RIGMArnold
NEWTON D. ARNOLD 1843-
Picture from History of Freemasonry in Rhode Island, 1895, by Henry W. Rugg.
Grand Master 1886
BIOGRAPHY
From History of Freemasonry in Rhode Island, 1895, Page 347:
Newton D. Arnold was born in Millville, Mass., December 8, 1843. His parents were William Buffum and Matilda (Darling) Arnold. He traces his descent to Thomas Arnold of Chesalbourne, Dorset County, England, who came to Massachusetts in 1635.
The early life of the brother was pleasant and uneventful. He had the benefits of wholesome influences at home and profited by attendance upon the public schools. His inclinations led him to business pursuits in which he has been active and successful. He has held the office of Treasurer of the Rumford Chemical Works for many years, in which capacity he has given proof of business sagacity and good judgment, united with a careful attention to all matters of detail connected with the direction of so important a manufacturing establishment. His identification with the Rumford Chemical Works has brought him into contact with other material interests in Providence and elsewhere, and given him frequent opportunities of responsible service in connection therewith. In society, as in business associations, he has become favorably known, being held in deservedly high regard for those graces and virtues which are most attractive in human character. In all the interests of related life he has made a good showing of manly and sympathetic qualities, thus coming to be regarded as a true friend and a worthy citizen.
In Freemasonry Bro. Arnold has filled a place of broad influence and honored usefulness. He has been active and prominent in several departments of the organization, as is shown by the following statement:
He was made a Master Mason February 13, 1865, in Saint John's Lodge, No. 1, Providence, R. I. He held various offices in that body, among others that of Secretary, the duties of which he performed with great acceptance. He was elected Worshipful Master of the Lodge December 23, 1874, and served one year. At the annual session of the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island, held May 21, 1883, he was appointed Deputy Grand Master; one year later he was elected Grand Master ; he served one year, and declined a re-election. He received the Royal Arch Degree October 26, 1865, in Providence Chapter, in which he has since held membership. He received the degrees of the Cryptic Rite on January 12, 1866, in Providence Council. He received the order of Knight Templar, April 23, 1866, in St. John's Commandery, No. i, of Providence. After filling lesser offices, he was elected Eminent Commander, in December, 1877, and served one year. He received the 32d Degree of the Ancient Accepted Rite, January 20, 1869, in Providence Consistory. He was honored by being advanced to the 33 and highest degree in the Rite, June 17, 1870. On September 20, 1882, he was made an active member of the Supreme Council, and two years later was elected Deputy for Rhode Island, which office he still retains. He has discharged the duties devolving upon him in these various stations with ability and fidelity, and to the satisfaction of all interested.
