley Consistory.
  • On September 17, 1918, he was made an Honorary Member of The Supreme Council 33°. We miss his wise counsel and leadership.

Illustrious Brother Brown was married January 17, 1803, to Miss Isabella Little of Meriden, Connecticut, who survives him. He also leaves two daughters: Mrs. Dorcas Brown Gibbs, and Mrs. Kathleen Brown Carlisle, both of Springfield, Massachusetts.

Edward H. McClintock, 33°,
Frank O. Hartwell, 33°,
H. Greeley Randall, 33°,
Committee.

BROWN, HENRY P. 1869-1908

MEMORIAL

FROM PROCEEDINGS, 1908

From Proceedings, Page 1908-16:

W. Henry P. Brown, of Nantucket, was born in that town Oct. 16, 1869, and died there Feb. 21, 1908. His illness was comparatively short and his death quite unexpected. He was one of Nantucket's most popular and influential young men - one that Nantucket can ill afford to lose, and one whose place in the business and social relations of the town it will be hard to fill. Whole souled, kind and generous-hearted, he was at all times ready and willing to assist in any movement which would benefit Nantucket or her people. His prospects were of the brightest, and he has left in his native town a reputation for business integrity, industry and kindness which are a monument to his memory,

Brother Brown was initiated in Union Lodge, Nantucket, Feb. 2, 1891, and became a member April 6, 1891. He held appointed offices in the Lodge from Nov. 7, 1892, to Nov. 4, 1895, when he was elected Junior Warden and served two years. He was Senior Warden in 1898 and. 1899, and Worshipful Master in 1900, 1901 and 1902. He was appointed District Deputy Grand Master of the Twenty-seventh Masonic District Dec. 27, 1905, and served in that office till Dec. 27, 1907.

BROWN, HENRY WALTER 1857-1917

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XIII, No. 2, November 1917, Page 58:

Henry W. Brown, a license commissioner of Gloucester, Mass., is dead, at Devereux Mansion, Marblehead. He was 59 years of age and until recently he was a partner of D. C. Ballou & Co. of Magnolia, general contractors.

He was a member of Tyrian Lodge of Masons, William Ferson Chapter and Bethlehem Commandery. He leaves a wife and two married daughters.

BROWN, HUGH WALLACE 1821-1906

From New England Craftsman, Vol. I, No. 7, April 1906, Page 235:

Brother Hugh Wallace Brown, formerly a well-known carpenter and builder oi the Roxbury district, died March 4, at his home, 55 Ouincy Street, Roxbury, Mass., aged eighty-eight. Mr. Brown was a member of the Odd Fellows and Masonic societies, and also of DeMolay Commandery, Knights Templars .

BROWN, JAMES JILLSON 1888-1981

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1981

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1981, Page 33:

Ill. James Jillson Brown, Jr., 33°
Born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, September 27, 1888
Died in Fall River, Massachusetts, May 28, 1981

Ill. James Jillson Brown, Jr., 33°, was the son of James J. and Lilly E. (Daggett) Brown and had lived in Swansea, Massachusetts for the past 60 years. He was the husband of the late Evelyn (Case) Brown and father of James J. Brown, III, and was in his 93rd year at the time of his death. A self-employed auto mechanic for nearly SO years, he had previously been foreman of the service depart­ments of the former Dodge and Reo automobile agencies in Fall River.

Illustrious Brother Brown graduated from the former Bryant and Stratton Business College in Providence, Rhode Island in 1907 and was a member of the First Baptist Church in Swansea reputed to be the first Baptist Church founded in Massachusetts. Active in Masonic Organizations, he was the senior 33rd Degree Mason in the Fall River area.

He was made a Master Mason on March 7, 1921 in Pioneer Lodge, Somerset, Massachusetts, and served as Worshipful Master in 1932. He was also exalted in Fall River Royal Arch Chapter on January 30, 1922 and greeted in Fall River Council on June 6, 1923.

Although he started and later demitted from the York Rite Bodies, his service to the Scottish Rite Organizations was of long duration and he was Past Thrice Potent Master of Fall River Lodge of Perfection (1945, 1946, 1947), Past Sovereign Prince of Samuel C. Lawrence Council, Princes of Jerusalem (1943, 1944, 1945), and Past Most Wise Master of St. Andrew Chapter of Rose Croix (1964, 1965, 1966), all located in the Valley of Fall River, Massachusetts. He received his 14th and 16th degrees in Fall River on March 5, 1928 and the 18th degree, also in Fall River, on April 2, 1928. He became a 32nd Degree Mason on April 27, 1928 in Boston and became a member of Massachusetts Consistory. He affiliated with Old Colony Consistory, Fall River, Massachusetts on November 30, 1953. On September 24, 1958 he was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33° , Honorary Member, by the Supreme Council, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction of the United States of America. He was a member and Past Worthy Patron (1937) of the Star of Bethlehem Chapter, No. 151, Order of the Eastern Star located in Somerset, Massachusetts. He had received 50-year membership pins from both his Blue Lodge and the Order of the Eastern Star. He was a member of the former Dorothy Brown Lodge of Rebekahs located in Swansea, Massachusetts and the former Amity Lodge, 1.O.O.F. located in Warren, Rhode Island. He had also served as a member of the board of advisors of the Bristol County Agricultural School.

Funeral services were held on Monday, June 1, 1981 in the Birch­crest Countryside Home of Waring-Ashton, Swansea, Massachusetts. A 33rd Degree Ring Service was held on Sunday evening, May 31, 1981 with Illustrious Albert W. Canedy, 33° , in charge. Interment was in Mount Hope Cemetery, Swansea, Massachusetts. Illustrious Brother Brown is survived by a son, James J. Brown, III, of Mont­gomery, Alabama, and a brother, George S. Brown of South Wey­mouth, Massachusetts, a grandchild, three great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

His devotion to Masonry and especially to the· Scottish Rite Bodies of Fall River was one of long duration and extreme loyalty and he always showed extreme interest even in the later years of his life, taking part in many of the degrees. He will be sorely missed by his many Masonic associates and it is the prayer of all, THAT HE MAY REST IN PEACE.

BROWN, SAMUEL W. 1804-1859

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XIX, No. 3, January 1859, p. 94:

Brother SAMUEL W. BROWN.

Masonic Hall, Lowell, Nov. 16th, 1859.

At a regular meeting of Pilgrim Encampment of Knights Templar, held this evening, the following Preamble and Resolutions were offered on the death of Sir Knight Samuel W. Brown, which were adopted :—

  • Whereas, Pilgrim Encampment, by the dispensation of an all-wise and mysterious Providence, has been called to mourn the lots of a worthy and valiant Knight in the recent decease of Sir Samuel W. Brown, therefore the Sir Knights of this Encampment, in Asylum assembled,
  • Resolved, That for the first time since the establishment of our Encampment, a link in the chain of our fraternal circle has been severed, and we as Sir Knights, are called to assemble around the last resting place of the remains of a worthy Companion of this Encampment.
  • Resolved, That in the decease of Sir Knight Samuel W. Brown, this Encampment baa lost a true and worthy Companion and a brave and valiant Knight, and this community a worthy and respected citizen, who in the various relations of life has maintained his part with the honor of a man, and the fortitude of a Christian.
  • Resolved, That these resolutions be placed upon the record of the Encampment, and that the blank page immediately following, be inscribed with the name, age and time of death of our departed Companion.
  • Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions, attested by the Recorder, be forwarded to the family of the deceased, and to Moore's Magazine for publication.

A true copy.
Attest, Geo. W. Bedlow, Recorder.

BROWN, THOMAS CLARK 1783-1868

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From Past Masters of the Masonic Lodges of Taunton, Mass., 1905:

Thomas Clark Brown was the son of Captain James Brown and Hester Sheldon, and was born in Coventry, R. I., Dec. 27, 1788. He came to Taunton about the year 1800. He married Sally Carver, the daughter of David Carver, who kept the tavern at the west end of the Neck-of-Land bridge. By occupation he was a saddle and bridle maker, and his store was located on the south side of Main Street. He was appointed a justice of the peace and also coroner for Bristol county, his commissions being signed by Governor Davis and Governor Everett, and were dated 1836, 1837 and 1842. He assisted in the establishment of the Baptist church, and for many years was one of its ardent supporters. In later years he was a member of the Broadway church, and was a communicant at that church at the time of his death.

It was said of him that there were three things in which he found his pleasure,— his home, his church and his Masonry. The records of King David lodge bear testimony to his faithfulness to Masonry, as he was one of the loyal brethren who preserved the charter and paraphernalia of that lodge during the anti-Masonic movement.

Wor. Bro. Brown was one of the first candidates in Adoniram Chapter after its removal to Taunton, being proposed at the meeting held April 5, 1825, the by-law being suspended he was elected to receive the degree of Mark Master, .Most Excellent Master, and the degree of the Royal Arch. Being a Past Master, that degree was not conferred. That same activity which characterized his connection with King David Lodge is found also in his membership in the chapter. He filled the various offices by election, excepting that of High Priest. It would appear that he was qualified to have filled this position as well, as his name appears in the record at many of the meetings as the presiding officer. Brother Brown died Nov. 6, 1868, and was buried with Masonic honors.

BROWNE, JOHN EDWARD 1833-1927

JohnEdwardBrowne.jpg

From Past Masters of the Masonic Lodges of Taunton, Mass., 1905:

John Edward Browne was born in North Scituate, Mass., Oct. 9, 1833. His father was John Browne and his mother was Clarissa Jenkins. He was educated in the public schools of his native town, and when quite a young man learned the tackmakers’ trade, and worked at that trade for over forty years in the Albert Field factory at Taunton. He married Ann Jane Hutchinson, daughter of William Hutchinson of Taunton, who was a prominent merchant on Main street for so many years. Brother Browne was a member of the city council in the years 1874, 1875 and 1876. At the present writing he is a member of Ionic Lodge of Taunton.

BROWNING, ROBERT WILLIAM 1840-1922

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XVII, No. 6, March 1922, Page 177:

Bro. Robert W. Browning, at one time chief of Police of Marlboro, Mass., died suddenly on Thursday Feb. 9, at the residence of his daughter Mrs. Walter S. Leland, Draper Ave., Arlington, Mass.

Bro. Browning was a 32nd degree Mason and had always been keenly interested in all that pertained to the welfare of the Craft.

His services as an official of the Massachusetts Reformatory at Concord, were highly appreciated as the testimonial of a high official at Concord will show, who said: "The respect in which he was held by those who had long known him intimately, was evident from the large delegation of officers present at his funeral from the reformatory. And of other friends from Concord, they would wish the Arlington people to know something of the special esteem and honor in which Bro. Browning, was held by his life-long associates."

The funeral services were held in Sleepy Hollow Cemetery.

BRUBAKER, CYRIL EDGAR 1903-2000

CyrilBrubaker1986.jpg

  • MM 1925, Roseville #143, Newark, NJ
  • Member 1927, WM 1934, Orange
  • DDGM, Barre 13, 1958-1959

BIOGRAPHY

From TROWEL, Summer 1986, Page 27:

R. W. "Cy" Brubaker Awarded 60-Year Pin in Orange Lodge

He's known far and wide for his Orange Masonic Newsletter and for his "Bud Liners" in that widely-read Masonic periodical, but from his exuberance and his "get-up-and-go" spirit, you would never guess that he's already given 60 years to his beloved Masonic Craft.

R. W. Bro. Brubaker was recently awarded a 60-year pin at a communication of Orange Lodge in the Masonic Temple at Orange. He was Raised in Roseville Lodge No. 143, Newark, NJ, on Dec. 14, 1925, and affiliated with Orange Lodge in 1927. He served as Master in 1933 and was appointed D. D. G. M. of the Barre 13th District in 1958. He served the Lodge as Chaplain for many years and was active in the 30th Lodge of Instruction from its organization and lectured on the First and Second Degrees. He spoke at many Lodges of Instruction for a number of years.

The presentation was made by Wor. Brian R. Hawkes, Master of the Lodge, in the presence of R.W. Donald E. Strange, D. D. G. M. of the Barre 13th District. Also present was R. W. Norman W. Holcomb, D. D. G. M. of the Greenfield 14th District, together with many visiting members of several area Lodges.

R. W. "Bud" responded by thanking the Lodge for putting up with him for so many years and expressed the "hope" that they would do so for a few more.

From TROWEL, Fall 1986, Page 24:

The Orange Masonic Newsletter has continued for twenty-five years and "Bud Liners" have become famous through the efforts of R.W. Cyril E. "Bud" Brubaker. "Bud" as he is affectionately known to all is a gifted author of two volumes, one the story of his continuing lifetime love of three ladies, his mother, his aunt and his wife of almost fifty years. He writes:

Although we never went to college.
From this life we have gained the knowledge —
That there is much which each can do,
To help the other see things through.

These sentiments are typical of the man who truly is "poet, painter, preacher, philosopher and publisher." Over sixty years a Mason, active in Lodge, Chapter, Commandery, he has served as District Deputy Grand Master, Grand King of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter, but his dedication has been particularly felt in his local activities as Warder in Orange Commander and as Secretary of Crescent Royal Arch Chapter.

An orphan at eight weeks old, the story of Bud's life reads like a soap opera with his brothers and sister being shuffled from home to home, city life to farm life. From a one room schoolhouse in Ono, PA, Bud joined the Navy during the depression determined to educate himself, which he has done admirably. He served on the Maryland and made several transits through the Panama Canal. He "received my first diploma crossing the Equator on September 22, 1922."

During his Navy service he carried on a correspondence with a high school friend of the fellow he sat next to at a church service on his first Sunday in "boot camp" at Newport, RI, and in 1925 married Ora, before which she suggested he should "join the Masons." He did so and the rest is history.

Bud is a licensed Lay Reader and often has filled in during the minister's absence and been asked to preach and other than his own church on numerous occasions. He is a sought-after speaker at Lodges of Instruction as well as civic ceremonies.

As one of those responsible for the success of the Orange Masonic Temple's relocation and refurbishing, it wasn't just a matter of throwing in a "few bucks" but hard physical work on Bud's part, throwing out trash, cleaning, and also writing Parts I & II of "Such Is Life" the proceeds from which cut the mortgage down by $500.

He holds some notable records including having qualified over 80 Masters-elect, installed the officers of Lodges innumerable times, and served as Chaplain of Orange Lodge for many years. His Masonic contributions have been immeasurable and are only equaled by his service to his church, to his community and to his fellowman. We salute you Bud and Ora Brubaker for the life you are living and may it continue for many more years of happiness and accomplishment. Some years ago Bro. Walter K. Belt, the "Poet by the Sea" in Newport, Oregon wrote,

"As 'flowers of philosophy'
'Bud-liners' rate as tops.
With witty words for you and me
Their blooming never stops.
Still, one thing stumps my mental powers
To me it's 'clear as mud'
How can so many first-rate flowers
Emerge from just one 'Bud?'

From TROWEL, Summer 1989, Page 21:

AmesAndBrubaker1989.jpg

Grand Master Salutes Bud Brubaker

Cyril "Bud" Brubaker, a Mason for 60 working years and editor of the Orange (Lodge) Masonic Newsletter, received the plaudits of M. W. Albert T. Ames when the Grand Master visited the 30th Lodge of Instruction in Gardner on May 11. A Past D. D. G. M. of the Barre 13th, Bro. Brubaker is a Past Grand King of Grand Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, a Past Pursuivant Sovereign of the Knights of the Red Cross of Constantine, and a Knight of the York Cross of Honor. He began his four-page newsletter for the Orange district in 1961. A goodwill publication that is produced and mailed at a cost of only $2.00 a year for ten issues, it is known for the famous "Bud Liners," which are one- and two-line quips. The Orange Newsletter may be obtained by writing to: Bro. Cyril E. Brubaker, Box 387, Orange, MA 01364-0387. (Photo by Ben Martino.)

From TROWEL, Spring 1990, Page 28:

Brubaker1990.jpg

R. W. "Bud" Brubaker Given Unusual Honor

Rt. Wor. Cyril "Bud" Brubaker, of the Orange territory, and the former editor of the ORANGE MASONIC NEWSLETTER, was honored in a most unusual conferral when at a recent meeting of the 30th Lodge of Instruction held in Athol Lodge, Athol, Wor. Leo P. Provencher, Master, had the Marshal present R.W. Bro. Brubaker to the East where he informed him that his brothers in the lodge had elected him as an Honorary Past Master of the 30th Lodge of Instruction in recognition of his long-time interest and service. When the Master asked him to give some remarks, he simply said, "I have spoken my piece many times in days gone by, but right now I am so happy I just want to cry."

In retrospect, R.W. Bro. Brubaker is one of the few remaining members present when the 30th Lodge of Instruction was organized in the early 1930's He lectured the candidates on the first degree and was in line to be the next Master when the second World War began. Being the night foreman of the grinding department at the L. S. Starrett Company for four years, he was unable to accept the office of Master.

At the conclusion of the war, he lectured the candidates on the second degree for a number of years. Following his two year service as District Deputy Grand Master of the Barre 13th Masonic District, he was instrumental in installing the officers of Orange Lodge and several neighboring lodges. Also, as R.W. Master of the District Lodge of Qualification, he qualified a total of 80 Masters-elect. He served as Chaplain for many years in Orange Lodge. As a Speaker under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Education for the Grand Lodge, he spoke at many Lodges of Instruction over a period of years all over the State.

A great honor for a great and caring Mason. Enjoy your award in good health, Bro. Brubaker.

BUCKINGHAM, GEORGE BEECHER 1849-1906

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Without any warning to his friends, in the midst of a very busy life and deserving many years of usefulness, Illustrious Bro. George Beecher Buckingham of Worcester, Mass., died on the 7th of June, 1906.

Brother Buckingham came from good stock; he was born in Oxford, Connecticut, March 20, 1849, the son of Philo B. and Sally C. Buckingham, and traced his ancestry through an illustrious line to the Puritan settlers of Massachusetts, Thomas Buckingham having arrived in Boston, June 20, 1637.

Our Brother received a good training in the schools of his native state, finishing his career in a military academy of considerable note. He followed this with an active practical training in the school of business, and by previous engagement came to Worcester when twenty years of age to take a position with the Sargent Card Clothing Company.

In 1871 he married Abbie McFarland and two years later was taken into the malleable iron business by his father-in-law, Warren McFarland. By strict attention to business he became eminently successful, and in 1880, Warren McFarland having full confidence in his ability and executive capacity placed the entire business in his hands; since this time ho had been at the head of the large and thriving industry under the name of the Arcade Malleable Iron Co.

Brother Buckingham was interested in and identified with the social life of his city. He was actively connected with many organizations and clubs, and was a Director in the Worcester Board of Trade.

As an organizer in the interests of his particular business, he was recognized as a leader and authority. He served as Vice-President and | member of the Executive Committee of the New England Foundrymen’s Association for a number of years and was President of the same in 1900 and 1901. He was First Vice-President of the American Foundrymen’s Association in 1902, and Vice-President of the Worcester County Foundrymen’s Association in 1904 and 1905. He was a Director of the Citizens National Bank in Worcester for fifteen years, and served in a similar capacity the E. C. Morris Safe Company of Boston.

In addition to the demands which his business connections made upon his time, he gave a very generous contribution of his zeal and energy to the Masonic bodies with which he was connected.

He was made a Master Mason in Athelstan Lodge, January 29, 1872. He was exalted a Royal Arch Mason in Eureka Chapter, March 19, 1872, and served this body as High Priest for two years, 1876 and 1877. In 1889 and 1890 he was District Deputy Grand High Priest for the 4th Capitular District of Massachusetts. On January 30, 1873, ho received the Cryptic Degrees in Hiram Council of Royal and Select Masters. Ho was created a Knight of the Temple and Malta in Worcester County Commandery, September 26, 1872, and was its Eminent Commander for three years, 1886-1889.

In the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite he received the Degrees in Worcester Lodge of Perfection on the 16th of February, 1872; in Goddard Council, P. of J., and Lawrence Chapter of Rose Croix, April 9, 1885. The last body was his particular delight and he served with great zeal as its Most Wise and Perfect Master in the years 1887-1891, inclusive. In addition to this connection with the above Masonic bodies in Worcester he became a member of Massachusetts Consistory, S. P. R. S., Boston, April 24, 1886. In 1891 he was elected First Lieutenant-Commander of Massachusetts Council of Deliberation and served in this capacity for one year.

He was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, in the Supreme Council for the Northern Jurisdiction, U.S.A., September 17, 1889.

Brother Buckingham was a man of sound judgment, discriminating and accurate in details and ever ready to yield to any call upon his time which would be of benefit to the fraternity. This devotion to the institution led its members to make him one of the Trustees of the Masonic Fraternity of Worcester, and for the last thirteen years of his life he served as its President in a very creditable manner.

"God has taken him and we reverently bow to his will."

Respectfully submitted,
Albert F. Gates,
Edward J. Sartelle,
Edward W. Woodward.

Note: his membership card includes the note "Died by his own hand."

BUCKLEY, WILLIAM ALBERT 1863-1908

From New England Craftsman, Vol. III, No. 11, August 1908, Page 399:

Brother William A. Buckley a well known business man of Boston and a member of Charity lodge Cambridge, St. Andrews R. A. Chapter and Boston Commandery died suddenly June 5th. He was born in Portland, Maine June 25, 1863.

BUNKER, CHARLES W. 1849-1912

From Proceedings, Page 1912-176:

R.W. CHARLES W. BUNKER was born in Nantucket, June 24, 1849, and died at his residence in Arlington, Sept. 30, 1912. He attended the public schools in his native town. When a young man he came to Boston, seeking employment, which he readily found. For the past twenty-five years he was in the employ of the Shepard Norwell Company, of Boston, where he was a valued employee and enjoyed the esteem of his employers.

Brother Bunker was twice married. Both wives are dead, but he is survived by one son.

He received the Masonic degrees in Hiram Lodge, of Arlington, in 1886; was its Master in 1897 and 1898, and District Deputy Grand Master of the Sixth Masonic District in 1900 and 1901. He was also Secretary of Hiram Lodge four years, 1908-1911.

Brother Bunker was a faithful and conscientious Mason, deeply interested in the prosperity and welfare of his Lodge, and was a Brother so earnest, faithful, and efficient, that he will be greatly missed in Masonic circles.

BUNKER, PAUL DELMONT 1903-1943

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From TROWEL, Spring 1987, Page 6:

Paul Delmont Bunker: An American Hero
By Robert W. Williams, III

A public housing project in Taunton is the least attractive and fitting tribute to one of America's heroes of World War II. Ever since its postwar construction the housing units have been the scene of family disputes, riots, thievery, and fires. Most of the inhabitants wouldn't know Paul Delmont Bunker if he knocked on their doors. And, most likely, they could care less who he was and what he did for the country that offers them life, liberty, and the pursuit of opportunity whereby some roll up their sleeves and work while others simply complain and ask, "What's in it for me?"

May 6 marks the 45th anniversary of the surrender of Fort Corregidor by Gen. Jonathan Wainwright to the armed forces of the Imperial Japanese Empire. "The Rock," as Corregidor is affectionately called by those who have served in the military, is one of two island fortresses guarding the entrance to Manila Bay in the Philippines. The other island, the smaller of the two, is Fort Hughes. Those two islands share some pages of American and Philippine history that have been written in blood, sweat, and tears, costing both defenders and conquerors thousands of lives.

Paul Delmont Bunker was born in Posen, MI, May 7, 1881, the son of Washington Foss Bunker and Amelia Ann Kunze Bunker. When he was only a youngster the family moved to Taunton, where Washington was soon appointed a police officer. Paul attended Taunton High School where he distinguished himself as an outstanding student and football player. When finishing his junior year of high school he was appointed by Cong. William C. Lovering of Taunton to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Football at the turn of the century was played without head helmets, and with only a hard-rubber nose protector (often used to break the nose) and leg protectors.

Entering West Point as a plebe in the class of 1903, Bunker developed into a muscular and handsome young man, proving to be an outstanding athlete and student. The Master of the Sword had to widen the parallel bars to accommodate Bunker's massive shoulders that held their shape until the fall of Corregidor. The story is told at West Point (but never completely admitted by cadets at the time) that Bunker slipped out of the academy one night to a nearby site where it was related he gave a healthy beating to world heavyweight boxing champion Jack Johnson.

What kind of football player was Bunker? In his third year at West Point he was selected by Walter Camp to the first Ail-American team as a tackle. In 1902, as a first-year cadet, he was chosen by Camp to the first team All-American as a halfback — the first West Pointer to be chosen in successive years on Camp's teams. From 1899 until his death in 1925, Camp was the recognized authority on American college football. He was succeeded by Grantland Rice who selected the teams through 1947.

The 1902 Army-Navy football game was one of the bitterest ever fought between the two service academies. The Navy line included William "Bull" Halsey who would later gain fame as an Admiral in the Pacific during World War II. The Army quarterback was Charles D. Daly who had been chosen by Camp to his All-American teams of 1898 through 1900 when Daly was the signal caller for Harvard College. He received his appointment to West Point from Cong. John F. ("Honey") Fitzgerald of Boston, maternal grandfather to President John F. Kennedy.

Among the many cadets impressed by Bunker's athletic prowess was Douglas MacArthur, team manager and roommate of Bunker. They were lifelong friends and wherever MacArthur was assigned to command, Paul Bunker was nearby as commander of the coast artillery. That friendship survived until Bunker's death in Karenko Prison on the island of Formosa (now Taiwan). "I could shut my eyes and see again that blond head racing, tearing, plunging — 210 pounds of irresistible power," wrote MacArthur.

Following his June 1903 graduation, Bunker returned to Taunton to visit his home. His application for degrees in King David Lodge was received July 8, 1903, and one month later he was a candidate. He Entered Aug. 12, Passed on the afternoon of Aug. 26, and was Raised that same evening. It must have been a memorable day for Won John H. Eldridge and his officers.

Bunker was more than simply a good athlete; he was a man who was aware of destiny and something must have told him he would be a part of America's history. Somebody once claimed Bunker was destined for history. But destiny is a choice and Paul Bunker never flinched from his military responsibility. He kept daily diaries, some copies of which may be seen in the Old Colony Historical Society, Taunton; the originals are at West Point. He had a knowledge of the arts and sciences and the theater, and was a good researcher and writer. Several volumes on Bunker genealogy, as well as the flora and fauna of the Philippines, are among his collection at the Boston Public Library.

In 1910 he was stationed at Portsmouth, NH, where he won first prize ($60) in a military literary contest. The subject was, "What measures taken in the time of peace will assure the most results in time of war through joint action of the army and navy?" Had some of his suggestions been heeded the results at Ft. Corregidor might have been different. His big artillery guns stationed on Topside at the fort were pointed toward the sea and could not swivel toward land. The Japanese approached from the rear.

In a letter dated 16 December 1936 to King David Lodge, Bunker informs them of a package he has sent from the Philippines to the Lodge, containing a gavel. "I still claim that I hail from 'Ta'ntin, Good Lord' and some of my fondest memories cluster around the unequalled ritual of King David (Lodge). I have visited many other Lodges but none can compare to your work."

The gavel was made from wood taken from an old monastery built in the Philippines before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth. Most natives estimated the beam from which the gavel was made to be 250 years old, thus making that gavel now (1987) at least 300 years old. The wood is called molave and the scientific name, "... if anybody is interested, is Vitex pariflora, belonging to the teak family." The gavel is used by King David Lodge on important occasions, the last being when M.W. J. Philip Berquist made a fraternal visit in September 1983. The original letter from Bro. Bunker is preserved in the archives of the Lodge, along with many others dating from the charter year of 1798.

At the outbreak of World War II Bunker was still a colonel and stationed at Fort Mills (Corregidor) with the 59th Coast Artillery, from where the letter and gavel were sent to King David Lodge. He was commander at Topside (big guns at Corregidor). Most of the men had volunteered for duty in the Philippines and they found themselves (under the command of Bunker) led by a Prussian-type militarist who wore Gen. John J. Pershing choke collar and proper dress at all times — even to the regimental cummerbund for dinner. He waxed his mustache and always appeared to be at attention, even while walking. It was because he was such an outspoken man that he never advanced in rank.

His diary tells of the departure in the dark of night of Gen. Douglas MacArthur, his wife, and son in a PT boat commanded by Lt. John Bulkeley. Bunker noted in the diary, March 10, 1942, that he (MacArthur) has gone but we must "now convince our men that he has not deserted, but has gone into a job where he can do something real toward helping us. It would be bad for our men's morale if they put the wrong interpretation on his leaving." That same day Bunker had a surprise visit from his son-in-law, Maj. Brooks Maury. They talked about their wives and Bunker's four grandchildren. Maury would later meet death aboard a Japanese prison ship bound for Tokyo but torpedoed by an American submarine, Dec. 15, 1944 (that submarine now lies at Fall River). Two other Taunton men were on that same ship.

Bataan surrendered April 8-9, 1942, and Maj. Maury was among the 1,000 prisoners who survived the Death March. Three days later the Japanese artillery bombarded Corregidor and celebrated Hirohito's birthday on April 29 with the heaviest shelling of all. "I lost out having batter cakes for breakfast because the Jap shells hit too close to our outdoor stoves ... and all the cooks beat it...." Bunker's artillery crew returned fire until the guns became too hot.

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On May 4, with the Japanese swarming over the island, Gen. George F. Moore instructed Col. Bunker to lower the Stars and Stripes on Topside. He raised a white flag of surrender and secretly tore off a piece of the American flag that he had intended to keep and present to the Secretary of War when he returned to the states. In a quiet moment he placed the strip inside a patch he had sewn to the inner side of the left pocket of his cotton shirt. He burned the rest of the flag so it could not be claimed as a prize for Gen. Homma.

After being held at Corregidor, Bunker and other officers were marched to Manila. At age 62 he collapsed during the 30-mile march and was confined to a hospital where he learned he had lost 44 pounds since the war began. He was later taken to Tarlac, a prison for senior officers. Among them was Gen. Wainwright who had assumed command of the island when MacArthur left for Australia. Notes in Bunker's diary tell of his concern for his wife Landon. "I haven't so many of them (days) left at my age and I begrudge every one that continues my separation from Landon."

Sent to Karenko Prison on Formosa, he laid out parade grounds marked with rocks. Despite the loss of weight Bunker was "... always cheerful, hopeful, and working for his fellow prisoners," one soldier wrote. On March 1, 1943, he wrote his last entry in the diary, noting a feverish night, choking, and knowing his end was near. He died ten days later.

In November 1945 Col. Delbert Ausmus, also of the Coast Artillery Corps, went to Washington, D.C, and presented the Secretary of War with a small piece of the original Corregidor flag. He reported that as he lay in the hospital at Bilibid Prison he noticed Col. Bunker beside him. Bunker sensed he would not survive the war, whereupon he removed the patch of the flag from his shirt and divided it into two pieces, giving Col. Ausmus one. Today that patch may be seen, framed and hanging in the museum of the U.S. Military Academy. Col. Bunker's body had been cremated and on 23 March 1948 his ashes were returned and scattered over the plains of West Point for God, Country, and the Corps.

When the American flag was again raised at Ft. Corregidor on March 2, 1945, a total of 5,160 of the Japanese defenders had either perished or committed suicide. An estimated one million Philippinos were either killed or died during World War II. American, Philippine and Japanese soldiers and families have since made pilgrimages to the island that is now overgrown, with its guns cut to pieces by the torches of scrap dealers. A lack of funds prohibits caring for the monument to World War II, where a roll call of honor rests on Topside, listing the many campaigns with the Japanese Empire.

(Acknowledgements: William S. Hanna, Secretary, Old Colony Historical Society, Taunton; archives of King David Lodge; Corregidor, the End of the Line, by Eric Roberts; Corregidor, the Saga of a Fortress, by James H. and William M. Belote; Encyclopedia of Sports, by Frank G. Menke; College Football U.S.A., 1869-1971, by John D. McCallum/Charles H. Pearson; The Untold Story of Douglas MacArthur, by Frazier Hunt; The Rising Sun, by John Toland; Paul Bunker Diaries; Sink 'em All, by Charles A. Lockwood; National Geographic, July, 1986, "Corregidor Revisited," by William Graves.)

BUNTON, HENRY S. 1848-1926

From Proceedings, Page 1926-53:

R. W. Bro. Bunton died full of years and honors on January 28th at his home in Hyde Park. He was born in Manchester, N. H., April 6th, 1848, being a descendant of the Roger Conant and Jewett families. At the age of fifteen he went to Point Lookout to assist his father who was a surgeon in the United States Army, and not long afterward he enlisted in the 7th New Hampshire Regiment, from which he was honorably discharged after a year of service.

He became a resident of Hyde Park in 1866, where he became associated with Robert Bleakie in the woolen business, rising to the position of the Treasurer of the Webster Woolen Company, of which Mr. Bleakie was President. He was one of founders of the Hyde Park Savings Bank, instituted in 1888, and served as its first Treasurer. At the time of his death he was Vice President of the bank and a member of its Investment Committee. He became Town Treasurer in 1875, holding the position for thirty years, and was Town Auditor for five years, and for eight years a member of the School Committee. He was a member of Timothy Ingraham Post No. 121, G. A. R., of which was elected Commander in 1874. For two years he was a Warden of Christ's Episcopal Church.

He became a member of Hyde Park Lodge in 1869 and was its Worshipful Master in 1872 and 1873. He served as District Deputy Grand Master for the Thirteenth Masonic District in 1882. A redistricting of the state took place at that time and his second year of service as District Deputy Grand Master, in 1883, was for the Twenty-second Masonic District. For many years he was Treasurer of Hyde Park Lodge, holding that position at the time of his death. He was interested and active in other branches of Freemasonry, and in them held many offices.

R W. Brother Bunton was one of the best known and best loved Masons in his locality. His kindly presence and faithful service will be sorely missed.

BURDICK, DAVID JACKSON 1856-1923

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MEMORIAL

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1923

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ, 1923, Page 57:

Illustrious Brother David Jackson Burdick was born in Tiverton, R. I., November 19, 1854, the son of Rev. David M. and Julia C. (Osborn) Burdick, and died in Fall River, Mass., February 23, 1923. His father and grandfather had been Baptist ministers, and his family was among the earliest of the settlers in the section in which he was born.

In the early days of the Civil War, our Illustrious Brother, then at the early ago of eleven, accompanied his mother to the government hospitals at Annapolis, Md,, where both entered the government service, she as nurse and he as a commissary's assistant, his duties were to carry mail and other articles for some of the 100,000 Union soldiers who were brought to Annapolis during his term of service, and such was the confidence reposed in him that he was frequently entrusted with the deliver}' of large sums of money to and from the local banks. His promptness, fidelity, and kindly disposition endeared him to the many sick and wounded soldiers with whom he came in contact; and he afterwards often recalled the gift of a pet dog — made to him upon his leaving Annapolis —which he brought in his arms all the way home. His mother’s term of service and his own lasted through the four years of the war.

After President Lincoln's assassination, mother and boy returned to their home in Newport, R. I., one chapter of their lives finished. This early experience in his life no doubt molded the earnest, firm expression that he carried with him through life, and which gave him that true, honest and noble character that we learned to love in later life.

As his grandfather and father had chosen the ministry for their life work, it was thought that he, too, would follow in their footsteps, and so he was placed in school with that intent for his future life. But that was not to be. He was a born trader, and the student life was not to his liking.

At the age of sixteen he came to Fall River to work for Almy & Milne, printers, but this work was too confining. Much of his life had been spent in the open where he might drive a loved horse or sit at the wheel of his boat. He obtained work with John M. Deane, grocer, later with Eddy & Milne, shoe dealers, and then entered the Davol Mill office, where he started the handling of cotton and cotton cloth, which afterwards became his life work and interest.

From this position he went South for ten years, during which time he was one of the heaviest shippers of cotton to the North. He became one

of the best known men among the cotton growers, and the Burdick stamp on cotton for shipment to the North was long familiar in the South. While in the South he made his headquarters at Columbus, Miss., Mobile, Ala., and Memphis, Tenn.

Brother Burdick returned to the North to enter the cotton and cloth business, and devoted himself exclusively to the doth brokerage business until his death.

He was married in 1900 to Miss Mary R. Babbitt, of Fairhaven, Mass., who survives him.

Brother Burdick was prominently identified with a number of important business interests in his home city, being at the time of his death a director of the Luther Mills and chairman of the Board of Investment of the Fall River Savings Bank, to the duties of which latter office he devoted himself most assiduously and with painstaking care.

In his earlier days, very fond of yachting and cruising, he was one of the founders of the Fall River Yacht Club, of which he was one of the first Commodores, and to his energy and interest the early success of this club was largely due.Brother Burdick was raised in King Philip Lodge, June 19, 1877; exalted in Fall River Royal Arch Chapter, October 15, 1877. He received the Cryptic degrees in Fall River Council Royal and Select Masters, April 13, 1877, and was knighted in Godfrey de Bouillon Commandery, September 20, 1884, of which he was Commander in 1899 and 1900.

In the Scottish Rite he joined Lafayette Lodge of Perfection, Giles F. Yates Council of Princes of Jerusalem, Mt. Olivet Chapter of Rose Croix, and Massachusetts Consistory in April, 1887, and was a charter member of Fall River Lodge of Perfection, Samuel C. Lawrence Council of Princes of Jerusalem, and St. Andrew's Chapter of Rose Croix, of which he was the first Most Wise Master. He was crowned Sovereign Grand Inspector General of the thirty-third and last degree at Chicago on September 21, 1920.

His devotion to his mother all through her long life, and particularly in her later years, was far beyond what we are wont to expect from even the most nearly perfect filial devotion.

As a Mason, Brother Burdick measured fully up to the highest ideals of our Fraternity. Patient, kindly, courteous, yet in matters of principle absolutely inflexible, his counsel was often sought, and his opinions were highly valued. Probably no interest of his life, outside of his family relations, appealed to him more strongly or was served with greater love and devotion than the Chapter of Rose Croix of which he was the first Most Wise Master.

As both man and Mason, the shield of his life bore no spot nor blemish. A man in whose life we, his brethren, took pride, and in whose passing we sincerely feel that we and our loved fraternity have suffered a deep and heartfelt loss.

"With us was one who, calm and true.
Life's highest purpose understood,
And, like his blessed Master, knew
The joy of doing good."

William H. Beattie, 33°,
Robert N. Hathaway, 33°,
Everett W. Clarke, 33°,
Committee.

BURDICK, STARR ALBERT 1877-1944

From Proceedings, Page 1944-142:

Brother Burdick was born in DeRuyter, New York, on October 15, 1877, and died at his home in West Newton, Massachusetts, on July 29, 1944.

After graduation at Alfred University of Alfred, New York, he became a teller in the bank at Alfred, later becoming Sales Manager of the Spicer Universal Joint Company of Rochester, New York. In 1917 he became Treasurer of Kennedy's, Inc., of Boston and held that position until his death.

He was raised in St. John's Lodge of Boston on May 14, 1920, and served as Master in 1931 and 1932, later serving as Treasurer.

He served as District Deputy Grand Master of the (Boston) 1st Masonic District in 1933 and 1934, by appointment of Most Worshipful Curtis Chipman, Grand Master.

Serious minded, having a deep interest in his fellow man, he took a keen interest in Freemasonry and gave liberally of his time and talents. We shall miss his genial presence at our various meetings.

"Father, in Thy gracious keeping
Leave me now, Thy servant, sleeping."

BURKE, EDMUND 1824-1874

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From New England Freemason, Vol. II, No. 1, January 1875, Page 45:

Captain Edmund Burke, who died in Somerville, Mass., Dec. 20th, had been for many years engaged in the trade with the Azores, and had made upwards of fifty voyages from Boston to Fayal; his record being remarkably free from disasters, while the regularity and speed of the passages testified to his efficiency as a skilful navigator. An incident of his seafaring life, which gained him great credit at the time, was the saving of some three hundred and six persons from the British ship Gratitude, on the first of January, 1866, which vessel was discovered at sea in a sinking condition. They were rescued from the unfortunate vessel after great difficulty, and safely transferred to the barque Fredonia, commanded by Captain Burke. In the performance of this noble work Captain Burke was obliged to throw overboard nearly the whole of his cargo of fruit, in order to make room for the men, women and children, just saved from the sinking wreck.

The survivors were brought to Boston, and its citizens soon after united in presenting to Captain Burke a purse of $5000 as a testimonial of his gallant conduct on the occasion. The British Government also gave him a gold chronometer, and the other officers and crew of the Fredonia likewise received a gift of money.

During the secession war, Captain Burke narrowly escaped capture on several occasions, while the rebel cruisers were hovering on the track to the Western Islands. The wrath of Semmes of the Alabama had been greatly excited in consequence of Mr. Dabney's refusal to furnish coal for the blockside runners at Fayal; and as the latter gentleman was the owner of the Fredonia, the rebel Semmes declared that he would destroy that vessel if it took six months to accomplish it. On one occasion he waited off Fayal to intercept her; but Captain Burke, taking advantage of a stormy night, ran in by him and reached the harbor in safety. Semmes waited outside three days after this successful feat, before he learned that the Fredonia had escaped. Captain Burke was a very popular commander, and the many invalids and pleasure travellers whom he h:is transported to and from the Azores will remember the uniform kindness and courtesy they received from him on their ocean voyage. He was a member of John Abbot Lodge, of Somerville.

Biographical Sketch

BURLEY, WILLIAM 1755-1822

From History of Freemasonry in Beverly, Massachusetts, 1779-1824, Page 12:

Captain William Burley, a noted resident of Beverly, in his time, was, according to the statements of some of the older members of Liberty Lodge, a member of the Craft in Beverly in the Revolutionary times. Whether he was a member of Amity Lodge, or visited it, we cannot prove or disprove from official documents. Captain Burley was with Washington at White Plains, N. Y., and was in Service at several other places. He was a benefactor of the Public Schools of Beverly. He was the father of Mr. Edward Burley, who lived in the present Historical Society House in Beverly, and willed that building and a sum of money to the Historical Society.

BURLINGAME, ANSON 1820-1870

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From Proceedings, Page 1870-99:

"For more than twenty years I have enjoyed the acquaintance and friendship of our departed friend and Brother, Anson Burlingame. I knew him as a friend of liberty, and the eloquent and successful defender of the rights of man. In an association where I had the honor to officiate as a corporate officer, he was one of our original corporators, and one of our earliest trustees, ever discharging the duties of his position with honor to himself, and his associates. This position lie accepted because of his regard for the middling classes, and especially of the poor. With him, poverty was no crime.

"Certainly, if there is one human trait above another, it is that of sympathy for the poor and oppressed. Our Brother possessed this ennobling trait, regarding always the rights, and manifesting, at all times, a tender interest for the welfare of others. He was an aristocrat of the old school, and such alone are the true democrats everywhere. Men may have knowledge, money, influence, and not be gentlemen. The true gentleman, the man of culture, of refinement, the kind hearted, the considerate, is not often found among the ambitious rich, who give of their abundance for a name, — the bat-eyed of this generation; such are too cold, cheerless, and designing, to be gentlemen. Mr. Burlingame was well born and well bred. He sought after 'goodness and truth.' That which so distinguished him above many others, his geniality and devotion to the interests of man as man, and his lofty courage and abiding integrity, were a part of his noble nature born with him. Possessing such rich qualities, he was a good Mason, and was received and known as such wherever he sojourned.

"It was my pleasure to meet him soon after his arrival home, as minister to China. His experience in that distant land was deeply interesting. Nothing, he said, but the existence of a Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, working under a Charter from our venerable Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, reconciled him to the loneliness and responsibilities of his situation. Here he met with kindred spirits; here, surrounded by representatives of all nations, he found a cordial welcome. The last hours he spent in China were with his masonic brethren, on which occasion he addressed a large and deeply-affected assembly.

"Thus much in memory of Anson Burlingame, the noble, the gifted, the friend of the poor, the true Mason, the courteous Knight.

"Brothers, at such a time as this, those grand old words come surging up, full of hope and strength for all, —

'Unto thyself be true,
And it must follow, as the night the day,
Thou can'st not then be false to any man.'"

Wikipedia article

BURNHAM, GEORGE THOMPSON 1863-1943

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From Proceedings, Page 1943-74:

Brother Burnham was born in Peabody, Massachusetts, on January 30, 1863, and died in Braintree on May 22,!943, where he had resided for the past fifty-five years.

In his earlier life he was engaged in the insurance business, with offices in Boston, but for the last twenty years, he was employed by the Hartford Steam Boiler Insurance Company as an inspector.

Brother Burnham was raised in Delta Lodge of Braintree on October 9, 1894, and served as Master in 1908 and 1909. At the time of his death he was Marshal of Delta Lodge, an office which he had held for over twenty-five years.

He served as District Deputy Grand Master of the (Quincy) 26th Masonic District in 1934 and 1935, by appointments of Most Worshipful Grand Masters Curtis Chipman and Claude L. Allen. In 1939 he served as Grand Pursuivant by appointment of Most Worshipful Joseph Earl Perry and during that year was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal.

In the collateral bodies he was a member of Pentalpha Royal Arch Chapter, Temple Council, R. & S. M., and South Shore Commandery, K.1.

Funeral services were held in the First Congregational Church of Braintree on May 22d, followed by Masonic burial services in charge of Delta Lodge. The large attendance and the beautiful floral tributes gave evidence of the very high esteem in which he was held by his Brethren and his fellow citizens.

George Burnham, for so he was known by all, was a faithful friend and earnest worker, both in his Masonry and in his church, a pillar of strength who never neglected any call for service. Dearly beloved by all, his passing leaves us saddened but inspired by his example of unremitting service to his fellow man.

"He is gone
As the night cometh down on the summer hillside,
As the stars fade away in the blue of the dawn,
So softly he died."

BURNS, PAUL STEVENS 1875-1946

From Proceedings, Page 1946-295:

Brother Burns was born in Somerville, Massachusetts, on March 11, 1875, and died suddenly at his summer home in Duxbury on October 14, 1946.

At the age of fifteen, he entered the employ of the Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York as an office boy in the Boston office. His marked ability and diligence won rapid progress for him until he became manager in l9l4 - a position which he held until his retirement in 1940. He had an active interest in civic affairs in his native city, having served on the School Board and as a Director of the Somerville Hospital.

Brother Burns was raised in Soley Lodge on June 22, 1896, and served as Worshipful Master in 1906 and 1907. He affiliated with Corner Stone Lodge of Duxbury on September 2, 1933, and continued as a member until his death. He was appointed District Deputy Grand Master for the Sixth Masonic District in 1915 and 1916 by Most Worshipful Melvin M. Johnson, and was awarded a Masonic Veteran's Medal in 1946 for fifty years of continuous Masonic membership.

Our Brother was always deeply interested in anything Masonic and his advice, always sound and conservative, was sought and freely given. He served for many years as a Director of the Somerville Masonic Building Association and rendered valuable assistance in that position.

An active and useful life is closed, but the memory of Paul Burns will linger long in the minds and hearts of those he served so faithfully.

BURRELL, ALFRED AUGUSTUS 1838-1913

From New England Craftsman, Vol. VIII, No. 12, September 1913, Page 414:

NEC 8-12, 09/13, p414

Alfred A. Burrell, a well known Mason and resident of Milford, Mass. died September 14th after a prolonged illness. Several years ago while on his way to a meeting of Mt. Lebanon R. A. Chapter, he suffered a shock from which he never recovered, one side remaining paralyzed, confining him to his home practically all the time.

Brother Burrell was born in South Scituate, Mass., December 27th, 1838. He had lived in Milford many years. He was initiated in Montgomery Lodge, February 8th, 1860. He was a member of Mt. Lebanon Chapter forty-eight years and was High Priest 1882-4. He was knighted in Milford Commandery in 1865 and was Eminent Commander 1886-8. He was Grand King of the Grand R. A. Chapter of Massachusetts in 1891. His memory will be cherished by many warm friends who esteemed his character and loved his companionship.

BURRELL, HERBERT LESLIE, 1856-1910

HERBERT LESLIE BURRELL, M.D., one of the leading members of the medical - profession in New England. He was born in Boston April 27, 1856; attended the public schools and was graduated from the Harvard Medical School. In 1885 he became one of the regular surgeons of the City Hospital; consulting surgeon at Carney Hospital, and visiting surgeon of the Children's Hospital. In June, 1907, he was elected to the of the American Medical Association.

Brother Burrell was medical director of the First Brigade, M.V.M., with the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel, and was chief surgeon of the hospital ship Bay State during the Spanish War.

Brother Burrell received the Masonic degrees in The Massachusetts Lodge in 1878 and became a member of the Lodge March 28, 1878. He was Worshipful Master in 1885, and served as District Deputy Grand Master of the First Masonic District in 1886.

He was ardently devoted to his profession; a sterling man of kind and sympathetic nature; a citizen interested and active for the public good, and a Brother wedded to the principles of our Order. He died April 26, 1910, leaving a widow and two young sons, with whom, in their sorrow, we sincerely sympathize.

BURTON, ARTHUR HENRY 1852-1917

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From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ, 1917, Page 37:

From our own immediate circle, Arthur Henry Burton, 33°, of Worcester, sixty-five years of age, passed away at his home February 28,1917. He was supposed to have recovered entirely from an extended illness, but death came suddenly at last

.He came to Worcester in early manhood from Ottawa, Canada, where he had been a Mason.He was always active in outdoor sports and an enthusiast on cricket. He served for many years in the English Admiralty service before coming to this country.

He was endowed with a strong constitution and a genial nature such as usually accompanies good health. He was a loyal and devoted friend and was naturally selected, not only for presiding officer in the numerous Masonic bodies with which he was connected, but in addition he held the important positions of treasurer and trustee of funds. He received his thirty-third degree in Philadelphia in 1913. His large circle of admiring friends was evidenced by the numerous gathering of them with the brethren and public officials who united to pay the last sad respects to his memory. Those of the thirty-third degree who were present at the funeral were F. A. Harrington, Henry L. Green, George M. Rice, Edward W. Woodward, and Charles E. Davis.

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ, 1917, Page 103:

Once more death has broken into our number and again we are called on to endure a great loss. Our friend and helper could poorly be spared, and our deep grief is shared by the city, the Fraternity, and by an unusual1st of mourning friends.

Wor. Bro. Arthur Henry Burton was born in Thurston, England, October 4, 1852, and died at his home in Worcester, Mass., February 28, 1917. During the greater part of his sixty-four years of life he was an active man, and his efforts were invariably expended for splendid ends and with excellent results.

As a citizen he was an exponent of the highest ideals, which he was permitted to exemplify for more than eighteen years in an official capacity as a member of the Board of Assessors in his home city. During the last four years of his career he served as Chairman of the Board. No position was probably so exasperating, and yet of the vast number who annually visited the office in protest few left without firm conviction that they had received ample justice and fair treatment, fully convinced that discrimination was no part of the policy of the Department.

In the Masonic fraternity his record was brilliant and always a great satisfaction to his associates. His worth was recognized by cheerful preferment to positions of the highest honor. He was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason in Eddy Lodge, No. 41, in Hull, Province of Quebec, November, 1880, and became affiliated with Athelstan Lodge in April, 1882. He served as Worshipful Master of the latter body in the years 1891 and 1892; as Most Excellent High Priest of Eureka Chapter in 1891; as Eminent Commander of Worcester County Commandery in 1902. He presided over Worcester Lodge of Perfection in 1905 and 1906, and was the Most Wise Master of Lawrence Chapter of Rose Croix in 1914. He served Goddard Council in official capacity for many years, and was Treasurer of the Lodge of Perfection from 1907 until the time of his death.

These duties, with many others in various bodies, were invariably performed with characteristic dignity and complete satisfaction. That his worth outside his own field of activities was appreciated is perhaps best proved by his serving the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Massachusetts as District Deputy Grand Master of the Eighteenth Masonic District in 1900 and 1901, and his election to and reception of the honorary degree of Sovereign Grand Inspector-General, 33°, in the Supreme Council in the year 1913. All these honors were richly deserved and thoroughly appreciated by all his associates.

In the Worcester Masonic Charity and Educational Association he was an indefatigable worker. He became a representative of the Association in 1899 and for more than seventeen years was an ardent worker and supporter wherever opportunity was presented. He was one of its Trustees for a long time and served as its Treasurer for eight years.

This office was filled during very trying and exacting years, always with thorough satisfaction. He was also a Trustee of the Masonic fraternity of Worcester for a long time.

His work is finished. His loss is irreparable. No greater proof of his appreciation was needed than the great number who attended his funeral to pay him the final honors.

All hearts grew warmer in the presence
Of one who, seeking not his own,
Gave freely for the love of giving,
Nor reaped for self the harvest sown.

Francis A. Harrington, 33°,
Charles E. Davis, 33°,
William W. Johnson, 32°,
Committee on Memorial.

BURTON, RONALD EUGENE 1936-2003

RonBurton.jpg

RAISING, FEBRUARY 1984

From TROWEL, April 1984, Page 21:

Brother Ronald Eugene Burton of Framingham, Mass., together with Bro. Samuel Snyder of West Roxbury, Mass., was Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason on February 21,1984, in the presence of a large turnout at Rabboni Lodge, Milton, Mass.

Brother Snyder is retired from business and Brother Burton is a noted sports figure on the national scene, where he formerly played on the Patriots football team in the Foxboro stadium. Coupled with the Fraternal visit of the D. D. G. M. of the Dorchester 4th Masonic District, R.W. Ernest Sofis, leading a suite of past and presiding Masonic dignitaries, seating space was at a premium.

A team from the Board of Governors of the Shriners Burns Institute of Boston assisted in the ceremony, honoring Brother Burton for his great service to our children at the hospital. Bro. Ron played on national TV in one of the famous East-West Shrine teams in the San Francisco area.

BurtonRaising1984.jpg

The photo shows, left to right: Wor. Frank W. Pagano, Jr., Master; Bro. Burton; R.W. Bro. Sofis, D. D. G. M.; Bro. Samuel Snyder; and Noble and R. W. Richard F. Norris, Potentate of Aleppo Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S., Wilmington, Mass., and Past D. D. G. M. of the Arlington 6th Masonic District.

AWARD, FALL 1990

From TROWEL, Fall 1990, Page 15:

RonBurton1990.jpg

Wor. Ronald E. Burton. Worshipful Master of Rabboni Lodge, Milton, in 1987-88, has been named for induction into the National Football Foundation's College Hall of Fame. He will be honored, along with former New England Patriots quarterback Jim Piunkett, at a three-day collegiate football event on Dec. 4th at New York City's Waldorf Astoria Hotel.

All-Ohio and All-American high school football star in 1954-55, Bro. Burton received no less than 47 scholarship offers from colleges in the nation. A 1960 graduate of Northwestern University, he has been inducted into that school's Hall of Fame. Selected for All-American honors in 1959. he played in the Shrine East-West Game, accepting the invitation at the behest of Northwestern coach Ara Parsegian, who later coached at Notre Dame.

In 1967. Burton was selected one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Year by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. Two years later he joined ABC-TV sports commentators team for the college football game of the week. A strong supporter of the Aleppo Temple's annual Shriners High School All-Star football game, he has always programmed his time to speak to the North and South teams and the coaches and families of the chosen players. He is actively involved with the Boy Scouts of America and the Salvation Army.

A 32nd Degree Mason and a Shriner, he is an executive consultant for public relations with the John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Co. He resides in Framingham with his wife Jo Ann and their five children.

MEMORIAL, SPRING 2005

TROWEL, 2004

From TROWEL, Winter/Spring 2005, Page 32:

Judging from today’s mass media coverage of sporting events — especially football — it’s difficult to remember that New England did not have its own professional football team until 1960. In that year, the Boston Patriots team was established, later to be renamed the New England Patriots. It was indeed fortunate that the Patriots’ first draft pick in their initial season was a young man named Ron Burton.

Ronald Eugene Burton was born on July 25, 1936 in Springfield, Ohio. His early years were not easy, and his mother died when he was only twelve years old. He was taken in by his grandmother, who was eking out a subsistence level existence as a Pentecostal minister. Her abiding faith and trust in the Lord stayed with and influenced young Ron for the rest of his days.

In high school Ron soon established himself as one of the school’s outstanding football players, and was named an All Ohio and All American High School Football Star in 1954 and 1955. He received scholarship offers from 47 colleges around the country. Ron selected Northwestern, a Methodist University in Chicago, where he became one of that university’s all-time football greats. Twice named NCAA Back of the Year, he also sang regularly in the chapel choir; he graduated in 1960 with a Bachelor of Science degree. All of his children would eventually graduate from Northwestern as well.

Nineteen-sixty was also the year Ron Burton played in the Shrine East-West Game. In 1990 he would be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. As soon as he graduated, he was drafted by the Patriots, and was a running back for the next six years, scoring 19 touchdowns in 69 games.

During this time, Burton married JoAnn Jourdan. They had four sons: Stephen, a sports anchorman; Phil, a reporter; Ron, Jr., a member of the Red Sox staff; and Paul, a minister; their only daughter, Elizabeth, is a children's’ author.

While still with the Patriots, Ron was already a strong advocate of helping kids, especially those from the inner city. Motivation became a focus of his life: he strove to move people to become better. After retiring from football in 1966 at age 30, Ron was nominated by the Greater Boston Junior Chamber of Commerce as one of the ten outstanding young men of the year. He joined the ABC-TV sports commentators team for the college football game of the week. After being a candidate for Massachusetts Secretary of State, Ron became a member of the state Republican Finance Committee, and was an alternate at their national convention. His motivational activities also paid off in the business world. He joined the John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company sales force, becoming a million dollar producer and a member of the President’s Honor Club.

Burton applied himself to learning all he could about the business. He received the prestigious designation of Chartered Life Underwriter in 1993. This required the passing of a series of ten rigorous college-level courses on the intricacies of the life insurance business. Ron also continued his charitable and motivational activities. In 1985 he bought 305 acres of land in Hubbardston, with the intention of turning it into a summer camp for underprivileged boys and girls, mostly from the inner cities. Ron knew this kind of life first hand, and was determined to help in any way he could. The Ron Burton Training Village not only houses and feeds 125 eleven to seventeen-year-olds for five weeks each summer, but also teaches love and respect through sports, physical fitness, and basic education. In the past ten years, more than 1,500 children have benefited at this remarkable camp.

Ron Burton’s high ideals and aspirations could not have been better suited to those found in Masonry, and he petitioned Rabboni Lodge in Milton for the Degrees, receiving his Master Mason Degree on February 21, 1984. He received his 32nd Degree in Scottish Rite, and joined Aleppo Shrine that same year.

In 1987 Bro. Burton became Worshipful Master of Rabboni Lodge. He was created a 33rd Degree Honorary Member of the Supreme Council of Scottish Rite in 1994. His continuing involvement in inspirational and charitable activities were recognized on June 20, 2000, when he was awarded the Joseph Warren Medal by the Grand Lodge.

In 1999, at the age of 63, Ron Burton was diagnosed with bone cancer, and told that he had at best three years to live. He was determined to make the most of what time he had left, and continued his activities. In 2001, the Valley of Boston honored him by naming its April Scottish Rite class the Illustrious Ronald E. Burton, 33º Class, and including a special Sports Luncheon in the day’s festivities. Many sports and media notables, as well as Masons paid tribute to Burton — the athlete, the man, and the Mason.

In April of 2002, Ron was able to attend a special one-day class of his Lodge at the Grand Lodge building in Boston. All four of his sons were initiated, passed, and raised with Grand Master Donald G. Hicks, Jr. present.

Ron Burton died on September 13, 2003, four years after his diagnosis. He had been helping others for over 40 years, and never ceased those efforts. In addition to his camp, he was involved with the Boy Scouts of America, Catholic Charities, the Jimmy Fund, Salvation Army, the Shrine Burns Institute, and other philanthropic organizations. He had often spoken at Aleppo Temple’s annual North-South High School All-Star football game dinner, among many other services he rendered to youth. It is impossible to fully assess the positive impact he had on so many young people; his good works will be sorely missed, and Wor. Ron Burton will long be remembered as a truly dedicated man and Mason.

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 2004

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 2004, Page 33:

Ill. Ronald Eugene Burton, 33°
Born July 25, 1936, in Springfield, Ohio
Died September 13, 2003

Illustrious Brother Burton was educated in the Springfield public schools and attended Northwestern University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1960. An outstanding football player, he was a first round pick of the Boston Patriots, where he played as a running back for six years. He joined John Hancock Life Insurance Company where he was a million dollar producer and rose to the position of Executive Consultant for Community Relations. He also served as the Executive Director of the Ron Burton Training Village in Hubbardston, Massachusetts.

Married to JoAnn Louise Jourdain, they had four sons and one daughter. All four sons are now Masons. He served as a deacon in his church and was involved in many civic and community affairs. A member and Past Master of Rabboni Lodge in Milton, he was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, Honorary Member of the Supreme Council on September 27, 1994, in Cleveland, Ohio. He was also an active mem­ber of Aleppo Shrine, where he worked with the All Star football game.

BUSH, DONALD WILLIAM 1922-1997

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1998

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1998, Page A-iv:

Ill:. Donald William Bush, 33°
Born in Woronoco, Massachusetts, December 15, 1922
Died in Lake Placid, Florida, September 8, 1997

Illustrious Donald William Bush, 33°, was the son of George and Beatrice Bush. He grew up in Woronoco, attended Woronoco Public Schools and graduated from Westfield High School. He, also, graduated from a Business School in New York with a degree in Business Management. He was employed for over forty years by Strathmore Paper Company and became Superintendent of the Number 1 and Number 2 Mills in Woronoco, retiring in 1985. He served in the Navy during World War II aboard the Cruiser USS Baltimore as a gunner's mate earning 11 Battle Stars and was a charter member of General Knox Post #665, VFW, in Russell.

On March 20, 1943, he married Alexandra "Alice" Kiesznowski, who survives him in Lake Placid, Florida. They had four children - all girls. He was a member of the Church of the Atonement in Westfield and, later, transferred membership to St. Francis of Assisi in Lake Placid, Florida. He also served as a Trustee for the American Red Cross, YMCA, Woronoco Savings Bank and Noble Hospital - all in Westfield. He served the Town of Russell as a Fire Commissioner, member of the Finance Committee and as Town Moderator.

Illustrious Brother Bush was raised a Master Mason in Huntington Lodge on November 12, 1946, and served as Master in 1957. He was appointed District Deputy Grand Master for the Springfield 18th Masonic District and served in that capacity from December 1965 to December 1967. He completed the degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Valley of Springfield on April 27, 1961, and served as Thrice Potent Master of Evening Star Lodge of Perfection in 1971-1972 and as Commander-in-Chief of Connecticut Valley Consistory in 1976-1977. Illustrious Brother Bush was, also, a member of Melha Temple Shrine, A.A.O.N.M.S., in Springfield. On September 24, 1975, he was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, at Boston.

Funeral services were held at the Church of the Atonement in Westfield on September 20, 1997, and interment was in Pine Hill Cemetery in Westfield.

BUSH, J(OHN). STANDISH FOSTER 1850-1922

JohnSFBush.jpg

  • MM 1886, Columbian
  • Grand Standard Bearer 1902, 1903

MEMORIAL

FROM NEW ENGLAND CRAFTSMAN, 1922

From New England Craftsman, Vol. XVIII, No. 1, October 1922, Page 27:

Dr. J. Foster Bush, who died Oct. 20 at Hartford, Conn., was formerly of Boston, whera he was identified with hospital practice. Dr. Bush was born in Burlington, Vt., June 4, 1850, the son of Solon W. and Theoda Foster Bush. He attended the Burlington schools and was graduated from the Roxbury Latin School, his parents having removed to Boston when he was fourteen years of aga. He took special courses at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Cornell University and then entered the Harvard Medical School, where he received his M. D. in 1874.

In 1883 Dr. Bush was appointed house surgeon in the Massachusetts General Hospital. He was for many years surgeon to the Boston Dispensary. He was one of the councillors of the Massachusetts Medical Society. Dr. Bush was prominent in Masonic circles. He was a member of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts and was a past commander of St. Bernard Commandery, K. T. He was first commander of the Boston Council, American Legion of Honor, and was later grand treasurer and supreme representative of the Grand Council of the Legion of Honor of Massachusetts. On June 4, 1875, Dr. Bush was married to Miss Josephine M. Nason. They had two children, Ella A. and Theodore F. Bush.

His funeral, which was largely attended, was held at the Chapel at Forest Hills Cemetery at 2.30 p. m. Tuesday, October 24.

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1923

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ, 1923, Page 49:

Illustrious Brother John Standish Foster Bush was horn in Burlington, Vt., June 4, 1850, a son of Rev. Solon W. Bush, who was at one time editor of the Christian Register, a well-known New England Unitarian Church paper.

Brother Bush attended the Roxbury Latin School, studied at Cornell University, Ithaca, N. Y., and graduated from the Harvard Medical School with the degree of M.D. in 1874. He was a House Surgeon at the Massachusetts General Hospital in 1873-1874, and was connected with the Children’s Mission from 1874 until he retired from practice. He was also for some years on the surgical staff of the Boston Dispensary. He was a frequent contributor to various medical publications.

Brother Bush commenced the general practice of medicine at 651 Boylston Street, opposite the Public Library, in 1874, where he continued until his retirement. He was eminently successful and enjoyed a large and lucrative practice. It was said of him that his brusque but kindly manner endeared him to his patients and made his presence doubly welcome and helpful in the sick room.

Brother Bush was married in 1875 to Josephine M. Nason, who passed away some two or three years ago. There were two daughters, Ella A. and Theodosia F., both of whom survive him.On account of failing health Brother Bush retired from active practice some ten or more years ago, and since then had spent most of his time at various health re-sorts.

Among the clubs and societies of which he was a member are the American and Massachusetts Medical Societies, Unitarian Club, Union Boat Club, Boston Athletic Association, St. Botolph, University and Algonquin Clubs.

Brother Bush was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason in Columbian Lodge January 7, 1886, and was Worshipful Master in 1895 and 1896. He received the degrees in St. Paul’s Royal Arch Chapter, Boston Council Royal and Select Masters, and the Boston Scottish Rite Bodies in 1887, the Orders of Knighthood in St. Bernard Commandery, Boston, in 1888. He was Eminent Commander of St. Bernard in 1895 and 1896. He was at one time Captain of the Guard in Massachusetts Consistory, and for one year was Grand Sword Bearer in the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts. He was elected to and received the thirty-third degree in September, 1897.

Brother Bush passed away at Hartford, Conn., October 20, 1922, and was buried at Forest Hills Cemetery, Boston.Thus is sketched very briefly the fraternal and professional record of our Brother, who was too modest in his estimate of his own success and high achievements to desire or expect either fulsome praise or extended eulogy among his brethren and friends, contented alone that his life and example should speak for themselves to those who come after him.

“He gave his honors to the world again,
His blessed part to Heaven, and slept in peace.
So may he rest; his faults lie gently on him.”

Dana J. Flanders,
Edwin B. Holmes,
Almon B. Cilley,
Committee.

BUTLER, J(OHN). ALBERT 1857-1908

From New England Craftsman, Vol. III, No. 6, March 1908, Page 235:

Bro. J. Albert Butler, one of the best-known hotel men of Boston, died February 6. Mr. Butler was a native of Chelsea, where he was born 51 years ago. Bro. Butler was a member of Winslow Lewis Lodge of Masons.

BUTLER, W(ARREN) KEITH 1922-2010

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 2011, Page 22:

Ill. Warren Keith Butler, 33°
Born in Salem, Massachusetts on October 13, 1922.
Died on July 24, 2010.

Ill. W. Keith Butler, 33° was the son of Irvin and Helen (Batchelder) Butler. He graduated from Salem High School and attended Tufts University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1944. He continued his education at Boston University, where he earned a Masters Degree in 1947. He was employed as the Assistant to the Executive Secretary at the Supreme Council from 1974 to 1980. He also worked at the Keystone Company of Boston as a mutual fund underwriter. He served in the United States Naval Reserve from 1943 to 1946, attaining the rank of lieutenant.

On October 3, 1953, at Danvers, Massachusetts, he was united in marriage to Joan E. Cook.

He was a member of the Maple Street Congregational Church in Danvers, where he served on several church councils. Civically, he served as president of the Danvers Historical Society; member of the Mayflower Society, the Essex Institute, and the Peabody Museum of Salem.

Ill. Bro. Butler was raised a Master Mason in Essex Lodge A.F.& A.M., Salem, Massachusetts on March 4, 1947, and served as Master in 1956. He held honorary memberships in Golden Fleece Lodge, Lynn, Massachusetts; Bethlehem Lodge, Lynn, Massachusetts; and New Meadows Lodge, Topsfield, Massachusetts, A.F. & A.M. He served the Grand Lodge as Senior Grand Deacon, District Deputy Grand Master, Grand Lecturer, and Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales.

He was exalted in Washington Chapter, R.A.M., Salem on June 20, 1950; greeted in Salem Council R. & S.M. on May 26, 1965; and knighted in St. Bernard Commandery No. 12, KT., Boston, on November 13, 1974. He completed the 4th through the 18th degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Valley of Salem and served as Sovereign Prince of Jubilee Council, Princes of Jerusalem. He completed the consistorial degrees in the Valley of Boston on November 17, 1956 and was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33° Honorary Member of the Supreme Council on September 29, 1976, at Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was a member of the Past Masters Association; Past District Deputy Grand Masters Association of Massachusetts; and served as president of Massachusetts Court, Demolay Legion of Honor from 1968 to 1970.

BUTLER, WILLIAM ARTHUR 1859-1910

From Proceedings, Page 1910-137:

HON. WILLIAM ARTHUR BUTLER was born in Byfield, Feb. 4, 1859, and died in Georgetown, 26, 1910. He attended the common schools of his and adopted towns, and, after studying law, was to the Essex Bar in 1882. He served as Representative in the Legislature of 1888, and as Senator in 1900 and 1902, and held other civil offices of responsibility. He was clerk of the town of Georgetown five years.

Butler received the Masonic degrees in Charles C. Dame Lodge, of Georgetown, in 1887 and 1888; was Junior Warden in 1890 and 1891, Senior Warden in 1892 and 1893. and Master in 1894 and 1895. He served as District Deputy Grand Master of the Ninth Masonic District in 1901 and 1902. He was exalted. in King Cyrus Chapter of Newburyport, March 8, 1892, and became a member the same day. He was knighted in Newburyport Commandery, K.T., June 16, 1892, and was Commander in 1903 and 1904.

Brother Butler was an upright citizen, a true friend and a worthy Brother. He had many genial qualities, and a host of friends throughout this State will lament his passing away in the prime of life.

BUTLER, WILLIAM FREDERICK 1840-1906

From New England Craftsman, Vol. I, No. 6, March 1906, Page 219:

Brother William F. Butler, a Past Master of Joseph Warren Lodge of Boston, at his home in Dorchester, February 10th. Brother Butler retired from business several years ago. He was a member of Joseph Warren Lodge, St. Andrew's R. A. Chapter, Boston Council R. S. Masters and Boston Commandery K. T.

BUTTERFIELD, JACK ARLINGTON 1919-2011

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 2011, Page 23:

Ill. Jack Arlington Butterfield, 33°
Born in Arlington Beach, Saskatchewan, Canada on August 1, 1919.
Died on January 16, 2011.

Ill. Jack Arlington Butterfield, 33° was the son of Fred and Mary (Shore) Butterfield. He graduated from the University of Alberta in 1941, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture. After playing hockey at the amateur level in western Canada, a seri­ous injury terminated his playing years. He began his working career as a general manager for the Springfield Indians hockey team in Springfield, Massachusetts. He subsequently affiliated with the American Hockey League, serving for 28 years. He was President and Chairman of the Board of Governors at the time of retirement. He served in the Royal Canadian Air Force as a flying officer. He became a naturalized citizen on June 3, 1968.

In 1946, he married Margaret Douglas and from this union was born a daughter, Jacqueline, who survives. On August 1, 1949, he was united in marriage to Nina Marie Combs and from this union were born three sons, Robert, Charles, and David. He was prede­ceased by his son, David.

He was a member of Mittineague Congregational Church in West Springfield, where he served on the church council and church search committee. Civically, he was the recipient of numerous hock­ey awards, including the Hockey Hall of Fame. In the community, he served as vice chairman for the March of Dimes.

Ill. Bro. Butterfield was raised a Master Mason in Indian Orchard Lodge, A.F.& A.M. in March of 1963. He was exalted in Kingsway Chapter, R.A.M. in 1981, and knighted in Springfield Commandery KT. in 1991. He completed the degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Valley of Springfield and was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33° Honorary Member of the Supreme Council on September 26, 2000 at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

He was active in Melha Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S., serving as Potentate in 1982; vice chairman of the Shrine Circus; and Chairman of the Board of Governors for the Shrine Hospital. He also was a member of the Royal Order of Jesters.

BUTTRICK, SAMUEL BARTLETT 1801-1887

  • MM 1827, WM 1847, Essex

From Liberal Freemason, Vol. XI, No. 9, December 1887, Page 283:

Died Friday evening, November 11th, after an illness of several days, one of the oldest Masons of Essex Lodge, Salem, Mass. Samuel Bartlett Buttrick, son of Willard and Mary (Bartlett) Buttrick, born in Gorham, Maine, October 16th, 1801, of old Puritan stock that dates back to 1640, and whose ancestors took active parts in the early Indian Wars, and in the War of the Revolution. He came to Salem in October, 1823. Married on the 24th of January, 1833, Anne Ashby Merritt. By occupation trader, afterwards bookkeeper in the Commercial Bank, and in other places bookkeeper until late in life, being a notary at the time of his death.

He was a deacon in the First Congregational Society of Salem for thirty years. A man of sterling integrity and worth. He was admitted to Essex Lodge of Masons, in Salem, Mass., February 5th, 1828, was Master in 1847, having held minor offices during the entire time. He was exalted in Washington Royal Arch Chapter June 30th, 1828, was Secretary during the years 1832, 1833 and 1834, High Priest in 1852, and again Secretary in 1854. He received the degrees in Salem Council of Royal and Select Masters, May 23d, 1834. He was Master of Salem Council thirty years. In the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite he had received the Fourteenth Degree, being initiated March 14th, 1864. A man of many, of whom it could be well said, that he feared God and kept His Commandments.

From Proceedings, Page 1887-130:

Still another loss to the Masonic Fraternity comes in the death of Bro. Samuel Bartlett Buttrick, who, for over sixty years, was an earnest, working member of our Order. He was born in Gorham, Me., in 1801, but in 1823 he removed to Salem, Mass., where the remainder of his life of eighty-six years was spent, and where he was honored by his friends and the community. He was one of the signers of the original Declaration made by the Masons of Salem during the dark days of 1829 and 1830.

The debt of gratitude we owe to those who were faithful, in the time of trouble does not grow less with the passing years. Let us who profit by their struggles honor their memory.

BUXTON, FRANK ELIJAH 1867-1939

FrankBuxton.jpg

MEMORIAL

FROM COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION, 1939

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 1939, Page 55:

Illustrious Frank Elijah Buxton passed into the Great Beyond on January 11, 1939, after a short illness.

He was born in Worcester, Massachusetts, June 21, 1867, the son of Dr. Humphrey Woods Buxton and Elizabeth Durgin Buxton. He was educated in the public schools of that city. Soon after leaving school he entered the employ of the then North End Savings Bank of Boston (afterwards known as the Massachusetts Savings Bank). He was elected its Treasurer in 1899 and President in 1925 which position he held at the time of his death.

In 1889 he married Stella Henrietta Johnson who survives him, together with their two children.

He was Past Regent of the Royal Arcanum, and a member of the Algonquin Club, the Beacon Society, the American, Massachusetts, and Boston Bankers’ Associations, and the Boston Athenaeum. He was a Vestryman of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Wellesley.

His Masonic career was most active, and few have rendered greater service to the Fraternity. He was raised in Mt. Lebanon Lodge, Boston, January 13, 1896, and became its Master during 1910-11. Soon after he became a member of the Board of Trustees in which capacity he served the lodge until his death. He was Grand Sword Bearer for Most Worshipful Everett C. Benton in 1912-13 and was the District Representative for the Board of Masonic Relief for the First Boston District for many years. He was the Master, Under Dispensation, of Wellesley Lodge and was also a charter and Honorary member of Shawmut Lodge. On the occasion of the twenty-fifth anniversary of Wellesley Lodge in 1937 he was decorated with the Distinguished Service Medal by M. W. Claude L. Allen because of his loyal and important services to Freemasonry.

He was a member of St. Andrew's R. A. Chapter; Boston Council, R. & S. Masters, and St. Bernard Commandery, K. T. He was Eminent Commander of his Commandery in 1914.

He was a member of the Boston Scottish Rite bodies and Most Wise Master of Mt. Olivet Chapter, Rose Croix, 1916-19. He was Treasurer and Hospitaler for the four bodies as well as for Massachusetts Council of Deliberation, at the time of his decease.

He was coronetted an Honorary member of the Supreme Council Thirty-third Degree of the A. A. S. R., N. M. J., in 1918.N

o one man can fill the vacancy loft by the passing of our esteem brother. He gave freely to the fraternity of his rare talents as an executive and financier. His wise counsel in financial affairs was never questioned, and the Masonic bodies that were privileged to enjoy his services have prospered under his expert guidance.

As Hospitaler in the Scottish Rite and member of the Board of Masonic Relief, ho showed his little known but ever present generosity to his dis�tressed brethren. No worthy ease was ever refused assistance and many who through no fault of their own have been obliged to look for aid from the fraternity have reason to call his name Blessed.

“And once again
Passeth a soul from this our earthly ken,
Where deeds remain ’till time shall be no more.”

Joseph T. Paul, 33°,
T. Frederick Brunton, 33°,
Walter L. McCammon, 32°,
Committee.

BYAM, GEORGE ALAN 1919-2010

From Proceedings of the Massachusetts Council of Deliberation AASR NMJ 2011, Page 22:

Ill. George Alan Byam, 33°
Born in Lowell, Massachusetts, on November 12, 1919.
Died on January 13, 2010.

Ill. George Alan Byam, 33° was the son of Arnold Adams and Amelia (Marinel) Byam. He was educated in Lowell High School and attended Cushing Academy. He graduated from Duke Uni­versity, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1942. He was employed as president and treasurer for the Fluffy Diaper Service Inc. He also was a professional baseball player. He served in the United States Army Infantry as a sergeant from 1942 to 1946.

On February 2, 1946, at Lowell, Massachusetts, he was united in marriage to Ruth Estabrook Jenkins. From this union were born two daughters, Nancy and Martha. He was a member of St. Anne's Episcopal Church, where he served as vestryman for six years. Civically, he served as director for the First Federal Savings and Loan Association; director of the Lowell YMCA; and corporator for the Lowell Five Cent Savings Bank. He was a member of the Vesper Country Club house commit­tee and the Lexington Indoor Tennis Club.

Ill:. Brother Byam was raised a Master Mason in William North Lodge, A.F. & A.M. in Lowell on May 13, 1953. He completed the degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Valley of Lowell on December 12, 1953 and the consistorial degrees in the Valley of Boston on April 22, 1955. He was created a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33° Honorary Member of the Supreme Council on September 27, 1967, at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.


BYAM, RAYMOND STRATTON 1839-1906

From New England Craftsman, Vol. II, No. 5, February 1907, Page 196:

Brother Raymond S. Byam, the veteran expressman of Canton, Mass., is dead. He was born in Chelmsford 67 years ago but had lived in Canton 40 years. He was a war veteran and had been a selectman of his town. He was a member of the New England Expressman's League, of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company, a member of Blue Hill Lodge A. F. & A. M. of Canton, of Mt. Zion Royal Arch Chapter of Stoughton and of Joseph Warren Commandery, Knights Templar, of Roxbury.


Distinguished Brothers