StAndrew

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LODGE OF SAINT ANDREW

Location: Boston

Chartered By: Lord Aberdour, Grand Master of Scotland.

Charter Date: 09/11/1809; endorsed by Grand Lodge of Massachusetts. II-418

Precedence Date: 11/30/1756

Current Status: Active


NOTES

The Lodge of St. Andrew was originally chartered by the Grand Lodge of Scotland prior to the creation of the Massachusetts Grand Lodge (Provincial, later Independent) in 1769. As such, it always held an unusual and special place in Massachusetts Freemasonry; indeed, when Grand Master Paul Revere presented his edict severing relations with any Masonic body that did not pay quarterage to the Grand Lodge or appear at its Communications, a special exception was made for the Lodge of St. Andrew in 1798 so that it was not excluded from cross-visitation. Its relationship with the Grand Lodge continued at a distance until 1807, when a joint committee undertook the task of petitioning for release from the Grand Lodge of Scotland; its charter was finally endorsed at the September 1809 Quarterly Communication, where it was granted precedence according to the date of its charter, second only to St. John's (Boston).

In 1784 a portion of its membership seceded and formed a lodge under the Massachusetts Grand Lodge; this body, Rising States Lodge, was dissolved in 1810.

MEMBER LIST, 1802

From Vocal Companion and Masonic Register, Boston, 1802, Part II, Page 34:

  • R. W. Andrew Sigourney, M.
  • W. Joab Hunt, S. W.
  • W. Henry Purkitt, J. W.
  • Elisha Sigourney, Tr.
  • James Green, Sec.
  • James Farrar, S. D.
  • Henry Murphy, J. D.
  • Edward Rumney, Steward.
  • Caleb Loring, Steward.
  • Jonathan Fletcher, Steward.
  • John Cade, Tiler.

No. Members, 36.

HISTORICAL NOTES, 1827

From Masonic Mirror and Mechanics' Intelligencer, Vol. III, No. 13, March 1827, Page 97:

. . . The Grand Master communicated a letter to the Grand Lodge, on the 4th of March {1783} from the Secretary of St. Andrew's Lodge, expressing the determination of the Brethren to retain their ancient charter from Scotland, and to consider themselves no longer subject to the control of this Grand Lodge.

St. Andrew's Lodge having been established twenty-seven years, were now very numberous, and there had been for some time a difference of opinion, with respect to an acknowledgement of the Massachusetts jurisdiction. The above resolution immediately occasioned a division of the Lodge, and those Brethren who seceded continued to assemble under a commission granted by this Grand Lodge to St. Andrew's Lodge (at a time when their European charter was retained inthe hands of one of the original petitioners, Right Worshipful William Burbeck, to the Grand Lodge of Scotland) until September 4, 1784, under the title of "The Rising States Lodge", to hold rank as the oldest Lodge in the jurisdiction.

HISTORICAL NOTES, 1873

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXXII, No. 11, November 1873, Page 344:

Bro. D. Murray Lyon, the Scottish Masonic historian, is publishing in the London Freemason a series of historical notes on Scotch Lodges, the first of which is devoted to the old records of Glasgow Kilwinning Lodge, No. 4, and the records and documents in its archives. From this we make the following extract, which will be interesting to our readers as containing an early reference (1736) to the organization of the first Grand Lodge in this country, and also from its reference to St. Andrew's Lodge of this city:

"From a copy of one such document engrossed in the books of Glasgow Kilwinning under date 2nd November, 1736, information is obtained of perhaps the earliest regularly-organized Lodge in America: 'Our Lodge was constituted at Boston in New England, by our Right Worshipful Master, Henry Price, Provincial Grand Master, on the 31st day of August, A. L. 5733, and is held at the Royal Exchange Tavern, in King's Street, the second and fourth Wednesday of every month, — and is adorn'd with the most eminent gentlemen of this great town, and keeps up to its primitive beauty and purity. Henry Price, G. M.; James Gordon, D. P. G. M.; Robt. Tomlinson, M.; Hugh M'Daniell, S. W.; Jno. Osborn, J. W.; F. Breterth, Secretary.

"The establishment of a Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in the then colony of Massachusetts Bay followed upon Mr. Price's appointment to the Provincial Grand Mastership of New England, under the Grand Lodge at London. His commission was subsequently made to embrace all North America. This, however, did not prevent the introduction of Scotch charters, the first of which there is any record being that issued by the Grand Lodge to St. Andrew, Boston, Massachusetts, in 1756; although Washington is understood to have been initiated in a Virginian Lodge under a Scotch charter in 1752. The Tappahannock (Essex County, Virginia), chartered in 1758, was the first American Kilwinning Lodge."


PAST MASTERS

The Masters of the lodge prior to 1756 are not known, according to the centennial history.

  • Isaac de Coster, 1756-1759
  • William Burbeck, 1760-1764, 1766, 1782, 1783
  • Joseph Webb, 1766
  • Moses Deshon, 1767
  • Joseph Warren, 1768
  • Samuel Barrett, 1769
  • Paul Revere, 1770, 1777, 1778, 1780, 1781
  • Jonathan Snelling, 1771
  • Thomas Urann, 1772
  • John Lowell, 1773
  • Edward Proctor, 1774, 1775
  • John Symmes, 1776
  • William Hoskins, 1779
  • James Carter, 1784, 1785
  • Thomas Dakin, 1786-1788, 1792, 1793
  • Samuel Moore, 1789-1791
  • Benjamin Hurd, Jr., 1794
  • Joshua Eaton, 1795-1800
  • Andrew Sigourney, 1801, 1802
  • William Williams, 1803
  • Henry Purkitt, 1804, 1805
  • James Farrar, 1806-1808
  • James Green, 1809
  • Henry Fowle, 1810-1816, 1818, 1819
  • John James Loring, 1817
  • David Parker, 1820-1822, 1827, 1835
  • Bela Lincoln, 1823, 1824
  • Alexander H. Jennings, 1825, 1826
  • Abel P. Baker, 1828-1831
  • Charles W. Moore, 1832
  • Ezekiel Bates, 1833, 1834; Mem
  • John R. Bradford, 1836-1838, 1850, 1851
  • Edwin Barnes, 1839, 1840
  • Hugh H. Tuttle, 1841-1843; Mem
  • Smith W. Nichols, 1844-1846
  • Hamilton Willis, 1847-1849
  • Samuel Parkman Oliver, 1852-1856
  • William Parkman, 1857-1859
  • Charles J. F. Sherman, 1860-1863
  • Edward Stearns, 1864, 1865
  • William F. Davis, 1866, 1867
  • Ezra Palmer, 1868-1870
  • Thomas E. Chamberlain, 1871-1873
  • William Parkman, Jr., 1874, 1875
  • Hasket Derby, 1876, 1877
  • Henry A. Whitney, 1878, 1879
  • George C. Stearns, 1880-1883
  • Thomas Resticaux, 1884
  • Henry G. Jordan, 1885-1887
  • Thomas F. Sherman, 1888-1890
  • William L. Richardson, 1891-1893
  • Charles M. Green, 1894-1900
  • Winthrop Wetherbee, 1901-1907
  • Benjamin D. Hyde, 1908, 1909
  • Robert M. Green, 1910, 1911
  • James W. Austin, 1912, 1913
  • Wellington Wells, 1914, 1915
  • Herbert Austin, 1916, 1917
  • Charles H. Parker, 1918
  • Edwin P. Holmes, 1919, 1920
  • Albert Thorndike, 1921, 1922
  • Charles W. Spencer, 1923, 1924
  • E. Sohier Welch, 1925, 1926
  • Francis A. Harding, 1927, 1928
  • Richard H. Miller, 1929, 1930
  • Orrin G. Wood, 1931, 1932
  • George F. Brown, 1933, 1934
  • George W. Whitman, 1935, 1936
  • J. Amory Jeffries, 1937, 1938; N
  • William E. Chamberlain, 1939
  • Benjamin A. G. Thorndike, 1940-1942; N
  • Francis C. Welch, 1943, 1944
  • Charles L. Hibbard, Jr., 1945, 1946
  • William F. Chamberlain, 1947
  • George M. Naylor, Jr., 1948, 1949
  • Augustus P. Loring, 1950, 1951
  • Richard W. Foster, 1952, 1954
  • Winthrop Wetherbee, 1953
  • Edward H. Osgood, 1955, 1956
  • Wellington Wells, Jr., 1957, 1958
  • Edmund H. Kendrick, 1959, 1960
  • William C. Loring, 1972; N Mem
  • Samuel Hoar, 1964, 1965
  • Allston S. Goff, 1966, 1967
  • William A. Thorndike, 1968, 1969
  • John A. Jeffries, Jr., 1970, 1971
  • William B. Osgood, 1973, 1974
  • Preston H. Saunders, 1975, 1976
  • H. Gilman Nichols, Jr., 1977, 1978
  • Nathaniel T. Dexter, 1979, 1980
  • Andrew Anderson-Bell, 1981, 1982
  • Lawrence Coolidge, 1983, 1984
  • William C. Loring, Jr., 1985, 1986
  • Normand F. Smith, 1987, 1988
  • Allan D. Parker, III, 1989, 1990; PDDGM
  • Christopher L. Huntoon, 1991, 1992
  • George F. Parker, 1993, 1994
  • Stephen B. Kistner, 1995, 1996
  • Benjamin W. Thorndike, 1997, 1998;
  • Miguel de Braganca, 1999, 2000
  • Frank S. Streeter, II, 2001, 2002
  • Jonathan V. Taylor, 2003, 2004
  • John B. Langer, 2005, 2006
  • T. Parker Gallagher, 2007, 2008
  • Rufus R. Ward, 2009, 2010
  • Charles E. Thorland, 2011, 2012

YEARS

1792 1798 1799 1800 1802 1807 1808 1809 1810 1826 1827 1839 1855 1860 1872 1873 1874 1877 1881 1882 1883 1884 1885 1886 1887 1888 1889 1890 1891 1892 1894 1895 1896 1897 1898 1899 1900 1901 1902 1903 1904 1905 1906 1907 1909 1910 1911 1914 1916 1917 1918 1919 1921 1922 1923 1924 1927 1928 1929 1930 1931 1933 1934 1935 1936 1937 1938 1939 1941 1942 1943 1944 1945 1946 1947 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2005 2006 2007 2009 2011


EVENTS

OFFICER LIST, 1817

From New England Galaxy, Vol. I, No. 10, 12/19/1817, Page 3:

Officers of St. Andrew's Lodge for the ensuing year:

  • R. W. John J. Loring, Master;
  • W. Zephaniah Sampson, S. W.;
  • W. James Washburn, J. W.;
  • W. Andrew Sigourney, Treasurer;
  • W. Alexander Bowers, Secretary.

OFFICER LIST, FEBRUARY 1832

From Masonic Mirror, New Series, Vol. III, No. 32, February 1832, Page 251:’’

  • A. P. Baker, M.
  • Charles Newman, S. W.
  • Charles W. Moore, Junior Warden.
  • J. J. Loring, Treasurer.
  • F. Le Cain, Secretary.
  • Ezekiel Bates, S. D.
  • David Parker, J. D.
  • A. H. Jennings, Marshal.
  • Leonard Battelle, S. S.
  • Thos. J. Stone, J. S.
  • Ebenezer Oliver, Tyler.

CENTENARY CELEBRATION, NOVEMBER 1856

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly Magazine, Vol. XVI, No. 3, December 1856, Page 71:

St. Andrew's Lodge, of this city, celebrated its One Hundredth Anniversary, on the evening of the 29th November last — anticipating by one day (the 30th being Sunday), the date of its Charter.

CHARTER OF THE LODGE

This was the first Lodge established in America by authority of the Grand Lodge of Scotland; and it has always been one of the most respectable, energetic and wealthy in the country. Its Charter is dated the 30th November, 1756, and is as follows :—

To all and sundry to whose knowledge these presents shall come, Greeting:

Sholto Charles Douglas, Lord Aberdour, Grand Master of the Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland, with consent of the Brethren of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, hereunto subscribing —

Whereas, a petition hath been presented to the Grand Lodge, in name of Isaac DeCoster, David Flagg, George Graham, George Lowder, George Bray, George Hodge, Henry Amines, William Burbeck, and James Tourner, Free and Accepted Masons, residing at Boston, in New England, praying that they and such other Brethren as they should rind to be duly qualified, should be constituted and erected into a Mason Lodge, under the name, title and designation of the Lodge of Sr. Andrew's, to be held in Boston, at New England: which petition having been openly read in presence of the Grand Lodge assembled, it was unanimously Resolved and Ordered, chat the desire of the same should be granted.

Know ye, therefore, That We, by and with the advice and consent of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, have constituted, erected and appointed, and hereby constitute, erect and appoint the Worshipful Brethren above named, and their successors in all time coming, a true and regular Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons under the name, title and designation of the Lodge of St. Andrew's, to be held at Boston, in New England, and ordain all regular Lodges within Scotland or elsewhere, holding of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, to hold and respect them as such for the future. And We, with advice and consent foresaid, give and grant to them and their successors, full and ample power to meet, convene and assemble as a regular Lodge; to enter and receive Apprentices, pass Fellow-Crafts, and raise Master Masons, upon payment of such regular and reasonable compensations as they shall think proper for supporting their poor, decayed Brethren, widows and orphans, agreeable to their stations, and to elect and make choice of a Master Wardens and other Office Bearers, annually, or otherwise, as they may have occasion. And we hereby recommend to our foresaid Brethren so constituted, to obey their superiors in all things lawful and honest as becometh the honour and harmonie of Masonry. And that they faithfully become bound and engaged not to desert their said Lodge, and that none of them presume, upon any pretence whatever, to make separate meetings among themselves without the consent, approbation, or presence of their Master and Wardens for the time; nor collect money or other funds separate from the common stock of their Lodge, to the hurt or prejudice of the poor thereof.

The said Worshipful Brethren being always bound and obliged, as by their acceptance hereof they faithfully bind and oblige themselves and their successors, in ail time coming, to obey the whole Acts, Statutes, and Regulations of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, as well these already made as those hereafter to be made for the utility, welfare and prosperity of Masonry in general, and to pay and perform whatever is stipulated or demanded from them for supporting the dignity of the Grand Lodge, and to record in their Lodge book, which they are hereby enjoyned to keep, this present Charter of Erection and Constitution with the Regulations or By-Laws already made, or hereafter to be made by them from time to time, with their other proceedings and Annual Elections, as they happen, to the end the same may be the more readily seen and observed by their Brethren, subject, nevertheless, to the review of the Grand Lodge aforesaid. And in like manner the said Brethren and their successors are hereby required to attend the whole General Meetings and Quarterly Communications of the said Grand Lodge by their Representatives, being their Master and Wardens for the time, or by Proxies in their name duly authorized by commission from their Lodge, such Proxies being Master Masons or Fellow-Crafts, belonging to some established Lodge, to the end the said Brethren only he duly certified and informed of the proceedings of the Grand Lodge to whom they may represent their grievances or any other matters concerning Masonrie as they shall see cause. And We hereby declare the precidencie of the foresaid Brethren in the Grand Lodge to commence from the date of these presents, and appoint this our Charter to be recorded in the book of the Grand Lodge, in terms of the regulation in that behalf.

Given under our hand and seal, in the Grand Lodge, held in St. Marys
 Chapel, in the city of Edinburgh, and the Seal of the Grand Lodge is
hereunto appended this thirtieth day of November, one thousand seven
 hundred and fifty six years.


Apud Edinburgum trigesimo, Novembris 1756, Recorded in the Book of the G. Lodge.

  • Aberdour, G. M.
  • Geo. Frazer, D. Grand Mr.
  • Rch'd Tod, Sub G. M.
  • Pr. Alex'r Dougall, G. Secty.
  • Henry Cuninghame, S. G. W.
  • Geo. Beam, G. Clerk.
  • Will. Budge, J. G. W.

Composition of two Guineas to this Grand Lodge for the Charter, paid unto James Hunter, G. Tr.

The Lodge continued to work under the above Charter until the year 1759, when it united with two other Lodges, (both of which were attached to British regiments then stationed in Boston,) and petitioned the Grand Lodge of Scotland to appoint a Prov. Grand Master in America, with power to organize a Grand Lodge in Boston. This petition was granted, and Gen. Joseph Warren, (who had been initiated in St. Andrew's Lodge in the year 1761,) was appointed "Grand Master of Masons in Boston, New-England, and within one hundred miles of the same."

This Commission bears date the 30th May, 1769, though it does not appear that Gen. Warren organized any Grand Lodge under it until the 17th December following. It was not, probably, received until some months after its date. The Brethren present at the organization of the new Grand Lodge, besides the Grand Master, were — "The Master, Wardens and Brethren of St. Andrew's Lodge — the Master and Wardens of Lodge No. 58 of the Registry of England — and the Master and Wardens of Lodge No. 322 of the Registry of Ireland." To this Body St. Andrew's Lodge continued to afford a cordial support, until the death of Gen. Warren, on Bunker Hill, in 1775. Owing to a difference of opinion, it did not come under the present Grand Lodge of Massachusetts until the year 1809, when it was received by that Body, "to take rank in Grand Lodge, at all the Quarterly Communications, Festivals, and Funerals, and all other regular and constitutional meetings, agreeably to the date of their ancient Charter." From that time to the present it has been one of its most steadfast and reliable supports. But it is not our intention here to sketch the history of the Lodge. That was ably done by the orator at the recent celebration, and when his address is published we shall lay before our readers such portions of it as may be necessary for this purpose. At present we have to do with the festival.

This took place as above stated, at the Masonic Temple ; on which occasion the entire building was generously given up to the use of the Lodge. The upper hall was appropriated to the ladies for a dressing room; the large Grand Lodge room in the story below for the more intellectual exercises, and the elegant and spacious Music room of the Messrs. Chickering, for the Banquet.

The number of guests, from the want of room for their accommodation, was limited to about two hundred ladies and gentlemen. Among them were the Governor of the Commonwealth and the Mayor of the city — the latter not a Mason. The exercises were commenced with a voluntary on the Organ. The following Hymn, written for the occasion, by Br. N. B. Shurtleff, was then sung, to music composed for the occasion, by Br. J. H. Wilcox, Organist of the Lodge:—

Almighty Architect divine!
O'er these assembled Brothers shine!
With mild, benignant ray!
Vouchsafe a happy gathering here,
With nought to alloy fraternal cheer
On this Centennial day!

May all who meet within this hall,
To grace St. Andrew's Festival,
This rare event employ!
And friends who join us on this eve,
May they thy bounteous gifts receive,
And share with us the joy!

And may the pastime of this night
Contentment add to pure delight
To consecrate the scene!
And when these hours of love have passed,
May life, made brighter while they last,
Be holier that they've been!

The address followed next in order, and was of course the prominent and most interesting as well as important feature of the occasion. It was pronounced by W. Brother Hamilton Willis, Esq., one of the Past Masters of the Lodge, and occupied about an hour and a half in the delivery. The speaker commenced by taking a general view of the early history of the Institution, particularly in England and Scotland — referred to its existence in various parts of Europe — spoke of its general character and influence as a great moral association ; and then passing on to its introduction into this country, took up the history of the origin and progress of the Lodge. This he traced with some minuteness — showing the practices of the earlier days of Masonry in America — the men who were connected with it—and the prominent part they took in the Revolutionary struggle—not as Masons, but as Patriots—as most of the leading Masons of that day were. Among those who were connected with the Lodge, he named Gens. Warren and Lincoln, John Hancock, Paul Revere, and others, distinguished in the history of that day. He spoke, in affecting terms, of the late highly respected and beloved Brothers Jonas Chickering and John J. Loring, and closed with a forcible appeal to the present members to preserve the ancient character of their Lodge, and so transmit it to their successors. The address was well written, and when published will be a valuable contribution to the Masonic history of the country.

After the address, the following beautiful Ode, written by Dr. Henry G. Clark, a member of the Lodge, and set to original music, composed by S. P. Tuckerman, Mus. Doc, was sung by the choir, in a style of surpassing excellence :—

St. Andrew's Eve! From yonder tower
As lolls the bell the passing hour;
As silent glide lime's ebbing sands,
A century completed stands!

St. Andrew's Eve! Well met to-night!
To celebrate the century's flight,
And gather, ere it disappears,
The harvest of a hundred years!

A memory, and a tear, for those
Who lie in dreamless death's repose!
Let green acacia deck each grave,
And solemn cypress o'er it wave!

Grey moss creeps o'er the castle walls,
Of Aberdour's ancestral halls;
But still our Charter stands as fair,
As when the Douglas sealed it there.

So fade the past! The present yields
Its fruits and flowers from fairer fields;
For Beauty's radiance lights the East,
And loving friends will grace our feast!

The crescent moon her silver shield
Has lifted o'er the golden field;
Come, let us bind our ripened sheaves,
And garland them with Autumn leaves!

The exercises were then closed with an appropriate and fervent prayer by the Chaplain of the Lodge, Brother Peter Wainwright.

A procession was then formed, and the company proceeded to the Banqueting room. Here elegance and good taste were so nicely blended as to command the admiration and praise of the entire company. The tables were beautifully and profusely ornamented with flowers, and being brilliantly lighted, in. connection with the elegance of the room, and the presence of the ladies, presented a scene of enchanting beauty. It is hardly necessary to add that the "Bill of Fare" included every luxury and delicacy that the market could afford. Nothing was left to be desired in this particular. (The Caterer was Mr. J. B Smith, who, it is generally allowed, stands at the head of his profession in the city ; but on this occasion he exceeded his own well established reputation.)

The Master of the Lodge, W. Brother Samuel P. Oliver, Esq., presided and welcomed the invited guests in the following neat and pretty address :—

Ladies and Gentlemen, — It is an ancient and beautiful custom of our Order that at stated periods the workmen shall be called from labor to refreshment. With our ancient Brethren it was a matter of necessity that at high twelve of each day the sound of the axe and the hammer should cease, the plumb, square and level be laid aside, and the trowel be still for a season, that they might refresh and strengthen exhausted nature, and enjoy the rich privilege of social intercourse. In more modern days this time-honored and hallowed custom has been figuratively though, strictly observed, and few are the occasions when refreshments are provided.

But in remembrance of this joyous custom, the Lodge of St. Andrew, at the close of one hundred years of labor, at this her high twelve of existence, now calls her craftsmen to refreshment. How readily do they respond to the unfamiliar but well remembered call!

As her representative upon this occasion, it becomes my official and grateful duty to bid you welcome to her family gathering. As we gather around this festive board, our bounding pulses are stilled, our exultation subdued, as we miss from their accustomed places the loved and honored forms of some up to whom we have always looked for counsel and approval. They have gone forth on the level of time to the boundless realms of eternity, and are there engaged in admiring the fair proportions of that Temple, not made with hands, eternal in the heavens Yet what to us is loss untold, to them is gain unspeakable; and with sinking, though reverent and grateful hearts, we desire to say, So mote it be. The sweet remembrance of their virtues shall last till time shall be no more.

Our sorrow, however, is turned into joy as we see before us others equally loved and venerated, who for fifty years have been true and faithful Craftsmen, who have devoted to our Order the vigor of youth and the energy of manhood, and now adorn it with the love of their declining years. Their virtues are placed on perpetual record.

The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, that good old mother of us all, sends us her parental blessing, and is with us in the persons of her Grand Master and Warden, whose countenances, everywhere welcome, now beam with the brightness of friendship and brotherly love. That other parent institution, from whose great heart we first drew the stream of life, the Grand Lodge of Scotland, greets us from across the waters, and, through her representatives, bids us God speed. Our sister Lodges, also, have sent hither their most skillful workmen to join in our councils and in our festivities. The good old Commonwealth of Massachusetts, though in our day of darkness and trial she stood aloof and heard not our cry of supplication, now sends to us her Chief Magistrate, not in his official robes of state, but in the simple garb of a Mason, to honor the occasion and heighten the festivity. Though not clothed in garment such as we would have him wear, yet in his heart prepared to be made a Mason, the ever welcome Head of our beloved city, laying aside his official gavel, sits down with us to-night, a willing and honored guest.

And last, but far from least, woman, the mother of Masons, forgetting those hours of loneliness and watching, forgiving us that we hold secrets she may not share, the embodiment of the Faith, Hope and Charity of our profession, is here to-night to soften, refine and grace our jubilee.

And now, having with us Age, Manhood, and Woman, wisdom to contrive, strength to support, and beauty to adorn our undertaking — why need I longer delay to proclaim from the East to the West and the South, welcome, thrice welcome to the festivities of the Lodge of St. Andrew!

The following excellent Ode, written by a Brother for the occasion, was then sung to the air of "The Star Spangled Banner:"—

Through the years that glide by, through the centuries' flight,
Through the lapse of old time and decay of the ages,
Fair Masonry stands in perennial light,
And writes her long record on adamant pages.
In the sunshine of truth, in perpetual youth,
Still she strikes for religion, for right and for truth.
All hail to our Order, and long may the flame
Of science and charity blaze at its name!

When the Temple first sprang towards Jerusalem's sky,
And pillar and dome were fixed in their places,
Our Brethren worked 'neath the All-Seeing Eye;
As he taught, so they piled up its manifold graces.
We labor no more, like our Brothers of yore,
But the structure of virtue we build o'er and o'er.
All hail to our Order, and long may the flame
Of science and charity blaze at its name!

In Columbia's childhood, and long ere the time
When she cast off the chains which her powers were repressing,
Our fathers brought o'er from a far distant clime
The mark and the watchword, the faith and the blessing.
Keep the names blazoned fair, spite of rust and of wear,
Of the Masons who placed here the corner stone square.
All hail to our Order, and long may the flame
Of science and charity blaze at its name!

In the work of our vows never weary or faint,
Doing good in the path by our fortune allotted:
Let us be like our patron, old Scotia's saint,
The gentleman, soldier and Christian unspotted;
His example so true, so genial, still view
In doing the labor our hands find to do!
All hail to St. Andrew, and long may the name
In our bosoms enkindle an emulous flame!

Charles Allen Browne, Esq., officiated as toast master, and among those who responded to sentiments were Dr. Lewis, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge; Gov. Gardner, Rev. W. R. Alger, Mayor Rice, Samuel G. Clark, a representative of the Grand Lodge of Scotland ;[John T. Heard, Esq., Charles W. Moore, and others.

An original parting Song was sung to the tune of "Auld Lang Syne," but for which we have not room.

The Music, as well as the Poetry, was written for the occasion, and was sung by a double Quartette Choir, under the direction of Brother C. Francis Chickering. Both the music and the execution were of a high order of excellence, and elicited the praise of the whole company. In fine, all the arrangements were worthy of the occasion, and of the Lodge and its ancestry.

PRESENTATION, DECEMBER 1857

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly Magazine, Vol. XVII, No. 4, February, 1858, Page 114:

On Christmas Eve, Dec. 24th, St. Andrew's Lodge of this city, through its Committee, composed of the Past Masters of the Lodge, presented to W. Brother Samuel P. Oliver, a fine gold chronometer wntch and chain, of the best make and finish, as a token of the respect in which he is held by his Brethren, and of their high appreciation of his acceptable services as Master of the Lodge for the past five consecutive years. The presentation was made by Brother Moore, as the senior Past Master present, and the response was a warm and cordial acknowledgment of the compliment bestowed. Brother Oliver has been an active officer of the Lodge almost from the day of his admission as a member, and we be lieve that every Brother present felt that he had fairly and honorably "won his laurels." As a working officer he has but few if any superiors in the Commonwealth. In behalf of the Committee we give him a cordial welcome among the Past Masters of the good old Lodge he has so faithfully served, and tender him our best wishes for his future health and happiness.

ST. ANDREW'S DAY, NOVEMBER 1859

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XIX, No. 2, November 1859, Page 64:

Winthrop House. — St. Andrew's Lodge, of this city, celebrated its 103rd anniversary, on St. Andrew's Day (30th November), by a Supper at this new and elegant Hotel, now the property of the Grand Lodge of this Commonwealth, and kept by Brother I. H. Silsbee, — one of the most accomplished and gentlemanly landlords of our city. There was a general attendance of the members, and we heard but one expression of opinion of the Supper, and that of the most unqualified praise. The tables were spread with great elegance and taste, and the ample bill of (are embraced every luxury which the season and markets afford. The attendance too, — a matter of no little importance in the way of comfort and good digestion, — was all that could be desired. And though it was the first occasion of the kind on which our Brother has been called upon to provide for his Masonic Brethren, it was a complete and entire success.

We recommend the Winthrop to Brethren from the interior who may have occasion to remain in the city over night, when attending the Grand Lodge or other Masonic meetings.

MASONIC LEVEE, APRIL 1860

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XIX, No. 8, June 1860, Page 242:

A PLEASANT LEVEE.

The members of St. Andrew's Lodge of this city, entertained the female part of their respective families, at the Masonic hall on the evening of the 27th April last. The Lodge consists of about forty members, nearly all of whom were present, accompanied by their wives and daughters, and mothers and sisters — making in the aggregate a company of about one hundred and fifty persons, all bent on having a pleasant time — on being happy themselves and in making everybody else so. The party began to assemble in the Corinthian hall at about 8 o'clock, where they were received by the committee, and where those who were fond of music were agreeably entertained by the Germania Band, while others enjoyed the time in conversation, in visiting the different apartments of the building, and in searching after things that are Masonically hidden from prying eyes ! The result of their discoveries in this latter respect were not made known. Any disappointment, however, they may have experienced, was fully compensated at a later hour by their introduction into the banqueting hall, where every delicacy the most fastidious taste could desire was spread out before them, in a style of elegance rarely equalled, and more rarely surpassed. A carte-blanche was given by the committee to the distinguished caterer J. B. Smith, and he acquitted himself, as usual, in a manner to elicit the praise of all. None could have done better.

At the conclusion of the repast, brief speeches were made by several of the Brethren and the company separated, apparently highly delighted with the entertainments of the evening.

ST. ANDREW'S DAY, NOVEMBER 1860

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XX, No. 2, November 1860, Page 38:

This fine old Lodge, chartered by the Grand Lodge of Scotland in 1756, and over which Gen. Joseph Warren once presided as W. Master, held its Annual Meeting at Freemasons' Hall, on Thursday the 15th, and its Annual Festival, at the Winthrop House, on St. Andrew's Day, the 30th of November, ult.

The report of the committee on accounts, presented at the annual meeting, disclosed the gratifying and most creditable fact, that the Lodge had, during the past year, distributed in Charity, the large sum of Twelve Hundred and Thirty-two Dollars! — a larger sum than was probably ever before given in charity in one year by any private Lodge in this country. The charities of the Lodge have always been large, though they have never before equalled this amount in any one year. However ample the means may be, we think it must be conceded that the benevolence of the Lodge is equally large.

The W. Brother Wm. Parkman, who has served the Lodge for the past three years as Master, having declined a re-election, the following officers were chosen for the ensuing year:—

  • Charles J. F. Sherman, W. M.;
  • Hales W. Suter, S. W.
  • Samuel H. Gregory, J. W.
  • John R. Bradford, Treas.
  • Alfred A. Wellington, Sec'y.
  • Peter Wainwright, Chap.
  • John Reed, Jr., Mar.
  • Samuel P. Oliver, S. D.
  • W. H. Johonnot, J. D.
  • David Pulsifer, I. Sent
  • H. H. Tuttle, Tyler.

The festival was held at the Winthrop House (Freemasons' Hall). The tables were spread in the best style of the popular host of that establishment; but what gave to the occasion its peculiar interest was the presentation of a rich and beautiful token of respect to Brother Parkman, the retiring Master of the Lodge. The presentation was made by Bro. Moore, the senior Past Master of the Lodge present, in a brief extemporary address, to which Bro. Parkman made a suitable reply.

The Lodge has recently furnished itself with a new set of Jewels, which are noticed in one of the city papers in the following terms:—

Magnificent Masonic Jewels.—Mr. Henry Guild, No. 2 Winter street, has recently manufactured for the St. Andrew's Lodge of Masons, a full set of jewels, which are pronounced by those capable of judging, to be the most magnificent jewels in the world. They are of new and unique design, made of silver and ornamented with devices in gold, which are wrought elaborately and with great skill.

The Lodge is also renewing its wardrobe in other respects, and has furnished itself with a new and elegant Banner, which for artistic excellence is not equalled by any similar work that has fallen under our notice. It was painted by Bro. Wm. Schultz, and does him great credit as an artist.

ST. ANDREW'S DAY, NOVEMBER 1863

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXIII, No. 3, January 1864, Page 83:

This favorite old Lodge celebrated its One Hundred and Seventh Anniversary by a Supper at the Revere House, in this city, on "St. Andrew's Day," Nov. 30. There was a general attendance of the members, and the tables were bountifully furnished and beautifully spread. The occasion was a joyous and happy one, the interest of which was increased by the presentation of an elegant gold watch and Past Master's Jewel to the retiring Master, W. Bro. C. J. F. Sherman, who has presided over the Lodge for the last two years, with signal ability and acceptableness. The former was presented by R. W. Bro. Moore, and the latter by M. W. Bro. Parkman, Past Masters of the Lodge.

We are gratified in being able to add that the disbursements of the Lodge in charity the past year exceed the sum of Eleven Hundred Dpllars. The officers are as follows:

  • Edward Stearns, W. M.
  • William F. Davis, S. W.
  • John P. Ober, jr., J. W.
  • John R. Bradford, Treasurer
  • A. A. Wellington, Sec.
  • Thomas E. Chamberlin, S. D.
  • William Parkman, Jr., J. D.
  • Albert H. Kelsey, Marshal
  • John P. Ober, S. S.
  • Isaac Gary, J. S.
  • Henry Jordan, Inside Sentinel
  • Smith W. Nichols, Tyler.

SOCIAL LEVEE, MARCH 1866

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly Magazine, Vol. XXV, No. 6, April, 1866, p. 218:

SOCIAL LEVEE OF ST. ANDREWS LODGE.

A correspondent who was present by invitation has politely favored us with the following account of the recent brilliant social levee by St. Andrew's Lodge of this city. Being our mother Lodge, we have preferred that another should speak for us: —

Dear Bro. Moore,—The pleasantest gathering it has ever been my priv lege to attend occurred on the evening of the 12th inst. It was the occasion of a social reunion of the members of St. Andrew's Lodge of Boston, — one of those few opportunities when the wives and daughters of the brethren are permitted to tread within the enclosure devoted to the rites of our Order. It is unnecessary to say that the brethren of St. Andrew's Lodge did not fail to respond to the invitation, and to present themselves, with their ladies, in good numbers. At half-past eight o'clock the brilliant company were ushered into the hall which had been prepared for the social and delightful pleasures of the dance. The apartment devoted to this portion of the evening's entertainment was arranged in a manner most appropriate to the occasion. In the east of the hall, beneath an elegantly arranged canopy supported by columns, was placeda number of plants, bearing upon their branches innumerable clusters of brilliant and fragrant flowers; behind this array of nature appeared a representation of the rising sun; while, enshrined within the bower, as though the presiding spirit of the spot, was the figure of the goddess Psyche. In the west, the rays of a brilliant star, set in a canopy of " white, red, and blue," shone upon an admiring and appreciating company.

The harmonious strains of music soon caused the younger portion of the assembly to tread the graceful measures of the merry dance; and although most of the older guests preferred to enjoy the scene without taking an active part therein, yet the happy expression of their countenances showed that the days were not forgotten when their footsteps were as light and active. At about eleven o'clock, the assembly were invited into the apartment where awaiting them was spread a more than sumptuous repast. To describe the scene that was here presented, so that it could be realized, would require a greater power tiian mine. Words can scarcely convey an idea of the exquisite beauty that broke upon the view; it would have required but a slight stretch of the mind to have imagined oneself amid the "gorgeous" splendors of an eastern feast.

Tables loaded with tempting delicacies, arranged in the most perfect taste; the rarest flowers in greatest profusion, filling the air with their sweet fragrance, and presenting to the eye that harmonious mingling of color that nature alone can produce, formed the main features of the banquet-hall; while from the centre of this gathered splendor rose a floral temple of beautiful proportion and design, within which a fountain, sparkling as liquid crystal, sprang from an emerald bed of moss; and, as if to unite into one perfect and complete whole the different portions of the scene, the softened strains of music fell upon the ear.

It is almost needless to say, that the perfect arrangement of the evening's entertainment was completed under the immediate care of the superintendent of the Masonic apartments; and to the committee of arrangements, Bros. Oliver, Palmer, and Pulsifer, great praise is due for their untiring exertions in providing for the comfort and pleasure of those present.

After due attention had been bestowed upon the banquet, dancing was resumed; and the early footsteps of a new-born day mingled amid the retiring pleasures of the scene.

S.

We have little to add to what our correspondent has written, except to say, he has omitted to notice that on the north side of the dancing- room, under a canopy, and standing on a pedestal, was a statue of Cupid, with his bow and arrow, poiuting across the hall at the heart of his victim, Psyche. The windows were also tastefully draped, and added much to the general effect, which was peculiarly striking and beautiful. Indeed, the whole arrangement was in fine taste, and eljcited, as it deserved, the highest praise of all present. The draping of the hall was the work of Bro. C. W. Roeth of Boylston Street, and was highly creditable to his artistic skill and taste.

Our correspondent may appear to be a little poetical in his description of the tables, but he is not much out of the way. The scene was surpassingly beautiful. We have had some little experience in such matters, and can say of the tables, without violence to the truth, that in the completeness of their arrangement, the beauty of their floral and other embellishments, and in the richness, variety, and abundance of their contents, we have never seen them excelled ; and this was the

general experience of all present. Bro. Tarbell tried to do the best thing of the season, and he did it. We must, however, say,—without meaning to detract any thing from his credit,—that he owes not a little of his success to the confectionery skill and inexhaustible conservatories of Bro. Copeland of Melrose. The floral display was perhaps one of the most attractive features of the occasion, especially to the ladies. The endless number of bouquets, and the richness, variety, and perfection of the flowers, was a subject of general remark.

The occasion was a happy family gathering; none but members and their families, with two or three exceptions, being present.

ST. ANDREW'S DAY, NOVEMBER 1868

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXVIII, No. 3, January 1869, Page 65:

St. Andrew's Lodge of this city celebrated its One Hundred and Twelfth Anniversary on the 30th of November last.

St. Andrew, in whose name this Lodge was chartered by the Grand Lodge of Scotland on the 30th of November, 1756, was born at Beth-saida, a city of Galilee, situated on the shores of the Lake Tiberias, in Palestine. As the name imports, it was a place for fishing and hunting, the adjacent country abounding with deer and the sea with fish. It is said that Phillip the Tetrarch formed it into a magnificent city and called it Julias, after the daughter of the Emperor Augustus. It was here that Jesus performed many of his miracles.

Andrew was the brother of Simon Peter, and both were the sons of John or Jonas, a fisherman of the place of their nativity. The former, before the advent of Jesus as a public teacher, had been a Disciple of John the Baptist, and was probably a member of the Essenian Sect, to which John belonged. If so, this will, in some measure at least, account for the learning and ability which he subsequently exhibited in his public ministry. He was the first person whom Jesus received as a Disciple, and who afterwards, with his brother Simon Peter, became one of his Apostles. He followed Christ until his crucifixion ; when, with the other Apostles, he entered upon his public ministry.

Departing from Jerusalem, he first travelled through Cappadocia, Galatia, and Bythinia, instructing the inhabitants in the new faith; and then continued his journey along the Euxine Sea, into the desert of Scythia. An ancient author tells us, that lie first came to Amynsus, where he preached in one of the Jewish Synagogues, converted many of the people, and ordained priests. He next went to Trapezium, a maritime city on the Euxine Sea ; from whence, after visiting many other places, he came to Nice, in Northern Italy, where he stayed two years, preachiug and working miracles with great success. Leaving here he passed to Nicodemia, and from thence to Chalcedon, whence he sailed through the Prepontis to the Euxine again, and from thence went to Heraclea, and afterwards to Amastris; in all of which places he encountered many difficulties, but overcame them by his invincible patience and resolution. He then proceeded to Synope (a city on the same sea, and famous as the birth and burial place of King Mithridates), where he met his brother Peter and united with him in the work of the ministry. The inhabitants were mostly Jews, who, "partly from a zeal for their religion and partly from their barbarous manners, were exasperated against him, and entered into a confederacy to burn the house in which he judged. But being disappointed in their design, they treated him with the most savage cruelty, throwing him on the ground, stamping upon him with their feet, pulling and dragging him from place to place; some beating him with clubs, some pelting him with stones, and others, to satisfy their brutal revenge, biting off his flesh with their teeth ; until, apprehending that they had entirely deprived him of life, they cast him out into the fields. But he miraculously recovered, and returned publicly into the city; by which, and other miracles that he wrought among them, he converted many from the error of their ways and induced them to become Disciples of Jesus." He afterwards returned to Jerusalem, and from thence travelled over Thrace, Macedonia, Thessera, Achaia, and Epirus, "propagating and confirming the doctrine he taught, with signs and miracles." At last he came to Patras, a city of Achaia, in Greece, where, after converting large numbers of the inhabitants, he finally sealed his faith with his blood. He was here arrested by order of Agenas, pro-consul of Achaia, and having resisted every temptation to renounce his mission and sacrifice to the gods of the heathen, he was treated with the utmost severity, and finally crucified on the 30th of November, A.D. 69. The Cross used on the occasion, was of the form called Crux decussata, and commonly known as St. Andrew's Cross. It was made of two pieces of timber, crossing each other in the centre, in the form of the letter X. Contrary to the usual custom, he was fastened to the cross with cqrds instead of nails, that his death might be the more lingering and tedious.

In this condition, says our authority, "he hung two whole days, teaching and instructing the people in the best manner his wretched situation would admit of, being sometimes so weak and faint as scarce to have the power of utterance. In the meantime, great interest was made to the pro-consul to spare his life ; but the Apostle earnestly begged of the Almighty that he might now depart, and seal the truth of his religion with his blood." His prayers were heard, and he expired, as before stated, on the last day of November. His body is said to have been decently and honorably interred by Maximillia, a lady of quality and estate, whom Nicephorus tells us, was the wife of the pro-consul. Constantine the Great afterwards removed it to Constantinople, and buried it in the great Church he had erected in honor of the Apostles. Here it remained until the year A.D.369, when, it is said, a Scottish Abbot of the name of Regulus, caused it to be again removed from Constantinople to Scotland, and buried in a church, with a monastery, which he had erected to the Saint at Abernethy.

The festival of St. Andrew was instituted in Scotland in the year A.D. 359, and from that time to the present has been generally observed as the great national religious festival and gala-day of all Scotchmen, wherever dispersed. The celebrated Order of the Thistle of Scotland, was instituted in honor of the Saint, A.D. 1540, by James V. It subsequently fell into decay; but was renewed by Queen Anne in 1703. The badge of the Order is a medallion of gold, upon which is enameled the effigy of the Saint in a blue garment, bearing his Cross, of white enamel, surrounded with a glory. And wherever Scotchmen sufficient are to be found to organize them, Scottish charitable and other societies exist, holding their anniversaries on the day of the patron Saint of Scotia. The Scots' Charitable Society of this city celebrated its Two Hundred and Eleventh Anniversary, on the 30th of November last, by a dinner and the usual festivities.

The Saint was admitted into the Masonic Calendar, and his "anniversary" adopted as a Masonic Festival, on the 30th of November, 1737. Previously to this time, the "Festival Days" of the Order in Scotland (as in every other country in Christendom), had been, from the early days of Christianity, the 24th of June and the 27th' of December. But the peculiar condition of the Order there at the date above given, and the important changes which then took place in its organization and government, led to a corresponding change in its anniversary festivals.

Masonry was introduced into Scotland in the beginning of the twelfth century, by a company of traveling architects who built the abbey of Kilwinning. But without tracing in detail the progress of the Order in the kingdom, it is sufficient for our present purpose to notice that in the reign of James II (1437), the office of Grand Master of Scotland, was granted by the Crown to William St. Clair, Earl of Orkney and Caithness, Baron of Roslin; which grant was subsequently made hereditary to his heirs and successors in the Barony forever. The consequence of this grant was to preclude the Lodges and brethren from any voice in the election of their Grand Master for a period of three hundred years, or until the year 1737, when the Roslin family had fallen into decay and the only remaining male member was Sir William .St. Clair, Esq., a lineal descendant and heir of the original grantee. Having no son to inherit his honors, he was anxious that the office of Grand Master should not be left vacant at his own death, and accordingly intimated to the brethren in Edinburgh his intention to resign into their hands, "every title to that office which he possessed under the grant of the Crown." Measures were immediately taken to notify the Lodges in the kingdom of this intention, and to invite them to appear on the ensuing St. Andrew's day, November 30, by themselves or proxies, in order to concur in the election of a Grand Master. At this meeting the resignation was accepted, and " in consideration of the nobility and antiquity of his family, of his zeal for the advancement of the Order, and the peculiar connection of his ancestors with the masonic history of Scotland," William St. Clair, Esq., of Roslin, was elected Grand Master, by the unanimous vote of his brethren, and the independence of the Grand Lodge of Scotland was. established and proclaimed. Up to this time, it had been "customary to hold their principal assemblies on St. John the Baptist's day;" but at a Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge in April, it was resolved " that the annual election should no longer be celebrated on that day, but. on the 30th of November, the birthday (anniversary) of St. Andrew, the tutelar Saint of Scotland; " and this day has since, accordingly, been observed by our Scotch brethren, and by foreign Lodges of Scotch descent, as their anniversary festival. It is the anniversary of their Masonic Independence, and of the Crucifixion of the Patron Saint of their fatherland.

St. Andrew's Lodge therefore, very properly, early in its history, adopted the 30th of November, not only in commemoration of the two prominent religious and masonic events here named, but as the anniversary of its own birthday : the one hundred and twelfth of which it celebrated, as above stated, at the house of Br. J. B. Smith, of this city. The tables were spread with the elegance and good taste for which this popular caterer has been so long distinguished ; the courses were in variety, and of great excellence, both in choice and cookery. The Lodge consists of about forty members, all of whom were present, with the exception of some five or six, who were necessarily absent from various causes.

On the removal of the cloth, the presiding Master, W. Br. Dr. Ezra Palmer, called for the report of a committee appointed at the previous meeting of the Lodge, to procure for presentation to the retiring Master, W. Br. William F. Davis, some tangible evidence of the appreciation in which his services, as Master for the three preceding years, are held by his brethren. This report was made verbally, by W. Past Master C. J. F. Sherman, chairman of the committee, who concluded by handing to R.W. Br. C. W. Moore, Senior Past Master, a very beautiful and valuable gold watch and chain,, for presentation to the late Master, in behalf of the committee and in the name of the Lodge. In the discharge of this duty, Br. Moore referred to the practice which had obtained in the Lodge for more than half of a century, of acknowledging the services of brethren who had filled its principal chair, by the presentation of some more enduring memorial than a simple vote of thanks—describing the varying values of these memorials, from a plain Past Master's Jewel of little intrinsic worth, to the rich and costly one he held in his hand, as indicating the increasing prosperity and present ability of the Lodge. He also spoke of the distinguished brethren who, for one hundred and twelve years past, had presided as Masters over its interests; naming, as among those with whom the present members were best acquainted, W. Brothers Col. Henry Purkitt, who was Master in 1799, and was one of the celebrated "Tea Party" who in 1773 turned Boston harbor into a gigantic "Tea Pot," to the infinite disgust of George III., and his officials in the Province; Henry Fowle, Master in 1793, who in his day was one of the most active and celebrated Masons in the country; Paul Revere was Master in 1761, and was one of the ruling spirits of the Revolution; General Joseph Warren was chosen Master the same year, and fell at Bunker Hill in 1775, was made a Mason in the Lodge, and was subsequently Grand Master of the second Grand Lodge in the Province, established in 1769, by authority from the Grand Lodge of Scotland. He also referred to others who had been honored by the Lodge in this way, but whose names would be of little interest to the general reader. He then spoke of the initiation of the retiring Master, his progress through the various offices of the Lodge, and finally of his elevation and services as its Master — all of which he declared to have been distinguished by activity, affability, intelligence and faithfulness ; and concluded by presenting to him the memorial that had been selected by the committee, and which he hoped would long be a source of satisfaction to him, and of pride and pleasure to his family.

The committee had likewise provided the customary Past Master's Jewel (also of gold), the presentation of which was intrusted to R.W. P.M. William Parkman, who, in the discharge of this interesting part of the services, took occasion to refer to the importance of the duties of a presiding Master, of the cares and responsibilities which rested upon him, and in just and complimentary terms, to the able and successful manner in which they had been performed by the recipient for the past three years. He spoke earnestly and appropriately, and his remarks were received by the brethren with unmistakable manifestations of approval.

The committee having concluded the duties of their appointment, W. Br. Davis rose, and spoke as follows : —

Brethren,— It is with much diffidence that I undertake to reply to your kind and complimentary remarks. I appreciate most highly the sentiment of personal regard you have so kindly expressed towards me, and still more highly do .1 appreciate the assurance yon have given me of the success of this Lodge during my administration, for upon its prosperity and welfare my hopes, my feelings, and my wishes are all centered; but, at the same time, I feel that these words of commendation do not wholly belong to me. They belong alike to the Senior and Junior Wardens who have contributed so much towards strengthening my efforts in conducting its affairs. They too belong to the brethren, one and all, who, by their united efforts, have enabled me to retire from the chair with some degree of credit to myself. As for myself, I make but one claim, and that is that I have endeavored to perform the various duties devolved upon me faithfully and impartially. And now, having received these assurances from you, I shall look back upon my official connection with this Lodge as the foundation of many lasting friendships, and the source of some pardonable pride.

The doings of this Lodge, during the past three years, have now become a part of its history; and it would afford me much pleasure to notice them at this time, yet I shall pass them over, with one exception, for some future occasion.

In tracing the doings of this Lodge, there is nothing which meets the eye oftener, or shows more prominence, than its charities. I find, by the records, that we have distributed in charity the past three years, over $5,000! These are the deeds which constitute the permanent honor and glory of this old Lodge; and there is nothing more gratifying to me than to see these deeds of benevolence registered by our faithful recording officer, in simple and modest language; for while they illuminate and adorn the pages of his labor, they present to posterity bright examples of faithful obedience to the principal tenet of our profession. So let us continue to dispense our charities with a liberal hand. Let them ever be increased in proportion to our means, and may we, like those ever active spirits of order which labor in secret to weave those beautiful flowers which adorn our table, inspire us to labor in our secret asylum, to distribute our charity to the unfortunate and distressed ; and, in so doing, let us not forget that higher charity which aims to soothe the unhappy, sympathize with them in their misfortunes, compassionate their misery, and restore peace to their minds; for it is these things, coupled with our charity, that causes the widow's heart to sing for joy, and the orphan to be made glad.

In 1860, I was elected a member of this ancient Lodge; from that to the present time I have been permitted, by a kind Providence, to be present at each and all of its Communications, and for a considerable portion of that time, have, by the kindness and generosity of the brethren, filled its principal offices. I do not say this as boasting of the honors conferred upon me, but I do say that I have not been tardy in lending my feeble assistance to promote its prosperity ; and now, in return for these kindnesses, I can only return to you my grateful thanks. I thank you for the confidence you have ever reposed in me ; I thank you for the high honors conferred upon me ; and I thank you from the bottom of my heart, for those uniform courtesies which have plucked the thorns from my path, and made my administration so pleasant to myself. And now, brethren, for this crowning act of your kindness, what can I say? I can find no language by which to express the emotions that rise in my heart for these testimonials of your regard. They are an additional evidence of the considerations so often exercised by yourselves, and experienced by me ; and while realizing this fact, and arrogating no merit to myself, I am grateful to you for them. Accept, then, in return, my warmest thanks, with the assurance that these beautiful golden gifts will be carefully preserved as my choicest earthly treasure, not only for their intrinsic worth, but for their still greater value as mementos of an Association of Brethren beloved, with whom I have ever deemed it an honor, and felt it a pleasure to be united.

And now, R.W. Brothers Moore and Parkman, I cannot allow the present opportunity to pass without returning to you my acknowledgments for the exceedingly kind manner in which you have communicated to me the wishes of the brethren, and for the assurances of personal regard which you are pleased to express towards me. I have long felt that I owe to each of you a debt of gratitude for numberless kindnesses received at your hands ; for during my whole masonic life, I have been prompted to look to you for advice and Counsel, and, in return, have ever received continual proofs of your love and esteem. Be assured that so long as the powers of memory are given me, many will be the hours when my thoughts will be turned to you in fond remembrance ; and the many kindnesses received at your hands, are indelibly engraven upon my heart, and there will they ever remain life-long forget-me-nots.

These services were followed by the usual festivities, consisting of toasts, speeches, historical anecdotes of the Lodge, &c, in which the memories of many of the earlier and later members were kindly noticed, not forgetting the respect .which the Lodge entertains for its parent Grand Lodge of Scotland. Among the speakers, other than those already named, was the venerable Br. Peter Wainwright, Esq., one of the most aged and respected brethren of the Lodge ; and he was followed by R.W. Br. Dr. Winslow Lewis, and Brothers S. P. Oliver, J. P. Ober, Thomas Chamberlin (S.W.), William Parkman, Jr. (J.W.), Leman, and others whose names do not occur to us. The following chaste and beautiful ode was written for the occasion, by R.W. Br. Dr. Henry G. Clark, a member of the Lodge, and is, we understand, to be set to music, by Julius Eichberg, Esq., for the use of the Lodge on future festival occasions.

SONG AND CHORUS FOR THE LODGE OF ST. ANDREW.
by Henry Grafton Clark.

With eddying whirl, how, day by day,
Time's tide sweeps year by year away;
Yet why for this should any grieve?
Comes only thus St. Andrew's Eve.

Chorus. — Yet why for his should any grieve?
Comes only thus St. Andrew's Eve.

Spread out the festive board to-night!
With fruit and flowers, and cheerful light!
And season well the foaming bowl,
With reason's feast, and "flow of soul."

Chorus. — And season well the foaming bowl,
With reason's feast, and flow of soul.

Fill to the brim the sparkling glass! —
For swiftly do these moments pass —
And, as the changing bubbles break,
Of friends our sunny memories wake!

Chorus. — And, as the changing bubbles break,
Of friends our sunny memories wake!

Then as we sail life's summer sea,
And dream with wakened memory;
We see them on the distant shore,
Where time and tide shall be no more.

Chorus. — We see them on the distant shore,
Where time and tide shall be no more.

St. Andrew's Sun! For ever rise.
Unclouded in the Eastern Skies!
And this dear festal eve return,
While moons shall shine or stars shall burn!

Chorus. — And this dear festal eve return,
While moons shall shine or stars shall burn!

The occasion was one of the most agreeable of its kind that we have attended since the celebration of the Centennial Anniversary of the Lodge in 1856, and will form an interesting chapter in its history, whenever that shall be written.

The officers of the Lodge for the ensuing year are as follows : —

  • Ezra Palmer, Worshipful Master.
  • Thomas E. Chamberlin, Senior Warden.
  • William Parkman, Jr., Junior Warden
  • Samuel H. Gregory, Treasurer.
  • A. A. Wellington, Secretary.
  • Hasket Derby, Senior Deacon.
  • Edward B. W. Restieaux, Junior Deacon.
  • George C. Stearns, Senior Steward.
  • Hales W. Suter, Junior Steward.
  • David Pulsifer, Marshal.
  • Aaron Leman, Inner Sentinel.
  • Eben. C. Leman, Tyler.

ST. ANDREW'S DAY, NOVEMBER 1869

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly Magazine, Vol. XXIX, No. 3, January 1870, Page 94:

St. Andrew's Lodge of this city celebrated its One hundred and thirteenth anniversary, at the house of Br. J. B. Smith, on Tuesday, the 30th ult., being St. Andrew's Day. There was a very full attendance of the members, not more than two or three being absent. The company sat down to dinner at five o'clock, the Master of the Lodge, W. Br. Ezra Palmer, M.D. presiding, and as the dinner was provided by the best caterer in Boston, if not in this country, nothing further need be said of it. One of the most notable, and to the members, one of the most interesting incidents of the assemblage, was the fact that there were seated at the head of the tables twelve Past Masters of the Lodge, the senior of whom was Master in 1833. On the removal of the cloth, the usual intellectual part of the ceremonies followed, almost as a matter of course, and the Lodge was addressed by the Worshipful Master, and R.W. Brs. Moore, Willis, Parkman, Lewis, Stearns, Clark, (M.D.) Sherman, Oliver, Nichols, and others.

The occasion — as all the social gatherings of this Lodge are — was one of marked local interest. The older members of the Lodge availed themselves of the opportunity to remember their mother Grand Lodge of Scotland, and to call up pleasant memories connected with their predecessors of more than a century past. In this way two or three hours were pleasantly and, it is hoped, profitably spent, when the company retired, with increased love for their old Lodge, and strengthened attachments towards each other.

We understand that the day was also celebrated by Aberdour Lodge of this city, and by Kilwinning Lodge of Lowell. The Scotch Society of this city also celebrated the day. This, we understand, is the oldest Scotch Society in the country.

OFFICER LIST, NOVEMBER 1871

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXXI, No. 2, December 1871, Page 61:

St. Andrew's Lodge, Boston. — Officers for the current year, etc. Nov. 9, 1871—

  • Thomas E. Chamberlain, W. M.
  • Wm. Parkman, Jr. S. W.
  • Hasket Derby, J. W.
  • Saml. H. Gregory, Treas.
  • A. A. Wellington, Sec.
  • Edw. B. W. Restieaux. S. D.
  • Geo. C. Stearns, J. D.
  • Peter Wainwright, Chaplain.
  • Chas. J. F. Sherman, Marshal.
  • Hales W. Suter, Sr. Steward.
  • John Mears, Jr. Steward.
  • Wm. L. Wainwright, Inside Sentinel.
  • Ebenezer C. Leman, Tyler.

150TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION, NOVEMBER 1906

From New England Craftsman, Vol. II, No. 3, December 1906, Page 88:

WinthropWetherbee.jpg HenryGJordan1906.jpg
Winthrop Wetherbee; Henry Jordan
Worshipful Master; Chairman of Committee of Arrangements

RobertMGreen1906.jpg WilliamFDavis.jpg
Robert M. Green, William F. Davis
Lodge Poet; Secretary 1873-1906

The celebration on St. Andrew's Day, November 30, 1906 in Masonic Temple, Boston, of the one hundred and fiftieth anniversary of the organization of the Lodge of St. Andrew, was a notable event in the history of Free Masonry in Massachusetts. The importance of the occasion was fully appreciated by the brethren and the anniversary celebrated in a manner worthy of the dignity of the ancient Lodge.

The Lodge was opened at two o'clock in the afternoon and the exercises carried out in the following order: Reception of Most Worshipful John Albert Blake, Grand Master, with a large delegation of the officers and permanent members of the Grand Lodge; oration by Rev. Brother John Cuckson and poem by Brother Robert M. Green. The Most Worshipful Grand Master was cordially welcomed by th Master of the Lodge, Worshipful Brother Winthrop Wetherbee, in a short speech marked with dignified sentiment and graceful expression. The Most Worshipful Grand Master responded, acknowledging his appreciation of the importance of the occasion, the deep interest of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge in the event and his own pleasure in participating in the ceremonies of the celebration.

The oration by Rev. Brother John Cuckson, was the important event of the day. It was a production of remarkable ability and of great interest and is a valuable addition to the literature of Free Masonry. It was more than a historical address it was an ethical dissertation suggested by the sentiments of brotherhood and equality, whose roots are deep-seated in the hearts of mankind and which have been fostered and extended by the political and social revolutions of the past. The address was interesting in its subject and its presentation and closely held the attention of all who were present.

The poem by Brother Robert M. Green was also an interesting feature of the celebration. The subject was St. Andrew, whose name is borne by the Lodge. The Lodge may be congratulated on having among its members a real poet whose productions bear the impress of genuine poetic inspiration.

An orchestra under the direction of Brother Thomas M. Carter furnished charming music at appropriate intervals and several selections were sung by the Harvard Quartet.

Corinthian Hall in which the exercises were held was tastefully decorated with flowers and plants. The portraits of the past Grand Masters, Joseph and John Warren, whose names are especially linked ■nth tht history of the Lodge, were decorated with evergreen.

A new silk banner was also exhibited for the first time. An especially interesting feature of the occasion was the exhibition of the original Charter of the Lodge, granted by the Grand Lodge of Scotland, November 3, 1756.

Interest in the history of the Lodge of St. Andrew is not confined to its own members. The part it took in forming St. Andrew's Chapter and the Massachusetts Grand Lodge and the events which have grown out of those incidents have given to the history of the old lodge an importance that its early members could never have anticipated.

The Capitular Rite is indebted to her for the first regularly organized Royal Arch Lodge in our land ; under her charter, as authority, Royal Arch Masonry was established and cultivated. More remotely the Lodge of St. Andrew is the founder of the Templar Order in our country, for in the records of the Royal Arch Lodge, which her members created, we read that on August 28, 1769, William Davis, a past master of Army Lodge No. 58, was made a Knight Templar, which according to Brother Hughan, the eminent English Masonic historian is "the earliest known reference in the world to the Degree of a Masonic Knight Templar."

St. Andrew's Lodge was conspicuous during the time of the war of the Revolution by the loyalty of its members to the interests of the patriots; within her body the famous Tea Party was undoubtedly organized. Fortunately the history of the Lodge has been preserved and the brethren have an authentic record of its doings from its beginning until the present day. The one hundredth anniversary of the Lodge was observed with much attention and a Centennial Memorial published giving a very complete history of the early days of the Lodge. From that history the following account has been largely taken and as far as possible is given in the language of the original.

The Lodge of St. Andrew, was chartered by the Grand Lodge of Scotland, November 30, 1756. The charter was not received until the following year, when the Lodge was regularly organized under it. The action of the Grand Lodge of Scotland in chartering this Lodge, was not approved by the St. John's Grand Lodge which had been established in Boston twenty-three years. They claimed that several, if not all, of the petitioners for the charter "were not at the time of their application for it, or at the date of said Constitution, free and accepted Masons"; they also claimed that the new Lodge wrongfully occupied their territory and infringed their rights. They accordingly refused to have Masonic intercourse with the brethren of the new Lodge.

The members of the Lodge of St. Andrew made repeated efforts to establish amicable relations with the brethren of St. John's Grand Lodge without success. Discouraged by the results of their efforts they took advantage of the presence in Boston of several brethren members of military lodges and with their assistance petitioned the Grand Lodge of Scotland for the appointment of a Grand Master for the Province.

Probably the reason that caused the brethren of St. John's Grand Lodge to say that the petitioners foi the charter of the Lodge of St. Andrew were not free and accepted Masons, was because they had been initiated by authority derived from the schismatic Grand Lodge of England. "One of the reasons urged in support of their petition was the necessity for a less precarious and uncertain protection than they then enjoyed, of the rights of Brethren who had enrolled themselves and were in sympathy with the so called Ancient Masons."

The prayer of the petitioners for a Grand Master was favorably received by the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and General Joseph Warren commissioned May 30, 1769 "to be Grand Master of Masons in Boston New England and within one hundred miles of the same." General Warren was at that time Master ol the Lodge of St. Andrew. Under the authority of his commission General Warren organized the Massachusetts Grand Lodge December 27. 1769. In Mason's Hall, in the Green Dragon Tavern which was then the property of the Lodge as is the estate with its more modern buildings at the present time.

GreenDragon1906.jpg
Green Dragon Tavern, Boston
In which the meetings of the Lodge of St. Andrew were held
during the period of the Revolution

The two wardens who assisted in forming the new Grand Lodge were members of military lodges then located in Boston. The Senior Grand Warden was Jeremiah French, Captain in 29th Regiment and the Junior Grand Warden was Ponsonby Molesworth of the same regiment. The two lodges, number 58 of the Registry of Kngland, and number 322 of the Registry of Ireland: which had united in the petition to the Grand Lodge of Scotland, were present by their Masters and Wardeins, at the organization on the 27th of December, 1769 and also at the succeeding meetings January 12 and March 2, 1770; but were never present afterwards. The withdrawal of these two Lodges was supplied March 2, 1770; by a Charter to Tyrian Lodge, Gloucester and to Massachusetts Lodge, Boston, May 13. The latter was a branch of St. Andrew's Lodge, the petitioners, without an exception, being members of it. A charter was also granted to St. Peter's Lodge, Newburyport, March 6, 1772. These were the only Charters which bore the name of General Warren as Grand Master . . . The new body was erected as an Ancient Grand Lodge, in sympathy with the seceding Grand Lodge established in London about 1738, . . . Producing a schism in the Fraternity in England that was not healed until 1813 . . . The Grand Lodge of Scotland never offiicially endorsed or fully sympathised with the disturbing elements in England; nor did it approve of or sanction the changes introduced into the ritual by the Grand Lodge of that kingdom. Neither did it justify or uphold the recusant Brethern in their irregular proceedings. On
the contrary it occupied neutral ground and recognized both parties irrespective of their local dissentions . . . General Warren continued to preside over the Massachusetts Grand Lodge as its Grand Master until his premature death on Bunker Hill on the 17th of June, 1775. He left the body firmly established in an eminently prosperous condition and with a high and honorable reputation in the community. The records show that he was absent but on three occasions during his Grand Mastership and that he was then engaged in the important business of 'public interest.'

The last record in which his name appears is dated March 3, 1775. at the conclusion of which is appended the following memorandum : '19th April, 1775. Hostility commenced between troops of Great Britain and America in Lexington battle. In consequence of which the Town was blockaded and no Lodge held until Dec. 1776.'

In 1773 General Warren received a new commission from the Grand Master of Masons in Scotland dated March 3rd 1772, appointing him Grand Master of Masons for the Continent of America. This commission being read in Grand Lodge the record says: "The M. W. Grand Master by virtue of the authority granted him in the foregoing commission, ordered the Grand Secretary to read a commission dated at Boston, New England, 1773, appointing Joseph Webb, Esq. Deputy Grand Master under him."

After the death of General Warren at Bunker Hill he was succeeded as Grand Master by the Deputy Grand Master. There was for a considerable time a controversy on the question of the right of the Grand Lodge over which General Warren had presided and the Lodges created under it, to continue, as regular Masonic bodies. It was claimed "that the Commission from the Grand Lodge of Scotland granted to our Late Grand Master Joseph Warren, Esqr., having died with him and of Course his Deputy whose Appointment was derived from his Nomination being no longer in existence they saw themselves without a Head & without a Single Grand Officer and of Course it was evident that not Only the Grand Lodge but all the particular Lodges under its Jurisdiction must Cease to Assemble, the Brethren be dispersed, the penniless go unassisted, the Craft languish & Ancient Masonry be extinct in this Part of the World." The case however, was not quite as desperate as the words of the committee just quoted would indicate. Prompted perhaps by the spirit of independence which had led the colonies to declare themselves free from the political control of the Mother country they resolved to sever their allegiance to the Grand Lodge of Scotland and assume the "Power & Prerogatives of an Independent Grand Lodge." Their action wa1 expressed in the following resolution: "Resolved, That this Grand Lodge be forever hereafter known & Called by the Name of The Massachusetts Grand Lodge of Ancient Masons, and, that it is free and Independent in its Government & official Authority of any other Grand Lodge or Grand Master in the Universe."

This resolution which was the first formal 'declaration of independence' by any Grand Lodge on this continent, was adopted on the 6th of December, 1782, and was a full, unequivocal and irrevocable severance of its connection with the Grand Lodge of Scotland. But a majority of the members of St. Andrew's Lodge did not see their way clear to accept a measure so radical in its consequences without the consent and concurrence of that body, and by a vote of 30 to 19 they decided to take no part in supporting the new Grand Lodge although they had been instrumental in bringing it into existence, and with which it had lived and worked in fraternal love and sympathy from the day of its foundation. The separation was the result of an honest conviction of duty and can be regarded only as a beautiful illustration of its enduring fidelity to the beloved parent under whose immediate care and protection it had decided again to enroll itself. Notwithstanding the fact that a majority of the Lodge of St. Andrew voted to sever their connection with the Massachusetts Grand Lodge there was an important minority that could not be contented to remain in the Lodge; they accordingly withdrew and applied to the Grand Lodge and pbtained authority for the establishment of a new Lodge; or, as they claimed, a continuance of their own lodge, under the name of 'The Rising States' Lodge', with Bro. Paul Revere for its Master to take rank and precedence in Grand Lodge from the date of the Charter of St Andrew's Lodge; or in the words of the Record of that day, 'to hold rank as the oldest Lodge under the jurisdiction.' This new Lodge was organized on the 4th of September, 1784 and continued a precarious existence until 1811 when it was dissolved. St. Andrew's Lodge had in the meantime re-affiliated itself and renewed its obedience to the Grand Lodge of Scotland."

The career of the Lodge of St. Andrew previous to the establishment of the Massachusetts Grand Lodge was not altogether enjoyable; it was opposed and discredited by the St. John's Grand Lodge. This did not deter the Brethren of St. Andrew's from making efforts to establish amicable relations with the Brethren of the St. John's Grand Lodge until a vote had been passed by that body "forbidding all members of Lodges in the Jurisdiction of St. John's visiting a Lodge of Scots Masons, so-called in Boston."

Then St. Andrews closed its doors which hitherto had been freely opened to the visiting brethren. The condition of St. Andrews at that time is thus stated by a historian of that body:

"Alone and singular, these devoted men stood to their tenets through good report and through evil report. Wise and wary as in duty bound, they husbanded all resources and made every means conspire to form a creditable Society, one which should attract initiates, and win and keep the respect of all high minded Masons. Nothing was left at loose ends, lax, or rusty. Indeed, their administration of affairs, no less than their 'work,' was in marked contrast to everything of the sort about them in the province. The number of members was early limited as a precautionary step; convivial practices, usual at that age, were forbidden by 'St. Andrew's' in 'working hours,' promptness, attention, civility, and decorous behavior, were secured by fines and penalties, which were rigidly exacted. Six pence for tardiness, two shillings for three times absence. If a member was al all disguised by the 'good cheer ' of the times, he must hold his peace during the session; outside in his daily walk, every one must be circumspect, reticent of his speech on Lodge business; must not keep company with clandestine Masons. Once the secretary was obliged to apologize for doubtful language in a public town meeting, touching the institution,—the degrees must be given on due examination, and with proper lapses of time, if otherwise, for good reason, the candidate must pay 'the reckoning.' Smoking in Mason's Hall was prohibited and it must be cleared at the closing. But for all this, the Lodge was made inviting and generous in welcome. The call to 'refreshment' fully met all the need; the 'closet stewards' were important functionaries, who added to their "skill in the craft," a measure of skill in the knowledge of this world's good things; but they too must be enjoined to duty; the liquors were to be good, and bountiful in supply. Thus kindly cheer prevailed, nature got a pleasant jog, and 'the balance was always kept right adjusted.' Again, the treasure chest was frugally cared for. If the fund reached £12. it was to be put in a Province note on interest. Above all, sweet charity hallowed every scene. Scarce a meeting but the silent vote told the brother's devotion at the precious shrine, and when the Lodge's purse fell below the mark the hat went around. For half a century, —ay, till the far seeing forethought of this able ancestry of ours had placed 'St Andrew's' full handed in her treasury, this tinie-honored custom, all cocked hat and leather breeched, anon in ruffle shirt
and silver buckles, from 'East to West and South,' appeared gathering in its harvest of blessed tribute, to be scattered as widely to the household of the faithful first and next beyond. Then the 'Stranger's fund!' There was help for the stranger always."

St. John's and Massachusetts I Grand Lodges formed a union March 5, 1792. The subject of a union had been under consideration several years. Each body had made plans and overtures but the subject required a long and profound confederation before the two bodies could come to a final agreement. John Cutler was the first Grand Master of the new Grand Lodge. One of his first official acts "was to nrepare a letter to St. Andrew's Lodge announcing that a Complete Union of the Two Grand Lodges, formerly held in this State, is happily effected"; that "the sole objects of their coalition are to obliterate, as far as possible, all distinctions heretofore made"; stating the terms on which the union had been formed; and gently hinting, rather than urging the Lodge to lend its aid to promote the laudable design to remedy "the late deranged state of Masonry."

The Lodge of St. Andrew was not ready to accept the invitation of the Grand Lodge and preferred to retain its connection with the Grand Lodge of Scotland. Separated as we are from these events by more than a century of time we can hardly understand the action of the lodge. The brethren must have known that their course was sure to subject them to annoyance and loss of recognition by the Masons of the State, every lodge but their own being under the jurisdiction of the Massachusetts Grand Lodge. To make their embarrassment more complete the Grand Lodges of other States adopted resolutions forbidding "correspondence or communication with any Mason or Masons, citizens of the United States, who hold authority under, or acknowldge the supremecy of any foreign Grand Lodge, or who do not by their representatives communicate and pay their dues to the Grand Lodge of the State where they reside."

Notwithstanding the Lodge of St. Andrew was officially ignored by the Grand Lodge; its members were too much respected to be neglected altogether by the brethren of other lodges. As one of her historians has said:

"As time passed on, a certain respect for the firmness to principle which the lodge exhibited in the very tenacity of its loyalty to 'Scotland' was the means of 'St. Andrew's' being permitted to share with the Order at large in occasional Masonic civilities. The personal weight of character also of the members, prevented such utter ignoring of the Lodge, as the policy of the Grand Lodge contemplated.

"Expressions of regret began to take the place of sweeping condemnation, and 'St. Andrew's' was looked upon as a prostrate column, or as a child without a parent, or with a parent too distant for any good, while here was one at home ready and anxious to adopt. Near one hundred Lodges belonged in the Commonwealth, and with 'St. Andrew's' the Masonic edifice would be perfected. Here and there a friendly greeting from distant Lodges, who had some old association with the earliest 'Ancient Lodge,' would be received, always urging union. The town of Boston was now united to Charleston by a bridge. The brethren on the other side of the river were no more to be styled 'seafaring,' as of yore, and King Solomon's Lodge ventured to make 'St. Andrew's' a friendly call in full regalia. The Grand Lodge itself held out the 'olive branch' by bringing forward an article in its Constitution, whereby a Lodge holding under a foreign jurisdiction could 'come in' preserving its charter, and its rank by date."

"The death of Washington too, at the close of the century, filling all hearts with sorrow, united the entire brotherhood in one common bond of sympathy. On this event 'St. Andrew's' with other Lodges, was draped in mourning, and its members responded with their brethren at large, in every testimonial of Masonic respect, which was prompted by the sad occasion. In short, opportunities were made propitious, and all things gradually conspired to the union of this Lodge with the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts."

The subject of allegiance to the Grand Lodge was often near the minds of the brethren as is shown by the records. In June 1798, the members voted 19 to 8, to address the Grand Lodge of Scotland on the question of passing under the jurisdiction of Massachusetts. In February 1800, a committee which had been appointed to consider the subject reported they were equally divided in opinion as to what course to advise the Lodge, and yet the Lodge refused to appoint a new committee to confer with the Grand Lodge, although a letter was written by the secretary in which was said : "Should any occurrance take place that we can with honor embrace, and that will justify us as a Lodge in acknowledging your jurisdiction, we shall not hesitate a moment, being fully convinced from experience, that we should thereby be relieved from much anxiety and trouble."

Meanwhile there was an excellent feeling of cordiality growing up between the parties. The 'Ancient and Modern' phantom had vanished; the lingering sentiment of Masonic fealty to Scotland alone was in the way. In April 1804, a delegation from Mt. Lebanon Lodge and in the name of that respected body, formally visited St. Andrew's, and in a very delicately courteous manner expressed a desire for mutual intercourse between the brethren. The members of St. Andrew's heartily embraced the delegation, and instantly appointed five of their prominent associates to return the visit. St. John's also visited officially.

From this time onward every influence was leading St. Andrew to come under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge. The important event was consummated December 11, 1809, when the Master and Wardens took seats as members of the Grand Lodge. "The Grand Marshal informed the M. W. Grand Master that St. Andrew's Lodge had taken seats for the first time as a member of Grand Lodge, and it was probable that the Worshipful Master had some communication to make." Whereupon the Master of St Andrew's arose and addressed the Grand Lodge in an eloquent speech, to which the Grand Master, grasping the hand of the Master, responded with a hearty fraternal welcome; thereupon directing the Charter of the Lodge to be countersigned and recorded. The annual election then proceeded, when it appeared that a member of St. Andrew's — Andrew Sigourney,— had been unanimously elected Grand Treasurer, a mark of high respect to this Lodge."

"The beautiful ceremonies,attending the cement of the last link in the bright Masonic chain of Massachusetts was not yet finished; nor the season of official rejoicing over On the ensuing 12th of April, the M. W. Grand Master, with all the other Grand officers, visited St. Andrew's at The Green Dragon, and here in the ancient historic hall, the supreme dignity of Grand Lodge, and high Masonic etiquette, gracefully yielded to the emotions which filled all present, for a hallowed moment of most hearty fraternal love, brother to brother. The addresses on this grand occasion were admirable and replete with sentiments of reciprocal regard and satisfaction. True Masonic hospitality chastening a scene that testified to complete Masonic harmony in Massachusetts, after nearly three quarters of a century of discord."


GRAND LODGE OFFICERS

OTHER BROTHERS


DISTRICTS

1803: District 1 (Boston)

1821: District 1

1835: District 1

1849: District 1

1867: District 1 (Boston)

1883: District 1 (Boston)

1911: District 1 (Boston)

1927: District 1 (Boston)

2003: District 1


LINKS

1870 Lodge History (from Google Books)

The Green Dragon Tavern, from New England Freemason, 1874

Massachusetts Lodges