RIGMEarle
CALEB EARLE 1771-1851
Grand Master 1837-1839
BIOGRAPHY
From History of Freemasonry in Rhode Island, 1895, Page 303:
Caleb Earle, the seventeenth Grand Master of Masons in Rhode Island, was Massachusetts born, from which State he came to Rhode Island when he was a lad. The date of his birth is February 25, 1771 — of his death July 13, 1851. He learned the trade of a carpenter, but became interested in the lumber business in Providence, and was quite successful. He was also interested in navigation, being an owner in several vessels. He had a liking for military associations and was for several years at the head of a company designated "The Volunteers." Public affairs received his attention in a considerable degree. In politics he was identified with the Republicans as then opposed to the Federals. He represented Providence in the General Assembly for a number of years. He was elected Lieutenant Governor of Rhode Island in 1821-22-23 and 24. In 1824 and again in 1828, he was honored by being chosen as one of the Presidential Electors.
In business matters he held and discharged important trusts. He was a director in several financial associations, and his business sagacity was generally recognized. He secured and always retained the confidence of those with whom he had transactions, making a clear presentation as he always did of the qualities of an upright and sterling manhood. His wife was Amey Arnold. In his domestic relations he was ever kind-hearted, sincere and affectionate.
Governor Earle was prominent, deservedly so, in the Masonic Fraternity. He was made a Mason in St. John's Lodge, Providence, with whose interests he was identified for a long term of years. The Grand Lodge of Rhode Island, in 1837, took him from the floor and elected him to the highest office. He served as Grand Master during the years 1837-38 and 39. He was spared to a green old age—more than fourscore years—and then passed on, leaving behind him a bright and honorable record.
