Pequossette

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PEQUOSSETTE LODGE

Location: Watertown

Chartered By: John T. Heard

Charter Date: 12/09/1857 VI-139

Precedence Date: 12/15/1856

Current Status: Active

PAST MASTERS

  • William Webster, 1857, 1858
  • Robert I. Davis, 1859, 1860
  • William J. Underwood, 1861
  • Thomas N. Hopper, 1862, 1863
  • Joseph Sanger, Jr., 1864
  • John B. Goodrich, 1865
  • William H. Clark, 1866
  • Charles W. Stone, 1867, 1868
  • Robert L. Davis, 1869, 1870
  • Charles T. Perkins, 1871
  • Charles Brigham, 1872, 1873
  • Samuel F. Stearns, 1874, 1875
  • Robert F. Horne, 1876, 1877
  • Charles H. Bradlee, 1878
  • Benjamin H. Dow, 1879, 1880
  • Isaac Harrington, 1881, 1882
  • George H. Taleton, 1883, 1884
  • George G. Davidson, 1885
  • Alberto F. Haynes, 1886, 1887
  • Herbert H. Sawyer, 1888, 1889; SN
  • Fred E. Crichett, 1890, 1891
  • B. Wesley Brown, 1892, 1893
  • Charles F. Bustin, 1894, 1895
  • John M. Johnson, 1896, 1897
  • George S. Parker, 1898, 1899; SN
  • S. Eugene Proctor, 1900, 1901
  • Edward K. McNutt, 1902, 1903
  • Joseph W. Gerry, 1904, 1905
  • William D. Swan, 1906, 1907
  • Claude H. Clark, 1908, 1909
  • Charles A. York, 1910
  • John A. Bridges, 1911
  • Guy H. Nason, 1912
  • George H. Dale, 1913; N
  • Harry C. Edmunds, 1914
  • Wesley E. Monk, 1915
  • Charles W. Henderson, Jr., 1916
  • Willie E. Norcross, 1917
  • Hugh Goddard, 1918
  • A. Lester Shipton, 1919
  • Eban S. Files, 1920
  • Glynne G. Buell, 1921
  • William W. Norcross, Jr., 1922
  • Charles A. Heughins, 1923
  • William F. Robbins, 1924
  • Harry W. Twigg, 1925
  • John P. Hatch, 1926
  • Arthur R. Dunbar, 1927
  • Clarence L. Frounfelker, 1928; Mem
  • William A. MacChlerie, 1929
  • George A. Parsons, 1930
  • Elroy B. Edson, 1931
  • Winton L. Buddington, 1932
  • Herbert J. Scheirer, 1933
  • Herbert W. Irish, 1934
  • Frederick O. Safford, 1935
  • Herbert M. Davis, 1936; N
  • George B. Wellman, 1937
  • Ralph H. Hutchins, 1938
  • Ralph J. Blake, 1939
  • Carleton F. Buddington, 1940
  • Heman A. Howard, 1941
  • Andrew C. Nevins, 1942
  • Sibley A. Lenfest, 1943
  • Walter C. Power, 1944
  • Garfield D. Alger, 1945
  • Robert N. Alger, 1946; N
  • Walter Guy, 1947
  • Harrison M. Blake, 1948
  • Wayne E. Eaton, 1949
  • Clarence E. Northrup, 1950
  • Roy E. Wallace, 1951
  • Franklin C. Bronson, 1952
  • Stewart R. Stoney, 1953
  • William W. Norcross, 1954
  • Donald R. Ross, 1955
  • Arthur L. Rockwell, 1956
  • William T. VonSchoppe, 1957
  • Richard A. Tuttle, 1958
  • Frank D. Hursh, 1959
  • Christopher S. Hursh, II, 1960
  • George A. Hoben, 1961
  • Herbert M. Davis, Jr., 1962; SN
  • Ralph B. Nelson, Jr., 1963
  • Thomas W. Phipps, 1964
  • Arvid J. Ranstrom, 1965
  • Winston J. Ayotte, 1966
  • Richard E. Norcross, 1967
  • Ralph H. Hutchins, Jr., 1968
  • Robert J. Alger, 1969
  • Alexander T. Guy, 1970
  • Edward P. Nesky, 1971
  • Robert M. Blake, 1972 Gr Treasurer
  • David W. Smith, 1973
  • Arthur C. Allen, 1974, 1975
  • Noel B. Carmichael, 1976
  • George K. Onanian, 1977
  • Herbert A. Perkins, 1978
  • Norman E. Kenney, 1979
  • Eugene Bianchi, 1980
  • David W. Power, 1981
  • Bruce Hutchings, 1982, 1983
  • Carl R. Queander, 1984
  • Aram A. Koumjian, 1985
  • Douglass G. Rockwell, 1986
  • Kenneth R. Blake, 1987, 1988 PDDGM
  • Kenneth R. Austin, 1989, 1994, 1997
  • Gerald C. Wentworth, 1990, 1992, 1995
  • David H. Dorian, 1991
  • Paul A. S. Bushey, 1993, 1996 PDDGM
  • Lloyd C. Wentzell, Jr., 1997
  • Lloyd C. Wentzell, Sr., 1998, 1999
  • Nicholas S. Papadinis, 2000-2003
  • John K. Gibbons, 2004, 2005
  • Michael P. Monks, 2006, 2007
  • Sardar Jajan, 2008, 2009
  • James Giragosian, 2010-2012; DDGM

REFERENCES IN GRAND LODGE PROCEEDINGS

  • Petition for Dispensation: 1857 not in Proceedings, dated 12/15/1856
  • Petition for Charter: 1857

ANNIVERSARIES

  • 1908 (50th Anniversary; 12/12/1907)
  • 1957 (Centenary)
  • 1982 (125th Anniversary)
  • 2007 (150th Anniversary)

VISITS BY GRAND MASTER

BY-LAW CHANGES

1870 1872 1877 1879 1881 1886 1890 1891 1895 1896 1897 1898 1901 1902 1903 1906 1907 1913 1918 1919 1920 1921 1925 1927 1933 1934 1935 1937 1944 1950 1951 1952 1954 1956 1957 1958 1964 1966 1968 1979 1983 1985 1987 2006

HISTORY

  • 1957 (Centenary History, 1957-233; see below)
  • 1982 (125th Anniversary History, 1982-281; see below)
  • 2007 (150th Anniversary History, 2007-57; see below)

CENTENARY HISTORY, DECEMBER 1957

From Proceedings, Page 1957-233:

By Brother Miles P. Robinson.

The founding of Pequossette Lodge being, of necessity, dependent on the existence of Masonry in Watertown, makes it seem only fitting and proper to preface a history of the Lodge by a short outline of the history of Masonry in New England.

Masonic records show that one Henry Price was appointed the first Provincial Grand Master of North America in April 1733 by Anthony Lord Viscount Montague, Grand Master of England.

Henry Price, for whom a Lodge in Charlestown is named, organized the Provincial Grand Lodge at The Bunch of Grapes Tavern in Boston on July 30, 1733.

The Grand Lodge, being thus organized under the designation of Saint John's Grand Lodge, proceeded to grant warrants for instituting regular Lodges in various parts of America; and from this Grand Lodge originated the first Lodges in Massachusetts and other states. Regular meetings were suspended when Boston became a garrison of the British in 1775, and no assemblies are recorded until after the re-establishment of peace. In the meantime, in consequence of a petition to the Grand Lodge of Scotland, a charter was granted on November 30, 1756, by Sholto Charles Douglas (Lord Aberdour), constituting a regular Lodge under the title Saint Andrew's Lodge, No. 82, to be holden in Boston. This establishment was discouraged and opposed by Saint John's Grand Lodge, who thought their privileges infringed by the Grand Lodge of Scotland.

The prosperous state of Saint Andrew's Lodge soon led its members to make great exertions for the establishment of an Ancient Grand Lodge in America. This was effected in 1769, when a commission was received from the Right Honorable and Most Worshipful George, Ear! of Dalhousie, Grand Master of Masons in Scotland, appointing the Right Worshipful Joseph Warren, Esq., Grand Master of Masons for New England. The meetings of this Grand Lodge were also suspended in 1775 for a brief period, due to the occupation of Boston.

The death of General Joseph Warren at the Battle of Bunker Hill left the Ancient Grand Lodge without a head, but on March 8, 1777, this Grand Lodge assumed its independence of Scotland by electing its own Grand Master, Joseph Webb. Finally, the officers and members of the two Grand Lodges met in conjunction on March 19, 1792, and installed the Most Worshipful John Cutler Grand Master; and resolved "That this Grand Lodge shall forever hereafter be known by the name of 'The Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Society of Free and Accepted Masons for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts'. "

As both Grand Lodges had instituted regular Lodges and had assigned numbers to them, there were numerous duplications of Lodge numbers and it is for this reason that the numbers were given up and no Massachusetts Lodges have numbers.

The first Masonic body organized in Watertown was Meridian Lodge, chartered on December 11, 1797, having a jurisdiction embracing the towns between Boston and Concord, and concerning the early history of which little is positively known. For reasons unknown, Meridian Lodge was moved to that part of Needham now known as Wellesley Hills, on June 10, 1811, and was again moved to Newton Lower Falls on September 13, 1843. In 1852, a number of Masons wishing to organize a Lodge in Natick, applied for dispensation in Framingham, but were denied. They then decided that perhaps Newton Lower Falls, being nearer than Framingham, would suit their purpose, and upon consultation with the officials, were told that Masonry in Meridian Lodge was at a low ebb and it was suggested that the Lodge be moved to Natick. This was done by permission of the Grand Lodge on March 10, 1852.

The original charter, all the furnishings, and practically all of the records of Meridian Lodge were destroyed by fire in July 1862, but in an old book of the Treasurer, under the date of 1798, the following names of members who were residents of Watertown appear, and it is presumed that they were charter members: William Bond, William Hunt, Daniel Jackson, John Meacham and Nathaniel Wales.

John Meacham was the first Secretary, and William Hunt was the first Treasurer. Nathaniel Wales became Treasurer in 1811.

Other Watertown residents whose names are recorded were Jonathan Robbins, who became Secretary on July 1, 1811, and Samuel Wellington, who became Treasurer in April 1801.

Gen. William Hull of Newton was the first Master of Meridian Lodge. He had served as Junior Warden in Washington Lodge, a traveling military Lodge which was chartered by Massachusetts Grand Lodge in 1779.

During the crisis precipitated by the Morgan episode in 1826, it was customary to vary the place of meeting from town to town; members drove to the appointed place, carrying guns with them to ward off possible danger from anti-Masonic sympathizers and spending the night in the town where the meetings were held. Many Lodges went underground and many suspended operation.

For many years Watertown had no Masonic Lodge until after William Webster came to the Town, as Principal of the High School, from Lexington. He had recently taken degrees and held minor offices in Hiram Lodge in West Cambridge (now Arlington). Hiram Lodge was referred to at that time as Pattee's Lodge because the meetings were held in a building owned by R. W. Jesse P. Pattee. The first floor was used as a bakery by Bro. Pattee while the second story was used as a lodge-room. This building was torn down in 1906.

William Webster came to Watertown in 1853, and in association with some of the prominent citizens, organized Pequossette Lodge. The name Pequossette was chosen for its distinctly local meaning, it being the Indian name for Watertown.

This group applied for and received a charter which reads in part as follows.

To all the Fraternity to whom these Presents shall come, The M.W. Grand Lodge of the most ancient and honorable fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons, for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, sends greeting:

Whereas, a petition has been presented to us by Wm. Webster, J. B. Keyes, D. H. Marshall, Asa Pratt, Henry Derby, Geo. Kent Hooper, Chas. Wilkins, A. Lewando, Warren J. Lindley, S. Hiscock, David B. Horn, Asa Stone, Daniel Marshall, Geo. Hill, Wm. Nichols, Isaac Watts, Alfred Howes, Leonard Whitney and Geo. A. Hicks, all Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, praying that they, with all others who shall hereafter join them, may be erected and constituted a regular Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, which Petition appearing to us as tending to the advancement of Masonry and the good of the Craft.

Know ye, Therefore, that we, the Grand Lodge, aforesaid
reposing special Trust and Confidence in the Prudence and Fidelity
of our Brethren above named, have constituted and appointed,
and by these Presents do constitute and appoint, them the said
Wm. Webster, J. D. Keyes, D. H. Marshall, Asa Pratt, Henry
Derby, Geo. Kent Hooper, Chas. Wilkins, A. Lewando, Warren J.
 Lindley, S. Hiscock, David B. Horn, Asa Stone, Daniel Marshall,
Geo. Hill, Wm. Nichols, Isaac Watts, Alfred Howes, Leonard
Whitney and George A. Hicks a regular Lodge of Free and Ac
cepted Masons, under the title and designation Pequossette Lodge,
 hereby giving and granting unto them and their successors, full
power and authority to convene Masons, within the Town of
Watertown, in the County of Middlesex, and Commonwealth 
aforesaid.

And we do hereby declare the Precedence of the said Lodge, in the Grand Lodge and elsewhere, to commence from the Fifteenth day of December, A.D. 1856, A.L. 5856.

In testimony Whereof, We, the Grand Master and Grand Wardens, by virtue of the power and authority to us committed, have hereunto set our Hands and caused the Seal of our Grand Lodge to be affixed, at Boston, this Ninth day of December, Anno Domini, One Thousand Eight Hundred and Fifty-Seven, and of Masonry, Five Thousand Light Hundred and Fifty-Seven.

by order of the Grand Lodge.
Bradford L. Wales, Senior Grand Warden
John B. Sheppard, Junior Grand Warden
Chas. W. Moore, Grand Secretary
John T. Heard, Grand Master

The preliminary, or organizational meeting was held in Constitution Hall, Dana Block, on December 17, 1856. (The Dana Block was situated on Main Street, part way between Merchant's Row and Church Street.) At the next meeting, January 13, 1857, the name of the meeting place was changed to Masonic Hall and the Grand Lodge dispensation was received and accepted. January 13, 1857, is therefore considered the date of Institution.

After working one year under dispensation, in accordance with Masonic Custom, Pequossette Lodge was duly constituted on December 23, 1857, with impressive ceremonies, by Grand Master John T. Heard.

About sixty members and guests were afterward provided with a "bountiful and luxurious" repast, as the record states, at the Spring Hotel, Samuel Batchelder, mine host, being a member of the Lodge.

Constitution of
PEQUOSSETTE LODGE,
and
Installation of Officers,
at
Watertown, 23d Dec, 5857.


BILL OF FARE.
BOILED.
Leg of Mutton, Caper Sauce. Turkey, Oyster Sauce.
ENTREES.
Escalloped Oysters, Stewed Oysters.
ROASTS.
Turkey, Mongrel Goose, Chicken.
GAME.
Black Duck, Canvassback Duck, Widgeon, Grouse, Partridge.
PASTRY.
Mince, Apple, Squash, Lemon, Cranberry Pies.
ICE CREAM.
Lemon, Vanilla.
DESSERTS.
Apples, Oranges, Walnuts, Almonds, Raisins, Grapes
Tea and Coffee.

The Original Officers and Members of Pequossette Lodge:

  • William Webster, Worshipful Master
  • Daniel H. Marshall, Senior Warden
  • Joseph B. Keyes, Junior Warden
  • Henry Derby, Treasurer
  • Warren J. Lindley, Secretary
  • Henry Vose, Chaplain
  • George Marsh, Marshal
  • Isaac Watts, Senior Deacon
  • George K. Hooper, Junior Deacon
  • Alfred Howes, Senior Steward
  • Adolph Lewando, Junior Steward
  • Asa Stone, Tyler
  • Asa Pratt
  • Daniel Howard
  • Charles Wilkins
  • Sewall Hiscock
  • J. H. Clarke
  • Robert Murray
  • David B. Horn
  • Daniel Marshall
  • Samuel Richardson
  • George Hill
  • William Nichols
  • Horace Clark
  • William B. Fowle, Jr.
  • Leonard Whitney

  • George Hicks

It may be noted that none of the original officers advanced to become Master.

The first applicant for degrees was Miles Pratt. His application, written on a plain sheet of paper, is still on file among the Pequossette records.

To the Worshipful Master Wardens and Brethren of Pequossette Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons

The petition of the Subscriber respectfully represents that long entertained a favorable opinion of your ancient Institution he is desirous if found worthy of being admitted a member thereof
His place of residence Watertown Mass Age 31 years
His Occupation Iron Founder

Miles Pratt
W. J. Lindley
Watertown Jany 13th 1857

Other applicants who received degrees during the first year were George W. Harrington, Luke Perkins, James Magee and Robert L. Davis. Mr. Davis is said to have contributed more than any other member to the success of the Lodge. He became Junior Warden in 1858 and was chosen as Master in 1860.

On October 5, 1870, new quarters for the Lodge in the Noyes Building were dedicated by the Grand Lodge Officers, the ceremonies being held in the Town Hall. The Noyes Building was located on the left side of Main Street a short way from the corner of Galen Street.

The following contributed to the furnishings: Bro. Leonard Whitney gave the marble clock which now hangs in the anteroom; Wor. Robert L. Davis, a set of Rods; Wor. John B. Goodrich donated the Master's Chair; Bro. Albert M. Davenport, a canopy (then used in the East); and Miles Pratt, a stove which was used for heating the Lodge.

Leonard Whitney was one of the founders of the Hollingsworth & Whitney Paper Company, which was located on Pleasant Street near the dam. Albert M. Davenport was a florist who had greenhouses in East Watertown.

Miles Pratt was one of the founders of the Walker & Pratt Mfg. Co. which was first located on part of what is now the Delta in Watertown Square but later moved to that part of East Watertown known as Union Market.

In 1887 several members of the Lodge formed a building association for the purpose of erecting a building which would include new accommodations. They could have purchased land on the corner of Spring and Main Streets for $15,500, and expected to erect a building with stores on the first floor and apartments for the Lodge on the second floor. The plan did not materialize as it was decided that it would be unwise to undertake such a large enterprise.

In 1888 Bro. Horace W. Otis, of Otis Brothers, who had grown up and prospered in Watertown, took up the subject of a new Masonic Hall with Wor. Alberto F. Haynes. His plan was to erect a building on the same site, provided that Pequossette Lodge would agree to lease the upper floor, if arranged to suit its purpose. On March 14, 1889, the plan was presented to the Lodge and Worshipful Master Herbert L. Sawyer, Wor. Charles W. Stone, and Bro. Freeman H. Edgcomb were appointed a committee to confer with the Owners with the result that, on June 13, 1889, the Committee, to which had subsequently been added Wor. Isaac Harrington and Bro. George F. Robinson, reported that the new quarters had been engaged at a rental of $750 per year; that other organizations, who jointly occupied the old building, also had agreed to move into the new, and that the sub-leases would make the cost to Pequossette Lodge but $300.

A Masonic Fair, held in the new quarters, netted the sum of $1500, which was used in furnishing the new apartments.

On November 14, 1907, Bro. Cornelius C. Hodges, who was Chaplain for thirty-two years, presented the Lodge with an illuminated letter "G" which was installed over the "Oriental Chair of Solomon." This was the first of three very fine gifts which were made by Bro. Hodges and presented to the Lodge; the second being a most unusual Ballot Box which was received on September 12, 1912.

On June 8, 1911, it was voted that a committee of ten be appointed to look into the matter of obtaining increased accommodations. It was at this time that the Otis Brothers were planning an addition to the existing building and on December 16, 1911, it was voted to lease the entire third floor for $1250 per year.

On January 21, 1914, a special communication was held to dedicate the new and enlarged apartments. The record of this meeting was the opening record in the fifth book of the Secretary's Records. The following notation appears on the fly-leaf:

  • Wor. A. F. Haynes, Architect
  • Bro. Wm. H. Iliffe, Contractor
  • Wor. S. Eugene Proctor, Hardware
  • Ward M. & H. W. Otis, Owners

Most Worshipful Melvin M. Johnson was present with his suite. The Architect of the building, Wor. A. F. Haynes, was escorted to the East, where he presented the working tools to the Grand Master, who in turn placed them in the hands of the proper Grand Officers and ordered them to inspect the building to see if it were properly constructed. The report was most favorable.

It was at this time that the illuminated emblems which were designed and assembled by Bro. C. C. Hodges were installed over the Master's chair in the East.

The amount of $3500 for furnishings was raised by a committee of which Bro. B. Fay McGlauflin was the Chairman.

On March 12, 1914, Bro. G. Fred Robinson, on behalf of a committee which also included Bros. A. Lester Shipton and Edward H. Coombs, moved that a pipe organ be purchased for the Lodge for a sum not to exceed $2500. The motion was carried unanimously. The organ was purchased and the money was raised by subscription.

On March 14, 1914, a beautiful silk American Flag was presented to the Lodge by Bro. George Chamberlain on behalf of twenty-six members whose names began with "George" in honor of our ancient Brother George Washington.

The opening of the new apartments stimulated so much interest in Masonry that nearly fifty applicants were received during the year 1914. Applications for degrees immediately after World War I were almost overwhelming. In 1918, a total of sixty-three members were added while during 1920, a total of ninety-four, most of whom received their degrees in Pequossette, were added to the membership. At one of the meetings held during 1920 it took over four hours to ballot on the candidates. Such an amount of business made it necessary to hold six meetings a month. These were held on two Thursdays and four Saturdays each month from January till June. It is remarkable that the Master, Wor. A. Lester Shipton, was able to attend to his duties, which included many visitations, without an automobile. Wor. W. W. Norcross, Jr., was Senior Deacon at the time and it is hardly comprehensible that he was able to furnish the required instruction to nearly ninety candidates during the short space of one year. In 1920, a group of sixty Brethren, all or mostly all of whom were members of Pequossette Lodge organized a second Lodge in Watertown, Victory Lodge. They felt that there was need for another Lodge because the entire time of the officers was of necessity confined to degree work and because no business other than balloting could be transacted at the regular communications. The first Master, the Right Worshipful George H. Dale, and all other officers were members of Pequossette Lodge.

The present membership of Victory Lodge is approximately 260.

Saturday night "Sodalities" first held on January 11, 1872, were social gatherings of the members when Masonic Brethren could either listen to or indulge in discussions or debates amid clouds of tobacco smoke, but these were given up when it became necessary to hold regular meetings on Saturdays, and have not been revived.

Until 1911 it was the usual custom for the officers to serve two years in each of the seven line offices, which meant that fourteen years had elapsed from the time one became Inside Sentinel until he retired as Past Master.

It is also of interest that up to the year 1869 the Lodge met on the Thursday evening on or after the full moon, in order to permit easier and safer traveling on the dark roads. Since 1869, however, the regular meetings have been held on the second Thursday of each month.

Membership appears to have been 254 in 1907 and increased to 725 by 1931. The present membership is approximately 620.

The celebration of the 25th anniversary of Pequossette Lodge was held on December 14,1882, the date of the regular communication. The Lodge was opened at 7:15 p.m. with sixty-five members and sixty guests present, and closed at 10 p.m. Afterwards an excellent supper was served by the Stewards and Tyler consisting of scalloped oysters, celery, ice-cream, and coffee; and it was midnight before the entire company had dispersed.

An historical sketch, published in the Watertown Enterprise in December 1882, states that the total membership up to that time numbered 284; the active membership then remaining was 130.

The 50th anniversary of the Lodge was celebrated in the form of Old Home Night for members only on December 12, 1907. A supper was served in the Town Hall at 6 o'clock with music furnished by the Pequossette Orchestra; Robert G. Home, violinist; Thomas Halpin, cornetist; and Ernest W. Day, pianist.

At 7:45 the Brethren proceeded to the lodge-room and the Lodge was opened in due form. Most Worshipful Grand Master John Albert Blake, accompanied by R. W. George P. Whitmore, was escorted into the Lodge by a committee composed of the Past Masters of Pequossette and pleasant greetings were exchanged.

Wor. Benjamin H. Dow, on behalf of the ladies of the members, presented the Lodge with the Square and Compasses and a gift of fifty dollars in gold mounted on blue velvet, which were gratefully received. The money was later used to purchase regalia for the officers.

A musical entertainment was furnished by the Pequossette Orchestra and Wor. Alberto F. Haynes gave a history of the Lodge from its beginning to the present time, which was very interesting and closely listened to. Bro. John G. Maynard of Washington, D. C, who was one of the oldest members, made the trip for the sole purpose of attending the celebration. There were 157 members and three visitors present.

The 75th anniversary of Pequossette Lodge was celebrated on Saturday, December 10, 1932, at the Commander Hotel in Cambridge, beginning with a reception at 5:30 p.m. and dinner at 6:15. Wor. Elroy B. Edson made an address of welcome and R. W. George H. Dale acted as Master of Ceremonies. The speaker of the evening was Most Worshipful Melvin M. Johnson.

Wor. S. Eugene Proctor gave a history of the Lodge which has been preserved in the Secretary's records, and Wor. William F. Robbins read a prophecy for the future, which is also to be found in the records.

Community singing was led by Wor. John P. Hach and was followed by an entertainment and dancing. There were approximately 250 who attended. Tickets were $2.00 each.

Over the years the Lodge has had numerous bequests to the Charity and Building Funds. These have ranged in amount from $100 to $25,000. We are sincerely grateful to the donors of these bequests, not for their intrinsic value alone, but for the manifestation of devotion to our organization and its principles.

A Building Fund was established on June 9, 1921, by an Article in the By-Laws which were adopted on that date. Within two years, various sites were being considered by the officers and members, and a Building Committee was appointed. This Committee, while not inactive, were apparently handicapped by a lack of sufficient funds, and on February 12, 1931, after a thorough discussion which lasted over an hour, a Ways and Means Committee was appointed for the purpose of raising money to increase the Building Fund. The economic depression of the thirties followed by World War II and Korean Action made it necessary to postpone any concerted activity on fund raising. It is sad to note that out of sixteen members who served on that Committee, only three are alive today.

The accumulation of money has been augmented to quite an extent by several bequests, the largest of which was by Bro. Harry W. Brigham.

In 1955 the Watertown Masonic Associates, Inc. was formed to procure land, erect and maintain a building as soon as feasible. Representatives from Victory Lodge, A. F. & A. M.; Watertown Royal Arch Chapter; Pequossette Chapter No. 141, Order of the Eastern Star; and Faith Court No. 8 Order of the Amaranth, as well as from Pequossette Lodge, comprise this corporation. A separate committee has been given the task of raising additional funds which are felt to be necessary. A parcel of land, located on the left side of Church Street between Winter and Summer Streets has, with funds provided by Pequossette Lodge, been purchased as a site for our new building and we are looking forward to occupying a new Masonic Temple in the not too distant future. Pequossette Lodge will continue to promote stability of character, conservatism and good citizenship.

Outstanding early American patriots who were Masons included Paul Revere, Joseph Warren, John Hancock, Benjamin Franklin, Isaiah Thomas, Jeremy Gridley, and James Otis, while George Washington was the first of thirteen presidents who are known to have been Masons.

125TH ANNIVERSARY HISTORY, DECEMBER 1982

HISTORY OF PEQUOSSETTE LODGE 1957 - 1982
by Brother Francis M. Lightbody

(For a comprehensive history of Pequossette Lodge covering the earlier periods, please refer to 1957 Mass. 233-245)

The One Hundredth Anniversary of the Constitution of Pequossette Lodge was observed with dignified and deeply moving ceremonies, beginning on Sunday afternoon, December 8, 1957, at Saint John's Methodist Church, where devotional services were conducted by Reverend Brother Edson Gould Waterhouse, pastor, who was Chaplain of the Lodge.

Preceding the church services, Worshipful Master William T. von Schoppe opened the Lodge in due form at 2:00 P.M. in Masonic Hall. A parade of the Lodge members and visiting Brethren, wearing their aprons, followed, escorted by uniformed Knights Templars, from Main Street in front of the Otis Building to the church. Well over 200 Masons were in the line of march up Mount Auburn Street and as they neared the sanctuary where 100 others were already gathered, they were greeted by the Whitney Memorial Chimes played by Worshipful A. Lester Shipton. Worshipful William W. Norcross, Jr. was Chief Marshal, and his Aides were Worshipful Arthur L. Rockwell, Worshipful George B. Wellman, and Worshipful Robert N. Alger.

At the Regular Communication of the lodge on December 12, 1957, the Most Worshipful Andrew G. Jenkins, Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts was received with his suite and he presided at the sealing of the capsule to be opened at the 200th Anniversary of the Lodge in December A.D. 2057. Brother Miles P. Robinson read the history of the first hundred years of the Lodge which he had written. The program ended with an address by the Grand Master, and the Lodge and the Grand Lodge were closed at 10:00 P.M. Previous to the ceremonies in the Lodge Room, a dinner was served in the banquet hall.

Less than two years after the Centennial Celebration, the cornerstone of the new Masonic Temple on Church Street was laid by the Grand Master, Most Worshipful Andrew G. Jenkins, in accordance with ancient form and ceremony. Thus was brought to fruition a wish that had long been in the hearts of Brethren and their friends in Watertown. Members of Pequossette Lodge shared prominently and honorably in the effort with their colleagues of other Masonic bodies of the Town.

The Lodge had established a building fund as early as 1921, and a Building Committee was appointed in 1923. Prudence, however, continued to dictate a cautious approach, even in the prosperous 1920's; then came the Depression, and then World War II. Not until November 12, 1953, was a new Building Committee formed, who finally "got the ball rolling." The original members were Brothers Carl B. Richardson, Chairman, George B. Wellman, Robert N. Alger, Herbert C. Harting, Andrew B. Bradford, Richard Tuttle, W. W. Norcross, III, aod Donald Ross.

Two years later, Richardson resigned from the Committee because the illness of his wife obliged them to move to Florida. He was given a rising vote of thanks for his services to the lodge. Others who served on the Committee were Brothers Ralph H. Hutchins, Jr., Herbert O. Berry, Arthur L. Rockwell, and Wayne Eaton.

In accordance with a report of the Building Committee, Pequossette Lodge voted on October 14, 1954 to purchase the property at 32 Church Street. Four weeks later, November 11, the committee reported that an agreement to purchase had been signed with the Knights of Pythias Associates, owners of the property. On February 10. 1955, the Lodge was informed that a joint meeting of all Watertown Masonic Organizations and affiliated bodies had taken place, and that a corporation had been formed under the name of Watertown Masonic Associates,lnc. At the communication on March 10, the Lodge transferred the sum of $1,500 from the building fund to be used for the preparation of plans and sketches. Brother Edward Sears Read, who had been engaged as architect, was at this time conducted to the East and introduced to the Master and the Brethren. Brother Read subsequently transferred his membership to Pequossette.

The agreed price of the Church Street property was $13,500 plus attorneys fees and other costs necessary to effect the conveyance, and it was paid out of the funds of Pequossette Lodge. The estimated cost of the new Masonic Build- ing was $100,000. On April 14, 1955, Pequossette Lodge voted that assurance be given to the Masonic Associates and other Masonic bodies involved, that the Building Fund of Pequossette Lodge would be available to the joint Fund Raising Committee to help with the expenses necessary to erect the new Temple as planned. This fund had been considerably enhanced, comparatively recent- ly, by a $25,000 bequest from the late Brother Harry W. Brigham.

The Watertown Masonic Associates, Inc., as established, included twelve trustees: Six from Pequossette lodgg two from Victory lodge, two from Eastern Star, one from the Watertown Royal Arch Chapter, and one from Amaranth. Worshipful Brother Arthur L. Rockwell was appointed Chairman of the Masonic Associates in 1956. A Fund Raising Committee was established in June 1955, consisting of ten members, two from each body. Brother Sam Goldberg of Victory Lodge was elected chairman, Worshipful Brother William W. Norcross of Pequossette lodge vice-chairmen and treasurer, and Mrs. Betty Waite of the Eastern Star, Secretary. Brother Winthrop G. Rockwell also represented Pequossette l.odge on this committee. The kick-off meeting for the fund-raising drive was held in the following October. In his Report to the Lodge, dated September 8, 1955, Brother Richardson extended thanks to all members of the Building Committee "and in particular to Brother Herb Berry who has been a tower of strength in this undertaking."

Bids for the construction of the new Temple were opened on June 12, 1959, and the work was started on June 28, under the direction of the general contractor, Brother Stanley D. Porter. The cornerstone was laid on September 27, A.L. 5959, a Sunday afternoon. The Grand Lodge was opened at Unitarian Hall, and at 4 P.M. marched in formal procession to the site of the new edifice. with the assistance of the Grand Lodge officers, the Grand Master laid the cornerstone in accordance with ancient form and ceremony. Brief remarks appropriate to the occasion were made by the Most Worshipful Andrew G. Jenkins, Grand Master, by other Grand Lodge Officers and by the Worshipful Masters of Pequossette and Victory Lodges.

From beginning to end, and in all respects, the construction of the Watertown Masonic Temple exemplified devotion to the principle of "who best can serve and best agree," by all concerned, over a total of 131 working days. On January 14, 1960, the first Communication in the new hall was held by Pequossette Lodge. On that occasion the work was the Entered Apprentice Degree in the presence of 128 members and 16 visitors.

Approximately 500 persons attended the dedication of the new temple on February 16, 1960. The ceremonies were conducted by Most Worshipful Laurence E. Eaton, Crand Master, and the officers of the Grand Lodge. A total of 398 were served at dinner in the new banquet hall. The evening closed with refreshments and dancing. A balance of $19,000 remained on the mortgage as of September 1960. On June 13, 1968, the ceremony of burning the mortgage was performed by the Grand Master, Most Woshipful Thomas Arnold Booth and the officers of the Grand Lodge.

Since its One Hundredth Anniversary, Pequossette Lodge has been honored by its Past Masters who have been distinguished by the Grand Lodge, as follows:

  • Right Worshipful Robert Neil Alger: District Deputy Grand Master, 1962-1963; Grand Sword Bearer, 1964-1965; Grand Tyler, 1966; Deputy Grand Master, 1976; Henry Price Medal
  • Worshipful Harrison Mallory Blake: District Deputy Grand Marshal, 1962-1963; Senior Grand Deacon, 1966.
  • Right Worhipful Robert Mallory Blake: Grand Tieasurer, 1977-1978; Grand Lodge Comptroller, 1978-
  • Right Worshipful Herbert Millington Davis, Jr: District Deputy Grand Master, 1974-1975.
  • Worshipful Ralph Hiram Hutchins, Jr: District Deputy Grand Secretary, 1974-1975; Master, 34th Lodge of Instruction 1981.
  • Right Worshipful Arthur Leroy Rockwell: District Deputy Grand Secretary, 1962-1963; Junior Grand Deacon, 1967; Master, 34th Lodge of Instruction, 1968; Proxy to Grand Lodge, 1967-1972; Grand Marshal, 1972-1975; Henry Price Medal, 1973; Senior Grand Warden, 1975; Grand Lecturer, 1981.
  • Joseph Warren Medals were awarded to Worshipful Ralph H. Hutchins, Sr., Worshipful William W. Norcross, Jr., and Worshipful Thomas W. Phipps.

In the one hundred and twenty-five years since it was constituted, Pequossette Lodge has received many gifts from generous donors. Some are of particular historical interest at this time. Among them is a marble clock which for many years hung in the anterooms outside previous lodge halls. It was given in 1870 by Brother Leonard Whitney, a leading Watertown industrialist and pub- lic.benefactor. Another is the Master's chair, given in 1870 by Worshipful John B. Goodrich. Equally significant are three donations, made at various times, by Brother Cornelius C. Hodges, who served Pequossette Lodge as Chaplain for 32 years. First who served Pequossette lodge as Chaplain for 32 years. First was the illuminated letter "G", given at the 50th Anniversary in 1907. The Second was the ballot box, given in 1912; and the third, given in 1914, consisted of the illuminated emblems over the Master's chair in the East. In 1914, a silk American flag was given by Brother George N. Chamberlain on behalf of 26 of the brethren whose first names were George in honor of our ancient Brother George Washington. The Square and Compasses, together with a gift of $50. in gold (used for purchase of officers' regalia), were presented in 1907 on behalf of the Ladies of the todge members by Worshipful Benjamin H. Dow.

More recent, and already mentioned, was the bequest of Brother Harry W. Brigham, which was a key event in the building of the Watertown Masonic Temple. A bequest from Mary Ross in memory of her husband Brother Adam Ross in the amount of $500. which was used to purchase the present Line Officers' Aprons. A bequest in the amount of $1000. from R. Winson Towne in memory of his father Brother Selwyne Towne.

In this, the twenty-fifth year of their second century, the members of Pequossette Lodge face the future with confidence that the work of building the house not made with hands, according to the will of the Supreme Architect, will continue in Watertown, as elsewhere, world without end.

150TH ANNIVERSARY HISTORY, MAY 2007

From Proceedings, Page 2007-57:

By R. W. Kenneth R. Blake

Grand Master, Worshipful Master, Brethren and most welcomed guests.

Tonight, we gather together to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of our beloved Pequossette Lodge, A.F. & A.M., and look back with pride and forward with hope.

It all started in 1856 when the preliminary meeting to organize a Lodge in Watertown was held at Constitution Hall in the Dana Block Building located in Watertown Square on December 17th.

After working one year under dispensation, in accordance with Masonic custom, Pequossette Lodge was duly constituted on Wednesday, December 23, 1857 by M.W. John T. Heard, Grand Master. The Lodge was started with just nineteen chartered members. Wor. William Webster, the first Master of the Lodge, served a two-year term. Bro. Webster was a high school teacher and principal of several schools, including Watertown High School.

The first application for degrees was received from Bro. Miles Pratt. In addition, four more applications were received in that first year, one of which belonged to Bro. Robert L. Davis. Bro. Davis is said to have contributed more than any other member to the initial success of this Lodge. He became the second Master in 1859 and served again ten years later.

Also of interest is that, up to 1869, the Lodge met on the Thursday evening on or after the full moon, in order to permit easier and safer traveling on the dark roads. Since 1869, however, the regular meetings have been held on the second Thursday of each month, except in July and August.

Thirteen years later, in 1870, the Lodge moved into new quarters in the Noyes Building located on Main Street, a short distance from the corner of Galen Street.

On our 25th anniversary, celebrated on December 14, 1882, the Lodge had grown from the original nineteen chartered members to 284. In 1889, the Lodge moved into its third location when it rented a portion of the third floor of the Otis Building located on the corner of Main and Spring Streets. The Lodge was furnished with $1,500 raised at a Masonic Fair held at the new quarters.

Some years later, Bro. Cornelius C. Hodges, Chaplain of the Lodge for thirty two years, added to the furnishings. All three gifts were designed and assembled by Bro. Hodges. The first, in 1907, was the illuminated letter “G”. The second, in 1911, was the illuminated emblems. Both are installed over the Master’s Chair. The third, in 1912, was a most unusual Ballot Box which we still use today.

Until 1911, it was the usual custom for the officers to serve two years in each of the seven line positions. This meant that fourteen years would elapse from the time one become Inside Sentinel until he retired as Past Master.

In December 1911, the Lodge was growing at such a rate that it needed larger accommodations. Consequently, the entire third floor of the Otis Building was leased for $1,250 per year.

The expansion of the Lodge stimulated so much interest in Masonry that nearly fifty applications were received in 1914. Applications for degrees immediately after World War I were overwhelming. In 1918, a total of 63 members were added. In 1920, a total of 94 were added. At one of the meetings held during 1920 it took over four hours just to ballot on the candidates. It was necessary to hold six meetings a month. These were held on two Thursdays and four Saturdays each month from January to June.

Also in 1920, a group of sixty Brethren, mostly all of whom were members of Pequossette Lodge, organized a second lodge in Watertown. The new Lodge was named Victory Lodge. The feeling at the time was that there was no time for any other business, other than balloting and working of candidates during the regular communications. A fter almost 75 years, in 1931, Pequossette Lodge membership reached its peak of 725 members.

Then in October 1954, the members of the Lodge voted to purchase a parcel of land located at 32 Church Street from the Knights of Pythias Associates. In February 1955 the Watertown Masonic Associates Inc. was formed to procure the land, erect and maintain a new building. Work started on June 28th under the direction of Bro. Stanley D. Porter, the general contractor. There was employed in its construction 128 workmen. A total of 15,490 man-hours were required before the building was completed. The cornerstone was laid on Sunday, September 27, 1959.

On January 14, 1960, the first communication of Pequossette Lodge was held in this “new” hall. On that occasion the work performed was the Entered Apprentice Degree in the presence of 128 members and 76 visitors. In June 1968, twelve years after initial construction began, the building was paid in full. A mortgage burning ceremony was performed by M.W. Thomas Arnold Booth.

At the 125th Anniversary, in 1982, the Lodge membership was at 260 members.

Since our 125th Anniversary, the Lodge has had a number of significant accomplishments:

  • Three members of this Lodge have served Grand Lodge as District Deputy Grand Masters,
  • a CHIP Program was held at the Watertown Mall, where the Lodge gave out 300 bicycle helmets to each child that completed the Watertown Police bike course;
  • an 80 Year Veteran’s Medal was presented to Bro. Neil A. Tillitson by M.W. Fred K. Bauer,
  • the foyer was dedicated to Bro. Burton Hunt for his service to the Watertown Masonic Associates and Pequossette Lodge from 1983 until his passing in 1999,
  • recognition awards were presented to honor Wor. Stewart R. Stoney and Wor. Richard E. Norcross and Bro. Lawrence A. Hutchings.

The strength and support of our Lodge, as any Lodge, is attributable to its people, (in our case, the Past Masters, Officers and members). Though our membership is currently at 150, we are still a strong Lodge. Our line of officers is full. The sideline participation is increasing. We are financially solid. We are currently adding net membership. In fact, we are scheduled to add eight new members before year end, five of which will be raised at our June 2007 communication.

We now look forward to our next anniversaries, especially the 200th. At the 200th anniversary we will get the opportunity to open a time capsule that was sealed at the 100th Anniversary. The various documents and articles enclosed in this capsule are expected to tell us much about our predecessors in Pequossette Lodge and about our historic Town of Watertown. We look forward to the pledge and support of these Past Masters, Officers and members for a healthy and harmonious future.

EVENTS

CONSTITUTION OF LODGE, DECEMBER 1857

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XVII, No. 3, January 1858, Page 96:

This new Lodge, located in the beautiful "suburban village" of Watertown, was consecrated, its officers in stalled, and the new hall elegantly fitted up and furnished for its accommodation, solemnly dedicated, "according to ancient Masonic form and usage," by the M. W. Grand Lodge of this Commonwealth, on Wednesday evening, the 23d Dec. ultimo. The ceremonies were performed by the M. W. Grand Master in his usual impressive manner, and we be lieve to the entire acceptance and gratification of the large number of Brethren present.

At the conclusion of the ceremonies the Lodge was closed, and the Brethren repaired to the Spring Hotel, (kept by Bro. Batchelder,) where a supper was spread, which, in all its appointments — in sumpluousness, variety, and good taste in the serving, — would have done no discredit to the best of our city caterers.

This very agreeable part of the ceremonies having been satisfactorily disposed of, the Brethren were addressed by the Master of the new Lodge, (W. Bro. Webster,) in an exceedingly neat and appropriate speech, as introductory to the more intellectual part of the entertainments of the evening. He was followed by Col. Heard, G. M. ; R. W. Bro. Sheppard, acting S. G. Warden, Brothers Moore, Whieldon, Coolidge, Fowle, and others.

The occasion was one which all seemed to enjoy, and the kindest hopes and best wishes were felt and expressed for the future pros' perity of the new Lodge and the individual happiness of its members.

HALL DEDICATION, OCTOBER 1870

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXX, No. 1, Page 22:

The new hall of Pequossette Lodge of Watertown was dedicated to the use of Freemasonry, Wednesday evening, October 5. This hall, with. the adjoining ante-rooms, is located in Noyes's new building, and has been filled at an expense of about $2,000, nearly the entire amount having been raised by subscription from the members or received through the kindness of friends. The exercises of the dedication consisted of a public address in the town hall by Br. John B. Goodrich, a Past Master of the Lodge. The hall, in spite of the inclement weather, was well filled. After the address that portion of the audience who were holders of tickets to the dedicatory services proceeded to the Lodge-room, where the ceremonies were performed by the M. W. Grand Master, William S. Gardner, assisted by the several officers of the Grand Lodge. At the conclusion of the ceremonies, Br. Robert L. Davis, Master of the Lodge, informed all present that the stewards had prepared a banquet in the town hall. Accordingly, the party repaired to the hall, where about 125 couples partook of refreshments, and listened to speeches by G. M. Wm. S. Gardner, D. G. M. Charles Levi Woodbury, the Grand Chaplain, and various other friends and members of the order.

GRAND LODGE OFFICERS

OTHER BROTHERS


DISTRICTS

1857: District 11

1867: District 4 (Cambridge)

1883: District 5 (Newton)

1897: District 5 (Waltham)

1911: District 5 (Waltham)

1927: District 5 (Brighton)

2003: District 3

2009: District 5

2011: District 3

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