Sagamore

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SAGAMORE LODGE

Location: Medford

Chartered By: Melvin M. Johnson

Charter Date: 03/10/1915 1915-53

Precedence Date: 04/20/1914

Current Status: in Grand Lodge Vault; merged into King Solomon's Lodge, 04/28/1986.


PAST MASTERS

  • Fred Charnock, 1915
  • Fred D. Wikins, 1916, 1917
  • Harry Wright, 1918, 1919
  • Charles F. K. Bean, 1920
  • Ralph Jones, 1921
  • Ernest W. Christie, 1922
  • Lawrence Mitchell, 1923; N
  • Lemuel C. Woodbury, 1924
  • Charles B. Sanborn, 1925
  • G. Carl Smiley, 1926
  • David Simpson, 1927
  • Charles C. Henry, 1928, 1929
  • Dow H. Beyea, 1930
  • Dwight W. Robb, 1931; SN
  • Benjamin F. Walker, 1932
  • Frank L. Mason, 1933
  • George A. Mallion, 1934
  • Thomas H. Hawkins, 1935
  • Louis A. Blanchard, 1936
  • Joseph C. Knox, 1937
  • F. Theodore Conlan, 1938
  • Lewis W. Ellis, 1939
  • William S. Wadsworth, 1940; N
  • Alfred D. Polsey, 1941
  • Wilfred H. Perry, 1942
  • Albert L. Wescott, 1943
  • Bradley P. Howes, 1944
  • Thomas E. Lanigan, 1945
  • Winslow R. MacElhiney, 1945
  • C. Wallace Chalmers, 1946
  • H. Morton Hill, 1947
  • Alton B. Fowler, 1948
  • Clifton J. Cavanaugh, 1949
  • Harold B. Lyon, 1950
  • Ralph I. Gillies, 1951
  • Edward A. Whelpley, 1952
  • Carl S. Locke, 1953
  • Paul M. Rathbun, 1954
  • Allison A. Perrin, 1955
  • Duncan A. Chalmers, 1956
  • David Y. Taylor, 1957
  • Harry T. Sederquest, 1958
  • Richard H. Lowe, 1959
  • Elmer V. Telfer, 1960
  • M. Ross McLeod, 1961
  • Bryant G. Badsaul, 1962
  • Donald B. Hanson, 1963, 1978, 1980
  • Howard W. Phillips, Jr., 1964, 1982, 1983
  • Murl A. Daniels, 1965
  • Everett G. Smyth, 1966, 1967
  • David W. MacElhiney, 1968
  • Edward H. Smith, 1969, 1975
  • Joseph J. Guarino, 1970, 1981, 1984-1986
  • John L. Thompson, Jr.,, 1971, 1977
  • Charles W. Smith, 1972
  • Roy T. Swanfeldt, 1973
  • John E. Larsen, 1979; SN

REFERENCES IN GRAND LODGE PROCEEDINGS

ANNIVERSARIES

  • 1939 (25th Anniversary)
  • 1964 (50th Anniversary)

VISITS BY GRAND MASTER

BY-LAW CHANGES

1921 1923 1925 1931 1939 1944 1945 1949 1952 1957 1961 1964 1966 1976

HISTORY

  • 1939 (25th Anniversary History, 1939-141; see below)
  • 1964 (50th Anniversary History, 1964-127; see below)

25TH ANNIVERSARY HISTORY, APRIL 1939

From Proceedings, Page 1939-141:

By Rt. Wor. Lawrence Mitchell.

INTRODUCTION

The early history of Sagamore Lodge is a record of the events which led up to its formation, as well as the twenty-five years which have followed, but it may be more accurately recorded as a history of achievement of the loyal men and Masons who have made up its membership during this quarter century.

Limitations of time and space preclude the possibility of mentioning the names of all who have been active at one time or another, but many have labored hard and accomplished much because they loved the institution of Masonry and especially Sagamore Lodge.

In this brief history we have endeavored to select what seemed to be the outstanding facts and events to date, with the hope that when the second quarter century is completed, and its history written, it may be a continuation of this first installment.

We have divided this history into three parts because there have been three distinct periods through which the Lodge has passed:

  1. The preliminary work by the Committee which organized the Lodge;
  2. Under Dispensation;
  3. The Chartered Lodge.

Fortunately our early records are preserved and in the custody of our Secretary. They are sufficiently complete and accurate, together with the memory of several of its founders to make a more detailed history of the formation of the Lodge than might be possible otherwise.

ORGANIZATION

THE ORGANIZATION OF SAGAMORE LODGE A.F. & A.M. UP TO APRIL 20, 1914.

All things have a beginning, and it was early in the year 1914 that a Masonic Lodge was conceived in the heart and mind of one man, Rev. Bro. Charles E. Tilton, then Pastor of Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church, West Medford. He may well be called the Father of Sagamore Lodge. Bro. Tilton was a member of Wlnthrop Lodge and inasmuch as he found it somewhat inconvenient to travel to Winthrop to attend Lodge meetings, he wished for a Lodge near home.

At that time the Section of West Medford was growing rapidly. There were many Masons who had moved here from elsewhere, some who retained their membership, and others unaffiliated. Thus it will be seen that the idea of Bro. Tilton met a sympathetic response. He first invited three of his Masonic neighbors to his home on or about January 4, 1914. They included Rev. Bro. Charles E. Tilton, Wor. Geo. W. Hook, Bros. Charles H. Given and James A. Knight. No records of this meeting were kept, but as all four were in accord with the desires of Bro. Tilton, they called a meeting for the evening of January 28, 1914, at the home of Wor. Bro. Hook, 58 Holton Street, to which others were invited.

At this meeting a temporary organization was formed. Bros. F. D. Wilkins was elected Chairman and Elmer L. Berry Secretary. Others present included Wor. Bro. Hook, Bros. Franklin E. Campbell, Auburn J. Day, Charles H. Given, Ernest W. Christie, Frank G. Kelsey and Charles E. Nye. A committee was appointed to solicit the names of other Masons who were also interested, it being understood these would include only those who could be certified by the Secretary of their own Lodge as being in good Masonic standing, or who had taken their dimit. It was a notable fact that very few of the Charter Members were members of the Fraternity in Medford.

The next meeting was held February 2, 1914, at the home of Bro. F. D. Wjlkins, Mystic Valley Parkway. Fourteen Brothers were present, including several who attended the previous meeting, but in addition were Bro. Robert F. Rogers, Walter I. Weeks, Arthur G. Dominey, S. Payson Waldron, and O. A. Gammage. Committees made reports of progress, adding new names to this group, and other committees were appointed, one to confer with the officers of Mount Hermon Lodge in Medford, another to talk with Wor. Dr. Frederick W. Hamilton, Past Master of Washington and Somerville Lodges, another committee on the matter of engaging a hall, and still another to consider names for the various officers in the new lodge.

On February 9th another meeting was held at the home of Bro. Wilkins. The new committee members to attend included Bros. Charles C. Hazelton, Harry Wright, Lawrence Mitchell, Irving F. Runey, and Walter B. Hamblin. Reports of progress were made by several committees, anil further plans discussed.

The next meeting was held February 19, 1914, at Bro. Christie's home, Playstead Road, at which the committees reported progress. At the invitation of Bro. Lawrence Mitchell, the next meeting was held at his home at 9 Grove Street on February 25, 1914, the only business being routine, and reports of progress.

Again a meeting was held at Bro. Mitchell's home on March 4th. A committee reported that Odd Fellows Hall had been secured for a meeting on March 12, to which those who were desirous of forming a new Lodge were to be invited. A committee was appointed to submit a list of officers, this committee consisting of Wor. Bro. Hook, Tilton, Campbell, Clifford, and Wilkins, Temporary Secretary F. L. Berry resigned at this meeting and Wor. Bro. Hook was elected to serve during the formation and under Dispensation. It was considered particularly fortunate to have a Past Master who was willing and qualified to assume this responsible position, so necessary in the formation of a new Lodge.

By this time the Committee had outgrown the capacity of the homes where it had previously met, so that on March 12, 1914, a meeting was held in Odd Fellows Hall, Harvard Avenue, at which time some seventy members attended. A letter from Mount Hermon Lodge was read granting their permission to form the new Lodge. This action on the part of our downtown Brethren was greeted with great enthusiasm.

More and perhaps greater applause occurred when another Committee consisting of Bro. F. D. Wilkins and Lawrence Mitchell reported that after a talk with the Grand Master, M. W. Melvin M. Johnson, it was practically assured that he would grant Dispensation.

The District Deputy Grand Master at that time was Rt. Wor. Geo. C. Hill, of Friendship Lodge of Wilmington, with whom we had held numerous conferences and whose approval was necessary to file with our petition to the Grand Master. Rt. Wor. Bro. Hill was sympathetic, but before granting approval had to be shown both the need for the new Lodge, also the personnel who signed the petition. His approval was finally obtained, and we must say a word here of appreciation for his very kindly and helpful cooperation in the early months of our existence. To Rt. Wor. Bro. Hill we are indebted for the story of "Sagamore John" which he read on April 20, 1914, and which we reprint on a following page, as we believe it will be of especial interest to our present members.

The naming of the new Lodge also was considered. There hail been much discussion and many names suggested. On the first ballot the two names which received the largest support were Mystic Lodge (20 Votes) and Sagamore Lodge (15 votes), with some 25 or more votes scattering. It was felt that before a final selection was made the name to be selected should receive a majority vote of those present. On the second ballot the name Sagamore was selected, which was immediately followed by making the choice unanimous. On motion of Wor. Bro. Hook it was voted that the regular meeting be held on the third Monday evening of each month. The Secretary announced that 60 Master Masons had signed the application for Dispensation and paid affiliation fee of $10.00 each.

This meeting was the largest attended anil the most enthusiastic of any up to this time, and before it adjourned the new Masonic Lodge, named "Sagamore Lodge" in memory of Sachem John or Sagamore John, was definitely assured.

Other meetings of routine nature followed. Committees were working on various matters necessary to the formation. In the meantime the list of petitioners grew to a total of 105, of which 88 signed the Charter.

A Meeting was held at Bro. F. D. Wilkins' home, Oak Knoll, Mystic Valley Parkway, on April 11, 1914, at which the officers selected for the new Lodge were present and held an informal rehearsal. They consisted of Wor. Bros. F. R. Charnock, Master, H. E. Carter, Senior Warden, together with Bros. F. D. Wilkins, Junior Warden, F. E. Campbell, Treasurer, Wor. G. W. Hook, Secretary, Bros. C. E. Tilton, Chaplain, R. A. Rogers, Marshal, Marry Wright, Senior Deacon, C. F. K. Bean, Junior Deacon, R. P. Jones, Senior Steward, Lawrence Mitchell, Junior Steward, E. W. Christie, Inside Sentinel, C. F. Hall, Organist and F. G. Kelsey, Tyler.

THE STORY OF SAGAMORE JOHN

By R. W. Geo. C. Hill.

Charles Francis Adams, Jr., in an article on the earliest explorations and settlement of Boston Harbor writes:

"On the afternoon of Wednesday, September 29, 1621, a large open sail boat or shallop, as it was then called, entered Boston Harbor coming up along the shore from the direction of Plymouth. In it were 13 men, 10 Europeans and with three savages acting as their guides. The whole party was under the immediate command of Captain Miles Standish, and their purpose was to explore the country in and about Massachusetts Bay, as Boston Harbor was then called, and to establish friendly trading relations with the inhabitants."

After a description of their journey and landings in various places, he goes on to say,

"The next morning (and by my reckoning this must have been Friday morning, October 1) they landed, and leaving two men to protect the boat, pushed forward up the country in the direction of Medford and Winchester, coming to an abandoned village. A little further on they came to the place where the Sachem, Nanepashemet had lived. His wigwam they found still standing, though deserted. It was situated on the top of a hill, and consisted of a wide scaffolding of planks raised some six feet from the ground and supported upon posts. On this scaffolding stood the hut.

"Still pressing forward they next found in a swamp not far distant from the hill, the dead sachem's stronghold, which consisted of a palisaded inclosure of about 40 or 50 feet in diameter and of the usual circular form. The single means of entrance was by way of a bridge crossing two ditches, which formed the chief protection for the place, one ditch being within, and the other without the palisade, and in the midst of the palisade stood the frame of a house where he, being dead, lay buried.

"The party had now gone perhaps 4 miles from their starting point, and one mile more brought them to their destination, another and similar stronghold on a hill top, in which some two years before Nanepashemet had been surprised and killed. Here, on what is supposed to have been Rock Hill in Medford, they halted."

Henry Herbert Edes, in an article on Charlestown in the Colonial Period carries us a little farther. Speaking of Charlestown, he says,

"At the time of its settlement the area of Charlestown included the whole or portions of the present towns and cities of Cambridge, Somerville, Woburn, Burlington, Wilmington, Stoneham, Winchester, Melrose, Everett, Maiden, Wakefield, Arlington and Medford. "The nation which occupied this region was called the Pawtuckets, whose sachem was Nanepashemet, or "The New Moon." Nanepashemet lived in Lynn, when about 1615 he removed to the banks of the Mystic, where he was killed about 1619. He left five children, four sons and one daughter, one son of whom was Sagamore John."

Historians differ respecting Sagamore John, due to perhaps as Samuel G. Drake explains in an article on the Indians of America: "The Indians were divided into tribes, each of which had their own Sachem; the northern Indians pronounced that Sachemo which the English understood as Sagamore, and the name John was very common among the Indians. So we have Sachem John or Sagamore John, meaning Chief John."

Again he says,

"Sachems or Sagamores are one and the same title. The first was used by Indians southward, the latter by the northward Indians, to express the title of him that hath the chief command of a place or people."

Webster defines the two words Sachem and Sagamore as the same in meaning. I found authorities using the word "Sachem" as Chief of the first class; "Sagamore", chief of the second class.

Mellen Chamberlain, at one time Librarian of the Boston Public Library, writes regarding the Sagamore:

"Both Sagamore James and Sagamore John, sons of Nanepashemet, died the same year, and were succeeded by their brother, Sagamore George. There is no evidence that the limits of their several jurisdictions were well defined, but the probabilities are that the subjects of James occupied what is now Revere and those of John, Chelsea. Nor can the precise spot where Sagamore John lived at the time of his death be determined."

There are many facts preserved by Winthrop and others respecting Sagamore John, the most interesting of the Pawtucket Indians. Winthrop speaks of him as the native chief of Winnisimmet (which I believe is now the city of Chelsea) and states he died in 1633 of the small pox and was buried by a Mr. Maverick of Winnisimmet. During his sickness he desired to become acquainted with the Englishmen's God and requested that his two sons be instructed in Christianity, which was done.

UNDER DISPENSATION

April 20, 1914 to March 29, 1915

The Institution of Sagamore Lodge was held in Odd Fellows Hall, 22 Harvard Ave., West Medford, on Monday evening, April 20, 1914. The Meeting was called to order at 8.15 and immediately Rt. Wor. Geo. C. Hill, District Deputy Grand Master for the 6th Masonic District, assisted by District Deputy Grand Marshal Geo. H. Perry and Suite entered the Lodge-Room. Rt. Wor. Bro. Hill assumed the East and directed the other officers to their stations, as follows:

  • Wor. Bro. Frank L. Morse of John Abbot Lodge as D. D. Sr. G. Warden
  • Wor. Bro. Darius A. Green of Mount Hermon Lodge as D.D. Jr. G. Warden
  • Wor. Bro. Ernest W. Hatch of William Parkman Lodge as D.D. Grand Treasurer

  • Wor. Bro. Thos. Jackson of Mount Hermon Lodge as D.D. Grand Secretary
  • Wor. Bro. Alonzo Green of Mount Hermon Lodge as D.D. Grand Chaplain
  • Wor. Bro. Geo. H. Perry of Friendship Lodge as D.D. Grand Marshal
  • Wor. Bro. Geo. H. Archibald of Mount Hermon Lodge as D.D. Grand Sr. Deacon
  • Wor. Bro. Clifford M. Brewer of Mount Hermon Lodge as D.D. Grand Jr. Deacon
  • Wor. Bro. Alfredda R. Hersom of Somerville Lodge as D.D. Grand Sr. Steward
  • Wor. Bro. J. F. Hannah of Mount Hermon Lodge as D.D. Grand Jr. Steward
  • Wor. Bro. John Allenof Mount Hermon Lodge as D.D. Grand Inside Sent.
  • Bro. Ed. H. Romaine of Friendship Lodge as Organist
  • Bro. Harry J. Newhall of Mount Hermon Lodge as Tyler

The Rt. Wor. then proceeded with the ceremony of Institution reading the Dispensation and directing the following officers to assume their stations as designated during the period of Dispensation:

  • Wor. Fred R. Charnock, Rabboni Lodge, Dorchester, Master
  • Wor. Harry E. Carter, Henry Price Lodge, Charlestown, Senior Warden
  • Bro. F. D. Wilkins, Soley Lodge, Somerville, Junior Warden
  • Bro. F. E. Campbell, Lafayette Lodge No. 41, Manchester, N. H., Treasurer
  • Wor. Bro. Geo. W. Hook, King Cyrus Lodge, Stoneham, Secretary
  • Rev. Bro. C. E. Tilton, Wlnthrop Lodge, Winthrop, Chaplain
  • Bro. Robert F. Rogers, Mount Hermon Lodge, Medford, Marshal
  • Bro. Harry Wright, Charity Lodge, Cambridge, Senior Deacon
  • Bro. Chas. F. K. Bean, Mount Hermon Lodge, Medford, Junior Deacon
  • Bro. Ralph P. Jones, Somerville Lodge, W. Somerville, Senior Steward
  • Bro. Lawrence Mitchell, John Abbot Lodge, Somerville, Junior Steward
  • Bro. Ernest W. Christie, Soley Lodge, Somerville, Inside Sentinel
  • Bro. Clifford F. Hall, Valley Lodge No. 106, Orleans, Vt., Organist
  • Bro. Frank G. Kelsey, Mount Hermon Lodge, Medford, Tyler

After assuming their respective stations, the Lodge was opened on the 3rd degree in due form. Rt. Wor. Bro. Hill then made a few remarks and read a very interesting paper about Sagamore John, referred to previously, which he presented to the Lodge.

The following Brothers answered to their names as read from the Dispensation:

  • Fred R. Charnock
  • Frank D. Wilkins
  • Franklin E. Campbell
  • Harry E. Carter
  • George W. Hook
  • Charles E. Tilton
  • Robert K. Rogers
  • Albert H. Chippendale
  • Harry Wright
  • Charles E. Nye
  • Lawrence Mitchell
  • Ernest W. Christie
  • Ralph P. Jones
  • Charles F. K. Bean
  • Clifford F. Hall
  • Frank G. Kelsey
  • Lemuel C. Woodbury
  • Charles W. Taber
  • Hartley S. Johnson
  • Henry F. Hudson
  • Edwin F. Kelley
  • Clarence B. Owen
  • John G. Hatch
  • Walter L Weeks
  • Lewis D. Thorpe
  • Carl C. Pihlcrantz
  • Clinton G. Bostwick
  • Ernest R. Brackett
  • S. Payson Waidron
  • Fred A. Turner
  • Albert W. Welch
  • Charles S. Given
  • Reed O. Oxnard
  • Harris W. Peirce
  • Carl B. Weitze
  • Irving F. Runey
  • Charles C. Hazelton
  • F. Phillip Emery
  • Charles E. Landerkin
  • Guy C. Rowell
  • Auburn J. Day
  • James A. Knight
  • Joseph Weissbach
  • Frederick H. Sleuman
  • Charles B. Sanborn
  • J. Walter Bean
  • Samuel E. Sewall
  • Francis D. Carr
  • Aaron Twigg
  • Harry Smith
  • Richard A. Drake
  • Carl E. Beck
  • Arthur W. Byam
  • George I. Parker
  • John B. Harlow
  • Fred A. Murphy
  • Edward L. Langell
  • Newton C. Smith
  • Leroy Talcott
  • Fred J. Parsons
  • Edward R. Sherburne
  • Walter E. Hamblin
  • Charles L. Pratt
  • Robert Lindsay
  • Fred J. Caldwell
  • John E. Bryant
  • John A. De Vito
  • Arthur G. Dominey
  • James G. Harris
  • Rudolph Jacoby
  • Fred A. Whitman
  • William J. Flett
  • Fred A. Sleeper
  • Luther M. Child
  • Fred A. Howard
  • Harry A. Wiles
  • Alfred G. Wilmot
  • Harry L. Vincent
  • Walter H. Belcher
  • Fred W. Sleeper
  • George W. Keith
  • Herbert L. B. Lawton
  • Orville Chandler
  • Wendell H. Marden
  • Edward E. Papkee
  • Harold M. Pincree
  • Edward Holland
  • Frank A. Oxnard

There were present many prominent Masons in addition to those mentioned above.

  • Rt. Wor. W. F. Deadman, D. D. G. M. for the 7th Masonic District
  • Wor. Edgar O. Dewey, P .M. Good Samaritan Lodge, Reading,
  • Wor. Geo. F. Smith, Master, and Bro. Albert H. Hurnham, S. W. of Simon W. Robinson Lodge, Lexington,
  • Wor. John Boleyn, P. M. of Canongate and Leith Lodge, of Edinburgh, Scotland,
  • Bro. Charles W. Hodge, Secy. of Somerville Lodge.

The first applications were received at this meeting and were as follows: Thomas Preston Higgins, Richard Burrows Adams, William Frederick Wiltshire, George Carl Smiley, Harrison Gray Clark, Stephen Preston Higgins, Harry Eli Smart, Leon Russell Bigelow, Samuel Henry Wilkins, Jr., Robert Garretson Fraleigh, Wesley Eliot Winchester, Lyman Wilson Proctor. Approximately, there were 135 present at this meeting and the good fellowship which had existed up to this time was more firmly cemented and has been a characteristic of Sagamore Lodge up to the present time.

It seems fitting that we should mention several who were especially valuable in their service to the Lodge in the early days. Wor. Fred. R. Charnock, our first Master under Dispensation, had long experience in Masonic work. He had previously served through the Chairs in Rabboni Lodge, of Dorchester, and consented to serve Sagamore Lodge during the period of Dispensation. Through his untiring efforts and under his direction, the new officers received training and instruction for which they can never fully repay. His wonderful personality, his loyalty, and his fatherly guidance soon gained for him the name of "Pop" Charnock.

Wor. Bro. Carter, our Senior Warden under Dispensation, had served as Master of Henry Price Lodge. His experience was invaluable in those early days. Declining the office of Master, he was elected Treasurer in 1915 and has served the Lodge in that responsible capacity ever since. He has been of inestimable value to every succeeding Master and has served the Lodge with the greatest credit possible. May he long continue to serve us.

We have already mentioned the valuable work of Wor. Bro. Hook who has served the entire twenty-five years as Secretary. His untiring work and devotion to the Lodge have been an inspiration to us all. He served for several years without remuneration and has met the arduous duties of his office in a most loyal and faithful manner.

Our Tyler, Bro. Frank G. Kelsey, has served us faithfully for twenty-five years. He has made a splendid record as Tyler; his punctual attendance and painstaking performance of duty are well known to all.

Bro. Clifford F. Hall, now deceased, our first Organist, served without compensation during the period of Dispensation. He was one of our early losses, but he was a loyal worker in the early days.

The first Ladies' Night, February 26, 1915, held at Pitnam Hall, was a great success and taxed the capacity of that hall. This annual event has continued with only a few omissions.

The year of Dispensation was a busy one, Masonically speaking. The new Lodge, in fertile territory, prospered beyond all expectation. Many new members who are still active and loyal joined us our first year, and meetings were frequent during the ten active months.

Many gifts were gratefully received. Middlesex Chapter No. 64, O.E.S. under Mrs. Elizabeth Hook, Worthy Matron, presented the Lodge with 100 Members' Aprons and 100 Visitors' Aprons. Mount Hermon Lodge presented the Three Great Lights of Freemasonry. Mystic Royal Arch Chapter, of Medford, presented a beautiful gavel, suitably engraved.

Several of our own members also presented the Lodge with useful gifts. Bro. Frederic A. Turner presented the Lodge Seal, which is still used on our notices. Bro. John L. Tutten presented the rough and perfect ashlars still in use. Rev. Bro. Tilton also presented the picture of the "Original Four". Our petition for a Charter was approved at the Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge, March 10, 1915, and our bv-Iaws approved by the Committee on By-laws. This action, long anticipated, was now about to change our hopes to a reality, and Sagamore Lodge was about to take its place among the other Lodges of the Massachusetts jurisdiction, the oldest in the Western Hemisphere.

THE LODGE UNDER CHARTER

March 29, 1915 to April 17, 1939

Charter night was a highlight in Lodge History, and the apartments were taxed beyond capacity.

The Grand Master, Most Wor. Melvin Maynard Johnson, and a most distinguished Suite honored us on this occasion. They included the following Grand officers:

The Grand Lodge was opened in ample form at 7.45 in an anteroom of the Masonic Apartments at West Medford. The Grand Master was promptly waited on by the Master and Wardens designate of the new Lodge who informed him that petitioners to whom a Charter had been granted in the name of Sagamore Lodge were in waiting and respectfully asked to be constituted into a Lodge. The Grand Master responded that he would immediately proceed with the ceremony.

A procession of the Grand Lodge was formed and repaired to the Lodge-room. The Most Worshipful Grand Master constituted Sagamore Lodge with full form and ceremony. The W. Grand Marshal made due proclamation that Sagamore Lodge had been duly constituted and registered in the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts.

Due certification having been made that the Brother designated as Master was qualified to preside, the ceremony of installation of officers followed. The M. W. Grand Master installed the Master, the R. W. Acting Senior Grand Warden the Senior Warden, the R. W. Acting Junior Grand Warden the Junior Warden, the R. W. Grand Treasurer the Treasurer, the R.W. Recording Grand Secretary the Secretary, the W. Grand Chaplain the Chaplain and Associate Chaplain, and the R.W. Deputy Grand Master the remaining officers. The ceremonies being concluded the W. Grand Marshal made the usual proclamation.

The Grand Master made an eloquent address and called upon the W. Grand Chaplain, Rt. Rev. John W. Hamilton, who made a brief speech full of inspiration and power.

The first organization of Sagamore Lodge under the Charter was as follows:

  • Wor. Bro. Fred R. Charnock, Worshipful Master
  • Bro. Frank D. Wilkins, Senior Warden
  • Bro. Harry Wright, Junior Warden
  • Wor. Bro. Harry E. Carter, Treasurer
  • Wor. Bro. George W. Hook, Secretary
  • Rev. Bro. Charles Tilton, Chaplain
  • Bro. Charles E. Nye, Associate Chaplain
  • Bro. Albert H. Chippendale, Marshal
  • Bro. C. F. K. Bean, Senior Deacon
  • Bro. Ralph P. Jones, Junior Deacon
  • Bro. Lawrence Mitchell, Senior Steward
  • Bro. Ernest W. Christie, Junior Steward
  • Bro. Lemuel C. Woodbury, Inside Sentinel
  • Bro. Carl G. Pihlcrantz, Organist
  • Bro. Frank G. Kelsey, Tyler

The names of the Charter Members are as follows:

  • Fred R. Charnock
  • Harry E. Carter
  • Frank D. Wilkins
  • Franklin E. Campbell
  • George W. Hook
  • Charles Tilton
  • Robert F. Rogers
  • Charles F. K. Bean
  • Ralph P. Jones
  • Lawrence Mitchell
  • Ernest W. Christie
  • Clifford F. Hall
  • Frank G. Kelsey
  • Charles W. Taber
  • Hartley S. Johnson
  • Lemuel C. Woodbury
  • Irving F. Runey
  • Charles C. Hazelton
  • Francis P. Emery
  • Charles E. Landerkin
  • Guy C. Rowell
  • Auburn J. Day
  • James A. Knight
  • Joseph Weissbach
  • Frederick H. Sleuman
  • Charles B. Sanborn
  • J. Walter Bean
  • Samuel E. Sewall
  • Francis D. Carr
  • Aaron Twigg
  • Harry Smith
  • Henry F. Hudson
  • Edwin F. Kelley
  • Clarence B. Owen
  • John G. Hatch
  • Walter L Weeks
  • Lewis D. Thorpe
  • Clinton G. Bostwick
  • Walter I. Weeks
  • Ernest R. Brackett
  • Charles E. Nye
  • Carl C. Pihlcrantz
  • Fred A. Howard
  • Fred A. Turner
  • Albert W. Welch
  • Charles S. Given
  • Reed O. Oxnard
  • Harris W. Peirce
  • Carl B. Weitze
  • L. Roy Talcott
  • Fred J. Parsons
  • Edward R. Sherburne
  • Walter E. Hamblin
  • Charles L. Pratt
  • Luther M. Child
  • Frederick J. Caldwell
  • John E. Bryant
  • John A. De Vito
  • Arthur G. Dominey
  • James G. Harris
  • William J. Flett
  • Fred A. Whitman
  • Fred A. Sleeper
  • Frank A. Oxnard
  • Richard A. Drake
  • Carl E. Beck
  • Arthur W. Byam
  • George L. Parker
  • Albert H. Chippendale
  • John Bradford Harlow
  • Robert Lindsay
  • Newton C. Smith
  • Frederick A. Murphy
  • S. Payson Waidron
  • Rudolph Jacoby
  • Harry A. Wiles
  • Alfred G. Wilmot
  • Harry L. Vincent
  • Walter H. Belcher
  • Fred N. Sleeper
  • George W. Keith
  • Herbert L. B. Lawton
  • H. Orville Chandler
  • Wendell H. Marden
  • Edward E. Papkee
  • Harold M. Pingree
  • Edward Holland

Rt. Wor. Frederick W. Hamilton, newly elected Recording Grand Secretary, made his first official appearance at the constitution of Sagamore Lodge. This fact is shown by the records of the M,W. Grand Lodge Proceedings for the year 1915.

Through the death on December 28, 1914 of R. W. Thomas W. Davis, Recording Grand Secretary, this office has been temporarily filled by Rt. W. Frank Vogel, who volunteered to help Most Wor. Melvin M. Johnson in the emergency and until a permanent successor could be selected and qualified.

At the Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge on March 10, 1915, the same meeting as the granting of our Charter, Rt. Wor. Bro. Hamilton, who had been serving as Deputy Grand Master, was elected as Recording Grand Secretary. Although he assumed office immediately, the records show that his first appearance officially was at the Special Communication of the Most Wor. Grand Lodge on March 29, 1915, held at the new Masonic Apartments, Harvard Ave., West Medford, for the purpose of constituting Sagamore Lodge.

At the time of preparing this history it is pleasing to note that he is known now as Most Wor. Bro. Frederick W. Hamilton and is still serving the Grand Lodge as Grand Secretary. We hope he will be with us on the occasion of our 50th Anniversary.

May we take this special occasion to thank him for the many acts of kindness and assistance he has rendered not only to Sagamore Lodge, but to the Masonic Fraternity in Massachusetts and throughout the world. No man in recent years has given more to the Fraternity than he; no man has served with greater loyalty; no man more widely known or better loved than he. We take this opportunity to honor him and hope that he may be spared to complete his quarter century on March 10, 1940, as Grand Secretary of this Grand Jurisdiction. We well remember his very generous offer to serve as our first Master, in the event we were unable to find a Past Master in our own group who could qualify.

The first official visitation of Rt. Wor. Paul S. Burns occurred October 18, 1915, accompanied by a large Suite.

The first Annual Meeting occurred December 20, 1915, at which Wor. Bro. Charnock retired and was made the first honorary member. Bro. F. D. Wilkins was elected Master. A beautiful Past Master's Apron and Past Master's Jewel were presented to the retiring Master, Wor. Bro. Fred R. Charnock, a custom which has been followed with each succeeding retiring Master.

Past Masters' Night was held on April 17, 1916, when the original line of officers performed the work of the evening. This custom continued each year until the death of Wor. Bro. Charnock.

St. John's Sunday was observed in June, when the Lodge attended Divine Service in a body. This custom has been followed each year without any break, having attended each of the local churches several times.

The Master called attention to the fact that the Lodge had no flag, and inasmuch as the war in Europe had started, the national spirit was at a high pitch in our own country. Contributions were made by the members and on March 15, 1916, "Old Glory" was presented to the Lodge. On this occasion we were honored by the presence of Most Wor. Melvin M. Johnson and Suite who were making a fraternal visit. Upon learning that Bro. Charles E. Nye had been a Mason 57 years, the Grand Master removed a Henry Price Medal from his breast and presented it with appropriate remarks to Bro. Nve.

The Grand Secretary Frederick W. Hamilton visited the Lodge on June 25, 1917 and delivered a very fine address, "Two Hundred Years of Masonry."

In December, 1917, Bro. Harry Wright was elected Master. He served for two years, very trying ones indeed, during the war period; changes in the line became necessary as several were called to the service of their country, among them Bro. Franklin E. Campbell, M.D., our first Treasurer, Darrel F. Wilkins, and S. Preston Higgins, Inside Sentinel, Also our Chaplain, Rev. Bro. Henry Francis Smith served with the V.M.C.A. in France and Bro. Lawrence Mitchell, Senior Deacon, with the U. S. Fuel Administration in Washington.

The Lodge purchased Liberty Bonds to assist the Government and helped in other ways.

Bro. Arthur V. Symonds presented the Lodge with a service Hag in recognition of those of our members who were in the service.

On June 16, 1919, our Chaplain, Rev. Bro. Henry F. Smith (having recently returned from France) was installed into his former office. He was wounded in France and was cited for bravery.

At the Annual Meeting in December, 1919, Bro. C. F. K. Bean was elected Master. Slight change in the line occurred as Bro. Mitchell had returned from war work and was reappointed to Senior Deacon. The others in line moved up as usual.

During these years, and for about ten years following, there were a large number of candidates, due probably to the experiences during the war. Special meetings were necessary almost every month and the Lodge grew in numbers very fast. This was true also throughout Massachusetts and the entire country.

The terms of Wor. Bro. Bean and Wor. Bro. Jones and Wor. Bro. Christie which followed in succession was extremely busy, as 212 candidates were admitted and 6 others were affiliated. All were successful and happy ones. The war had closed in 1918 and the country was gradually returning to a more normal life.

The usual activities occurred each year and the Lodge grew in strength and in popularity.

Late in the term of Wor. Bro. Christie there came a strong active movement for new quarters. A committee was appointed to consider this matter, consisting of Bro. Chester L. Whitaker, Chairman, also Bros. Clifford F. Sollows, Harry I. Cowan, George W. Pingree, Fred W. Thorpe, C. F. K. Bean, Albert W. Hathaway, Charles H. Brown and Lawrence Mitchell.

By this time the term of Wor. Bro. Christie was drawing to a close and the election held on December 18, 1922, Bro. Lawrence Mitchell was elected Master and installed on December 21 by Wor. Bro. Charnock assisted by Wor. Bro. Carter.

Work of the building committee continued and finally the opportunity came to acquire the Odd Fellows Building on Harvard Avenue which we had occupied as a tenant. The committee was authorized to form a building trust, which later became the Sagamore Masonic Building Trust. Our negotiations with the owner were necessarily in secret, as he suspected the customers were the West Medford Masons and had raised his price. However, after considerable negotiation the price of $27,500 was agreed upon. A deposit of $500.00 was made, and not until later did he know the real purchaser, as transfer was made in the individual name of the Master of the Lodge and later reconveyed to the Building Trust. Complete details are included in the Master's report for 1922, on file with the Secretary.

The year was one of great activities, due not alone to the usual Masonic activities and some 70 or more applications, but having acquired the property on July 2, and completely remodeled the building during the summer, the enthusiasm was at a high pitch. Everyone was busy raising money.

The Supper Concert on January 13 brought a profit of over $300.

The Musical Review in April netted about $2500. The Fair held jointly with Middlesex Chapter O.E.S. netted $2I(X) of which one half was donated to the building fund. Several other activities further swelled the building fund, together with the sale of stock, to $26,509.63, which was a rather remarkable achievement in such a short time.

The first Children's Party was held on Saturday afternoon, March 17, and proved to be a very popular and happy event, not alone for the children of our members, but for the ladies as well.

On Sunday, June 10 we made the first fraternal visit to the Masonic Home in Charlton. About 100 members and friends were received by Most Wor. J. Albert Blake who was then in charge. This event has since been repeated several times.

A national loss occurred during the summer in the death of our President of the U. S., Bro. Warren G. Harding, and a fitting tribute was made by the members when the announcement was made in the Lodge meeting which followed his death.

The remodeling of our building having been completed on October 22, the dedication was held on the evening of November 1. The speaker was the well known Bro. Joe Mitchell Chapple, nationally known after dinner speaker.

On December 13 we had as our guests Boston Chapter, Order of DeMolay. Under direction of Bro. Francis G. Hanson they brought their entire degree team, their band, and twenty-eight candidates. The Lodge-room was filled to overflow, 300 being present to witness the work. This was the first time the De Molay work was performed in Medford, and it created such universal praise that efforts were at once started to form a chapter in Medford. Sagamore Lodge invited the other Medford Masonic Bodies to jointly sponsor a Chapter, and after a year or more preliminary work Medford Chapter, Order of DeMolay was organized. It hail its beginning at this meeting.

This was a year of great activity due to the acquiring of the building and the remodeling of our Lodge quarters. Our Lodge had grown from 88 members in 1914 to 520 members in December, 1923.

Bro. Lemuel C. Woodbury was elected Master in December and was installed by Wor. Bro. Charnock.

Wor. Bro. Mitchell presented the Lodge with three gavels made from the Washington Elm which recently fell to the ground in Cambridge, with the suggestion that one of these be presented to Washington Alexandria Lodge at Alexandria, Virginia. A few months later WW. Bro. Mitchell visited this Lodge, once presided over by Wor. Bro. George Washington, and made the presentation. Our Secretary has on file a letter acknowledging this gift with thanks.

In March, 1924, Sagamore Lodge, together with the other Masonic Bodies in Medford, contributed its share of $2,000. to furnish the reception room of the new Lawrence Memorial Hospital.

April 28, 1924, was observed as Fast Masters' Night and on this occasion a State flag which had been purchased by the Lodge was dedicated. Lieut. Gov. & Bro. Alvan T. Fuller was the guest and speaker of the evening.

The Masonic Home at Charlton having been greatly enlarged by the addition of the Williams Wing, it was suggested that Lodges might wish to contribute to furnishing a room. Sagamore Lodge contributed $250. to this worthy cause.

During the term of Wor. Bro. Sanborn in 1925 we had a number of outstanding events in addition to the usual activities. In June we had a visit of 75 Market Men, with Rt. Wor. Edward N. West acting as Master, who conducted the degree work of the evening. The room was filled to capacity.

In October, 1925, the Order of the Rainbow for Girls gave a demonstration of their degree work before a large number of our members.

Masonry at this time was enjoying great prosperity. The World War had given great impetus to the order, and a large number of applications for the degrees had been received for several years, so that there was plenty of work for the officers. Also the attendance was large. It was not uncommon to have 200 members present at each regular meeting.

During the term of Wor. Bro. Carl G. Smiley he instituted the very fine custom of presenting a Masonic Bible to each candidate upon completion of his degrees. So far as we know, Wor. Bro. Smiley was the first Master and Sagamore the first Lodge in Massachusetts to adopt this custom. Since that time, however, many Lodges have adopted the same custom.

October 26, 1926, Rev. Bro. Tilton was elected to honorary membership, in recognition of his services to the Lodge as being the founder and first Chaplain. He was later elected as Chaplain Emeritus.

As a result of the severe hurricane in Florida and a general appeal for assistance, the Lodge gave $50. to the Grand Lodge to be forwarded to assist the distressed Masons in Florida.

On December 8th a special meeting was called at which the Master announced the death of our first Master, Wor. Fred R. Charnock. He passed away on Dec. 5, 1926, and was the first break in the original line of officers. Masonic Service was held at the Congregational Church in West Medford, 70 members being present. Fitting tribute was paid to his memory.

Bro. David Simpson was elected Master at the Annual Meeting in December, 1926, and was installed on December 27 by Rt. Wor. Fred L. Moses, Junior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge.

In January, 1927, the Lodge was pleasantly surprised by a gift of $100. from the Rainbow Girls, to be used for the building fund. The gift was accepted with thanks.

In May, 1927, an appeal came from the Grand Master that the terrible floods in the South had caused suffering among the Brothers of those stricken areas. Within 24 hours §86. was subscribed by our members and later increased to $150. to assist in this work.

February 20, 1928 we again received the Market Men with Rt. Wor. Edward N. West acting as Master. All stations were filled by these visitors who came on this occasion at the invitation of Wor. Bro. Smiley, also a Market Man. At this meeting Rt. Wor. Fred L. Moses was elected an honorary member of the Lodge.

At our March meeting we were honored by a visit of Most Wor. Dudley H. Ferrell, P. G. M. who gave a fine talk on the subject of Masonic Service and the needs of the Masonic Home.

At a Special Meeting in March, Medford Chapter, Order of Dc Molay were our guests. After their degree work we were entertained by their newly organized band. A sum of $50, was Jnnated for their new uniforms.

April 23, 1928, was Navy Night. A large delegation attended from the Charlestown Navy Yard. May 25 of that year was Scotch Night and 183 visitors with the Kiltie Band and Bagpipes came from far and near.

December 2, 1929, we were honored by a Fraternal Visit of Most Wor. Herbert W. Dean, G. M. who brought with him a large and distinguished Suite. The Grand Master gave a very tine talk on the newly acquired Juniper Hall in Shrewsbury, a gift of Mr. Matthew J. Whittall. We were pleased to present the Grand Master a check for $600. towards the furnishing. Later we contributed another $100.

In February, 1930, a very fine musical was conducted under the direction of Bro. A. W. Hathaway, which resulted in a profit of about $400. for the building fund.

At our meeting in March, 1930, Wor. Bro. Beyea asked the members to rise during a moment of silent prayer in memory of Bro. William Howard Taft, a member of Kilwinning Lodge, of Cincinnati, Chief Justice of the U. S. Supreme Court and former President of the United States.

On January 18, 1932, a very fine picture of Bro. George Washington was presented to the Lodge by Bro. Daniel E. Watson.

In May, 1932, the Dedication of the new memorial to Bro. George Washington took place in Alexandria, Va. Our Master, Benj. F. Walker, represented Sagamore Lodge on this occasion. On October, 1932, we were shocked to learn of the sudden death of our Senior Warden, Bro. Albin Cameron, a man who had given much of his time and strength to Masonic work. A large delegation attended his funeral and the Lodge performed a Masonic burial service.

At the January meeting, 1933, Wor. Bro. Walker announced that Sagamore Lodge had been honored by the appointment of one of its Past Masters to the office of District Deputy Grand Master for the Arlington 6th Masonic District. He appointed a committee of Past Masters to escort Rt. VVor, Bro. Lawrence Mitchell into the Lodge-room. The first announcement of the new Deputy was a sad one, as Rt. Wor. Fred L. Moses had passed to the Celestial Lodge above. He was an honorary member of Sagamore Lodge and had been regular in attendance. He had been selected to install Bro. Mason as Master at this meeting. His passing was a shock to everyone and a distinct loss to the Lodge. Rt. Wor. J. Arthur Gibson, at short notice responding to the call in a most loyal and efficient manner, conducted the installation.

During the year of 1933 the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts celebrated its 200th Anniversary. Sagamore Lodge took special notice of this occasion in a fitting manner. The Lodge was also well represented in the great meeting in Boston Arena in recognition of this event, as well as attending the services at the Old North Church.

Bro. George A. Mallion was installed as Master in January, 1934, by Rt. Wor. J. Arthur Gibson. One feature of the evening was the presentation to Wor. Bro. Mallion ot a beautiful bouquet from Medford Chapter, Order of DeMolay, in recognition of the faithful service rendered to them. This presentation was made by his brother, James Mallion, a Past Master Councilor of the Chapter.

Rt. Wor. J. Arthur Gibson was elected as an honorary member in recognition of the service he had rendered the Lodge on so many occasions. On July 1st the Lodge made another Pilgrimage to the Masonic Home at Charlton. This is always an occasion of great satisfaction, as it gives our members opportunity to see the benevolent work of our Fraternity.

During the summer we were called to conduct the services for our second Master, Wor. Frank D. Wilkins, who passed away Aug. 19. Bro. Wilkins was Chairman of the Committee on Organization of the Lodge in 1914, and an earnest worker in the early years. His failing health had prevented his attendance the latter part of his life.

The final visitation of Rt. Wor. Bro. Mitchell came on November 19, 1934. One of the largest suites in the history of the Sixth District honored the Lodge on this occasion, and the Lodge-room was filled to capacity. One outstanding visitor present was Bro. Oscar C. Pullen who had been a member of the Fraternity for sixty-one years, holding a Veterans Medal, and the only living Charter member of Joseph Webb Lodge of Boston. He was introduced to the members by the District Deputy Grand Master and responded with very appropriate remarks.

During the term of Wor. Bro. Hawkins we were shocked at the death of Rev. Bro. Charles E. Tilton, Chaplain Emeritus, and one of the founders of the Lodge. Masonic Service was held on August 6, being conducted by Wor. Bro. Hawkins and Rev. Bro. Henry F. Smith, Chaplain.

At our regular meeting in November, 1935, Bro. Franklin E. Campbell, a Charter member and our first Treasurer, was elected ro honorary membership, being the fifth member of the Lodge to be thus honored.

During the years from 1936 to 1939 the Lodge has been served by the following Masters: Wor. Louis A. Blanchard, 1936; Wor. Joseph C. Knox, 1937; Wor. Frank T. Conlon, 1938; and Wor. Lewis W. Ellis, our present Master during this, our Silver Anniversary year.

These years have been rather trying ones due to general conditions; however, each has been successful considering the difficult problems. Meetings have been held regularly, and there have been the usual Masonic activities each year. We have attended Divine service each year on St. John's Sunday in June; we have visited the Masonic Home and the Hospital; we have held to our custom of Past Masters' Night at each April meeting. We have also enjoyed entertainments of various kinds, Ladies' Night and Christmas Parties.

We have been active in helping to maintain the 13th Lodge of Instruction. Two of our Past Masters have been Masters of the 13th Lodge of Instruction, Wor. Bro. Simpson and Wor. Bro. Hawkins, who is serving at the present time. Also, three Past Masters have served as Secretary, Wor. Bros. Simpson, Mason, and Mallion.

We have endeavored to do our part in maintaining the Masonic Home and the Hospital and to keep our members informed on the benevolent work of our Grand Lodge.

We have been represented on the Board of Masonic Relief by Wor. Bro. Harry Wright, Wor. Bro. L. C. Woodbury, and Rt. Wor. Lawrence Mitchell, our present representative. Also, Wor. Carl G. Smiley has been the District Representative for the Arlington 6th District for a number of years.

The first Veteran's Medal to be conferred on a member of Sagamore Lodge was approved by the Grand Master and presented to Bro. Arthur G. Dominey on May 16, 1938, by Rt. Wor. Charles L. Oxnard. Bro. Dominey had completed fifty years in Masonry in good standing and is still a regular attendant and is hale and hearty at the age of 91.

This, my Brethren, I believe will complete the highlights of our Lodge history for the first 25 years, with the exception of the Anniversary Meeting of this evening, which 1 shall endeavor to complete very shortly.

I hope 1 have covered all the outstanding events, and that you will pardon any errors or omissions. It has been impractical to mention the name of every one who has contributed to the success of the Lodge, as there have been actually hundreds who Could be included. I have tried, however, to give credit where it is due.

May I close by saying that it has been not only a pleasure for me to give the necessary time for research and study of our records, but it has been a distinct honor for me to have been chosen for this assignment as your Historian. I must, however, mention that I have been assisted by two very able Charter members, Wor. George W. Hook and Wor. Harry K. Carter, whom I here and now publicly wish to thank.

May I close wishing the Lodge continued success; may the younger group now in the line, and those to follow, carry on and improve on the foundation which has been built during this quarter century.

THE SILVER ANNIVERSARY

April 16-17, 1939

The Silver Anniversary consisted of two meetings. The first was held Sunday evening, April 16, in the Congregational Church of West Medford. The Lodge organized in the Chapel and marched into the Church led by the Master Lewis \Y. Ellis. Sixty-five members were present.

The Service was conducted by our Chaplain, Rev. Bro. Henry Francis Smith, also Pastor of the Church. His sermon, The Obligation of a Mason, was an inspiration and a challenge to every member.

The Choir Guild of the Church, consisting of about 60 voices, rendered appropriate music.

Members of Middlesex Chapter No. 64, O. E. S. were also present in a body and occupied seats directly behind the Lodge.

On Monday evening, April 17, the regular Communication was held in our own apartments. The Lodge was organized at 5.30 P.M. with Worshipful Lewis W. Ellis in the East, and all regular officers being present.

After a short business meeting a recess was declared, and at 6.30 dinner was served to 150, which included the Grand Master and special invited guests seated at the head table. Another table was reserved for the Charter members, of which there were present 19 of a total of M still on the Lodge roster.

At 7.45 the Lodge reassembled in the Lodge-room and awaited the arrival of the Grand Marshal. Meantime the Grand Lodge was opened in an adjoining apartment in Ample Form.

Fallowing the announcement of the Grand Marshal that the Grand Master was ready to be received, the Master appointed a reception committee consisting of all Past Masters present (15 in number) together with three other Charter members, Bros. Brackett, Child, and Weissbach, to escort the CJrand Master into the Lodge Room.

The Grand Lodge officers included the following:

  • M. W. Joseph Earl Perry, Grand Master
  • R. W. J. Arthur Gibson, Act. Deputy Grand Master
  • R. W. George E. White, Senior Grand Warden
  • R. W. Rufus L. Titus, Junior Grand Warden
  • R. W. Charles H. Ramsay, Grand Treasurer
  • M. W. Frederick W. Hamilton, Grand Secretary
  • R. W. Earl. W. Taylor, Grand Marshal
  • Wor. Rev. D. Joseph Imler, Grand Chaplain
  • Wor. George Emery Green, Grand Lecturer
  • Wor. George W. Baxter, Senior Grand Deacon
  • Wor. Charles H. Curry, Jr., Junior Grand Steward
  • Wor. Alexander B. McKechnie, Junior Grand Steward
  • Wor. Laurence M. Jackson, Grand Sword Bearer
  • Wor. George T. Burnham, Grand Pursuivant
  • Wor. Chester C. Parker, Grand Pursuivant
  • R. W. Eugene R. Hamilton, District Deputy G. M., Arl. 6th
  • Wor. Paul N. Shiverick, District Deputy G. M., Som. 6th

The Grand Master, Most Worshipful Joseph Earl Perry was introduced by Rt. Wor. Lawrence Mitchell, following which the Grand Master introduced the members of his Suite. The Grand Master assumed the Hast and conducted the ceremonies of the evening.

The principal speakers of the evening were the Grand Master and the Grand Secretary, both of whom gave us messages of inspiration and wisdom as regards Free Masonry and our every day lives. Other members of the Suite spoke briefly and congratulated the Lodge upon its 25 years.

The reading of the Lodge History by Rt. Wor. Lawrence Mitchell was of interest and was received with enthusiasm. During the evening several solos were rendered by Bro. Ermond F. Lewis, Bro. Orison K. Smith, Accompanist.

An interesting feature was the gift to the Lodge of the Past Master's Apron of Wor. Fred. R. Charnock, our first Master. This came as a surprise when his son, Bro. Percy G. Charnock, presented the apron in a most appropriate manner, to Wor. Lewis W. Ellis.

At ten o'clock, the exercises being concluded, the Lodge was closed by the Grand Master in Ample Form, after which the Grand Master and members of the Grand Lodge held an informal reception.

'['here were present about 240 in the Lodge-room, including several Masons of prominence in addition to the Grand Master and his suite. The Charter members included two Past Masters of Sagamore Lodge, Wor. Ernest W. Christie, 1922 and Rt. Wor. Lawrence Mitchell, 1923, who were in the original line. Also Wor. Harry E. Carter, Treas., Wor. Geo. W. Hook, Secy., Bro. F. G. Kelsey, Tyler, of the original line. Also Wor. L. C. Woodbury, Wor. Ch. B. Sanborn, Bros. E. R. Brackett, L. M. Child, |ns. W. Weissbach, Edward Holland, Walter I. Weeks, Lewis E. Thorpe, Hartley S. Johnson, Francis D. Carr, Fred J. Parsons, James G. Harris, Fred A. Whitman, and Herbert L. B. Lawton.

Thus closes the first 25 years.

PAST MASTERS

  • Wor. Fred Charnock, 1915 †
  • Wor. Fred D. Wilkins, 1916-17 †
  • Wor. Harry Wright, 1918, 1919
  • Wor. Charles F. K. Bean, 1920
  • Wor. Ralph P. Jones, 1921
  • Wor. Ernest W. Christie, 1922
  • Rt. Wor. Lawrence Mitchell, 1923 ★
  • Wor. Lemuel C. Woodbury, 1924
  • Wor. Charles B. Sanborn, 1925
  • Wor. G. Carl Smiley, 1926
  • Wor. David Simpson, 1927
  • Wor. Charles C. Henry, 1928-29
  • Wor. Dow H. Beyea, 1930
  • Wor. Dwight W. Robb, 1931
  • Wor. Benjamin F. Walker, 1932
  • Wor. Frank L. Mason, 1933
  • Wor. George A. Mallion, 1934
  • Wor. Thomas H. Hawkins, 1935
  • Wor. Louis A. Blanchard, 1936
  • Wor. Joseph C. Knox, 1937
  • Wor. F. Theodore Conlan, 1938
  • Wor. Lewis W. Ellis, 1939
★ = Past District Deputy Grand Master
† = Deceased

ORGANIZATION, 1939

  • Worshipful Master, Wor. Lewis W. Ellis
  • Senior Warden, Bro. William S. Wadsworth
  • Junior Warden, Bro. Alfred D. Polsev
  • Treasurer, Wor. Harry E. Carter Wor. George W. Hook
  • Chaplain, Rev. Bro. Henry Francis Smith
  • Associate Chaplain, Bro. Ernest R. Brackett
  • Marshal, Wor. F. Theodore Conlan
  • Senior Deacon, Bro. Wilfred H. Perry
  • Junior Deacon, Bro. Albert L. Wescott
  • Senior Steward, Bro. Paul S. Rochford
  • Junior Steward, Bro. Char;es A. Wilkes
  • Inside Sentinel, Bro. Thomas E. Lanigan
  • Organist, Bro. Orison K. Smith
  • Tyler, Bro. Bro. Frank G. Kelsey
  • Relief Committee, Wor. Lewis W, Ellis, Bro. William S. Wadsworth, Bro. Alfred D. Polsey
  • Trustees of Permanent Fund,
    • Wor. Lewis W. Ellis, Wor. Harry E. Carter, Bro. Samuel Holmes, 1 year
    • Wor. Entitle I.. Mason, 2 years
    • Bro. Ralph II. Smiley, 3 years
  • Trustees of Building Fund,
    • Bro. William C. Campbell, 1 year
    • Bro. Clarence B. Taylor, 2 years
    • Bro. Bruce Poehler, 3 years
  • Trustees of Charity Fund,
    • Wor. Lewis W. Ellis, Wor. Harry E. Carter, Wor. Louis A. Blanchard, Donald N. Sleeper, 1 year
    • Bro. John S. Fyfe, 2 years
  • Trustees of Sagamore Building Trust,
    • Bro. John Montgomery, 1 year
    • Bro. George S. Rawlings, 2 years
    • Bro. Luther M. Child, 3 years
    • Bro. Frank W. Holmes, 4 years
    • Bro. Edward Holland, 5 years
  • Representative, Board of Masonic Relief, Rt. Wor. Lawrence Mitchell
  • Proxy to Grand Lodge, Wor. F. Theodore Conlan
  • Representative to Masonic Service Bureau, Bro. Roy L. Vlass

50TH ANNIVERSARY HISTORY, APRIL 1964

From Proceedings, Page 1964-127:

By Bro. Frank W. Lovering and Wor. Elmer V. Telfer.

Worshipful Brother Lawrence Mitchell's record of the first 25 years of Sagamore Lodge ended with the election of officers for the year 1939, when Worshipful Brother Lewis W. Ellis presided in the east. (See 1939 Mass. 141-171)

During Worshipful Brother Ellis' administration it was reported that $5,216 had been paid on the Building Fund Mortgage.

January 15, 1940, Brother William S. Wadsworth was installed as Master, and throughout his year the membership of the Lodge continued to grow. Among other things the Lodge held a successful Minstrel Show with members of the Lodge in the cast.

With the incoming year 1941, Brother Alfred D. Polsey was elected Master. It was during this year that Worshipful Brother Harry E. Carter received his Distinguished Service Medal given by Grand Lodge for his outstanding work in behalf of Sagamore Lodge. At this same meeting Brother Frank Gordon Kelsey was presented with a Masonic Veteran's Medal for fifty years of faithful service.

At the meeting of December 15, 1941, Brother Wilfred H. Perry was nominated and elected Worshipful Master to serve during 1942. Now the second World War was beginning to claim the services of some of our younger men in both Army and Navy, and Sagamore Lodge voted to send gifts to them through money to be donated to the Master or Secretary. At the business meeting of the Lodge May 18, 1942, on motion of Brother Fred Kenney it was voted to remit the dues of all Sagamore Brethren on duty in the Armed Forces for the duration. Throughout the Secretary's records it is noted that the Lodge has attended St. John's Sunday Services in June, and that in each case the sermon was given by one of our own members or a clergyman belonging to another Masonic Lodge in Medford. Each year Sagamore held no communication in July or August unless called together on a special emergency. At the meeting of September 21, 194-2, a Masonic Veteran's Medal and Distinguished Service Medal were conferred upon Secretary George W. Hook who had completed fifty years in Masonry and had been nearly 28 years Secretary of Sagamore Lodge. It was further noted that Brother Hook had been Worshipful Master during 1896. Brother Hook was elected Secretary upon the formation of Sagamore Lodge, April 20, 1914. During World War II, the United States government ordered a blackout and Sagamore Lodge, considering what action should be taken, voted to leave the problem to the Master. It was suggested and voted that the Lodge work be so arranged that meetings would close at 10 P.M. "for the duration".

At the communication of December 21, 1942, officers elected for the ensuing term included the election as Worshipful Master, Albert L. Wescott, for the year 1943.

The meeting of the Lodge September 20, 1943 was the 295th regular communication. At this meeting it was stated that Sagamore notices for the years 1914 through 1942 had been bound in three volumes and presented for the archives of the Lodge by Brother Ralph P. Stevens.

The final communication of 1943 was held December 20, when Brother Bradley P. Howes was elected Worshipful Master. At this meeting Brother George W. Hook, Secretary of Sagamore Lodge since its organization in 1914, told the Nominating Committee that he felt he could no longer serve, and refused to allow his name to be placed on the ballot. The officers expressed deep regret and were extensive in their praise of Brother Hook's splendid labor in behalf of the Lodge he had helped to organize. Brother Dwight W. Robb was chosen to succeed Brother Hook.

Brother Bradley P. Howes was installed Master for the term of 1944. He had been in the line but four years. His rapid progress through the chairs, several of which he did not occupy, was because of the conflict then enveloping the world.

March 11th Worshipful Howes was called to the colors and was inducted into the Army at Fort Devens. In the period he served as Master the Entered Apprentice Degree was conferred on nine candidates, the Fellowcraft Degree on four, but he did not confer the Master Mason Degree on a single candidate. November 20, 1944 the By-Laws were changed to make the regular election in June, and the installation in September. Thomas E. Lanigan succeeded Brother Howes and four candidates who received the Master's Degree under him later sat in the east as Master: Clifton J. Cavanaugh, Harold B. Lyon, Ralph I. Gillis and Allison A. Perrin.

The installation of Brother Lanigan was the first public installation in the Lodge.

Sagamore was growing so rapidly that the First and Second Degrees were conferred on different classes of candidates nearly every month. Attendance during these meetings was considered large, varying from 50 to 90.

Brother Winslow R. MacElhiney was installed as Worshipful Master September 17, 1945. This year was also noted for the number of Special Communications which enabled the officers to confer degrees on the many applicants. It was during Worshipful MacElhiney's year that the fund for the purchase of an organ was started.

The administration headed by Worshipful C. Wallace Chalmers was particularly noted for the entertainment that followed each Communication, which certainly had a part in the excellent attendance throughout the year.

Worshipful H. Morton Hill, as Master for 1947-1948, had a busy year with many candidates receiving their Degrees. This year was further worthy by having Worshipful Winslow R. MacElhiney installed as Secretary. Worshipful Dwight W. Robb, his predecessor, had served as Secretary for five years.

Worshipful Alton B. Fowler, in addition to conferring Degrees on twenty-two candidates, was faced with a financial crisis for both the Lodge and the Building Trust. A committee appointed by him helped to solve the problem and he was able to report that both the Lodge and the Trust were reporting in the black at the end of his term. It was during his year the records note the passing of Brother Frank G. Kelsey who had served as Tyler 35 years and for many years as Custodian of the Sagamore Masonic Apartments. Brother Kelsey passed away May 26. He was succeeded by his son, Louis G. Kelsey, our present Tyler.

New members continued to join Sagamore Lodge, which caused Worshipful Clifton J. Cavanaugh to hold Special Communications nearly every month, and it has been noted in the records the excellent degree work performed by the Officers under Worshipful Cavanaugh's direction. Worshipful Harold B. Lyon was indeed fortunate to have exceptionally good attendance throughout his term of office.

It was the duty of Worshipful Ralph I. Gillies to readjust the financial costs of initiation fees due to increased costs. He was kept busy throughout the year visiting sick members and had the sad duty of paying his respects to the families of Brother J. Luther M. Child, a Charter Member of Sagamore Lodge, and Right Worshipful Lawrence Mitchell, our seventh Master and also a Charter Member.

During the term of office of Worshipful Edward A. Whelpley, the present organ was purchased and installed. Money had been raised during the past several years and finally enough was realized to bring the project to a successful conclusion. A donation of #250 was received for this fund from the Order of the Eastern Star, for which a note of appreciation was voted. Brothers Arthur W. Byam and Guy E. Healey received their fifty-year Veterans' Medals.

The year that Worshipful Carl S. Locke presided was marked by a Distinguished Service Medal being presented to Brother Ernest R. Brackett, our Chaplain for many years.

Worshipful Paul M. Rathbun had a busy administration in conferring Degrees. It was during his term that Worshipful Charles B. Sanborn and Brother Francis D. Carr received their fifty-year Veteran's Medals, both having served long and well at Sagamore Lodge.

Worshipful Allison A. Perrin had the honor of presiding when Right Worshipful Charles D. Harrington presented Worshipful Lemuel G. Woodbury and Brother Clinton G. Bostwick their fifty-year Veterans' Medals. His year was saddened by the illness and death of Worshipful Harry Edgar Carter, who had served as Treasurer from 1915 until his death. Worshipful Carter was a Charter Member, a recipient of a Fifty-Year Veteran's Medal and to all of the Past Masters he was a pillar of strength. He served as Ritualist for many years, and much of the excellent work by the Line Officers can be credited to him.

Worshipful Duncan A. Chalmers was faced with the problem of increasing the Lodge income and appointed a committee to study and solve it. The committee recommended an increase in dues which was passed at the annual business meeting. It was his privilege to have Fifty-Year Veterans' Medals conferred on Brothers Montanus K. Nash and Arthur D. Hall by Right Worshipful Lane E. Wheaton.

It was during his administration that the financial difficulties of both the Lodge and the Building Trustees were recognized and steps taken to correct them. This resulted in the "Save Sagamore" Campaign which was to be carried on through the following years.

Carrying on the program started by his predecessor, Worshipful David Y. Taylor requested that outstanding Shares of Stock of the Sagamore Building Trust be acquired by the Lodge. This program was quite successful with nearly 500 shares being turned over to the Lodge.

A renovation program was begun with the lounge as the first project. The repainting of the corridors and stairways brought about a welcome change of appearance to the Lodge Apartments.

A drive for funds to improve the Lodge Room was instigated and was well underway during his term. One note during Worshipful Brother Taylor's administration which carried from the previous years was the excellent work that the Service Committee had done.

During this year three candidates received their Entered Apprentice Degree under a new form prescribed by the Grand Master.

Worshipful Harry T. Sederquest's year was saddened by the accidental death of Brother Ernest T. Bracken, who had served as Chaplain of Sagamore Lodge for many years.

Further progress was made in the renovation work at the building and all of the Officers' regalia was repaired and refurbished.

Worshipful Richard H. Lowe was fortunate to have more candidates than there had been for the last several years and his work along with the other Line Officers was well received by the members.

Sagamore Lodge lost a wonderful member and Chaplain in April of this year when Reverend Brother Henry Francis Smith retired to move to Maine. Many of the members well remember the wonderful words of wisdom he imparted to the candidates when receiving their degrees. Brother Smith was presented with a gift to show him our love and esteem for his many years of valuable service.

Worshipful Elmer V. Telfer was privileged to have one of the finest Service Committees in the history of Sagamore Lodge. This Committee arranged for entertainment after the regular communications, held an Auction and Supper, several social events, all of which were very successful financially and socially.

Brother Andrew Winning received his Fifty-Year Veteran's Medal from Right Worshipful Herbert W. Rosen.

During this year the fund for the renovations in the Lodge Was increased enough so that the reupholstering of the Officers' Chairs and the Lodge Room was accomplished.

It was also during this year that Sagamore Lodge received an award for attendance at the 13th Lodge of Instruction, the first received in some years.

Worshipful Ross M. McLeod, to further the renovation program, organized the "Red Carpet Club", which consisted of members who purchased one or more square yards of carpet for the completion of laying the carpeting in the Lodge Room.

Worshipful Brother McLeod increased the Service Committee and assigned duties that increased the social life of the Lodge members, which proved very successful.

It was during the term of office of Worshipful Bryant G. Bedsaul that the center position of the Lodge Room was re-carpeted, giving a new look to the Apartments.

The Annual Past Masters' Night, under the direction of Worshipful Duncan Chalmers, was the best attended in many years. Twenty-five of the thirty living Past Masters were in attendance and most of them participated in the work of the evening.

One of Worshipful Bedsaul's most desired projects was to have an illuminated sign placed on the face of the building to show visiting Brothers where we were located, and this was realized before he completed his term of office.

The Golden Anniversary Year of 1964 was to be celebrated under the direction of Worshipful Donald B. Hanson, who was installed as Master September 16, 1963. One of Worshipful Hanson's first duties was to appoint an Anniversary Committee, which was charged to arrange a suitable celebration.

An invitation was sent to the Grand Master who accepted and suggested the April 15th, 1964 date for the formal party. To this end the Committee has worked diligently.

The Golden Anniversary Celebration was held at the Sagamore Apartments, April IS, 1964, with Most Worshipful A. Neill Osgood, Grand Master, and his very distinguished Suite in attendance.

A renovation program was begun with the lounge as the first project. The repainting of the corridors and stairways brought about a welcome change of appearance to the Lodge Apartments.

A drive for funds to improve the Lodge Room was instigated and was well underway during his term. One note during Worshipful Brother Taylor's administration which carried from the previous years was the excellent work that the Service Committee had done.

During this year three candidates received their Entered Apprentice Degree under a new form prescribed by the Grand Master.

Worshipful Harry T. Sederquest's year was saddened by the accidental death of Brother Ernest T. Brackett, who had served as Chaplain of Sagamore Lodge for many years.

Further progress was made in the renovation work at the building and all of the Officers' regalia was repaired and refurbished.

Worshipful Richard H. Lowe was fortunate to have more candidates than there had been for the last several years and his work along with the other Line Officers was well received by the members.

Sagamore Lodge lost a wonderful member and Chaplain in April of this year when Reverend Brother Henry Francis Smith retired to move to Maine. Many of the members well remember the wonderful words of wisdom he imparted to the candidates when receiving their degrees. Brother Smith was presented with a gift to show him our love and esteem for his many years of valuable service.

Worshipful Elmer V. Telfer was privileged to have one of the finest Service Committees in the history of Sagamore Lodge. This Committee arranged for entertainment after the regular communications, held an Auction and Supper, several social events, all of which were very successful financially and socially.

Brother Andrew Winning received his Fifty-Year Veteran's Medal from Right Worshipful Herbert W. Rosen.

During this year the fund for the renovations in the Lodge was increased enough so that the reupholstering of the Officers' Chairs and the Lodge Room was accomplished.

It was also during this year that Sagamore Lodge received an award for attendance at the 13th Lodge of Instruction, the first received in some years.

Worshipful Ross M. McLeod, to further the renovation program, organized the "Red Carpet Club", which consisted of members who purchased one or more square yards of carpet for the completion of laying the carpeting in the Lodge Room.

Worshipful Brother McLeod increased the Service Committee and assigned duties that increased the social life of the Lodge members, which proved very successful.

It was during the term of office of Worshipful Bryant G. Bedsaul that the center position of the Lodge Room was re-carpeted, giving a new look to the Apartments.

The Annual Past Masters' Night, under the direction of Worshipful Duncan Chalmers, was the best attended in many years. Twenty-five of the thirty living Past Masters were in attendance and most of them participated in the work of the evening.

One of Worshipful Bedsaul's most desired projects was to have an illuminated sign placed on the face of the building to show visiting Brothers where we were located, and this was realized before he completed his term of office.

The Golden Anniversary Year of 1964 was to be celebrated under the direction of Worshipful Donald B. Hanson, who was installed as Master September 16, 1963. One of Worshipful Hanson's first duties was to appoint an Anniversary Committee, which was charged to arrange a suitable celebration.

An invitation was sent to the Grand Master who accepted and suggested the April 15th, 1964 date for the formal party. To this end the Committee has worked diligently.

The Golden Anniversary Celebration was held at the Sagamore Apartments, April IS, 1964, with Most Worshipful A. Neill Osgood, Grand Master, and his very distinguished Suite in attendance.

This was the end to which Worshipful Brother Hanson, his Line Officers and the Anniversary Committee had worked all year, and the memory of this evening will live for many years to come. The frosting on the cake was the presentation of Fifty-Year Veteran Medals to four of our members: Brothers Frank W. Lovering, Bruce Poehler, Payson Goodwin, and Arthur A. Perrin, Jr.

As Shakespeare wrote, "The Past is Prologue."


GRAND LODGE OFFICERS


EVENTS

CONSTITUTION OF LODGE, APRIL 1914

From New England Craftsman, Vol. IX, No. 8, June 1914, Page 306:

A new lodge in the Sixth Masonic District of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts was instituted at West Medford, Monday, April 20, it bears the name Sagamore. The ceremony of institution was under the direction of George C. Hill, district deputy grand master of the Sixth District.

Among the 90 who applied for the dispensation are representatives of more than a score of lodges all over New England.

An interested spectator was John M. Charnock, father of the Worshipful Master, who became a Mason in 1872 and saw his son head of a lodge for the second time.

Deputy Hill was assisted in the work by Prank L. Morse as SGW, Darius A. Green as JGW, Ernest W. Hatch as GT, Thomas Jackson as GS, Lorenzo L. Green as GC, George H. Perry as GM, George H. Archibald as GSD. Clifford M. Brewer as GJD, Alfredda R. Hersam as GSS, J. P. Hannah as GJS, John Allen as GP, Edward H. Romaine as G Organist and Harry J. Newhall as G Tyler.

There were also with the Grand Lodge representative District Deputy William F. Deadman of the 7th Masonic District, Past Master Edgar O. Dewey of Good Samaritan Lodge, Worshipful Master George F. Smith and Senior Warden Albert H. Burnham of Simon W. Robinson Lodge, Past Master John Boleyn of Canongate and Leith Lodge of Scotland, and Sec. Charles W. Hodge of Somerville Lodge.

The names of those who applied for the dispensation were read and they took their stations at the altar. Having given their assent to the choice of Past Master Fred R. Charnock as Master, also to the Wardens, the Grand Master's representative proceeded to install the officers.

The list is as follows: Fred R. Charnock (PM), WM; Harry E. Carter (PM), SW: Frank D. Wilkins, JW; Franklin E. Campbell, T; George W. Hook (PM), S; Robert Rogers, M; Harry Wright, SD; Charles F. K. Bean. JD; Ralph P. Jones SS; Lawrence Mitchell, JS; Ernest W. Christie, IS; Clifford F. Hall, Organist; Frank G. Kelsey, IS.

The friendly interest of the other Masonic bodies of Medford has been shown by contributions of implements required by the lodge. Medford Council R. and S. Masters gave a marshal's baton; Mystic R. A. Chapter a gavel and Mt. Hermon Lodge has given the three great lights.


DISTRICTS

1914: District 6 (Somerville)

1927: District 6 (Arlington)


LINKS

Massachusetts Lodges