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WILLIAM SEWALL GARDNER 1827-1888

Grand Marshal, 1857-1859
Senior Grand Warden, 1864
Grand Master, 1869-1871.

TERM

1869 1870 1871

BIOGRAPHY

From Moore's Freemason's Monthly, Vol. XXXI, No. 12, October 1872, Page 363:

SIR WILLIAM SEWALL GARDNER, Grand Master of the Grand Encampment or the United States from 1868 to 1871.

By Sir Charles W. Moore.

The subject of this brief memoir, whose portrait, as an accompaniment to the present volume of the Proceedings of the Grand Encampment of the United States, has been furnished by the Grand Commandery of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, was born at Hallowell, in the State of Maine, October 1, 1827, and is the only son of Robert and Susannah Sewall Gardner, of that place.

Having completed the usual course of elementary studies taught in the public schools of his native town, he at once entered upon the higher branches of education, and in September, 1846, entered as a Freshman at Bowdoin College, Brunswick, Maine. In September, 1850, he graduated, having attained high rank in his class as a scholar, and was assigned the subject of "Individual Liberty" as a thesis in the graduating exercises. Among his classmates were Gen. O. O. Howard, of the United States Army, and Professor C. C. Everett, of Harvard College.

His parents having removed, in 1846, to Lowell, he commenced the study of law in that city, and in November, 1852, was admitted to the bar, having successfully passed the required examination before the Hon. Caleb Cashing, then one of the Judges of the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts; and in the winter of 1852-3 he visited most of the Southern and Western States, with a view to a settlement in the practice of his profession, but not meeting with sufficient inducements he returned to Massachusetts and opened an office in Lowell in March, 1853, where he continued the practice of his profession on his individual account until February, 1855, when he entered into a copartnership with the Hon. Theodore H. Sweetser, one of the most eloquent and successful advocates at the Massachusetts bar. In December, 1861, the firm removed their office from Lowell to Boston, where it still remains.

On the 15th of October, 1868, our Brother married Mary Thornton Davis, and became a resident of Boston, but owing to the ill-health of his wife, soon after removed to the suburban town of Newton, where he at present resides, having increased his family by the addition of a daughter.

The Masonic history of our distinguished Brother dates from the 1st of August, 1852, when he was initiated into Masonry in Ancient York Lodge, working under Dispensation at Lowell. He was among the first of its initiates, and so warm and hearty was the interest he took in its success, and so manifest were his qualifications for future usefulness, that he soon after received the appointment of Senior Deacon, an office of only secondary importance in the working of the Ritual. The Lodge having been organized under its Charter, he was early elected its Senior Warden, and subsequently became its Worshipful Master, holding the latter office during the years 1855, '56, and part of 1857, when he was appointed Grand Marshal of the Grand Lodge by M. W. John T. Heard. The two offices being constitutionally incompatible, he resigned the office of Master of the Lodge, and continued to discharge the duties of Grand Marshal during the three years of Bro. Heard's Grand Mastership.

In December, 1859, he was appointed, by M. W. Grand Master Winslow Lewis, District Deputy Grand Master, for the Third Masonic District, and so acceptably were the duties of this important office performed by him, that in December, 1860, he received a reappointment from M. W. Grand Master Wm. D. Coolidge, and in December, 1862, was again reappointed by M. W. Grand Master Wm. Parkman, and continued to hold under this appointment until the following December, when he was elected Senior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge.

In 1867 he was appointed Master of Kilwinning Lodge, at Lowell, (hen working under Dispensation. The Lodge having received its Charter the following year, he was unanimously elected its first Worshipful Master, and became an affiliated member of it, having previously, for this purpose, dissolved his connection with Ancient York Lodge.

While Master of the former Lodge, in December, 1868, he received his first election as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, and was re-elected to the same office in 1869 and 1870 — in both the latter years by the unanimous vote of his Brethren. And it is worthy of note in this connection as indicative of the conscientious fidelity with which he has fulfilled all his official Masonic duties, that he has been present at every meeting of the Grand Lodge from December, 1854, to December, 1871, with three exceptions, namely: once when detained by pressing business engagements, and twice when attending the meetings of the Grand Encampment of the United States. Such instances of devotion to duty are of too rare occurrence.

In 1853 our Brother was made a Royal Arch Mason in Mount Horeb Chapter, at Lowell, but has held no official position in Capitular Masonry. It is not, however, to be inferred from this fact, that he has, in any respect, been remiss in his duties, or neglectful of the interests of this branch of our Institution, but rather that his many and pressing labors in other fields have left him little time to cultivate this. That he has, however, faithfully and carefully studied its history, and made himself proficient in its general characteristics and Masonic importance, is amply verified by the learning and research manifest in the eloquent Centennial Oration delivered by him before St. Andrew's Royal Arch Chapter of Boston, in September, 1868 — a production eminently worthy of his own reputation as a Masonic scholar, and of the ancient Body before which it was pronounced.

In the spring of 1854 he received the Orders of Knighthood in the Boston Encampment' of Knights Templars, and soon after united with the Sir Knights at Lowell, in a petition for the establishment of Pilgrim Encampment in that city, and was appointed its first Junior Warden. On the 10th of October, 1855, this Encampment was organized under its Charter, when our Brother was elected its first Captain General, and subsequently its Generalissimo, and, finally, its Commander. In the latter office he served during the years 1861-2-3, and contributed, by his talents and energies, to raise it to the rank It now holds, as one of the finest Bodies of its class in the jurisdiction. Having served in the Grand Encampment of Massachusetts and Rhode Island as Junior and Senior Grand Wardens, he was, in 1860, elected its Grand Captain General, which office he held for two years, when, in 1862, he was advanced to that of Generalissimo, and in 1868 he was elected its Grand Commander, and served as each the two following years. During his administration as its Grand Commander he wrote the history of the Body, asd sketched with distinguished ability and learning the introduction and early annals of the Order in the United States.

At the Seventeenth Triennial Session of the Grand Encampment of the United States, held at Columbus, Ohio, in September, 1865, be was elected Deputy Grand Master of that distinguished Body; and at its following Triennial Session, held at St. Louis in September, 1868, he was honored with its Grand Mastership. So unexceptionably and ably had he discharged the arduous and delicate duties of this high position, and so popular had been his administration of its affairs, that his Companions, representing all parts of the United States, at the late Session of the Body in Baltimore would joyfully have continued him as their cherished Commander for another term of three years; bat this honor, complimentary as it was, he felt himself from "personal considerations, imperatively obliged to decline.

In May, 1857, our Companion connected himself with the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Masonry, and was successively advanced in the Grand Consistory of Massachusetts, held at Boston under the authority of the Supreme Council for the Northern Jurisdiction of the United States, through all the grades of the Rite to the 32°, and immediately after united with the Brethren of the Rite at Lowell in the organization of a Lodge of Perfection and Council of Princes of Jerusalem in that city. As the chief officer of the Council, he conferred the degrees of both Bodies, with more of the beautiful and impressive ceremonies than was common at that period in any part of the jurisdiction. In 1859 he was mainly instrumental in the establishment of the Massachusetts Consistory at Lowell (now removed to Boston), over which he presided for three years, conferring in full all the more important degrees of this division of the Rite. On the 16th of May, 1861, he was elected Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, and active member of the Supreme Council, and was immediately appointed its Deputy for Massachusetts, which office he held until the union of the two contesting Councils in 1867. In tins branch of Masonry, as in all its other branches, his labors have been wise, faithful, and eminently successful, and to him are the members of the Rite largely indebted for the high and commending place it now occupies as a leading power in the Masonry of the country.

Nor have his services end talents, voluntarily rendered in behalf of our beloved Institution in all its various grades and departments, failed to command that recognition which is conspicuously their due. They have won for him eminent distinction in the Craft throughout the country, and, what is doubtless of more value and mere gratifying to him personally, they have earned for him a high and honorable place in the respect and affection of his Brethren. And ia this connection, it may not be out of place to mention, that he has been complimented with Honorary Membership in many of our oldest and most respectable Masonic organizations; among which are St. Andrew's Royal Arch Chapter and St. Bernard Commandery, of Boston; Apollo Commandery, Chicago; St. John's Philadelphia; Missouri, St. Louis, and others; and, on the Tenth Anniversary of the Union of German Free-masons, held at Darmstadt on the 23d of July, 1871, he was elected Corresponding Member of that Body and honored with its Diploma.

In politics our Brother has rarely mingled, believing that in this respect "the post of honor is a private station." The turmoils and strifes of the political arena are net agreeable to his tastes, nor consistent with his profession and literary pursuits — a conclusion to which he seems to have arrived after having served the city of his residence as a member of its Board of Aldermen for a term of two years. As a Masonic writer and historian, our Brother occupied a high rank among the Masonic literati of this country. Many of the ablest essays on our national and local Masonic history, in its various branches, are the fruits of his learning and the productions of his pen. His indefatigable industry and logical acumen, as evidenced by his various and profound antiquarian investigations, have enabled him to lay before his Brethren many of the most elaborate and valuable Masonic contributions of the day. But neither the limits of this memoir, nor the time of the writer, admit of a specific enumeration of them. That must be the work of another time and another pen. And we close this brief and imperfect sketch with the perhaps unnecessary remark — unnecessary wherever he is personally known — that as a presiding officer, a courteous gentleman, and a ripe Masonic scholar, our Brother justly enjoys the love and respect of his personal friends and Masonic Brethren wherever he is known, at home or abroad.

FROM LIBERAL FREEMASON, 1888

From Liberal Freemason, Vol. XI, No. 6, September 1887, Page 191:

At a recent meeting of the Governor and Council, Gov. Ames announced that he had received and accepted be resignation of Hon. William S. Gardner as a Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court, and nominated to the vacancy Judge Marcus P. Knowlton of the Superior Bench. Judge William S. Gardner was appointed to the Superior Court in 1875 by Gov. Gaston. He was born in Hallowell, Me., October 1st, 1827, is a graduate of Bowdoin College, Senator Frye being among his classmates, and at the time his appointment was the law-partner of Hon. T. H. Sweetzer. On the death of Judge Waldo Coburn, Gov. Robinson named Judge Gardner as his successor in 1885. He has never held any other public office, but has been very prominent in the Episcopal church and the Masonic fraternity. For some months he has not sat upon the bench, having been abroad in the endeavor to recruit his failing health, and his unsuccess in this effort has led to his resignation. Judge Gardner is a resident of Newton.

Judge Marcus P. Knowlton, of Springfield, was born in Wilbraham, lass., February 3, 1839, and was graduated at Yale College in i860. Ie was President of the Springfield Common Council in 1872 and 1873, and sat in the lower branch of the Legislature in 1878. In 1880 and 1881 he was in the Senate and was placed at the head of ndiciary Committee. He was elevated to the Superior Bench by Gov. Long in 1881. The many friends of Past Grand Master Gardner have known with regret that his health has been seriously impaired for some time past, and have hoped for its restoration. The letter of Governor Ames, wherein he expressed the opinion that the full salary of a retired judge should be given to Brother Gardner, because of his twelve years of too laborious duty on the bench, meets the hearty approval of right minded men. The doubt arises from the fact that the judge has not yet reached the age fixed by law for retiring with a pension. There can be no doubt that he earned it.

MEMORIAL

FROM PROCEEDINGS, 1888

From Proceedings, Page 1888-63, presented by R.W. Bro. Samuel C. Lawrence:

Few men have rendered more conspicuous service in the cause of Masonry in this State, or have filled a higher place in the respect and regard of its members, than the distinguished and beloved Brother whose death we have recently been called to mourn.

William Sewall Gardner was born in Hallowell, Maine, Oct. 1, 1827, and was the only son of Robert and Susan Sewall Gardner. He came of sound Puritan ancestry, and, on the maternal side, was a descendant of the Sewalls, who, for more than a century, held high judicial positions in the courts of Massachusetts and Maine. The prominent traits of his character and the tenor of his professional life were singularly foreshadowed, by those of his ancestors.

He entered Bowdoin College in 1846, and, after graduating, began the study of law in Lowell, Mass. He was admitted to the bar in Middlesex County, Mass., in 1852, and three years later, entered into partnership with Theodore H. Sweetser, the well-known advocate. In 1861, the firm removed to Boston, where it at once obtained a wide and successful practice, which continued until Bro. Gardner's appointment to the bench of the Superior Court of Massachusetts, Dec. 31, 1875. He performed the duties of this position with dignity and honor until 1885, when he was promoted to a seat in the Supreme Judicial Court by Governor Robinson. Last September, failing health marked by serious nervous prostration, the result of unremitted application to his professional labors, compelled him to withdraw from the bench. In accepting his resignation, Governor Ames took occasion to tender him, in behalf of the Commonwealth, the assurance of the sympathy of its citizens on account of his illness, and their regret that he was compelled to relinquish a position in the judicial department of the State, the duties of which he had faithfully, ably and honorably discharged for a period of twelve years, with great benefit and credit to the Commonwealth.

A visit to Europe, and complete suspension from labor, failed to contribute to the reestablishment of his vital powers, and he gradually sank until his death, which occurred at his home in Newton, April 4, 1888. The Grand Lodge was represented at his funeral by the Grand Master and others of its officers and members, who joined with his professional brethren and a sorrowing community in paying the last tributes of respect to his memory.

Judge Gardner was twice married. In 1868, October 15th, he married Mary Thornton Davis, widow of Bro. Charles A. Davis, M.D., by whom he had one child, a daughter. In 1877, he formed a second union, with Sarah M. Davis, daughter of Hon. Isaac Davis, of Worcester, who survives him.

Bro. Gardner's connection with Masonry began about: the same time with his admission to> the bar, and, until his elevation to the bench in 1875, much of the time, he could spare from absorbing professional cares, was devoted to the promotion of the interests of our beloved Institution.

He was made a Mason, Aug. 11, 1852, in Ancient York Lodge, in Lowell, Mass., in which Lodge he held the office of Senior Deacon in 1854; Senior Warden in 1855, and W. Master in 1856-57.

He was a charter member of Kilwinning Lodge, of Lowell, and its first W. Master, which office he held two years, 1866-68.

In the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts he was Grand Marshal in 57-58-59; District Deputy Grand Master in 1860-61-62-63 (District 3; Senior Grand Warden in, 1864, and M.W. Grand Master in 1869-70-71.

He was exalted to the degree Of Royal Arch Mason, November 21, 1853, in Mount Horeb Royal Arch Chapter, of Lowell, Mass. He received the degree of the Cryptic Rite, Feb. 23, 1857, in Ahasuerus Council of Royal and Select Masters, of Lowell, Mass. He received the Orders of Knighthood in Boston Commandery, being created a Knight Templar, May 12, 1854, and was a charter member of Pilgrim Commandery, of Lowell, chartered Oct. 10, 1855. He was its Junior Warden in 1856-57; Captain General in 1858-59; Generalissimo in 1859-60, and Eminent Commander in 1861-62. In the Grand Commandery of Mass. and R.I., he was Grand Captain-General in 1860-61; Grand Generalissimo in 1862-63, and Grand Commander in 1863-64. In the Grand Encampment of the United States, he served as Deputy Grand Master in 1865-68, and M.E. Grand Master in 1868-71. In the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, he received the 32°, May 15, 1857. In July of the same year,, he became a charter member of Lowell Lodge of Perfection and Lowell Council of Princes of Jerusalem; in April, 1859, of Mount Calvary Chapter of Rose Croix, all of Lowell; and in August, 1860, of Massachusetts Consistory of S. P. R. S. 32°, then of Lowell, but now of Boston. In all these Bodies he served in various official capacities. He was Secretary of the Lodge of Perfection for nine years; he was Master of the Council of Princes, and the first Commander-in-Chief of Massachusetts Consistory. He rendered distinguished service as the Deputy of the Rite for Massachusetts from May 18, 1861, to May 17, 1867. He received the 33°, May 16, 1861, on which date he was crowned an active member of the Supreme Council for the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, U.S.A. On the tenth anniversary of the Union of German Freemasons, held at Darmstadt, Germany, July 23, 1871, he was elected Corresponding Member of that Body, and was honored with its Diploma.

In reviewing Bro. Gardner's Masonic career, which covers a larger share of labor and of honor than usually falls to the lot of our most distinguished Craftsmen, we must gratefully pay him the tribute due to his high attainments, his indefatigable industry and unselfish devotion, in every department of Masonic duty which was entrusted to his hands. His trained and exact habits of mind and scholarly love of research admirably fitted him for the labors of a Masonic historian and expositor, and the contributions of his pen have done much to enlarge the field of Masonic information. He was deeply versed in the ritualism of the Craft, and regarded with tender reverence every precept, symbol and form, which gives to it significance, illumination and force. His interpretation of Masonry; doubtless borrowed something from the natural seriousness of his character; but it was beautifully enforced by the kindliness of his manners, the gentle dignity of his bearing, the purity of his life and the unquestioned integrity of his heart. It is a matter of just pride to Masons that such men find in the inner life of our Craft so much that contributes to the moral aid, refreshment and comfort, of which mankind stands so sorely in need; and Masonry will require no defence or apology while such men love it.

It is unnecessary in this presence to enlarge upon the service which our beloved Brother rendered as Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts. He brought to the discharge of the duties of that position a love of order which was constitutional, thorough habits of work, an intimate acquaintance with the laws and usages of the Craft, and a keen perception of its practical needs. Perhaps no man has come to that office better equipped for its proper work; and certainly his conduct of Masonic affairs during three, terms of service has left an indelible impression, upon the minds of his contemporaries, an impression perhaps as much due to an intelligent recognition of the high aims and purposes of the man, as to a just appreciation of the great benefits which accrued to the Institution under his wise and thoughtful administration. Masonry has made great advancement, and has achieved wonderful triumphs since that time; but we must not forget that the impulse which has so accelerated its progress was given in earlier days by the hands of noble men, some of whom are still living and honored among us, while others have passed on to the freer life; of the immortals. Among those men, living and dead, who infused into Masonry a fresh current of vitality, and to whom we owe a debt which only love and gratitude can repay, William Sewall Gardner holds an undisputed place.

FROM LIBERAL FREEMASON, 1888

From Liberal Freemason, Vol. XII, No. 1, April 1888, Page 18:

One hundred and forty miles inland in a northerly course from the Atlantic Ocean lies Moosehead Lake, familiar to the sportsmen, famous also, as the source of the Kennebec River which courses its way to the sea and meets the tide-water at Augusta the capital of the State of Maine, one hundred miles from its place of beginning.

Two miles below Augusta, on the west bank of the river lies the town of Hallowell, noted for its beautiful situation, its enterprise, and for its old-time energy in ship-building, when that industry gave encouragement to builders and owners to pursue it.

The country adjacent was fertile, and the soil was tilled by sturdy men whose homes were cheered by industrious women, who found their ambition satisfied in the growth of dutiful sons and daughters, who in turn became exemplars of the mental and moral qualities of their parents.

Descended on the maternal side from the Sewalls, a name distinguished on the bench in Massachusetts and Maine for over one hundred years, William Sewall Gardner, an only son, was born in Hallowell, October 1st, 1827, to Robert Gardner and Susan Sewall, and to a large degree he grew to illustrate many of tne strong traits of character noted in his mother's ancestral line.

In l846 he entered Bowdoin College, where he had classmates who, like himself, have adorned their chosen profession, and impressed something of their own character upon the times in which they lived. After graduating, Mr. Gardner entered upon the study of the law, in Lowell, Mass., and in 1852, he was admitted to the Bar in Middlesex County, where he finally settled into practice with flattering success.

In 1855 he entered into partnership with the late Hon. Theodore H. Sweetser, and in 1861 the firm removed from Lowell to Boston, where they had larger scope for their conceded abilities.

During the gubernational term of Governor Gaston, the late Hon. Joseph K. Baker, a distinguished Freemason, was one of the Governor's Council, and his influence was exercised to confirm the Governor's favorable opinion which crystalized into the nomination of Mr. Gardner to a Justiceship in the Superior Court, in 1875.

The dignified and highly honorable manner in which he discharged the duties of judge in this Court, recommended him for promotion, and on October 1st, 1885, the anniversary of his birthday, he was promoted by Governor Robinson to a seat in the Supreme Judicial Court.

Zealous to maintain the highest standard of judicial character, his professional cares made such inroads upon his health that in September, 1887, he sent in his resignation to Governor Ames, who, in accepting it, took occasion to compliment the judge for his superior service, and to tender him the sympathies of the people of the Commonwealth, and their hopes of his recovery. But this latter was not to be; the able lawyer, the upright judge, the intellectual and beloved Grand Master could not contend against the last enemy, and he died at his home in Newton, Mass., on April 4th, 1888. The funeral, like his life, was quiet, unobtrusive, and sincere. To it went many sorrowing and stricken friends. The Bench and the r>ar was largely represented; neighbors and friends were in full sympathy with his widow and the more immediate mourners; the Grand Master and many others of the Grand Lodge; the Grand Commander and other Sir Knights of the Grand Com-mandery, all went with sorrow in their hearts to pay tribute to the memory of their deceased brother.

At about the time of his admission to the Bar, Mr. Gardner was made a Mason in Ancient York Lodge of Lowell, and this latter event was on August 11th, 1852. In 1854, be was Senior Deacon; 1855, Senior Warden, and Master in 1856-7.

Later, he was one of the founders of Kilwinning Lodge in the same city, and its first Master in 1866-67. As a ritualist, he was intelligent, always intellectual and original, where originality could find opportunity in the work of Freemasonry.

Brother Gardner was a conspicuous figure in Freemasonry from his first introduction; locally at first, but soon his force was felt in the Grand Lodge, where he was Grand Marshal in 1857-8-9. He was District Deputy Grand Master in 1860-61-62-63, of what was then the Third District, comprising twelve Lodges during his fourth year.

In making his closing report to the Grand Master, he said: "During the four years I have had the honor of presiding over this District, our institution has rapidly increased in numbers; three new Lodges have received their Charters, and one been established by Dispensation. From year to year increased attention has been paid to the ritual and lectures, while the brethren have not been unmindful of the beneficial effects of forms and ceremonies; not that these are the essentials of Masonry, but rather the adjuncts, by means of which the sublime principles of our Order are more deeply impressed, and the better taught. . . In retiring from this laborious but interesting office, I sincerely regret the deprivation of that social relation with the Brethren of the various Lodges which has annually been renewed under the most pleasing circumstances, and also that I can no longer meet quarterly at the Board of D. D. Grand Masters, where such valuable Masonic information is obtained, and where the heart is enlarged by communication with Brethren fresh from the active duties of Masonic labor, in every part of the jurisdiction."

On November 21, 1853, he was made a Royal Arch Mason in Mt. Horeb Chapter, and was Master of the First Veil in 1855. He received the degree in Cryptic Masonry in Ahasuerus Council, the select degree being conferred on him February 23, 1857, but his tastes did not prompt him to occupy official station in either Chapter or Council. The Orders of Knighthood were more to his liking, and the Templar Ritual won his approbation and work.

He was created a Knight Templar in Boston Commandery, May 12, 1854, and soon thereafter took part in establishing Pilgrim Commandery in Lowell. The Charter of this flourishing body of Templars, is dated October 10th, 1855, and his name is the fifth of the twenty enrolled in the Charter.

Of this body he was Junior Warden, during the first three years of its existence; Captain General in 1858; Generalissimo in 1859 and'60; Eminent Commander in 1861 and 1862. In 1867 he was one of the "Board of Trustees of the Masonic Association" in Lowell, on the part of the Commandery, and in this, as in many other minor things, he showed a readiness to be of service to his brethren.

In the Grand Commandery of Massachusetts and Rhode Island he was Grand Captain General in 1860-61; Grand Generalissimo in 1862; and Grand Commander in 1863-64; or as the titles then were, Most Eminent Grand Master of the Grand Encampment.

The industry he displayed at the head of this venerable organization, became a vital force in its existence and this was cheeringly manifest in the improved condition of the several subordinate Commanderies in the jurisdiction. The ritual of the Order of the Temple was in complete harmony with his nature; indeed, it may be said of him, that he was a ritualist by nature, and in the Orders of Knighthood he found kinship to that pronounced element of his character. Thus his mental, moral and spiritual qualities united in one harmonious whole m the Order of the Temple, to the interest of which he gave his best thought and supported by his highest manhood. His high qualities were freely recognized in the Grand Encampment K. T. of America, where he appeared for the first time at Columbus, Ohio, in the Sixteenth Triennial Session of that Body, and where he was elected Deputy Grand Master. At the Seventeenth Triennial Session held in St. Louis in September, 1868, he made a report conspicuous for its fullness of detail, but of great historic importance in the Templar history of the United States. A reference to the printed proceedings of this session will satisfy the inquirer that the history of the early days of Templarism were much enriched by this painstaking contribution to it. At this Session the Eminent Sir Knight was elected M. E. Grand Master, an office from which he retired at the Eighteenth Triennial Session in Baltimore in 1871, with honor unsurpassed by any of his predecessors. The printed proceedings of this Session have an engraved portrait of him for a frontispiece, and this portrait we have to regard as the best in all particulars we have yet seen of him.

Brother Gardner received the degrees in the Sovereign Grand Consistory at the session of the Supreme Council, N. J., A. and A. S. Rite, convened in Boston, May 12, 1857. The Grand Consistory was opened at 5 o'clock p. m., when he with eleven others were elected. On the 13th he with six others received "the degrees of the Lodge of Perfection;" and "the degree of Knight of the East, and Prince of Jerusalem." On the next day the degrees in the Chapter of Rose Croix and in the Consistory were conferred, but Brother Gardner did not appear until Friday the 15th, when he with three others received the degrees including the 32°.

On May 16, 1861, he received the thirty-third degree and on the same date was crowned Active. As Deputy for Massachusetts his work became familiar to his brethern, and his pen was fertile in defence of the cause he espoused in the Rite whose history during the last quarter of a century he did so much to establish.

He was a Charter member of the four bodies in the A. and A. Rite in Lowell, was Secretary of the Lodge of Perfection and Chapter of Rose Croix for a number of years, and was at the head of the Council of Princes of Jerusalem and Massachusetts Consistory in their earliest existence.

As a Freemason he was orderly, systematic and consistent. Strong in his opinions, these were formed intelligently. No man had better knowledge of subjects upon which he passed judgment and no man could hold in greater contempt every species of guile, trick and insincerity, in Masonic polity than he. His mind was far reaching, and this was enriched by study, the burden of which overmastered his physical energies at a time of life when his friends had vainly hoped he would be at his strongest.

A good friend was he, also. In this direction we pause, saying this much in confirmation of this trait in his character:

Great, earnest soul that strugglest toward the light,
Ignoring all the dumb
Dead oracles on reason's vaunted height,
Weighing the senseless sum
Of earth's religions, for one saving clause
To satisfy the will
That owns the majesty of God's pure laws.

True soul, we give thee hail!

Oh, follow on, sincere and noble soul!
And thou at length shalt see
Revealed upon Golgotha's mount, the whole
Of God's grand mystery.

From Liberal Freemason, Vol. XII, No. 2, May 1888, Page 64:

We had the satisfaction of attending, by invitation on May 15th a service in memory of the late Past Grand Master, Judge William Sewail Gardner, under the direction of the Masonic Fraternity in Lowell. Eulogistic addresses were made by R. Wor. Wm. F. Salmon, presiding; Bro. Judge S. P. Hadley, who spoke for William North Lodge; R. W. Solon W. Stevens, for Kilwinning Lodge, M. E. Arthur G. Pollard, for Mt. Horeb Chapter; R. E. Chas. C. Hutchinson, for Pilgrim Commandery, and Rev. J. I. Seward, for the local Bodies in the A. and A. Rite. Alternating with the speakers, a double quartet rendered expressive musical selections. The entire service was happily conceived and conducted in the spirit and purpose of Freemasonry, and as such, was a worthy tribute to a brother whose masonic life was so closely identified with Freemasonry in Lowell.

SPEECHES

FEAST OF ST. JOHN, DECEMBER 1868

From Proceedings, Page VII-269, on his installation as Grand Master, December 29, 1868:

On the 28th. of December, 1827, the Grand Master, in his Inaugural Address to the Grand Lodge at the time of his Installation, said:—

No Masonic Body, perhaps, lies under greater responsibilities than this Grand Lodge. It is the first established in America, and by its authority Freemasonry was first promulgated in our land. This body, if I mistake not, has ever sustained a high character for dignity and respectability. When I consider the distinguished men who have occupied this chair, and the great importance which has ever been attached to this office, I tremble lest I should put forth, as it were, a sacrilegious hand and touch the ark. I am inclined to shrink from responsibilities which are so disproportionate to my powers. When I think too, that our institution is attacked by foes without and foes within, how does it heighten the interest and the fearfulness of the undertaking! But my brethren I have not in this respect taken a leap in the dark. 1 know the nature and character of the institution, whose defense I now re-espouse, and I am ready to stand by its interests and to protect them with all my feeble powers."

Such were the encouraging and manly words of one of our Grand Masters, at a time when it required courage and independence to represent the Fraternity in Massachusetts, and to stand forth in vindication of its professions and principles.

Today, after nearly forty years of storm and sunshine, of adversity succeeded by a wonderful prosperity, I repeat his words, feeling similar doubt, weighed down by like responsibilities, but looking forward to the same deliverance which his prophetic eye then clearly saw in the future.

The fact that Masonry was first established upon this continent in Massachusetts, and that this Grand body can trace its history back to 1733, when, as a Province of the Grand Lodge of England, it was organized in this city, probably impressed itself upon our distinguished brother. This is the Mother Grand Lodge upon this side of the waters, and therefore "it lies under greater responsibilities than any other Masonic Body." East and West, North and South has its influence extended. From its own bosom have gone forth brethren distinguished in all the walks of life, to plant in other States and in other lands, the Institution which was here so much respected, Masonry has been carefully cultivated in this State, and this Grand Lodge has always sustained the high character for dignity and respectability, to which, in 1829, it was considered necessary to allude. Those who have been chosen to direct its affairs have been gentlemen of high character and influence, and have reflected back upon the Fraternity that lustre which they have derived from it.

To preserve this dignified position, and transmit to our successors the Grand Lodge unimpaired in influence, untarnished in reputation, undegraded in dignity, becomes now our duty and our care.

At the time referred to a violent political tempest was raging against the Institution, encouraged by many influential men, and such was its fury, that the professed Mason adhered to his obligations and his Lodge at the expense of his social position, and oftentimes of excommunication from his religious society. In our day we have no such ordeal to pass through. We practice our rites undisturbed and enjoy to the fullest extent the popular favor. Men of all classes and conditions, in great numbers flock to our temples and gather about our altars. If brethren, members constitute the successful state of Masonry, then are we indeed fortunate, The number of lodges and of members was never before so large as at the present time, and the outward signs of prosperity were never more encouraging,

In view of the wonderful increase of the Fraternity, the brethren of the Grand Lodge in 1864, determined to erect a temple which should at once be a monument of Masonic enterprise, and a home for the Craft. Reserving the history of this building for a future occasion, I will only add now, that the Temple was constructed at a cost of about $423,127,01. so far as I have been able to gather, and that the Grand Lodge is now indebted to the amount of $377,460,79. The interest which it has assumed to pay annually is $29,882.31, being over $10,000 more than the Grand Lodge was worth when the Inaugural of 1829 was delivered. Before these liabilities accrued, the care of the Grand Lodge was comparatively light, and the duties of the executive officers few.

Now the Grand Lodge has become a corporation, and its financial interests exceed all others. It reckons not by thousands, but by hundreds of thousands of dollars, and it has become a recognized borrower of money in the busy marts of trade. Its notes mature and must be paid. Interest accumulates, bills become due. Thus Masonry which has carefully kept aloof from the influences and excitements of the world, has in a measure become mixed up with them. The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts has thus entered upon its new and untried experiment.

The care of the Lodges, the preservation and perfection of the ritual, charity, which should be our great object, become subordinate to the greater duty of paying our debts and meeting our engagements. The overshadowing importance of our financial embarrassment meets us at every point and oppresses the administration of the affairs of the Grand Lodge. It would be wise for the financial and purely masonic duties of the Grand Lodge, to place them in seperate official departments, so that one should not interfere with the other.

Those brethren in affluent circumstances, familiar with the intricate ways of finance should have charge of the corporation, whatever may be their masonic experience or acquirements. A complete knowledge of our ritual and jurisprudence will not aid in raising money or paying our debts. It is impossible now to say how much would have been saved to the Grand Lodge, if some such plan had been adopted as early as 1864.

The impression exists that the Grand Lodge is exclusive, and that the Fraternity at large has no interest in it. Nothing could be more erroneous. Grand Lodges are comparatively of modern origin. The brethren formerly met in general convention to elect Grand Masters and transact general business for the good of the Craft. Such was the practice in England. In time these conventions became unwieldly, and the necessity arose of forming Grand Lodges, upon the representative principle, by which the administration of Masonic affairs could be conducted with greater regularity and less confusion. The inherent power of a Mason is none the less now than in the days of the "General Assembly".

In our Grand Lodge the Masters and Wardens of the respective Lodges are members. Through them every member of a subordinate Lodge is represented, and the power of the brethren is so far preserved that now, as in ancient times, they have the constitutional right to instruct their Masters and Wardens how to vote and act in Grand Lodge. There is no exclusive power in the Grand Lodge for all time, although in the exercise of its authority the Craft has invested it with authority over all the brethren in the jurisdiction, and to its decrees and edicts unlimited obedience must be paid. "Every warranted Lodge is a constitutional part of the Grand Lodge, in which assembly all the powers of the Fraternity reside," say our own Constitutions. The brethren throughout the jurisdiction elect the Masters and Wardens, who control the destinies of the Grand Lodge, and the brethren of the seperate Lodges can direct the action of their representatives. Thus the decrees, edicts, regulations, and constitutions of the Grand Lodge can be changed and modified whenever the Craft consider it wise so to do.

The power of the Grand Master is unquestionably great, inasmuch as no appeal lies from his decision. But his election occurs annually, in which two thirds of the votes must concur, and the opportunity to remove an arbitrary and unreasonable officer speedily occurs. To make more easy the representation in Grand Lodge, it has been determined that the three votes of each Lodge can be cast, although but one representative is present. In addition to this it is provided that a Lodge can elect a proxy to act for it, when the Masters and Wardens shall not either of them be present. It is apparent that every facility is given to the Fraternity to control the Grand Lodge, and that the rights of every Mason in the jurisdiction are recognized and preserved. As in the General Assembly, he has every privilege save that of a direct vote and voice in Grand Lodge, and these are indirectly preserved to him through the representatives whom he selects, and whose course of conduct he can point out and direct.

The votes in Grand Lodge are thus classified:—

• Permanent Members, 50.
• Officers 42,
• Masters and Wardens, about 525,

The permanent members are many of them aged: some are out of the State, or at such a distance from the Grand East, that they rarely enter the Grand Lodge, while others are enumerated in the list of officers. They are made life members by the votes of the brethren, (with one exception), two thirds of whom must concur in the election. These members, therefore, are chosen by the brethren at large through their representatives, Permanent members undoubtedly acquire influence. They would not be elected such if they did not possess it; they ought not to lose it because they are elected.

The object probably in making this kind of membership in Grand Lodge was to preserve from destruction the Grand Body itself. Whatever calamity might befall the institution at large, or come upon the Lodges, this peculiar membership would perpetuate the Grand Lodge, and protect it from annihilation, Should every Lodge in the jurisdiction cease to exist, the Grand Lodge would not thereby necessarily die. In the calm quiet of its own secluded retreat, it could preserve its vitality, until the proper time came to reestablish its subordinates and again exercise its powers.

Even this precaution did not preserve the Grand Lodge of Michigan from disorganization. In the excitement of anti-Masonry that Grand Body disbanded, and lost its very existence; and when in more peaceful times it sought to renew its life, it was determined by its sister Grand Lodges, that it did not possess it, that its existence had terminated, and that the Grand Lodge of Michigan could be established only by the action of the Lodges of the State.

This membership is a part of our Masonic system, and is as old as the history of Grand Lodges. These members have been selected for their masonic worth and experience by two-thirds of the brethren composing the Grand Lodge, and it is a well known fact that they have never acted nor voted as a unit on any matter upon which the other members of the Grand Lodge have been divided. From what has been said it is evident that the Fraternity at large, the thousands of Masons scattered over Massachusetts, are responsible for the present financial condition of the Grand Lodge. Whatever has been done has met with their tacit consent, their implied approval.

I recognize the right of every member of the Grand Lodge to inquire into our financial affairs, at proper times, and at proper places, and it is due to him and to the brethren whom he represents, that a true and faithful statement be given, if such will not impair the credit of the Grand Lodge, and provided also that the proper officers have it in their power to make it. It has certainly shown great confidence in past administrations, that no brother has called upon the Grand Officers for any exhibit of the expenses of the erection of this building. The contracts which have been made, with whom, and at what rates.

The Board of Directors, I doubt not, would have given every opportunity for a careful, scrutinizing examination of all their proceedings, would have willingly exhibited their records— where should exist in full, the history of the expenditure, and the authority therefor, of every dollar upon this structure, if such request had ever been made.

The argument is irresistible,—
First, — That the representatives of the Fraternity at large directed the building of this Temple.
Second,— That the Fraternity at large by their silence, by taking no steps to prevent it, encouraged their Board of Directors to proceed in the way and manner that they have in its erection.
Third,— That the Fraternity at large are responsible for the debt incurred.

Whether these conclusions are correct or not, the debt incurred is an indebtedness of the Grand Lodge, of which every subordinate Lodge is a constituent part, while every affiliated Mason is a constituent part of his Lodge. It requires, however, no logic to convince the brethren that the debt of the Grand Lodge is a matter in which they each and all have a vital interest. This subject has been presented in various forms, within the last two years. I can only reiterate what has already been said, and if possible, stimulate the brethren to greater exertions in behalf of the Grand Lodge, It needs every dollar which can be raised. The commutation which has already been paid has relieved it from great embarrassment, and it is to be hoped that the balance unpaid may be collected by some plan similar to that which has been resorted to.

I desire about all things to preserve that "dignity and respectability, which has characterized this Grand Lodge in all its past history, and I desire to retain in the office of Grand Master all those powers which belong to it. In the recess of the Grand Lodge, the Grand Master undoubtedly has much authority, and the constitutions and ancient laws recognize it fully,

But when the Grand Lodge is in session, he is the presiding officer of a dignified and respectable assembly of Masons and gentlemen, many of whom are as well, if not better qualified to perform the duties of Grand Master as he is himself. In the Grand Lodge resides all the power of the Grand Master, It makes him presiding officer thereof, and invests him with the authority which he exercises. He is the high servant of the Craft at large. They have placed such confidence in the wisdom of their choice, that they deny the right of appeal from his decisions, And yet, brethren, I should deliberate long, before ruling, that the opinion of the Grand Lodge was not more worthy of consideration than my own. The denial of the right of appeal was unquestionably made for wise purposes, and this great power was placed in the Grand Master for reasons which are obvious to every Mason, but it is a power which is to be exercised only, never capriciously, with great caution, and only when the interests of the Institution absolutely demand it.

The Grand Master is not "Masonry", he is the servant of all, appointed to a high and dignified position, to enforce the rules and regulations, both ancient and modern, made by the Craft, for the government of the Craft. The Grand Lodge is the Supreme Court of Appeal in all Masonic cases: and may be addressed by appeal, petition, or memorial, Inasmuch as it is the governing power in Masonry, the high court of last resort, every facility should be afforded to the members of the craft, and to its subordinates, to lay their grievances and complaints before it in accordance with the constitutions, and to give them patient hearing. Between it and them there should ever exist the fullest confidence, The weight and authority of the one should never oppress the others, and they on their part should ever sustain it in its government. Although its government is despotic, the Grand Lodge should never become the despot.

While wilful and persistent disobedience of the edicts, decrees, and laws of the Grand Lodge should be speedily and certainly punished, I would have its authority so light, that the Lodges and brethren should scarcely recognize its existence. Whether considered as parental or fraternal, lets its government be mild, easy, persuasive.

In entering upon the duties which appertain to the office of Grand Master, I shall endeavor to preserve, as far as possible, the Ancient customs and usages of the Craft, and the old manner of administering the affairs of this office. I have no new ideas to present, no new customs to inaugurate. To the Board of District Deputy Grand Masters, I shall look to perform much of the labor which of late years has found its way into this office. In their several Districts it is expected that they will be Deputy Grand Masters de facto as well as de jure. They have been selected from the Fraternity for their high personal character, their knowledge of Masonic jurisprudence, and their familiarity with the ritual. To them the brethren will have free and easy access for instruction, advice, and the construction of our Regulations and Constitutions. Their respective residences in the several Districts will make these communications at once convenient and agreeable.

Two years ago the Districts were remodeled throughout the Commonwealth. They were arranged, so far as could be done, upon the lines of railroads, that these officers, at little expense, and with great rapidity, could visit their Lodges. The number in each was reduced so that no one except the Boston District should contain more than twelve Lodges. The change was made carefully, with great labor, and was intended to be permanent. After consideration I have made some alterations, which it is hoped will prove beneficial.

The First District comprises the twelve Lodges of Boston proper. To the Second District are, added Faith and John Abbot Lodges. The Third District is composed of the Lodges in South and East Boston, Roxbury, West Roxbury and Dorchester. To the Fourth District are added Bethesda, Dalhousie and Meridian Lodges. To the Twelfth District is added Middlesex Lodge.

Instruction in the lectures and ritual has been confided to three brethren of learning, experience, and of great ability in the art of teaching. The Grand Lodge has placed in their hands the established work of this jurisdiction, which it is not in their power to modify or change. To preserve it in its present verbal form will be their duty as well as their pride. There are many things in the manner of rendering this work, of a dramatic character, which each Lodge will practice according to its pleasure. But to the lectures and ritual as taught by this Grand Lodge, it is expected that every Lodge will conform. To make this ritual more impressive, and the conferring of the degrees more attractive, should, in my judgment be the study and aim of every Master. The introduction of Music, and other adjuncts of a similar nature, have already done much to heighten the interest of the brethren in the exercises of the Lodge.

Until a comparatively recent period it was the custom for every Diploma to pass through the hands of the District Deputy Grand Masters, and for them at the end of each year, to make return of the number furnished to each Lodge. Of late years the Officers of Lodges situated near the Grand East have applied directly to the Grand Secretary, who has furnished these documents ad libitum, in blank and without keeping any account thereof. The bill to the Grand Lodge for Diplomas amounts annually to a large sum, and every effort should be made to reduce it. Under the present system many Diplomas are issued which are never used, and so carelessly have they been kept, that they have found their way, with the signature of the Grand Master and Grand Secretary thereon, into the hands of the profane, and of clandestine masons. It cannot be expected that the officers of Lodges will be more careful of these instruments than the Grand Lodge is. During the present year the Grand Secretary will issue Diplomas to none but the District Deputy Grand Masters, with each of whom he will keep a careful account of the number issued. These Grand Officers will issue to the Lodges such Diplomas as may be required, upon proof satisfactory that they are actually needed for the purposes required; and they will keep an account of the number furnished to each Lodge, and make return thereof to the Grand Lodge at the end of each year. They will see that proper care is taken in their distribution, and at the time of their annual visits to the Lodges they will make examination of the disposition made of them. They will also make return of the number arid names of each Past Master to whom they have issued Diplomas during their official term, and the Grand Secretary will furnish this Diploma to the District Deputies alone, and will keep an account pf the number issued and to whom.

Upon all the Grand Officers let me charge the necessity of a most rigid economy in every department of the Grand Lodge. While the Lodges and the brethren are striving to reduce the debt, let them be encouraged by the knowledge that the expenses of the Grand Lodge are reduced to the lowest possible point.

It is proper and becoming for us upon this anniversary, to implore the Divine blessing upon the labors which we have now undertaken, and to pray that this Grand Lodge protected thus far through the vicissitudes it has passed, may find the same protecting care through the year before us. Let us gratefully remember the manifold blessings and comforts with which a kind Providence has surrounded us, both as an institution and as brethren, Let us return our sincere Thanksgiving to Almighty God for all his mercies toward us. His right hand has led us in safety thus far on our journey through life. Brethren, may the same Heavenly care be over you the coming year! May you return in safety to your homes from your labors here, encouraged to renewed exertions in behalf of Masonry and of our own Grand Lodge!

AT GRAND LODGE, DECEMBER 1869

From Proceedings, Page VII-429, December 9, 1869; directives to District Deputy Grand Masters:

Rt W. District Deputy Grand Masters:

In entering upon your official duties of annually visiting the Lodges in your District, I desire to call your especial notice to the following matters which you will carefully note and make report thereon:—

1. You will report the number of Brethren present at each Lodge, on the occasion of your official visit with the number of members.
2. You will carefully inspect the Lodge-rooms, and see that they are securely tyled.
3. You will see if others besides the proper officers are permitted in the preparation room with the candidate.
4. Have the Deacons black rods and the Stewards white rods: and if not, what, if any rods, have they?
5. Carefully examine the records and see that they are properly kept, and that the names of all the Officers of the Lodge are recorded.
6. Has the Lodge in its Hall a copy of the Grand Lodge Constitutions?
7. Are the By-Laws approved by the Grand Lodge, and properly attested by the Grand Secretary?
8. Has each Lodge the proper Furniture, and especially the representations of the Three Lesser Lights.
9. Is the work in all respects according to the Grand Lodge requirements, and are the services of a Grand Lecturer needed?
10. Has the Lodge a Master's Carpet ?
11. Ascertain generally the financial condition of each Lodge, and the amount of funds it has invested and on hand.
12. If possible, ascertain the manner of examining Visitors, and impress upon the Masters and Officers the necessity of careful examination, and that a Brother must have sat with an applicant to be able to vouch for him, and be enabled to state on what Degree, the Lodge was open when they so sat.
13. Examine the records to see if non-affiliated Brethren are admitted without the payment of the fee.
14. If possible impress upon the Masters and Brethren the propriety of enforcing the rule that no Brother can enter the Lodge, after it is open without being announced and permission obtained; and in like manner, that none leave the lodge without permission of the W, Master.
15. Report the number of Dispensations granted during the year; to what Lodge; for what; when; and the name to whose benefit granted.
16. You will take charge of all Lodges under Dispensation in your District not enumerated in your Commission. Viz:—
17. Has any Lodge appeared in public procession during the year, and if so upon what occasions, and was your Dispensation obtained therefor.
18. Endeavor to make your report as soon as possible after you have performed your circuit.
19. Make your bill of expenses to the Grand Lodge, as small as possible, remembering that the Grand Lodge is deeply in debt and requires the strictest economy in the administration of all its affairs.
20. Have the officers of Lodges the collars required by the Constitutions, and if not in what manner are the jewels suspended and worn?

These are some of your duties; Others of no less consequence, will impress themselves upon you. Above all strive to be kind, courteous, affable and agreeable to all the Brethren, endeavor to bring them into kindly relations with the Grand Lodge and its Grand Officers, Avoid antagonism, Impress upon the Masters and Wardens the necessity of their attendance upon the Communications of the Grand Lodge, and that the destinies and control of the Grand Lodge are in their hands: and let the Brethren understand that they have their representation through their chosen officers.

Finally, Right Worshipful Brother, remember that you are the only officer of the Grand Lodge who comes in direct and close contact with all the Brethren of your District, and that, as the representative of the Grand Lodge, it is your duty to encourage the zealous Mason, impart instruction where you can, cheer the Lodges, and zealously labor, as a co-worker with your Brethren, to elevate the moral standard of Masonry in the field assigned to you.

AT THE CONSECRATION OF TEMPLE LODGE, MARCH 1871

The following images show Grand Master Gardner's original handwritten manuscript.

Page 1 2

From Proceedings, Page 1871-46:

I have not been informed why you selected the name of Temple for your new Lodge; but there is an evident propriety for the name, located as you are in that portion of Boston called East Boston. The famous Temple family was in former times intimately connected with Noddle's Island, the ancient name of East Boston.

Sir Thomas Temple, who first came to New England in 1657, was the owner of the island. It was this Sir Thomas Temple of whom it is related that, "while on a visit to London, he was presented to Charles II., and was permitted to kiss his Majesty's hand. The king discoursed with him on the state of affairs in Massachusetts, and, among other things, he said the Colonies had invaded his right by coining money. Sir Thomas Temple replied that they thought it no crime to make money for their own use; and, taking a piece of our coin from his pocket, presented it to the king. The coin was the pine-tree shilling. Perceiving the tree on the piece, King Charles inquired what kind of a tree it was. " The royal oak," said Temple, "which protected your Majesty's life."

Sir John Temple was born on the island in 1731. He was the first Consul General from England to the United States after the peace of 1783 ; and for some years after 1785, he was the medium of communication from that government to our own, while Great Britain had no minister to this country. He died at New York, in 1798, and a tablet to his memory was placed in the chancel of St. Paul's Church, in that city, upon which is the inscription : —

SACRED TO THE MEMORY
OF SIR JOHN TEMPLE, BARONET,
Consul General to the United States of America
from his Britannic Majesty,
The First Appointed to this Country
after its Independence.
D I E D :
In the City of New York, November 17, 1798.
AGED 67.

Thus, Brethren, you have preserved in your new Lodge the name of a family most intimately associated with the island on which you are located, honored and respected in history, and worthy of remembrance.

CHARTERS GRANTED

• 06/09/1869 Faith, Charlestown
• 06/09/1869 Delta, Weymouth
• 12/09/1869 Bethany, West Amesbury
• 12/09/1869 Palestine, Everett
• 03/09/1870 Rabboni, South Boston
• 03/09/1870 Globe, Hinsdale
• 03/09/1870 Charity, North Cambridge
• 06/08/1870 Vernon, Belchertown
• 06/08/1870 Morning Sun, Conway
• 06/08/1870 Mount Holyoke, South Hadley
• 06/08/1870 Upton, Cheshire
• 09/14/1870 Puritan, Abington
• 12/14/1870 Howard, South Yarmouth
• 03/08/1871 Charles River, Medway
• 03/08/1871 Temple, East Boston
• 03/08/1871 Aconcagua, Valparaiso, Chile
• 06/14/1871 Ezekiel Bates, Attleboro
• 06/14/1871 Quinsigamond, Worcester
• 06/14/1871 Mariners', Cotuit
• 09/13/1871 Occidental, Stockbridge
• 09/13/1871 Belcher, Chicopee
• 09/13/1871 Beth-Horon, Brookline
• 09/13/1871 Mosaic, Danvers
• 09/13/1871 Newton, Wilbraham
• 09/13/1871 Phoenician, Lawrence
• 09/13/1871 Simon W. Robinson, Lexington
• 09/13/1871 Good Samaritan, Reading

RULINGS

• 1869
• 1870
• 1871

1871 Henry Price Address

Grand Masters