StMark

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SAINT MARK'S LODGE

Location: Newburyport

Chartered By: Isaiah Thomas

Charter Date: 09/14/1803 II-221

Precedence Date: 09/13/1803

Current Status: Active


NOTES

Emeth Lodge merged into this Lodge, 01/15/1976.


PAST MASTERS

  • William Wead, 1803-1807, 1811, 1812
  • William Francis, 1808
  • Willam Chase, 1809, 1810
  • John Moody, 1813, 1814
  • William Knapp, Jr., 1815, 1816
  • John Cook, 1817-1822, 1837-1845, 1850, 1851, 1853, 1854; SN
  • William Currier, 1823, 1824
  • Ebenezer Bradbury, 1825; SN
  • Nathan Follansbee, 1826, 1827
  • Gaisford Giles, 1828
  • John Bricket, 1829, 1830
  • George Emery, 1831-1836
  • Nathan Chase, 1846-1849
  • Isaac P. Seavey, 1852
  • Silas Rogers, 1855
  • William D. Foster, 1856
  • William M. Blaisdell, 1857-1859
  • Stephen Jones, 1860, 1861
  • John A. McArthur, 1862, 1863
  • William P. Saunders, 1864, 1865
  • John M. Carter, 1866, 1867
  • George H. Stevens, 1868
  • Joseph L. Johnson, 1869
  • Amos H. Geary, 1870, 1871
  • Sylvester B. Carterm 1872, 1873
  • Charles W. Page, 1874, 1875
  • Robert G. Sargent, 1876, 1877
  • George W. Creasey, 1878-1880
  • Oscar C. Lougee, 1881, 1882
  • Charles S. Lovejoy, 1883
  • Moses Brown, 1884; SN
  • George W. Craig, 1885-1888, 1891
  • Caleb S. Wilkinson, 1889
  • Richard S. Dodge, 1890
  • David Foss, 1892, 1893
  • Alvah Hoyt, 1894, 1895
  • Thomas T. Upton, 1896, 1897
  • John C. M. Blaisdell, 1898, 1899
  • Clarence J. Fogg, 1900, 1901
  • Arthur P. Brown, 1902, 1903; N
  • John Homer, 1904
  • George E. Torrey, 1905
  • Orion S. Hill, 1906, 1907
  • Percy B. Jackson, 1908, 1909
  • John L. McLean, 1910, 1911
  • James H. Johnston, 1912, 1913
  • B. Clark Atwater, 1914, 1915
  • Charles W. Perry, Jr., 1916, 1917; Memorial
  • William H. Colby, 1918, 1919
  • Frank O. Fowle, 1920, 1921
  • Bennett J. Sampson, 1922
  • Albert D. Frost, 1923, 1924
  • William C. Noyes, 1925, 1926
  • Albert M. Genn, 1927, 1928
  • George H. Hanna, 1929, 1930
  • Orin W. Quimby, 1931, 1932
  • Edward L. Noyes, 1933, 1934
  • Perley E. Miller, 1935, 1936; N
  • Leon E. Oliver, 1937, 1938
  • Charles A. Woods, 1939, 1940
  • O. Arthur Wills, 1941
  • Arnold W. Collis, 1942
  • George E. Bishop, 1943, 1944
  • Alvah W. Hoyt, 1945, 1946
  • Arthur C. Browne, 1947; SN
  • Robert R. McKinney, 1948, 1949
  • Willam Harber, 1950
  • John C. White, 1951
  • Worthen H. Taylor, 1952
  • Harry W. Fowle, 1953
  • Elbridge D. Proctor, 1954
  • Milton W. MacFarlane, 1955
  • Kenneth W. Parkhurst, 1956
  • Leon Ananian, 1957, 1958; SN
  • Robert S. Walters, 1959
  • Harold W. Bartlett, Jr., 1960
  • Francis D. Curran, 1961
  • Francis B. Kilgour, 1962
  • Roger E. Marsolais, 1963
  • Earl H. Warren, 1964
  • Charles W. Woods, 1965
  • David P. Stickney, 1966
  • George E. Emerson, 1967
  • James F. Harvey, 1968
  • Irvine H. Walker, 1969
  • Charles C. Savage, 1970, 1971
  • Paul W. Stanwood, 1972
  • James H. Pollard, 1973
  • Keith M. MacNutt, 1974
  • Kenneth J. Bell, 1975
  • Duncan M. MacLeod, 1976
  • Donald F. Pike, 1977
  • Thomas F. McGrath, Jr., 1978, 1979; 'N
  • Ernest L. Wilson, 1980, 1981
  • Walter J. Jurgel, 1982, 1983
  • Frank W. Smith, III, 1984, 1985
  • Richard H. Gauvin, Jr., 1986, 1992
  • Robert L. MacNeill, 1987
  • Andre W. J. Marion, 1988
  • Warren D. Hodgdon, 1989, 2008, 2009
  • Herbert Eaton, 1990; N
  • Walter J. Jurgel, 1991
  • Dana M. Davis, 1993
  • Sean T. Hogan, 1994
  • Arnold M. Marookian, 1995, 1996; N
  • Howard J. Salt, 1997, 1998
  • Herbert Eaton, 1999
  • Joseph S. Jenkins, 2000
  • Dennis W. Lowes, 2001
  • Glenn W. Coffin, 2002
  • Merton E. Chute, 2003; PDDGM
  • Ronald J. McKinnon, Jr., 2004
  • Shawn E. Redfearn, 2005
  • Richard W. Teeven, 2006
  • Dennis W. Lowes, 2007, 2010, 2019, 2020
  • Brian J. Richard, 2011; PDDGM
  • Mark R. Wright, 2012
  • P. Cyrus Rogers, III, 2013, 2021, 2024
  • Daniel A. Morrill, 2014, 2022, 2023
  • Michael P. West, 2015
  • William E. McAvoy, 2016
  • Thomas M. O'Shaughnessy, 2017; PDDGM
  • Andrew L. Karayianes, 2018

REFERENCES IN GRAND LODGE PROCEEDINGS

  • Petition for Charter: 1803
  • Consolidation Petition (with Emeth Lodge): 1976

ANNIVERSARIES

  • 1858 (55th Anniversary; see below)
  • 1903 (Centenary)
  • 1953 (150th Anniversary)
  • 2003 (200th Anniversary)

VISITS BY GRAND MASTER

BY-LAW CHANGES

1869 1870 1873 1879 1882 1884 1898 1904 1907 1908 1924 1930 1935 1940 1955 1960 1972 1975 1981 1989 1996 2001 2004 2006 2009 2011 2012

HISTORY

  • 1953 (150th Anniversary History, 1953-129; see below)

150TH ANNIVERSARY HISTORY, MAY 1953

From Proceedings, Page 1953-129:

By Right Worshipful Perley E. Miller.

According to the records of the Secretary, Bro. Sam Bartlett, the first meeting of Saint Mark's Lodge was held September 27, 5803. It opened on the first degree in the name of God and the Holy Sts. John. There were nine members present and nine visitors. The members were W. M. William Wead, S. W. William Francis, J. W. Washington Hovey, James Horton, Stephen Thurlo, Daniel Bemis, Francis England, and John Eliot. They first received a lecture on the first degree from the Worshipful Master, and it was then voted that Joseph Currier, Dudley Hardy and Daniel Akerman stand as candidates to be made Entered Apprentices in this Lodge.

The second meeting of the Lodge took place October 6, 5803. They received petitions of William Pike and Abraham Toppan to be made apprentices in this Lodge. It was voted to dispense with the 8th Article of the by-laws for the above-named gentlemen, they being bound to sea. Balloted for and accepted them to be made; accordingly made them and received for their making $31.00.

Petitions of Mr. Benj. S. Lunt, Eben N. Noyes, W. Samuel Hoyt to be made apprentices in this Lodge. It was voted they stand as candidates till the next regular meeting.

Article VIII of the by-laws of 1803 read as follows: "The Application of any person to be made a Mason in this Lodge shall be in writing and such application shall remain one month at least, before any determination shall be made on the same, unless a speedier process appears necessary."

This Article was invoked many times during the early years of the Lodge because so many candidates were bound to sea. Saint Mark's Lodge held its first meeting in Washington Hall, which was located on Green Street just below the present Strand Theater. This Hall was owned by St. Peter's Lodge, which also owned Union Hall next to it. From time to time the Lodge would change from Washington Hall to Union Hall to do the degree work or to hold installation ceremonies. In the Temple lounge-room on the mantle of the fireplace is a picture of this building as it looked in 1903 during the one hundredth anniversary celebration.

The records of Saint Mark's Lodge are complete from September 27, 1803, until the present time.

The Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Massachusetts met in Concert Hall, Boston, September 12, 1803. The record says, "A petition from William Wead and others praying for a Charter to hold a Lodge in the town of Newburyport by the name of St. Mark's Lodge was granted this evening." The petitioners were members of St. Peter's Lodge, except Francis England. Wor. William Wead, the first Master, was a merchant of the firm of Wead & Lunt. Their store was on Water Street, where they dealt in smoked fish, West India goods, and boots and shoes. Bro. Wead lived on Center Street. He was Worshipful Master eight years, not consecutive. He died November 22, 1822. Wor. William Francis was a barber on State Street. In 1811 he moved to Boston. Wor. William Chase was representative to the General Court in 1812-15 inclusive, with R. W. Jonathan Gage. Bro. James Horton was the agent of the Amesbury Woolen Mills and became a charter member of Warren Lodge. John Eliot joined the Marine Society in 1809. Francis England had formerly lived in Lynn; he was a shoemaker by trade and resided on Vernon Street. Of the other three original members, we have no information. On December 6, 1803, Jonathan Gage, District Deputy Grand Master, paid an official visit to the Lodge; twelve members and twenty-five visitors were present. Bro. Jonas Leslie furnished the banquet for $9.33, or 25 cents apiece for a good dinner. The Lodge was then in the second district. A committee of three was chosen to wait on him in the Lodge: viz, Bro. James Horton, Bro. Francis England and Bro. William Chase. He accordingly visited the Lodge and received $18.00 for initiation and quarterages due the Grand Lodge.

The Lodge was very careful in picking its candidates, and after they had received their degrees, kept a close check on them to see that they did not bring discredit to the Lodge, and would often appoint a committee to inquire into the character and conduct of a Brother; and if he was found guilty, he would be barred from the Lodge from three to six months, sometimes longer. On August 17, 1804, such a committee made its report and it is interesting to read that report which follows: "We the subscribers, being a committee appointed by St. Peter's, St. John's and St. Mark's Lodges to inquire into the character and conduct of Bro. Robert Dodge and hear the charges which might be brought against him, beg leave to report that they have attended to that business, and after impartially hearing and materially considering the same, it is the opinion of your committee that Bro. Dodge is not guilty of misconduct sufficient to debar him from visiting any Lodge, and that the vote of censure against him be reconsidered. They, however, find that Bro. Dodge has in some measure been imprudent in conversation and therefore recommend that a brother be appointed to converse and caution him of the necessity of a secret heart, silent tongue, and watchful eye, more particular when before those who are not Masons. The above report is respectfully submitted by Steven Howard, Gilman White, Wm. Francis, Edward Little, Edward Door — Committee."

Saint Mark's Lodge was constituted July 11, 1804. The fourteen members of the Lodge were present and also about three hundred Brethren from this and neighboring towns, who assembled for the purpose of joining in the exercises of the day. The record of the Grand Lodge written by R.W. John Proctor, Grand Secretary, is as follows: "A meeting of the Grand Lodge at Newburyport for the purpose of consecrating St. Mark's Lodge at that place and for installing its officers July 11th, A.L. 5804. Present:

  • M. W. Isaiah Thomas, Grand Master
  • R. W. Jonathan Gage, as Deputy Grand Master
  • R. W. John Soley, Senior Grand Warden
  • R. W. Henry Fowle, Junior Grand Warden
  • R. W. Allen Crocker, Grand Treasurer
  • Wor. John Proctor, Grand Secretary
  • R. W. Edmund Bowman, Senior Grand Deacon
  • R. W. Thomas Jackson, Junior Grand Deacon
  • R. W. Edward Goodwin, Grand Marshal
  • Bro. Thomas Turner, Grand Standard Bearer
  • Bro. Joseph W. Revere, Grand Steward
  • Bro. John May, Grand Steward
  • Bro. William Eaton, Grand Tyler

"The Grand Lodge, having met by appointment at the house of R.W7. Jonathan Gage, D.D. Grand Master of the Second District, was opened in Ample Form. A procession in Masonic arrangement was formed and moved to Masonic Hall, where St. Mark's Lodge had already convened; the Officers of that Lodge were then duly examined, their by-laws read and records examined, which were well approved by the M. W. Grand Master and the necessary cautions were given. A joint procession was. then formed and marched in Masonic order accompanied by an excellent band of music. This procession moved from the Hall down Green Street through Merrimack, State and Pleasant Streets to the Reverend Mr. Andrew's Meetinghouse, where the public exercises were held. A solemn and fervent prayer was addressed to the Great Architect by the Rev. and R.W. Bro. George Richards of Portsmouth, N. H., and a sensible and pertinent sermon was delivered by the Rev. and W. Bro. Morss of Newburyport. The Most Worshipful Grand Master then proceeded to the performance of the Masonic services and ceremonies of the day, which were occasionally interspersed with solemn and cheerful music, hymns, etc., agreeably to the direction of the M. W. Grand Master. The Officers of St. Mark's Lodge were then severally invested with their proper jewels and received their special admonitions and a charge by the Grand Master; a benediction was pronounced by the Rev. Bro. Joseph Willard, Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, which closed the exercises."

The house was crowded with an assemblage of gentlemen and ladies of taste and fashion from this and adjacent towns. A reverse procession was then formed and repaired to the place from whence they came, where an elegant entertainment was provided by St. Mark's Lodge, at which were present a number of past Grand Officers, the Reverend Clergy, a great number of visiting Brothers from neighboring Lodges, and the civil officers of the town. The Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, who had previously been invited by the M.W. Grand Master, honored him by their presence on this occasion and cheerfully united in the procession, festival, and other transactions of the day. It was pleasing indeed to witness at the meeting two Grand Lodges of two such important States, the mutual salutations of friendship and brotherly love as well as their reciprocal congratulations on the progress and ameliorations of Masonry in their respective States. The Grand Lodge then took leave of Saint Mark's Lodge, visitors, etc., and in company with the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, retired to R.W. Bro. Gage's, attended with the band of music; and the M.W. Isaiah Thomas was pleased to close the Lodge till the second Monday in September next. The whole proceedings of the day were conducted with that order and harmony which will forever characterize Free and Accepted Masons.

The Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, on its way to Newburyport, stopped on the afternoon of July 10th at the Merrimac River Bridge Tavern on Deer Island, for many years the home of Harriet Prescott Spofford. The landlord was Ebenezer Parsons, who received his degrees in Saint Mark's Lodge in 1823. Every officer of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, except one Grand Deacon, was present. At the tavern on July 11, in the morning, they were met by a committee of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts and escorted to the residence of R.W. Bro. Gage. Bro. Gage's home stood where the present U.S. Post Office stands. On the night of July 11, the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire returned to the tavern on the Island and spent the night there, returning home the next day.

Following the church exercises, a banquet was held in the lodge-hall for members of the Lodges assembled, and one hundred and sixty-five sat down to dinner. The cost of banquet and consecration was $125. M.W. Isaiah Thomas was Grand Master for four years. In 1773, when he was twenty-four years old, he established in Newburyport the Essex Journal and Newburyport Packet, the first newspaper published in Newburyport. Among the Grand Lodge Officers, R. W. Henry Fowle, Junior Grand Warden, founded Boston Commandery in 1809. Bro. Joseph W. Revere, one of the Grand Stewards, was the son of Paul Revere, a Past Grand Master. Rev. Bro. George Richards of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire was proprietor and editor of the first Masonic magazine published in America. The Lodge met in Washington Hall from 1803 to June, 1825. The proprietor of the Hall was St. Peter's Lodge, to whom Saint Mark's paid rent of $2.50 per meeting. By this time they were looking for a bigger and better place to meet as the membership was well above fifty, and as a rule there would be from ten to twenty-five visitors present. At this time Saint Mark's was just becoming one of the most popular Lodges in the State, and its Masonic influence was steadily rising.

May 10, 1825, the Lodge voted to lease Phoenix Hall, State Street, for a term not exceeding five years. June 28 a committee reported that it had leased the third story of Phoenix Building with two rooms below, at a rental of $80 per annum for twenty years. The report was unanimously accepted. The apartments were prepared for Masonic use at an expense of $1050. July 21, 1825, Saint Mark's and Saint John's Lodges met in conjunction to open the new Masonic Hall on State Street in the name of God and the Holy Saints John. The officers officiating at the dual dedication were chosen by lot from the two Lodges, who thereafter occupied the Hall. In June, 1830, after Saint John's Lodge had ceased to meet, Saint Mark's Lodge took possession of all the fixtures, and paid rent to April 30th. Owing to the Morgan affair, all Lodges had suffered for lack of members and funds to continue their work, and the Lodges were far behind in the rent. November 26, 1832, the last meeting prior to an interregnum of four and a half years, Saint Mark's Lodge voted "to relinquish all rights to the fixtures, etc., in the Halls provided the proprietors would make them over to James Carey and his associates and release St. Mark's Lodge from all future liabilities provided St. John's Lodge relinquish in like manner, they agreeing to keep the same in the Hall for Masonic purposes. The record commences again in July, 1837. August 20, 1839, the Lodge voted to pay $2.00 per meeting as rent for Phoenix Hall. Moore's Magazine of February, 1857, says that Saint Mark's Lodge of Newburyport has recently renewed their lease of Phoenix Hall and are fitting same in superb style. When completed, it will equal any Masonic Hall in the State. The two full-length paintings of Washington and Warren which were originally painted by Bro. Swain for this Lodge at a cost of $500, and which graced the walls for a long series of years and were then finally sold, have been repurchased and placed in their original positions. (These pictures still in possession of Saint Mark's Lodge have a cash value of nearly $1500.)

December 2, 1862, Saint Mark's Lodge moved to Washington Hall on the corner of Essex and State Streets, up over Lynch's drug store. Saint John's Lodge was meeting there when Saint Mark's moved there. A new Masonic hall was procured by Saint Mark's Lodge and was occupied December 9, 1871.

It was situated on the third floor of a new building on Pleasant Street. The apartments were expressly prepared for Saint Mark's Lodge, who furnished them at an expense of $1200. The apartments were dedicated to Masonic uses at a special meeting held Tuesday, January 2, 1872. R. W. Charles C. Dame, Past Grand Master, and many distinguished guests, including a great number of ladies, were present. After the services, a banquet was served in Central Hall. In 1881 some of the organizations to whom Saint Mark's sublet the hall obtained another place to meet, and Saint Mark's felt obliged to seek a cheaper rent. February 13, 1882, the Lodge moved to Shaw's Hall on Charter Street. February 9, 1895, it moved to Essex Hall, corner of State and Essex, where the Odd Fellows now meet, and in 1898, they moved to Phoenix Hall for the last time. In 1916 it moved to Saint John's Hall over the Five Cents Savings Bank, where the present telephone office is now located, and in June 20, 1928, participated in laying the corner-stone of the Masonic Temple.

On Wednesday, March 27, 1929, our Temple was dedicated by the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts with Most Worshipful Herbert W. Dean, Grand Master, and in April of 1929 Saint Mark's held its first meeting in its permanent home. Thus, after many years of wandering from hall to hall, it has finally settled in our beautiful Temple, not far from the original hall where it first met.

The Lodge opened in the name of God and the Holy Sts. John on the first degree July 11, 1823, for the special purpose of hearing the report of the committee respecting a union of the three Lodges. The report was read and a discussion was had on merits and demerits of the report. Here follows the report in substance:

Your committee therefore recommend that it is expedient for the three Lodges in Newburyport to unite in one lodge. That each lodge dispose of its own property and funds in such a manner as they may judge expedient. That the jewels and furniture of each lodge be turned into Common Stock and become the property of the new lodge. That we retain one of the Charters and adopt such a name for the new lodge as may be hereafter agreed upon. That each member of the present lodge of good standing may become a member of the new lodge by paying $___ Dollars — all of which is respectfully submitted.

A vote was taken for the acceptance or non-acceptance of the report by a large number of members present and the report was not accepted.

Wm. Davis
Steph. Mortin
Joshua Greenleaf
Committee

Many unsuccessful attempts to bring the Lodges together to form one Lodge were made during the period when there were three Lodges in Newburyport. This action was put forth by all three Lodges at different times. On January 23, 1826, according to the records, "A communication from St. John's Lodge was received and acted upon respecting choosing a committee to meet with other committees chosen for the purpose of taking the union of the three Lodges into consideration, and Bros. John Brickett, Gairford Giles, R. W. William Currier committee for the same."

On February 21, 1826, the report of the committee appointed to meet the other committee chosen to take union of these into consideration was called for; Bro. John Brickett, Chairman of Saint Mark's committee, arose and stated the opinion of Saint Mark's committee that, after due deliberation and careful examination of the merits of the case, the committee report that they do not judge it expedient for Saint Mark's Lodge to join with the other Lodges. The Lodge voted unanimously to accept the report of the committee.

On November 10, 1828, another attempt was made for a union when the Lodge voted unanimously that Saint John's and Saint Mark's Lodges unite as one Lodge and voted furthermore that a committee be chosen to agree upon the terms of the union.

On November 10, 1829, it was voted unanimously that Saint John's and Saint Mark's Lodges unite as one Lodge and noted further that a committee be chosen to agree upon the terms of their union. December 3, 1829, the report of the committee: "That the Charter of the new lodge (should such be formed) be designated by lot in such manner as the lodges shall determine, and that each Lodge pay its respective debts previous to the union of the Lodges. That every member of either lodge in regular standing be entitled to membership in the new lodge free of expense, providing they signify their desire within thirty days after notification. That as soon as fifty names be subscribed they have power to call a meeting when the Charter shall be determined by fair lot. That it recommended to the lodges, should they agree to an union, to give up their Charters to be held in trust until it be decided which Charter shall be retained."

It seemed sure the union would be made and all details were worked out to the satisfaction of both Lodges, but Saint John's Lodge and Saint Peter's Lodge surrendered their Charters and for twenty-three years Saint Mark's was the only Lodge in Newburyport.

From 1826 to 1832 the Lodge had very few candidates, owing to the anti-Masonic Crusade; accordingly the Lodge suffered from lack of funds. Added to this were many demits as well as suspensions.

On top of this, the usual number of Masonic widows who constantly asked for charity, and many members who failed to pay their dues, left the Lodge in dire straits. By April, 1828, the trustees made a report that they had paid out to the Treasurer the balance in their hands. The attendance fell off to such an extent there were barely enough members present to open the Lodge and carry on the work.

In January, 1830, the Lodge voted that the Secretary make out and furnish to Bro. Samuel Somerby a list of members with the respective sums due from each, and that for collecting the same, he be allowed a commission of five percent. Bro. Young of the Committee on Accounts reported that at present time there is due the Lodge from its members about $268.00 and that the Lodge owes about $70.00 including the rent. For the next few months Bro. Somerby did a very fine job of collecting and received a vote of thanks for his fine work. He was also given power to settle back dues to the best interest of the Lodge. With the surrender of the Charters of Saint Peter's and Saint John's Lodges, many of their members joined Saint Mark's Lodge and for a while it looked as if Masonry would soon be on the up-grade once more, but the crusade against Masonry was too strong, and in 1832, on the 26th of November, Saint Mark's held its meeting, not to meet again until the 30th of July, 1837.

The record of the annual meeting of December, 1840, concludes, "The Lodge closed to meet again when we have a favorable opportunity." The Lodge did not meet again until 1844, but has met regularly since 1845.

Tuesday evening, November 16, 1847, "Voted that all future meetings be notified by notice in the Newburyport Herald provided that the publisher should publish the notice of all the meetings for one year commencing on the next regular meeting and Bro. Tappan was chosen a committee to make the agreement with the editors for the sum not exceeding Five Dollars. Oct. 10, 5848, Voted that the furniture and jewels of St. Mark's Lodge be tendered to King Cyrus Chapter of Royal Arch Masons by the R. W. Master for their use until they can collect theirs or furnish new ones."

On Monday evening, September 27,1858, Saint Mark's Lodge celebrated its fifty-fifth anniversary at the Harris Street Church. According to the records, "The members of St. Mark's Lodge with members of St. John's and Warren Lodge to a considerable number met in the Lodge Room this evening preparatory to the Anniversary Exercises. The W.M. called the brethren to order and informed them that the D. D. G. M., Bro. I. P. Seavey, could give no authority to the fraternity to appear in regalia and that in consequence of this order, he should not direct the regalia to be worn. At about seven o'clock the marshal of St. Mark's Lodge formed the Brothers in procession and escorted them to the Harris Street Church. The house was filled by a large and highly respectable audience. The Newburyport Herald of the next day gives the following account (some of which is here given):

The exercises were opened by a Voluntary arranged by Mr. James W. Cheney, who presided at the organ and was accompanied by three violins, violincello, flute, clarionet and double bass. The music was of the best order, was executed in the highest style and did credit to the performers . . .

Newburyport was early a Masonic town of note, and occupied an active and influential position in the order. A large proportion of the most prominent citizens were members . . .

From 1820 to the dark days of Masonry it was the largest lodge in town. Its Charter was never surrendered, for, through all the darkness and gloom that, during the years from 1826 to 1836, lay over the Temple, almost hiding it from sight, this Lodge maintained its stand, and the members with a heroism worthy of emulation groped along through the blackness of the night, protecting its Charter, preserving unsullied its fair name, to hand down to posterity an unbroken and unspotted record . . .

The Rev. Bro. William Horton, pastor of the Episcopal Church, was announced to participate in the exercises but was prevented by illness. The music of Bro. Cheney, assisted by a select orchestra and choir was superior and highly creditable to the Brother.

Monday, September 28, 1903, was chosen for the centennial anniversary celebration. The Lodge was opened at 8.30 a.m. by Worshipful Master Arthur P. Brown and three candidates were raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason. At 10.30 a.m., R.W. William H. Rider of Gloucester, District Deputy Grand Master of the Ninth Masonic District, made an official visitation and inspection. At high twelve, the Craftsmen were called from labor to refreshment and a collation was served in the banquet-hall.

In the early afternoon a parade was formed and Saint Mark's Lodge started from Phoenix Hall and received Saint John's Lodge at Masonic Hall. The two bodies then marched through Harris and Green Streets to the Jonathan Gage mansion where the procession was formed, Warren Lodge of Amesbury being met at this point. The column marched in review past the carriages containing Most Worshipful Baalis Sanford, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, Most Worshipful Harry M. Cheney, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, and the other officers of both Grand Lodges. The parade marched down Green Street passing the old lodge hall of ancient Masonry, down Merrimac, through Market Square, up State Street and Pleasant Street to the Unitarian Church. Many buildings on the line of march were decorated for the occasion. The route of the march was the same as that 100 years previous when Saint Mark's Lodge met at the same historic old church to hold their institutional services.

The guests and the Lodges were seated in the auditorium of the church and the balcony was opened to the public. Very few seats were unoccupied. There were Brethren present from thirty Lodges in Massachusetts, fourteen other Lodges from various other Grand Jurisdictions, and Hope Lodge of the District of Columbia. It is of interest that as we plan for our 150th anniversary we note that the Worshipful Master of fifty years ago, now R.W. Arthur P. Brown, is still with us, as well as many other members of that time, including Wor. William Colby, then Tyler of the Lodge, Wor. Percy B. Jackson, Senior Deacon, Bro. Albert E. DeRoche, Inside Sentinel, and Wor. B. Clark Atwater and Bro. Henry W. Little, members of the committee, also Wor. James Johnston, and Bros. George F. Adams, Jere B. Lunt and Walter N. B. Bryant.

After singing by the Harvard Quartet, and prayer by the Grand Chaplain, the assembly was greeted by Worshipful Master Arthur P. Brown, who gave a brief but excellent address. This was followed by a response from Most Worshipful Baalis Sanford, Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts. Lieut. Gov. Curtis Guild, Jr., was then presented to the assembly and spoke briefly of Masonry during the Civil War. After a few words by Wor. Alvah Hoyt, Past Master of Saint Mark's, the historical address was given by Rev. O. A. Roberts, who spoke at length on all phases of local Masonry during the past century.

At the conclusion of the service, the gathering dispersed to meet again in City Hall at 5.00 p.m., where five hundred Masons were seated at a sumptuous banquet, which brought to a close Saint Mark's 100th anniversary celebration.

In 1916 Saint Mark's leased the hall of Saint John's Lodge and from that time until the present the two Lodges have been located in the same building.

Some time during 1923, a group of Masons purchased the old colonial three-story house on Green Street, that is now the front of our Masonic Temple. Bonds were issued to finance the project and the Temple Club was formed to hold and maintain the property.

In 1927 work was started on the new Temple, and in 1928, the corner-stone was laid. On Wednesday, March 27, 1929, following a delicious banquet, the Newburyport Masonic Temple was dedicated. Present at the occasion were Most Worshipful Herbert W. Dean, Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts, R. W. Daniel C. Hunt, District Deputy Grand Master of the Newburyport Tenth Masonic District, and numerous other Grand Lodge Officers.

Throughout the years, Newburyport has been in the forefront of Masonic history. Saint John's Lodge, instituted in 1766, was the second Lodge in Massachusetts outside of Boston. King Cyrus Chapter, instituted in 1790, is the second oldest Chapter in Massachusetts, and Newburyport Commandery, No. 3, K.T., instituted in 1795, was the first Commandery established in America.

Even during the anti-Masonic crusade in the first half of the nineteenth century, Masonry was kept alive in Newburyport when Saint Mark's rather than relinquish their charter, gave it to a sea captain to carry around the world that it might be preserved from the depredations of the Fraternity's enemies.

Thus, after a brilliant and checkered career of a century and a half, Saint Mark's Lodge still stands as a bulwark of Masonic tradition in Massachusetts.

OTHER

  • 1848 (Invitation to Grand Lodge to celebrate the Feast of St. John; V-205)
  • 1901 (Participation in funeral for Past Grand Master Charles C. Dame, 1901-1)
  • 1929 (Participation in Newburyport temple dedication, 1929-62)
  • 1939 (Reduction of fees authorized, 1939-252)

EVENTS

OFFICER LIST, FEBRUARY 1818

From New England Galaxy, Vol. I, No. 19, 02/20/1818, Page 3:

Officers in St. Mark's Lodge, Newburyport.

  • R. W. John Cook, M.
  • W. John Pinery, S. W.
  • W. William Currier, J. W.
  • Stephen Greely, Treasurer.
  • Enoch Pike, Secretary.

OFFICER LIST, SEPTEMBER 1827

From Masonic Mirror and Mechanics' Intelligencer, Vol. III, No. 36, September 1827, Page 277:

  • Bro. Nathan Follansbee, W. Master.
  • Bro. Guilford Giles, S. W.
  • Bro. Moses Kent, J. W.
  • Bro. John Bradbury, S. D.
  • Bro. Joseph Young, Jr., J. D.
  • Bro. John Bricker, Treasurer.
  • Bro. William Davis, Jr., Secretary.
  • Rev. Bro. James Morss, Chaplain.
  • Bro. Daniel Gilman, S. Steward.
  • Bro. Joseph Currier, Tyler.
  • Bro. Enoch Pierce, Marshal.

OFFICER LIST, JANUARY 1831

From Boston Masonic Mirror, New Series, Vol. 2, No. 33, February 12, 1831, Page 260:

  • Bro. John Brickett, Master
  • Bro. George Emery, S. W.
  • Bro. Joseph Young, Jr., J. Warden
  • Bro. James Carey, T.
  • Bro. Moses Lord, Secretary
  • Bro. Samuel Somerby, Jr. S. Deacon
  • Bro. John Holland, Jr. Deacon
  • Bro. Stephen C. Parsons S. Steward
  • Bro. Reuben Lane, J. Steward
  • Bro. William Harvey, Marshall
  • Bro. Joseph Currier, T.

FEAST OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST, JUNE 1849

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. VIII, No. 10, August 1849, p. 300:

MASONIC CELEBRATION AT NEWBURYPORT.

This account of the celebration at Newbury port, was prepared by Br. B. Perley Poore, for the "Pic Nic," of which excellent paper he is the talented conductor. It does ample justice to the occasion, and to all parties interested in it. The state of our own health waa auch aa to prevent, to a great extent, our participating in the festivities of the day. We are therefore happy in being able to avail oaraelf of the very acceptable labors of another.—Ed.

"HIS wisdom inspired the Great Institution,
HIS strength shall sepport it till nature expire,
And when the creation shall fall into ruin,
Its beauty shall rise through the midst of the fire."

Freemasons have for centuries celebrated the anniversary of their patron— Saint John the Baptist—not merely in order to practise the rites and mysteries of their Craft, but by indulging in that social intercourse which expands the nobler feelings of the heart, and knits closer the mystic tie. Years gone by witnessed the Masonic celebration of St John's day in every State of our Union, and the revival of these ancient festivals must be pleasing to those old Masons who watched over the Institution during its "dark days" with paternal solicitude, sup plying afterwards, like hidden fountains in the rock, vital streams from which young Craftsmen have been permitted to drink.

Newburyport—we learn from General Cushing's history of the town—has long been known for its zeal in the order of Freemasonry. The prosperity and respectability of the Fraternity in the place are mainly attributable, in the first instance, to the exertions of Dr. John B. Swett, who settled in the town about the close of the revolutionary war. He was distinguished as an ancient Mason, not less than for bis genius, his generous feelings and social habits. It is said that he was initiated into the mysteries of the Illuminati in Germany; but, how ever this may be, certain it is that be gave the weight of his influence and character to the establishment of Masonry in Newbury port, and succeeded in a re markable manner. In the days "before the troubles" there were often a thou sand Craftsmen out in the streets of Newburyport on St John's Day.

St. Mark's Lodge, which celebrated this year's anniversary, was chartered in 1803 and consecrated July 11th, 1804. Its present Master is Nathan Chase, Esq., and its members are highly respectable citizens.

THE DAY.

The morning was "clear in the East," and at an early hour vehicles were coming into Newburyport from every direction, bringing a crowd of Craftsmen and curious. At ten o'clock the special train arrived from Boston, and the usually quiet streets were thronged with a busy crowd. The Merrimac House was the head quarters—the Light Guard had politely given their armory np to the Knight Templars—and the members of the Blue Lodges filled the St Mark's room. King Cyrus' Royal Arch Chapter, which was organised in 1790, entertained their Royal Arch Brethren.

THE PROCESSION.

About 11 o'clock a procession was formed in State street, in the following order:—

Col. Eaton, Aid. Sir Peter C. Jones, of Boston, Chief Marshal. Maj. Carrier, Aid.
Portsmouth Brass Band, J. H. Parsons, Leader.
Boston Encampment of Knights Templars, performing escort duty, under the command of Sir William W. Baker.
Mount Tabor Lodge, East Boston.
Star of Bethlehem Lodge, Chelsea.
Grecian Lodge, Lawrence.
Liberty Lodge, Beverly.
Mount Carmel Lodge, Lynn.
Pentucket Lodge, Lowell.
Columbian Lodge, Boston.
King Solomon's Lodge, Charlestown.
The Massachusetts Lodge, Boston.
St. Andrew's Lodge, Boston.
King Cyrus's Royal Arch Chapter, Newburyport.
St. Paul's Royal Arch Chapter, Boston.
St. Andrew's Royal Arch Chapter, Boston.
Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Massachusetts.
Princes of Jerusalem, Enoch Hobart, Commander.
Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, M. W. Edward A. Raymond, Grand Master.
St. Mark's Lodge, Newburyport, Nathan Chase, W. Master.

The procession moved down State street, through Market Square and Middle Street, up Federal, through Temple, up State to the Merrimac House. Here a large number of ladies were received into the procession. Thence it moved up State, through High, down Green, and into Pleasant street, where the escort opened to the right and left, bringing their swords to the salute. The procession then counter-marched into the Unitarian church. The numerous banners and elegant regalia gave a fine appearance to the procession. We noticed that St Mark's and Pentucket Lodges had very beautiful new banners, which we learned were painted by T. Somerby, of this city.

EXERCISES IN THE CHURCH.

I. Voluntary on the Organ. By Miss S. Davis.

II. Anthem.

III. Prayer. By Rev. Br. G. M. Randall, D. G. M.

IV. Original Hymn. By Br. Asa T. Newhal], D. D. G. M.

Eternal source of truth and light,
Great Architect of worlds unknown,
Here in thy Temple we unite
And humbly bow before thy Throne.

To offer up our songs of praise,
In Union, Harmony and Love.
To Thee, who will True Masons raise
To the sublime Grand Lodge above.

Where we shall meet Freemasons,
free From sin and every hurtful snare;
There all the faithful household see,
Erect upon the perfect square.

There we may view the glorious plan,
The fruits of charity may trace;
Devised by the friend of man
To rebuild Adam's fallen race.

There will the Lodge be duly tried,
With the Grand Master we shall meet,
And all the Heavenly Builders called,
Our glorious Temple to complete.

Then every living stone shall be
Fixed in its proper place secure,
And every part so well agree,
It will to endless age endure.

V. Selections from Scriptures.

VI. Ode—from Masonic Melodies. No. 83—by Br. Thomas Power.

Hail! gentle Charity !
Long may thy precepts be
Dear in our land ;
May He who formed our kind,
Bless to the troubled mind
Each gentle tie designed
In Friendship's band.

Chorus—May He, &c.

When waves of trouble flow,
Then may a Brother's woe
Touch every heart;
Let Pity's kind decree,
Where'er the wretched be,
Bid, in sincerity,
All grief depart.

Chorus—Let Pity's, &c.

Should e'er a footstep stray,
Lost in a darkened way,
Hope still be near:
Eyes for the wandering blind,
Love, every wound lo bind,
Truth, still to guide mankind,
Be ever here.

Chorus—Eyes for, &c.

Blessed in a Father's love,
Beaming from Heaven above,
Our Faith shall rise ;
That, in a brighter day,
Each voice shall join the lay,
When life shall pass away,
Above the skies.

Chorus— That, in, &c.

Hail! gentle Charity!
Long may thy precepts be
Dear in our land:
Each heart a sacred shrine,
Hallowed with Light divine
Improve the great design
While time shall stand.

Chorus.—Each heart, &c.

VII. Address—by Rev. Br. Benjamin Huntoon.

VIII Doxology—Tune, Old Hundred.

To Thee, our heavenly Father, Friend,
With grateful hearts, we humbly bend ;
O, teach our fervent thanks to flow,
For all our joys to Thee we owe.

IX. Benediction.

After the conclusion of the exercises, the procession was re-formed, and marched through some of the principal streets to a pavillion, erected opposite the mall. It was a spacious, airy structure, with a table across the head for the dig nitaries, and five longitudinal tables for the Craftsmen and the Indies. The ta bles were handsomely ornamented and supplied with one of the best public din ners we have ever partaken of, supplied by Mr. Tilton, of the Merrimac House. What added to the charms of the dinner, was a legion of fair handmaidens, the daughters and friends of the Newburyport Masons. It was a pleasure to pass from labor to refreshment, and then be served by rivals of Hebe of old. After the dinner had been discussed— Col. Phillips, of St Mark's Lodge, President of the day, made a few humorous remarks, welcoming the company, and made the journalists blush with complimentary allusions.

TOASTS.

1. Free and Accepted Masonry— The Star in the East.

" Truth, crushed to Earth, will rise again,
Th' eternal years of youth are here,
While error—wounded—writhes in pain,
And dies amidst her worshippers."

2. The Memories of George Washington. Andrew Jackson and James K. Polk -Three good masters who were called lo preside over our beloved country, and are now, we hope, in that Grand Lodge above presided over by the Grand Master of the Universe.

3. The Grand Lodge of the Commonwealth—The Key-stone which binds our mystic institution. It is well on this our anniversary in return thanks lor its faithful guardianship, and to renew our allegiance. Having watched through the night, may it enjoy the morning. R. W. Brother Randall, Deputy Grand Master, replied in a most eloquent manner, giving in conclusion, as. a sentiment— St. Mark's Lodge of Newburyport.—May the morning they now enjoy be but the commencement of a future day.

Brother Phillips of St Mark's Lodge, replied to this toast, narrating the history of Masonry in Newburyport. He gave as a sentiment— Active Benevolence

"The heart that feels for others' woes,
Shall find each selfish sorrow less,
The man who happiness bestows,
Reflected happiness shall bless."

4. The Grand Encampment. The following toast waa sent by Sir George Thacher of Boston, who had in tended to have been present, but was prevented from attending by the death of a relative. The Genius of our Institution— Ornamented wilh the immortal jewels of Morality, Equality and Rectitude of Life. May they never mar her fair proportions, or dim the lustre of her jewels.

S. The Grand Chapter.

6. The Princes of Jerusalem.

7. Past Dignitaries—We remember the good works of them all, from Hiram, that "cunning worker in brass," to our worthy Smith, whose services are graven on our hearts.

The reply of Worshipful Brother Geo. G. Smith to this toast was a proud chronicle of the craft, showing how it had withstood the attacks of its enemies. He gave—

  • Free Masonry—Rich in the virtues of the living—rich in the virtues of the honored dead.
  • The Ladies—The jewels of every true Mason's heart, securely guarded by Friendship and Charity.

"Tho' woman from our order we exclude,
Let not that beauteous sex conclude
We love them not:—or think they wonld reveal
What we as secrets wish them to conceal.
We fondly love, and think we might impart
(Sure of their faith,) our secrets to their heart,
But we're afraid, if once the lovely fair
Were at our happy Lodges to appear,
That Love and Jealousy would both be there,
Then rivals turned, our social bonds destroyed,
Farewell the pleasures now so much enjoyed."

9. The Orator—Like our patron whose annirersary we celebrate, he came "to bear witness of the light."

10. The Marshal— He laid out a fair plan, and following him on the square, we found the pass was right.

The Marshal, Sir Peter C. Jones, gave in return the following sentiment: The day we celebrate - May it become a Festal Day in every nation, thereby disseminating its truthful doctrines in every land.

One of the Marshal's Aids handed in the following volunteer :— Newburyport Masons—Wherever they are found they are among the bright lights, and are bound to shine.

Sir Moses Kimball, of the De Molay Encampment, kept the table in a roar with his humorous anecdotes, interspersed with sound, practical remarks. He gave:— The Ladies and the three Secrets of Freemasonry—1st, the Heart to feel ; 2d, the Hand to give, 3d, the Tongue to keep a secret.

The Escort—Such Knights are bright indeed. Under their guard, Pilgrims may pass through rugged ways, and "fear no harm."

Sir W. W. Baker, who had command of the Boston Encampment, replied with a few appropriate remarks. The De Molay Encampment—Like the tabled warriors of Greece, they have sprung up into full life, a well armed band, chivalric as were the Red Cross Knights ol old. Sir Hamilton Willis, a member of the Encampment, responded to this sentiment, and gave another, complimenting the Toastmaster.

The King Cyrus Chapter— Brothers—neighbors—friends—three in one. We find deep in their hearts many a tign and token of their love.

14. The Blue Lodges of the Commonwealth—We greet their Craftsmen aa worthy successors of the widow's son—they have here the serjeant-at-arms, well qualified to regulate their conduct by the square, and direct their course by a white wand.

And may kind heaven's gracious hand
Still regulate each action ;
May each Lodge securely stand
Against the storms of faction ;
As Virtue bright,
Truth robed in white,
With Friendship to them hastens—
All band in hand
To bless the band
Of Massachusetts Masons.

Benjamin Stevens, Esq. the courteous Sergeant-at-arms of the House of Representatives, was loudly called for and his remarks were among the best made at the table.

16. The Revenue Service well tyled by a worthy Brother. This brought out Capt. Sturgis, of the Revenue service, who exhibited the apron worn by Dr. Warren, a member of the Craft. He gave The Ladies—If they do not preside in the Masonic Lodges, they preside in the hearts of those who do.

Br. Whiston, of Boston, was called up to reply to this toast He exhibited the Grand Lodge apron worn at Bunker Hill by Gen. Lafayette, when the corner-stone of the Monument was laid, June 17, 1825. It is one of those now worn, of white, trimmed with purple, and Br. Whiston announced his determination to have it depssited in the Grand Lodge after his death.

16. The Grand Lodge of Maine-Firm as the forests on her hills, they have not strayed from the path a worthy Shepherd trod.

John H. Shephard, Esq., replied to this toast, in a most eloquent manner. He spoke of the prond gathering at which Gen. Lafayette wore the apron just exhibited—of the dark days which followed—and of the firmly founded principles of the Order, which remain steadfast, whatever opposition may be brought against them. Then sfter rapidly tracing the intimate relations between the Christian religion and Freemasonry, he gave :— The Masonic Institution as a co-operator with Christianity— Like a tree planted by the water-side, it is known by its fruits.

Brother Asa T. Newhall, of Lynnfield, a veteran Mason, and several other gentlemen, also, made brief speeches, and a large number of volunteer toasts were offered. We thought that we copied all of them, but only find the following among our notes:

  • The alto-singer at the Church— God has given her a seraphic voice, to be trained in this Earthly Lodge for the Angelic choir of heaven.
  • The Secretary of the Grand Lodge—A worthy and well qualified Recorder, to whom the Craft are under deep obligations for his faithful services. At such a festival as this, Masons (like Dickens' Oliver,) ask for More. Sir C. W. Moore, was loudly called for, but bad been prevented by indisposition from attending the dinner.
  • By Sir Jacob George. The Memory of the first Grand Master of the United States, General Joseph Warren—May his spirit ever watch over the welfare of this Institution.
  • Fair Weather Masons—May those who remaiued at home "for fear," not enjoy the bright rainbow of promise which now again illumiates Masonry in Newburyport.
  • The Fair— While by their influence they hold us captive at their own will, " The Secret is," we glory in our captivity.
  • The Attendants'—It is well worth seven years of servitude to find such sisters as these ever attendant on oar wants, and gladdening our eyes by their charms.

Good-fellowship prevailed throughout ihe day, and when the President announced that the Craft, "having met on the level, would part on the square," heartily did the Brethren respond "So mote it be!"

BANNER PRESENTATION.

The following waa the order of exercises upon the occasion of the presenta tion of a banner, by the ladies of Lynn, to Mount Carmel Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons:

  1. Singing, from Masonic Melodies.
  2. Prayer by Rev. D. Mott
  3. Singing, from Masonic Melodies.
  4. Presentation Address, by Miss Laura A. Shorey.
  5. Reply, by Isaac Brown, Esq.
  6. Presentation to the Master of the Lodge, by Isaac Brown, Esq.
  7. Reply, by the Master.
  8. Singing, from Masonic Melodies.
  9. Address; by Hon. Asa T. Newhall, of Lynnfield, D. D. G. M., for the Second Masonic District
  10. Singing, Masonic Melodies.
  11. Benediction, by Rev. D. Mott.

The presentation, by Miss Shorey, a young lady of seventeen, elicited much applause. For gracefulness of manner, distinctness of enunciation, and pro priety of intonation and gesticulation, it would have done credit to the far famed reader of Shakspeare, Mrs. Butler. The presentation addresses were as follows :

PRESENTATION ADDRESS, BY MISS LAURA A. SHOREY.

Sir: — Regarding the Masonic Institution as one founded upon the divine principles of universal love and unbounded charity—principles emanating from the throne of the Great Eternal, and diffused amongst men, to elevate, to refine, and bless—it is natural that women should feel an interest in your prosperity, and sympathise in all your efforts for the general diffusion of those sublime principles. An Institution having for its object the promotion of peace and good will, whose principal point embraces the three-fold virtues of "brotherly love, relief, and truth;" an institution, the tendency of which is to prevent discord and hatred, to soften the asperity of political strife, to assuage the bitterness of religious sectarianism, intolerance, and bigotry, to perfect the human character, and prepare man to glorify his Maker and bless bis race, certainly deserves, and should receive, the sympathy of every pure and virtuous mind, and the encouragement of all who are interested in the welfare of the human race.

Believing this to be the design of Freemasonry, the ladies of Lynn are desir ous of presenting you with a testimonial of their interest in your prosperity, and regard for those sacred principles, the general diffusion of which is the avowed object of your association.

The agreeable duty has been assigned to me, of presenting to your Fraternity this token of our regard. Allow me, then, in behalf of the ladies of Lynn, to present to you, and, through you, to the Officers and members of Mount Carmel Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, this Banner, bearing upon its folds the Masonic emblems—the All-Seeing Eye, the Holy Bible, the Square, and Compasses.

And may it remind you, that the All-Seeing Eye of the Supreme Architect of the Universe is ever upon you, watching over you for good, searching every heart, and rewarding every man according to his work.

And taking the Holy Bible as the rule and guide of your faith and practice, may you Square your actions by its precepts, and be enabled to circumscribe your desires and passions within the compass of virtue and morality, the true Masonic compass.

It gives us peculiar pleasure, in presenting this banner, to be assured that it will not be displayed upon the battle field, where man meets his brother man in angry strife, 'mid the roar of cannon, and the clash of arms, 'mid scenes of blood and carnage, and the agonizing death groans of human beings; but that, on the contrary, it will serve as a beacon to guide a band of Brothers in the paths of virtue and peace. Where right triumphs over wrong, where virtue triumphs over vice, there may it be borne aloft.

When hatred, and strife, and every evil thing, shall vanish before the onward progress of light, and love, and truth, then may its folds be flung to the breexe and borne proudly along! May it ever wave, in glorious, peaceful triumph.

REPLY, BT ISAAC BROWN, ESQ.

With emotions of the liveliest gratification, I receive this beautiful and appropriate token of your sympathy and regard; and, in behalf of the Officers and Brethren of Mount Carmel Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, I ten der to you, and through you, to the ladies you represent, our sincere and heartfelt thanks.

It is not to us matter of surprise, that those who understand the object of out association, and whose refined and virtuous hearts enable them to appreciate the excellence of the sublime principles of the Order, should feel an interest in oar prosperity and success, and be disposed to exert their influence to encourage and sustain us in our efforts for the general diffusion of those principles. It would be a matter of surprise, were it otherwise.

The principles of Freemasonry are indeed of divine origin ; and wherever they have been understood and appreciated, their tendency has been to purify, to elevate, refine and bless. In all ages, and in every clime, the wide world over, its influence has been manifested. The savage red man, as he has roamed through our western wilds, has seen the light of Masonry, and yielded to its influence; and tho wild Arab, as he coursed over the deserts of the east, has felt its power to restrain, to civilize, and to bless. It has stayed the uplifted sword upon the sanguinary battle field ; it has ministered to the wants of the suffering poor; alleviated the woes of the afflicted and distressed; poured the oil and wine of consolation into the widow's stricken heart; and cheered the orphan in his loneliness.

These constitute some of its claims to public favor. It is in consequence of these, that we expect it to receive the warmest sympathy of the fair, the beauti ful, and the good.

If we have secrets, and labor, that woman cannot share, it is not from want of confidence in ber discretion, or faith in her ability and power, to assist and encourage us in our work. The great secret of the Order, that which embraces all other secrets, we freely confide to you—It is this—the secret of doing good. The great work for which all Masonic work is but initiatory, would never be accomplished without the aid of woman. It is the elevation and refinement of the human race, and the promotion of all the social virtues. To accomplish this work, we depend much upon the influence of woman. Her natural grace, refine ment and delicacy, her gentleness of character, and purity of heart, preeminently qualify her to assist us in this most essential of all Masonic labor. For this we prize her society; for this she is fondly cherished by every true Mason. In the language of song,

"Though shut from our Lodges by ancient decree,
In spite of our laws woman here bears her part;
For each Mason I 'm sure will tell you with me,
That her form is enshrined and reigns in his heart.

'Twas wisely ordained by oar Order of old,
To tile-fast the door, spite entreaties or sighs;
For once in our Lodge, she would rule uncontrolled,
And govern the Craft by the light of her eyes.

Deem us not deficient in gallantry, then, if, in accordance with ancient decree, we are not permitted to introduce you to our Lodges, and to a participation in the severer trials and labors required of us by Masonic usage.

This beautiful banner shall remind us of our duty to you, to each other, and the world; and though emblematic of peace and good will, it shall nerve our hearts to do battle bravely for a fair one in distress, with all that chivalrous spirit that characterized the true knights of the Order, in olden time. The All-Seeing Eye shall remind us of the first great qualification of a Mason, a firm belief in the Eternal Jehovah, the Supreme Architect and Governor of the Universe, without which no man is entitled to admission to the privileges of the Order. We recognize the Holy Bible, the Square, and Compasses, as great lights in Masonry, having a peculiar Masonic signification, embracing the most sublime instruction in all the moral and social duties.

It is exceedingly gratifying to me and the Brethren of the mystic tie, associated with me, to receive this token from the hands of a Mason's daughter; and I am happy to assure you, that as such you will ever be an object of peculiar regard to every true Mason.

When Rome claimed to be mistress of the world, the exclamation, " I am a Roman citizen!" was at once a passport, a shield, and protection. The exclamation, " I am a Mason's daughter!" will prove a more powerful talisman, whose potency will be acknowledged In every land, and amongst all tribes and tongues, and which will never fail to raise up hosts of true friends, to sympathize, to aid, and protect In conclusion, then, I repeat the acknowledgment of our gratifi cation, and our heartfelt thanks, and invoke upon you, and the ladies you represent, the choicest blessings that earth can know, or Heaven confer.

PRESENTATION TO THE MASTER, BT ISAAC BROWN, ESQ.

Worshipful Maater:—To you I now confide this banner, a gift from the hands of Beauty.

Let it find an appropriate place in the East, to which we all look for light.

Let the symbolic teachings be heeded in the West, and proclaimed from the South, to the Brethren, that all, having the notice thereof, may govern themselves accordingly. Let it be our care that all who enlist under this banner, shall be good men and true; men who will never prove recreant to the sublime princi ples and sacred obligations of Freemasonry, or deseit the standard of friendship, morality and brotherly love. May the All-Seeing Eye watch over and protect us, until, called from labor to eternal refreshment by the Supreme Grand Master of all, we shall meet upon the Square in the Celestial Lodge above, where the great source of all true Masonic light, in its effulgent brightness, shall constitute the glory of the perfect and eternal day.

REPLY, BY W. M. THOMAS PHILLIPS.

As Master of Mount Carmel Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, I accept this banner, and promise, in the name of the Brethren, that it shall be faithfully preserved, not only as a token of the sympathy and regard of those we love, but also for the Sublime teachings of the sacred emblems inscribed upon its folds.

May we ever regard those teachings, and strive together to promote the great Masonic virtues of peace, harmony, and brotherly love.

MR. HUNTOON'S ORATION.

The excellent Oration delivered by the Rev. Mr. Huntoon, at the celebration at Newburyport, on the 36th June, was published on the morning of the 27th in the " Boston Herald," for which paper we presume the copy was furnished by the author. The orator spoke one hour and a quarter and was listened to throughout with great attention by a large and intelligent audience. We should be grati fied to give the Oration entire in our pages, could we spare the room it would occupy ; but this we cannot do. The following extract will commend itself to the favor of the reader:—

In the different philanthropic associations of the day, each has its favorite theme of heating and agitating debate, each claims for its own plan of associated action the highest importance, and is proud to undervalue the projects of the other. And this blessed sisterhood of philanthropy—the glory of the passing age—enlivened by the noblest impulses, through the imperfection in man, often operate to array their adherence in lines of opposition, and render them dogmati cal and systematical. There is a propensity, especially iu the ardent and radical— "the men of one idea," as they are termed—instead of searching out (he ties of mutual sympathy and the points of friendly coincidence, to magnify the grounds of difference, to account his own favorite enclosure as the whole field of humani ty, and to feel as if the boundless inspiration of God's spirit was confined within the circumference of his visible horizon.

But Freemasonry has none of these narrowing, anti-social, self-exalting ten dencies. She opens her Lodges to men of every enterprise of life, of every reli gious creed, of every political party, of every philanthropic name; strips her vo taries of every shackle of partisanship—every shred of outward rivalry—and spreads the " cement of brotherly love" over all her children ; unites them into one band of friends, a nnited Fraternity, " among whom, no contention should ever exist, but that noble contention, or rather emulation, of who best can work who best agree," enjoining upon each and every one to consider himself a part ner in the great joint stock company of humanity, bound to bear his share of the burdens, duties, and responsibilities of the concern.

Again, Freemasonry is a moral institution. It not only gives activity, expan sion and intensity lo the social instincts and sympathies of our nature, but it in culcates and enforces those moral rights, duties and obligations, which bind man to his fellow-man in all the departments and relations of public and private life. It enjoins loyally in the subject, justice and equity in the citizen, integrity and uprightness in the neighbor, fidelity and purity in the domestic relations. Indi vidual probity, personal virtue, is the great object of its attainment The strong est marked, mid most distinguishing feature, and to my mind, the most laudable characteristic of our institution, is its humanity—its deep sympathy with man, as man, and its keen sensibility to his individual perils and sufferings, and its watch ful protection of his personal rights and virtues. Its first lesson teaches him to subdue hie passions, and prove himself a man, thirsting for knowledge, moral improvement, and the development of his powers for his own and others highest good. It places the interest, the character, the virtue of the individual in the highest rank of its achievements. This is a prominent, characteristic idea, cherished in no other institution or government, philosophy or religion, whose history has come down to us from ancient times.

In all ages, the individual has, in one form or another, been trodden in the dust In monarchies and aristocracies he has been sacrificed to one, or to the few, who, regarding government as an heir loom in their families, and thinking of the people as made only to live and die for their glory, have never dreamed that the sovereign power was designed to shield every man without exception, from wrong. In the ancient Republics, the glory of the State, especially conquest, was the end to which the individual was expected to offer himself a victim, and in promoting which no cruelty was to be declined, no human right revered. He was merged in the great whole, called the Commonwealth, to which his nature was to be immolated. Even the proud Ro man had no idea of his personal worth. "I am a Roman citizen," he exclaimed, and in that lay his dignity. With that title of nobility he could confront kings without being abashed ; but in Rome he was a slave. Under the shadow of the Palatine Hill, he walked silent and fearful. There he never uttered, "I am a man." It was the glory of the American people, that in their Declaration of Independence they took the ground of the indestructable rights of every human be ing. They declared all men to be essentially equal, and each born to be free. They spoke in the name of humanity, as the representatives of the rights of the feeblest as well as the mightiest of their race. They published universal, ever lasting principles, which are to work out the deliverance and freedom of every human being.

This has been hailed as the last and noblest offspring of time, yet this very idea of humanity, fraternity, equality ; the inalienable rights of every individual to exercise his powers for the promotion of his own and others happiness and virtue, has pervaded and characterised our Order, in all ages of its existence, drawing down upon it the jealousies, animosities, and anathemas of the hierarchies of the religious, and the aristocracies of the political world. An idea of individual man, and the supremacy of his views, his liberty, his growth, his perfection, as the first article of a nation's faith; that the sacrednese of indi vidual man, is never to be forgotten in the feverish pursuit of property. That it is more important that the individual should respect himself, and be respected by others, than that the wealth of both worlds should be accumulated on our snores, is a doctrine not fully in vogue with our political savans, or even in the numerous associations of the day. Their regard seems to be for mankind in the mass, and has respect only to the race, and not for individual roan, as the highest care of the world. Now it is not man iu his collective capacity, but in his pri vate and personal station, that Freemasonry contemplates, addresses and strives to elevate, enlighten and bless. " A point within a circle," denoting an individual Brother. The circle, the boundary line of his duty, embordered by two perpendicular parallel lines representing St John the Baptist, and St John the Evangelist, and upon the top resting the Holy Scriptures," is precisely the point of view in which Freemasonry regards individual man, and aims to inspire him with indomitable zeal and resolution to fulfil his heaven-allotted mission. She would have him full orbed and globed in this sphere of light, among all the luminaries in the sky of duty, shining by his own radiance, and thus helping to in crease the effulgence of the whole canopy of Humanity. She looks through the exterior vestment to the inward man, and regards personal worth and not outward wealth, as a claim to ber esteem, and a passport to her honors. She does not estimate moral excellence by the extent of field in which it moves, the elevation on which it stands, or the splendor with which it is arrayed, but by its simplicity and purity, attracting the admiration of its companions, and leading them by its celestial light, fast and far in that upward path, which opens and shines brighter and brighter to the perfect day. In her standard of character, usefulness is the measure of greatness. She perceives, that the " burning and shining lights of the world, like the humble Baptist, whom Jesus called great among men,—come not from kings" palaces, nor from luxurious homes ; that in early hardships and privations, may be traced the beginning of almost all of those characters, which have originated great reforms, accomplished wide works of love, and spoken with commanding voices to the hearts and souls of men; as it is said the ocean—life voice of a mighty instrument makes in the small harp near it, notes that ring clearly in answer to every sound of its own.

"Can you explain to me," said William Howitt, to a Scotch peasant, " what it is that makes Burns such a favorite with you all in Scotland ? "I can tell you" said he," Robert Burns had the heart of a man in him—he was all heart—all man—and there is nothing at least in a poor man's experience, either bitter or sweet, which can happen to him—but a line of Burns' springs into his month, and gives bim courage and comfort if he needs it It is like a second Bible." This is moral power. This is the light of a good heart,—which stamps the impress of immortality upon the fame of Burns, and though, fervor, and feeling, and sympathy were his only credentials, give him a name and a praise before which thousands bow down in grateful remem brance, and the land of his nativity will remember them to the sunset of her la test day. He whose heart is in its right place, throbbing in unison with the great heart of humanity, is the true, moral man, the consecrated High Priest of God, who being touched with the infirmities of others can lead them to the living fountains at which he drank, and found rest to his soub; whatever respect may be paid, apparently, to outward elevation. Napoleon, during bis short reign, did more for the promotion of civil and religious liberty, and for the elevation of the masses of the people, than all the combined Kings of Europe, have done for the last three centuries. There are men, unbestarred by pomp or place, whose steps have never trod the courts of royalty ; whose efforts in behalf of suffering, oppressed, enslaved humanity, are heralded by no applause, upon whose path of benefi cence, no trumpet is sounded, who are exerting an influence on those around them, and through them far into the crowd, and deep into future ages, while he who bears the name of king, cannot effect a single purpose, nor waken a single feeling of respect in any human heart.

The lowly shepherd of Salisbury Plain, had power in larger measure and a far greater circle than his liege lord and king, and that monarch owed what mortal power he had to the public impression of his virtues, and not to his ancestry and throne. And the fisherman's daughter, Grace Darling, who went forth to the wrecked crew, when the veterans of the ocean dared not face the storm, did she not send a finer inspiration to the hearts of thousands than England's Queen, in all emblem of majesty ? If sovereignty were estimated, not by its gilded trap pings, but by its substantial moral power, how many a throne would find a lodg ment in the dust. How many a crown grow pale as stars in the day-break, and many lowly one would stand forth in the fullness of glory, which he little dreams of now?

The valleys—the brooks—the sunny slopes are often hidden and passed by with indifference, yet, the vales, the low places of human existence, the sun every day shines upon, and God loves to look upon, and his footsteps are heard there in the cool of every evening. Raphael's immortal pictures are taken from the face of a gentle girl whose name scarcely survives. While Milton composed the Paradise Lost, many a paradise was regained in the holy family circle—and in the acquisition of meek spirits. While a hundred thousand men were twenty years in handling stone for the Egyptian pyramid, as a sepulchre for a dead king, winds and woods, birds and flowers were busy in converting into an edifice which the Almighty should inhabit, the heart of some nameless man by the side of some nameless brook. There is a beautiful painting by Aldus of a poor woman, who having spun past midnight to support a bed-rid mother, fell asleep through fatigue, and the angels were represented finishing her work. The obscure woman who anointed Jesus's feet, most unconsciously did an act which the Divine Saviour himself has published to the praise of all ages. Now, in the full end clear recognition of this personal worth, this individual excellence, superior to all adventitious circumstances of wealth, rank, or station, the Master in the school of Freemasonry approaches and places upon his pupil the first badge of his apprenticeship as a Mason—the emblem of innocence and integrity—assuring him that "it is more ancient than the Golden Fleece or Roman Eagle; more honorable than the Star and Garter; or any other order that can be conferred upon him, at that, or any future period, by king, prince or potentate, or any other person, except he be a Mason, and which every Brother ought to wear with plea sure to himself and honor to the Fraternity." Here is taught and enforced the great truth, that personal virtue, moral excellence, is the true nobility—a posses sion better than earldoms, principalities or thrones; that the sceptre and the crown are within; the coronation and the investiture are in the heart and character. That he, who stands in the common level of doing duty, even in by-pla ces, and untravelled regions, may live a high, heroic and holy life, and crop the noblest honors of humanity. That the peaceable and quiet citizen ; the affectionate father, son and brother, faithful to all domestic ties, to all social, moral and religious obligations, each in its place and order, and blending all into a beautiful and consistent life, is morally great in the estimation of all good men and Masons; and, though unknown to fame, and unhonored in the annals of the world, the diadem ef true glory surrounds his manly brow, and sets him as one among the Princes of Jerusalem, a high priest and king after the order of Melchisadec ; a priest though of no sacerdotal genealogy, aud a king though his lineage and birth are unrecorded in the heraldry of monarchs, and earthly nobles, yet, the sons of the faithful, " the true descendants of the children of Israel," will ever do him reverence.

HALL RENOVATION, FEBRUARY 1857

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XVI, No. 4, January 1857, Page 128:

A correspondent of the Traveller, under date Jan. 12, writes, in reference to this Lodge as follows : —

St. Mark's Lodge, of this city, have recently renewed its lease of the Phoenix Hall, and are fitting up the same in a superb style. When completed, it will be equal to any Masonic bull in the Slate. The two full length paintings of Washington and Warren, which were originally painted by "Swain," for this Lodge, at a cost of some $500, arid which graced its walls for a long series of years, and were then finally sold, have been repurchased and placed in their original positions. St. Mark's Lodge received its Charier in 1803, and have always retained it, and their regular communications have con-tinned uninterrupted to this day. It is now in a more prosperous condition than ever before.

55TH ANNIVERSARY, SEPTEMBER 1858

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XVIII, No. 1, November 1858, Page 12:

St. Mark's Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Newburyport, Mass., celebrated the fiftyfifth anniversary of their existence as a Lodge, September 27th, at the Harris street Church. The order of exercises consisted of a voluntary by the Orchestra; Prayer by Rev. Bro. Wm. Horton, Rector of St Paul's Church; Ode by James C. Peabody, Esq., of Georgetown; reading selections of Scripture by Rev. Bro. Daniel P. Pike, Pastor of the Christian Church; Prayer by Rev. Bro. H. R. Timlow, Pastor of the Harris street Church; Ode by Miss Anne G. Hale, (which, with Mr. Peabody's, was written for the occasion;) Address by Bro. Joseph H. Bragdon, Esq., and closing Ode from the Masonic Melodies, and Benediction by Rev. Bro. D. P. Pike.

The whole was performed, with the exoeption of the first prayer, which was omitted in consequence of the illness of Rev. Bro. Wm. Horton. All passed off satisfactorily to all concerned, and met with the general favor of all present; there being a large audience in attendance; the exercises being public, and open to all.

The address of Bro. Joseph H. Bragdon occupied about one hour in its delivery. He dwelt at some length on the history of Masonry in Newburyport. St John's Lodge was chartered in 1766 — St. Peter's, (now extinct,) in 1772, and St Mark's in 1803—its Charter being dated Sept. 13th of that year. King Cyrus Chapter was organized in 1790, and an Encampment of Knight Templars in 1795, both of which are now in full tide of prosperity. It is thus seen that Newburyport has always been a home for Masonry from the earliest limes; and though most of the Lodges yielded to the storm that swept over the country about 1826 and the following years, yet St Mark's always retained its Charter through that troublesome period, and now has its ancient vigor unimpaired, and its lustre nndimmed. Its records show the names of many valuable sons of Newburyport, and her history in matters peculiar to Masonry, is clear and satisfactory.

The orator then dwelt on questions that arise among outsiders respecting Masonry, snch as its origin, its tenets, its peculiarities as an institution. Its origin, he admitted, was not known for a certainty. Various opinions are held upon that point .Some assert that it was in full blast in the days of King Solomon ; others that it originated among the Crusaders. We know that in the vails of ancient Rome are still to be seen stones with Etruscan inscriptions, thus proving by those very words the high antiquity of the stones used, though the language engraved upon them was lost ages ago. So in Masonry, we find terms used, that in the present age have lost their significance, but which anciently bad force, and this shows that the origin of our institution dates far back into the past, but to what definite period, the knowledge of man cannot with certainty point. Bat it is of no consequence when or where was its origin. The value of the institution lies in the direction of its usefulness. Its good deeds are on record; its principles are those of Christianity; charity to all mankind. Asa defence of virtue; as a shield against poverty; as an inspirer of devotion; as a safeguard from infidelity; as a sympathizer with the afflicted, and as a purifier of morals, Masonry in its secret rites and public acts, stands foremost among the institutions of the world.

Here the orator read some correspondence of the year 1818, between Brother Jonathan Greenleaf, then an agent for the Board of Foreign Missions, and the Lodges in Newburyport, asking for help for the missionaries in India, to aid in translating the Bible, and basing the request on the fact that the Bible is the recognized word of God among Masons. The help asked for was granted, and Masonry has the high honor of having aided in the translation of the Bible into the languages of India, thus carrying the knowledge of the Gospel to hundreds of millions of souls. About that time six missionaries about to go to India, were made Masons in Newburyport.

Masonry has also ennobled itself in its efforts in aid of education, as evinced in the number of its schools, academies and colleges, scattered all over the world, to furnish means of intellectual development to the poor. Neither does it confine its charities to its immediate members, but carries them wherever they may be needed.

Here Bro. Bragdon quoted from some of the most learned Masonic authors on this point, and closed by dwelling briefly on the objections urged against the institution. He said on this point, if Masonry had faults he had failed to see them. It is true it is a secret society, but could this be a fault! Was it not a universal fact that all societies have their secrets ? Do not councils, political parties, churches? Does not each family have its secrets? And is it right for these all to have them, and wrong for Masonry? He could not see it in such a light Again, it excluded the ladies from participation in its ceremonies. Very well. The ladies must excuse us for it It was not that they cannot keep a secret Nor was it from a want of respect for the sex; for he would appeal to them if there were more loving and faithful husbands, more tender fathers, more filial sons, more constant lovers, than among Masons. Not that there may not be exceptions, but this is the general rule. And as Masonry counted its long list of historic excellencies, running its roots deep into the past, and nourishing every ramification of human society, so may its onward course be, deep and majestic as a mighty river, bearing on its surface and in its bosom, all the virtues that adorn civilization, and all the beauties that decorate social life, till time shall be no more.

The address of Bro. Bragdon was an able production ; well written, clear, and convincing and well delivered. Br. B. is a pleasing speaker, and his style is such as impresses an audience in a favorable manner. From the unbroken attention with which it was received by the audience, we judge we are not alone in this opinion. The part devoted to an analysis of the objections against Masonry was truly eloquent — and as a whole we would like to see it in print. But we will close by saying that should any Masonic Lodge or society wish for an address upon Masonry that will do them good to hear, we will unhesitatingly recommend them to secure the lecture it was our privilege to hear at the anniversary of St Mark's Lodge. – Auditor.

HALL DEDICATION, JANUARY 1872

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXXI, No. 4, February 1872, Page 110:

St. Mark's Lodge Newburyport, dedicated their new and neatly finished and famished hall on Tuesday evening, Jan. 2, in the presence of over three hundred members of. the Lodge, their friends and invited guests. Among the Brethren present were Mr. Silas Rogers, 84 years old, and a mason of fifty years standing; and Mr. William Knapp, 86 years old, who baa been fifty-four years, member of the Lodge, and is probably the oldest mason in Newburyport.

The ceremonies of dedication were performed by Past Grand Master, Hon. Charles C. Dame, assisted by Bros. Joseph L. Johnson as Senior Grand Warden; Warren Carrier as Junior Grand Warden, R. W. L. A. Bishop; Rev. Geo. D. Johnson as Chaplain and Bro. Geo. E. Peirce as Grand Tyler. The ceremonies were of course well performed by the acting Grand Master, and the music is said to have been excellent. At the conclusion of the dedicatory ceremonies the company were addressed by R . W. Bro. Bishop, late Deputy Grand Master for the District. A procession was then formed and the Company were escorted under the direction of the Master of the Lodge, to the banqueting hall, where an hour was spent in social enjoyment. Though not in the programme, and probably at the suggestion of the ladies—for such a suggestion could not of course come from the gentlemen —Bro. T. M. Carter of this city was famished with a violin, and Bro. Frank F. Ireland of Newburyport was placed at the piano, when "dancing began and was kept up to a reasonable hour:" the occasion was a pleasant one and passed off to the satisfaction of all parties. The hall is said to be one the best in the district.


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DISTRICTS

1803: District 2 (Newburyport and North Shore)

1821: District 2

1835: District 2

1849: District 2

1867: District 6 (Newburyport)

1883: District 9 (Newburyport)

1911: District 10 (Newburyport)

1927: District 10 (Newburyport)

2003: District 11


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