Difference between revisions of "Saggahew"

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SAGGAHEW LODGE

Location: Haverhill

Chartered By: William Parkman

Charter Date: 12/13/1865 VII-39

Precedence Date: 12/16/1864

Current Status: Active

PAST MASTERS

REFERENCES IN GRAND LODGE PROCEEDINGS

• Petition for Dispensation: 1864
• Petition for Charter: 1865

ANNIVERSARIES

• 1941 (75th Anniversary)
• 1966 (Centenary)
• 1991 (125th Anniversary)

VISITS BY GRAND MASTER

• 1866 (Dame; Constitution of Lodge and installation)
• 1873 (Nickerson; Corner-stone laying; Special Communication)
• 1879 (Welch)
• 1906 (Blake)
• 1910 (Flanders; "Masonic Lecture by Professor Cross")
• 1911 (Flanders)
• 1919 (L. Abbott; 2 visits, including Tasker Monument dedication, Special Communication)
• 1941 (Schaefer; 75th Anniversary; Special Communication)
• 1965 (Osgood)
• 1966 (Booth; Centenary; Special Communication)
• 1967 (Booth; reception for Junior Grand Warden Thomas J. Luby, Jr.)
• 1972 (Vose; Blood donor night)
• 1989 (Ames)
• 1991 (Darling; 125th Anniversary; Special Communication)

BY-LAW CHANGES

1870 1876 1880 1881 1896 1900 1912 1917 1919 1920 1929 1935 1938 1955 1956 1957 1958 1966 1967 1969 1971 1974 1985 1988 1993 2001 2008

HISTORY

• 1941 (75th Anniversary History, 1941-3)
• 1966 (Centenary History, 1966-5)
• 1991 (125th Anniversary History, 1966-5)

75TH ANNIVERSARY HISTORY, JANUARY 1941

From Proceedings, Page 1941-3:

By Bro. Herman W. Dow

Three score and fifteen years ago, Brethren from Merrimack Lodge, A.F.& A.M., brought forth a new Lodge in this city, conceived in progress, and dedicated to the Holy Saints John. Today, we are in the midst of discord and strife over all the world, which is testing whether this Lodge, or any Lodge, so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. May we take renewed courage from the good works of our honored dead, and rededicate ourselves to the duties now lying before us. Let us highly resolve that our institution of Freemasonry which supports the proposition of a government of the people, by the people, and for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

It has ever been an American custom to commemorate, or celebrate, events of the past on appropriate occasions, the more to keep alive the spirit, the memory and the lesson of those events.

Even indifferent Christians are filled with Peace and Good Will at Christmas-tide, and at Easter contemplate the Risen Christ. Tardy sons return to the old folks at home for family reunion at Thanksgiving. On the Fourth of July, the nation rejoices over its freedom and gives heed to our immortal forefathers, who suffered that we might have freedom. On Memorial Day, we decorate the graves of those who died that our land might be one united nation. On the eleventh of November we pay tribute to the brave men who struggled to make the world safe for Democracy and to end all wars. Such commemorations are fraught with good and serve a noble purpose. Agreeably to this custom, it has pleased Saggahew Lodge to celebrate the Seventy-fifth Anniversary of its institution.

"Not with the roar of stirring drums, nor the trumpet that sings of fame" comes the story of Saggahew Lodge. The events of our history are simple. We cannot boast, as older Lodges may, of Washington visiting our Lodge, or of some of our early members sitting in Lodge when Lafayette was present. Nor can we claim that some of our members were Minute Men in the Revolution, nor that they fought at Bunker Hill. We cannot relate, as can Saint Andrew's Lodge of Boston, the story of the Boston Tea Party — how that Lodge closed its meeting and its members went to the Green Dragon Tavern where, disguising themselves as Indians, they repaired to a British ship, docked in the harbor, ladened with tea, and dumped the tea into Boston Harbor. Nor can we say our members responded to the alarm given by Paul Revere in his midnight ride. Nor yet may we say that Saggahew men marched away in Hale's Guards in response to Lincoln's call in the War of the States.

No, the date of its inception precluded the possibility of a Saggahew man being a Colonial patriot, or even a Civil War hero, but among the first to join Saggahew was a Union soldier, who had received his degrees in the army, Edward G. Frothingham. But we may say that we cannot be Masons in spirit and in truth except we love our Creator, are obedient to the laws of our country and just in our dealings with our fellow men. And in these virtues Saggahew Lodge is one hundred per cent Masonic.

Now for the high lights in Saggahew's life. Twenty members of Merrimack Lodge, A.F.& A.M., met in the Armory of Haverhill Encampment (as the Commandery was called in those days) for the purpose of instituting a new Lodge of Masons in Haverhill. A Petition was sent to Merrimack Lodge to permit withdrawals for this purpose. The document was really a gem and the closing sentence is here quoted: "The two bodies can live and labor side by side, sharing each others facilities and helping to bear each others burdens and cultivating that feeling of Brotherhood, which in the language of our beloved manual, knows no contention, or only that noble Contention or rather Emulation of which best can work and which best agree.

Merrimack Lodge granted the Petition and the Grand Lodge issued a Dispensation. The committee in charge of the preliminary work was headed by James E. Gale as Chairman and R. Stuart Chase, Secretary. Six names were submitted for a name for the new Lodge — Rufus Longley, Cascadnac, Kenoza, Oriental, Saggahew and Mount Serbal. After considerable discussion the name "Saggahew" was chosen, that being the name of one of the two Indian chiefs who sold the land comprising the village of Pentucket to the early settlers. And now with a name, a Dispensation, elective officers chosen, a meeting night selected and all arrangements made, Saggahew Lodge held its first Stated Communication on Dec. 19, 1864. There were present:

• James E. Gale, W. M.
• Daniel Fitts, S. W.
• C. W. Chase, J. W.
• E. A. Bradley, S. D.
• A. Whittier, J. D.
• G. S. Chase, Sec.
• A. Hodgkins
• A. W. Cram
• W. A. Brooks
• E. M. Littlefield
• Geo. Poor
• F. S. Swan
• J. H. Carleton
• C. P. Messer
• J. P. Richardson
• C. Smith
• C. R. Evans
• G. H. Hoyt
• J. R. Nichols
• D. A. Sleeper


* J. F. West

The Worshipful Master read a Dispensation from the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts empowering Saggahew Lodge to work. He also read the list of officers appointed by him — A. W. Cram, S. S., E. M. Littlefield, J. S., G. H. Hoyt, Marshal, O. S. Hubbard, Chorister, and A. G. Bradley, Tyler.

Among the applications for membership were: Nathan S. Kimball, Leather Manufacturer, and the second Worshipful Master of Saggahew Lodge; Leonard H. Flanders, Dry Goods Merchant; James How and Charles B. Emerson, Druggists; Charles W. Sawyer, Carriage Maker; and Edward G. Frothingham, a veteran of the Civil War.

On the afternoon of the 12th of January, 1866, just 75 years ago this month, the officers of Saggahew Lodge were installed by Most Worshipful Charles C. Dame, Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts and officers of the Grand Lodge. It was a gala day for the officers and Brethren of Saggahew and celebrated with feasting, speaking, music and song. On that day the Charter was presented by the Most Worshipful Grand Master. No longer was it a fledgling, but a bird with full plumage, capable of doing its own soaring. Its joyful notes filled the air. After the Lodge ceremonies a sumptuous banquet was held at the Old Eagle House, followed by an entertainment and dance in the hall in the evening. Saggahew Lodge had a special guest that day who enjoyed the festivities, Worshipful Moses Wingate, Past Master of Merrimack Lodge, then ninety-six years young. Among songs that were sung during the entertainment, was an original poem written by Mrs. David B. Tenney and set to music by her husband, David B. Tenney, a Past Master of Merrimack Lodge. A copy of this song is laid up with the records of the Lodge and is here quoted:

'Twas a gallant ship on a trial trip
That left our shore one day.
And many a prayer for that noble band
Went with them on their way.
We had no fear for their safe return
Though wind and tide should fail
For tried and true was their working crew
And their Master was a Gale.

Chorus — We'll drink success to that gallant craft
With her free and accepted crew
Long may they sail with their Master Gale
In the good ship 'Saggahew.'
There was Randall, Whittier and Poor and Hoyt,
Brooks, Bradley, Wheeler and West.
And Carleton and Nichols, Smith, Messer and Fitts,
And Sleeper came with the rest.
There was Hubbard and Evans and Frank C. Swan,
And of Chases not a few,
'Twas a gallant band that left the land
In the good ship 'Saggahew.'

Chorus — repeated

Again today that noble craft
Has parted from the shore,
With Square and Compasses on her flag,
And her deck the Checkered Floor.
May Heaven speed them on their way
May their skies be always blue
And choicest blessings rest upon
The good ship 'Saggahew.'

The absence of the names of A. W. Cram, H. S. Littlefield, A. Hodgkins, and J. P. Richardson in the song, though present at the first Stated Communication, was apparently due to the inability of the writer to conveniently weave them into the verses.

Most Worshipful Charles C. Dame installed James E. Gale as Worshipful Master and Brother Daniel Fitts as Senior Warden. The other officers, with a few changes, were the same as had served the previous year. They were a fine coterie of men, a credit to any organization. Daniel Fitts, the Senior Warden, was a stately man, whose genial manners and kindly ways would grace any gathering. Worshipful James E. Gale, the first Master, was cashier of the Haverhill National Bank when he presided over the Lodge and in 1880 became the bank's president, holding this position until his death in 1888. He was appointed a District Deputy Grand Master in 1870. His home was on the westerly corner of Summer Street and Highland Avenue. At the death of Past Master Gale, Reverend Brother Thomas E. St. John delivered a fitting eulogy, which we quote in its entirety:

"In the history of Saggahew Lodge no name occupies a more honored place than that of Wor. Bro. James E. Gale. Its first Worshipful Master, its constant and devoted friend, its judicious and faithful adviser, he well deserves our most grateful remembrance and sincerest respect.

"His knowledge of the Craft was clear and profound; his faith in its cardinal principles unwavering and true, his love for its ritual, hearty and unfeigned. We mourn his untimely death with deep and manly sorrow, yet in thinking of him our hearts grow warm and we rejoice that such a man has lived and left behind him a record so worthy and a name so true. His virtues are on perpetual record for they are woven into the life work of Saggahew Lodge. His kindly forethought has thrown a cheerful light over the hours of sickness, pain and death, and will give a ray of gladness to many a brother's heart, when most it needs the touch of human sympathy and fraternal love.

"His life among us was one of manly integrity and Masonic worth, and now that he has passed beyond our earthly vision his work will not cease, nor will his memory fade away. Though dead, he lives; though lost to sight, his genial smile looks down upon us from beyond the borders of the Silent Land.

"May his example teach us that he most truly leads who most willingly serves his fellow men. To such belong the Grand Master's welcome — 'Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joys of thy Lord.' "

The second Worshipful Master was Nathan S. Kimball, a man of the highest integrity, who later became Mayor of the City. His business was that of manufacturing leather, but outside of that, his chief interest was the progress of Masonry and Saggahew Lodge. The Lodge was honored by his appointment as District Deputy Grand Master in 1880.

On June 24, 1873, the corner-stone of this Masonic Temple was laid with appropriate ceremonies. A parade of Master Masons, with the Haverhill Commandery Knights Templar as escort, a repast, a reception and the corner-stone-laying exercises made up the order of the day. The Most Worshipful Grand Master, Sereno D. Nickerson and suite of Grand Lodge officers were present. After the corner-stone was placed in position, the Grand Master shared the honor of "spreading the cement" with the presiding officers of the Haverhill Masonic bodies and presented the trowel to Merrimack Lodge and the gavel to Saggahew Lodge. Both had been used in the ceremonies. Among other articles deposited in the corner-stone were rolls containing the names of the officers of the various Masonic bodies. What a joyful day it must have been for Worshipful Arvida M. Vance, Master of Saggahew Lodge. To share in this important ceremony, to receive the gavel in behalf of his Lodge, and to have his name as Master on the list of officers of the Lodge on the roll deposited, must have compensated for his loyal efforts in behalf of his Lodge.

He was followed by Worshipful Henry Cummings, who was Principal of the School Street School. A master of the three R's, he also became Master of the Temple for the glory of Saggahew.

Next was Worshipful George S. Yeaton, a gentleman, a quiet but willing worker, whose efforts kept the standard high in Saggahew.

Worshipful Oscar S. Williams was also a teacher and principal of the Winter Street School. His forceful nature still kept aloft the principles and the honor of the Lodge.

Then came Worshipful John M. Hill, the Grand Old Man of Saggahew. He is our oldest living Past Master. We have had a message of affection from him tonight, and though far away, his interest still remains in the Lodge over which he so ably presided.

Next came J. Otis Wardwell, a man of determination and tenacity, the vigor that distinguished him in the Lodge abided with him ever. In early life he served as a member of the Legislature, later devoting his entire time to the practice of law in Boston, where he built up a large clientele, but always maintaining an active interest in the affairs of state and nation.

On December 5, 1889, Saggahew Lodge observed its Twenty-fifth Anniversary. The occasion was in charge of a committee composed of Rt. Worshipful Nathan S. Kimball, Worshipful John M. Hill and Worshipful J. Otis Wardwell. It was a bitter cold night, but seventy brave hearts withstood the frigid air and attended. The exercises were graced by the presence of representatives from the Grand Lodge. The Worshipful Master at the time of this celebration was Edward A. Fitts. He was one who loved Masonry in all its branches. Blue Lodge, Chapter, Council and Commandery, all held his interest. The Lodge of Perfection, Princes of Jerusalem, Rose Croix and Consistory meant much to him. His diligence and eminence carried him to the 33rd and last degree of the Scottish Rite. He received many honors in Masonry and none merited them more than he. He was the son of Daniel Fitts, first Senior Warden of this Lodge.

The next in order was Worshipful Edwin W. Andrews, a dentist by profession. His trained mind fitted him for the duties of Master of the Lodge. He was a good officer.

Worshipful Harvey R. Eastman was the next Master of Saggahew. He was a wholesale produce dealer. He conducted the Lodge in a business-like way and was a credit to himself and an asset to the Lodge.

Worshipful Charles P. Sumner followed and continued conducting the Lodge in a business-like manner. His outstanding work as an officer won him the appointment to the office of District Deputy Grand Master in 1900. By the provisions of his will he evidenced his regard for the Lodge by bequeathing a liberal sum, the income to be used for the charity work of the Lodge.

Worshipful Joseph A. Dalrymple was the next Master of Saggahew Lodge. A man of highest character, a gentleman in all the word implies, he was respected and honored by all who knew him.

Next to follow was Worshipful Charles W. Chandler. His brusque manner did not, for an instant, obscure his kind and friendly nature. His ritual work was of a high order and he expected his officers to be proficient in all their work.

Next came Worshipful Fred D. McGregor, who later became Mayor of Haverhill. His name was recommended to Saggahew bv Thomas Burnham, a former Mayor of Haverhill. To enumerate this Past Master's virtues and deeds would be like carrying coals to Newcastle. All who knew him loved him. A man well skilled in Masonry, he was elevated to the 33rd degree. He interested himself in every worthy project in the City and at the time of his death was recognized as Haverhill's leading citizen.

Worshipful Benjamin B. Gilman was of a sunny disposition and his friendliness made him a host of friends. He gave much of his time and attention to Masonry, and especially to Saggahew Lodge. He was honored with the office of District Deputy Grand Master, and the 33rd degree was conferred upon him in recognition of his efforts in behalf of Masonry.

Worshipful Sam A. McGregor, a brother of Right Worshipful Fred D. McGregor, like his brother, gave much of his time to Masonry in all its branches. Ever ready to assist wherever needed, he endeared himself to everyone. He too was a 33rd degree Mason.

Worshipful W. Eugene Ellis was decorous but friendly. Under his gavel business was done with promptness and despatch. His friends were legion, his enemies, few, if any.

On December 13, 1915, the Fiftieth Anniversary of Saggahew was held in Elks' Hall, corner of Summer and Newcomb Streets. At that time, the Masonic Temple was under extensive repairs, as the result of a fire, and while it was being rebuilt, Saggahew held its" meetings in this hall. Worshipful Matthew J. Gray presided at the Fiftieth Anniversary exercises. A reception was given to Brother Oliver Hubbard, one of the four living charter members of the Lodge. The other three charter members, Brother Charles W. Chase, Brother R. Stuart Chase and Brother David M. Kelly were not able to attend. Brother Hubbard read the same poem that was set to music and sung fifty years ago.

On December 4, 1916, a joint meeting of Merrimack and Saggahew Lodge was held for the purpose of dedicating the Masonic Temple, which had been rebuilt. Most Worshipful Melvin M. Johnson, Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts, aided by Officers of Grand Lodge, performed the service according to ancient form. The Grand Master presented Bros. Edward G. Frothingham and Oliver S. Hubbard with Henry Price medals, for meritorious service to Masonry for fifty years. Brothers Stover and Smith of Merrimack Lodge, were also presented with these medals.

On November 5, 1919, Most Worshipful Leon M. Abbott and members of the Grand Lodge visited Haverhill to dedicate the Masonic Monument in Elmwood Cemetery, Bradford. Worshipful Evelyn L. Durkee was Master of Merrimack, and Worshipful Urban W. Leavitt, Master of Saggahew. Twelve hundred Masons marched from the Temple to the cemetery, escorted by Aleppo Temple Band and Patrol, and Sir Knights of Haverhill Commandery No. 14, Knights Templar. The monument was the gift of Augusta H. Tasker, widow of Brother W. Orin Tasker, and given in memory of her husband.

During the years 1919 and 1920, with Worshipful Urban W. Leavitt as Master, our Lodge raised its greatest number of candidates — 82.

Worshipful Ira C, Titcomb, Master in 1921-22, was a conscientious and diligent worker for Saggahew. He was a member of all the other Masonic bodies, and past presiding officer in many. He was always ready to serve his Lodge in any capacity.

Worshipful Tom W. Mitchell was a successful dry goods merchant, always ready to give of his time, talents and money in behalf of Saggahew Lodge. He was called home in the prime of life.

Worshipful Morton R. Milne was an active and tireless worker for Saggahew. His enthusiasm was inspiring and his untimely death was mourned by many.

Saggahew's recent history would not be complete unless mention is made of the faithful service of Brother George N. Whiting as Secretary for nearly thirty years and as Lecturer for many years. Brother Whiting's beautiful penmanship used in the records of the Lodge brought the highest commendation from officers of Grand Lodge. Brother Whiting was Chief of tie Haverhill Fire Department for many years. We also record the splendid service of Brother Elmer E. Whipple, who served as Tyler for nearly twenty-three years and who also served many years as Lecturer. The records of these Brethren remain :n perpetual record as examples of loyalty and faithfulness.

While we have previously mentioned the fact that Worshipful Charles P. Sumner, by the provisions of his will, generously added to the Charity Funds of the Lodge, we wish also to state that Brother Lamont Chick and Brother William E. Bixby also made provision in their respective wills to materially increase the permanent funds of the Lodge, the income of which is available for charity purposes. These funds have through the years been of great assistance to the officers in bringing relief and help to worthy Brethren, their widows and orphans, and illustrate the practical application of our worthy Masonic tenets.

Would that time permitted to honor every officer and member who has brought honor and distinction to the Lodge. But time and space are uncompromising and we must pass by "many a worthy brother and fellow" unheralded and unsung. We must content ourselves with mentioning only a few. One of Haverhill's two most notable sons was Saggahew's most famous member, William H. Moody. Brother Moody's career was remarkable. From the office of District Attorney of Essex County, he rose to Congressman, then to Secretary of the Navy, then Attorney General, and finally to Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States.

Saggahew has had a glorious and useful past. What of the present?

In the business and professional life of Haverhill, Saggahew is well represented. Members of our body have been active in public life. We note that two of the three living former Mayors are members of Saggahew Lodge — Brother William D. McFee and Brother George E. Dalrymple, son of the late Worshipful Joseph D. Dalrymple. Brother Edward G. Frothingham, before mentioned, was a member of the State Senate and Governor's Council. Brother Henry G. Wells was President of the State Senate and a Commissioner of Public Utilities and is now a leading citizen of our city.

We have a number of Past Masters, worthy and well qualified to aid in carrying on. To support a Temple we must have three pillars, representing Wisdom, Strength and Beauty. We have them.

His profound interest in Masonry, his study of its teachings, together with his years of experience and practice of the art, well qualify Worshipful Charles A. Bodwell to be the pillar of Wisdom.

Because of his work as District Deputy Grand Master, his long service in both branches of the General Court of Massachusetts, and his activities in civic affairs, Right Worshipful J. Bradford Davis gained great power and strength. He may well represent the pillar of Strength.

Because of his excellent voice, and perfect oratory, which has beautified and adorned the work of the Lodge, Worshipful Frederick H. Tilton may well be described as the pillar of Beauty.

And we have Worshipful Matthew J. Gray. The length of his cable tow has never been ascertained. He will travel hundreds of miles should his presence be needed in Saggahew Lodge.

Worshipful Bennett McGregor, son of the late Right Worshipful Fred D. McGregor and nephew of the late Worshipful Sam A. McGregor, has a heritage that would hold him to the work, but he needs it not. In his own right he loves Saggahew, and is ever willing to serve.

Worshipful Arthur B. Walker is still in the harness. He is a proficient and painstaking lecturer. Nothing can keep him from his labors for Saggahew but his keen sense of loyalty to the Fire Department of this city, which he has faithfully served as Captain and Deputy Chief.

Worshipful Leslie J. Wood is Superintendent of the Temple. His untiring efforts have won for him the gratitude of all.

In addition to these Past Masters we have Worshipful Irving L. Keith, Worshipful Ralph N. Davis, Worshipful Urban W. Leavitt, Worshipful Edwin F. Parker, Worshipful Robert H. Sawyer, Worshipful Warren B. Allen and Worshipful Charlton F. Johnson. These are all men of high standing. As Masons they have records clean and inspiring. With such as these to aid and guide, Saggahew Lodge is fortunate indeed.

We would be ungrateful not to mention at this time the happy relations which have always existed between Merrimack and Saggahew Lodges. Even while Saggahew Lodge was in the embryonic state Merrimack Lodge was helpful. Loans of paraphernalia were made and every kindness shown. All through rise rears, good will has prevailed.

We are now in turbulent times. What will be the future of Saagahew, of Masonry, of religion, of liberty and of democracy? What can we do about it? Let us quote two excerpts from the - speech of Most Worshipful Frederick W. Hamilton delivered at the Seventy-fifth Anniversary of Belmont Lodge March 2, 1939. Almost two years later these words are more pertinent than ever. I quote:

"Something has been said tonight of the difficult times through which we are passing. The whole world, our own country included, is in turmoil and confusion. . . .

"What can we Masons do about it? Let me say at once, that as an organization, we can do nothing about it. As individuals we can do much. . . . These things, my Brethren, we can do. We can keep our heads. We can keep our courage. We can keep our faith. We can be our own best selves. This I conceive to be our task as Masons in a troubled world."

Most Worshipful Frederick W. Hamilton has passed away since delivering this speech, but his advice we must heed and follow. Let us keep our heads, our courage and our faith. Let us be our own best selves. Then we will know that we have done right — may trust in God and the Right, and, with the poet say:

"Since Right is right and Wrong is wrong,
And Right the day must win,
To doubt would be disloyalty,
To falter would be sin."

OTHER

• 1901 (Ruling on officers forbidden to be installed; 1901-21; see also 1902-14)
• 1902 (Participation in the centennial of Merrimack Lodge, 1902-77)
• 1919 (Dedication of the Tasker Monument, 1919-309)
• 1977 (Participation in the 175th Anniversary of Merrimack Lodge, 1977-105)

EVENTS

CONSTITUTION OF LODGE, JANUARY 1866

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXV, No. 4, February 1866, p. 120:

This new Lodge having received its Charter at the annual communication of the Grand Lodge in December last, was duly Constituted and its officers were regularly installed by the M. W. Grand Master, Br. Charles C. Dame, assisted by a delegation of the Grand officers, on Friday the 12th January last. The attendance of the members of the Lodge and visiting Brethren was very large. Among the latter we noticed several very aged Brethren; one, Brother Moses Wingate, having attained to the great age of ninety-six, having been a Mason sixty-four years, and is probably the oldest member of the Fraternity in the State. His physical health is remarkably good, and his mental faculties remain unimpaired. The ceremonies were performed in the afternoon, in the convenient and beautiful hall fitted up a few years since by Merrimack Lodge. At the conclusion of these, the Brethren of the new Lodge, with the officers of the Grand Lodge, repaired to the public house in the village and sat down together at a bountiful and well served dinner; at the conclusion of which brief speeches were made by the Master of the Lodge, the Grand Master, and Grand Secretary, when the Brethren of the Grand Lodge were under the necessity of leaving for the cars. We understand, however, that the speaking at the table was continued for some time longer, and that in the evening the Brethren held a pleasant social levee at the Lodge room, to which their ladies were invited.

The Lodge has been eminently successful the past year, both in the number and character of its initiates. It is in competent hands, and its future prospects are most satisfactory and encouraging. The officers for the year are as follows : —

• James E. Gale, W. M.
• Daniel Fitts, S. W.
• Charles W. Chase, J. W.
• R. Stuart Chase, Treas.
• George S. Chase, Sec.
• Edwin A. Bradley, S. D.
• David M. Kelly, J. D.
• Calvin Smith, S. S.
• Hazen S. Littlefield, J. S.
• Oliver S. Hubbard, Chorister
• Arvida M. Vance, Marshal
• Alexander S. Hodgkins, I. S.
• Nathaniel K. Johnson, Tyler.

Note: the Magazine later identified two other Brothers senior to Br. Wingate; Brother Thomas Hooper of Charlestown , initiated in 1800, and then 86 years old, and Hon. Bro. Francis Welch (b. 1776, initiated 1797).

GRAND LODGE OFFICERS

• James Antonopoulos, DDGM, District 11, 2013
• John Bradford Davis, DDGM, District 10 (Newburyport), 1934, 1935; N
• Frederick M. Faulkner, DDGM, District 10 (Newburyport), 1986; SN
• Edward A. Fitts, DDGM, District 10 (Lawrence), 1892, 1893, 1894; SN
• James E. Gale, DDGM, District 6 (Newburyport), 1870, 1871; SN
• Benjamin B. Gilman, DDGM, District 10 (Newburyport), 1916, 1917; Senior Grand Warden 1919
• George H. Harrison, DDGM, District 10 (Newburyport), 1974, 1975; N
• James H. Hastings, DDGM, District 10 (Newburyport), 1995, 1996
• Nathan S. Kimball, DDGM, District 6 (Newburyport), 1880; Junior Grand Warden 1881
• Thomas J. Luby, Jr., DDGM, District 10 (Newburyport), 1958, 1959; Junior Grand Warden 1967; N
• Erving H. Malcolm, DDGM, District 10 (Newburyport), 1944, 1945; N
• Fred D. McGregor, DDGM, District 10 (Newburyport), 1911, 1912; SN
• J. Charles Rutledge, DDGM, District 11, 2007, 2008
• Charles P. Sumner, DDGM, District 10 (Lawrence), 1900, 1901; SN

DISTRICTS

1864: District 2

1867: District 6 (Newburyport)

1883: District 10 (Lawrence)

1911: District 10 (Newburyport)

1927: District 10 (Newburyport)

2003: District 11

LINKS

Lodge web site

Massachusetts Lodges