MAGloucesterMemorial
GLOUCESTER SOLDIERS' AND SAILORS' MEMORIAL
From Liberal Freemason, Vol. III, No. 7, October 1879, Page 221:
The dedication of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument in Gloucester on September 11th, attracted a great many strangers, as well as citizens from towns adjoining, who witnessed with much satisfaction the ceremonies attending the celebration. The Monument was erected by Post 45, G. A. R., and as the inscription shows, " In honor of the Soldiers and Sailors of Gloucester who fought in the war of 1861-1865, for the preservation of the Union."
It was presented to the City in a neat speech by Comrade Fitz J. Babson, and accepted by the Mayor. An Oration followed, by Rev. J. F. Lovering, from which we make a single extract:
"The monument before you is erected, not to the dead only, but for the living; not as a record merely, but as an incentive. What an impressive duty this is, and especially as we keep in mind where the duty is performed and among what people! The monument we dedicate is a representation in bronze of the genius of American liberty, and such a monument anywhere is an altar of patriotism — a solemn, visible oath, consecrating the place on which it stands and the people who dwell about it to liberty and virtue, human rights and national integrity. Such a monument has special significance in this place, and among this people."
But that which is of immediate interest to Masons, is that it was fcdicaled by the M. W. Grand Lodge of Massachusetts according to the usages of the craft. The Masonic portion of the procession included the officers and members of Grand Lodge, Tyrian Lodge, Charles H. Boynton, W. M., Acacia Lodge, Charles H. Wonson, W. M. These two Lodges are located in Gloucester, and also William Ferson R. A. Chapter, which was represented by its officers, as was Washington Chapter of Salem.
