Craft Masonry in Manhattan, New York County, New York

Craft Masonry in Manhattan, New York County, New York
Approximately 350 Lodges
Volume III
Lodge Nos. 304 thru 498
Compiled by Gary L. Heinmiller
Director, Onondaga & Oswego Masonic Districts Historical Societies (OMDHS)
www.omdhs.syracusemasons.com
July-September 2011
Additions and corrections are welcomed
In compiling the historical sketches for the Masonic Districts of New York State I have saved the Greater New York City area for last
owing to the very many Lodges which formed in this area. In very general terms this large metropolitan area, to include Nassau
County, had numerous Lodges which found themselves in various of these counties over the years, or met at the Grand Lodge
Building at several different locations.
The labor of completely and accurately identifying the actual location of the meeting places of these numerous Lodges is a
somewhat daunting task, which at sometime may be able to be completely unraveled, but the present compilation the historical
sketches will be written from extant sources which give locations for these Lodges.
General sources used for compilation a list of Lodges for this area:
Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York: Volumes I [1781-1815] and II [1816-1827]; 2000 and 2002
1898 List of New York Lodges, arranged by Districts from A Standard History of Freemasonry in the State of New York ..., Volume
2, by Peter Ross, page 6 et seq.
http://books.google.com/books?id=kWYiAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA7&dq=%22manhattan+masonic+districts%22&hl=en&ei=L6_4TYDOG8
bw0gH_spybCw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CDUQ6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q&f=false
A brief overview of the Greater New York City area, gives some appreciation of the complexity of the many Lodges which appeared
in this area over the years.
New York City
The Five Boroughs of New York City: 1. Manhattan; 2. Brooklyn; 3. Queens; 4. The Bronx; 5. Staten Island.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_City
New York City is composed of five boroughs. Each borough is coextensive with a respective county of New York State as shown
below. Throughout the boroughs there are hundreds of distinct neighborhoods, many with a definable history and character to call
their own. If the boroughs were each independent cities, four of the boroughs (Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and the Bronx) would
be among the ten most populous cities in the United States.
1

Borough County Approx Pop. Notes
Manhattan New York 1,629,054 The most densely populated borough and is home to Central Park and most of the
city's skyscrapers. The borough is the financial center of the city and contains the headquarters of many major corporations, the
United Nations, a number of important universities, and many cultural attractions. Manhattan is loosely divided into Lower, Midtown,
and Uptown regions. Uptown Manhattan is divided by Central Park into the Upper East Side and the Upper West Side, and above
the park is Harlem.
Located primarily on Manhattan Island at the mouth of the Hudson River, the boundaries of the borough are identical to those of
New York County, an original county of the state of New York. The borough and county consist of Manhattan Island and several
small adjacent islands: Roosevelt Island, Randall’s Island, Wards Island, Governors Island, Liberty Island, part of Ellis Island, Mill
Rock, and U Thant Island; as well as Marble Hill, a very small area on the mainland bordering the Bronx. The original city of New
York began at the southern end of Manhattan, expanded northwards, and then between 1874 and 1898, annexed land from
surrounding counties.
The Bronx Bronx 1,397,287 New York City's northernmost borough, the location of Yankee Stadium, and home to
the largest cooperatively owned housing complex in the United States, Co-op City. Except for a small section of Manhattan known
as Marble Hill, the Bronx is the only section of the city that is part of the United States mainland. It is home to the Bronx Zoo,
[265 acres]. The Bronx is the birthplace of rap and hip hop culture. It is also known as Bronx County, the last of the 62 counties of
New York State to be incorporated [in 1914].
Brooklyn Kings 2,567,098 Since 1896, Brooklyn has had the same boundaries as Kings County. On the western
tip of Long Island, is the city's most populous borough and was an independent city until 1898. Brooklyn is known for its cultural,
social and ethnic diversity, an independent art scene, distinct neighborhoods and a distinctive architectural heritage. It is also the
only borough outside of Manhattan with a distinct downtown neighborhood. The borough features a long beachfront and Coney
Island, established in the 1870s.
Queens Queens 2,306,712 Queens was established in 1683 as one of
the original 12 counties of New York and was supposedly named for the Queen consort,
Catherine of Braganza (1638–1705), the Portuguese princess who married King Charles
II of England in 1662. Originally, Queens County included the adjacent area now
comprising Nassau County. On 7 Oct 1691, all counties in the Colony of New York were
redefined. Queens gained North Brother Island, South Brother Island, and Huletts Island
(today known as Rikers Island). On 3 Dec 1768, Queens gained other islands in Long
Island Sound that were not already assigned to a county but that did not abut on
Westchester County (today’s Bronx County). From 1683 until 1784, Queens County
consisted of five towns: Flushing, Hempstead, Jamaica, Newtown, and Oyster Bay. On 6
Apr 1784, a sixth town, the Town of North Hempstead, was formed through secession by
the northern portions of the Town of Hempstead.
On 1 Mar 1860, the eastern border between Queens County (later Nassau County) and
Suffold County was redefined with no discernible change. On 8 Jun 1881, North Brother
Island was transferred to New York County. On 8 May 1884, Rikers Island was
transferred to New York County. In 1885, Lloyd Neck, which was part of the Town of
Oyster Bay and was earlier known as Queens Village, seceded from Queens and became part of the Town of Huntington in Suffolk
County. On 16 Apr 1964, South Brother Island was transferred to Bronx County.
The New York City Borough of Queens was authorized on May 4, 1897, by a vote of the New York State Legislature after an 1894
referendum on consolidation. The eastern 280 square miles of Queens that became Nassau County was partitioned on 1 Jan 1899.
Queens Borough was established on 1 Jan 1898. Long Island City, the towns of Newtown, Flushing, and Jamaica, and the
Rockaway Peninsula portion of the Town of Hempstead were merged to form the new borough, dissolving all former municipal
governments (Long Island City, the county government, all towns, and all villages) within the new borough. The areas of Queens
County that were not part of the consolidation plan, consisting of the towns of North Hempstead and Oyster Bay, and the major
remaining portion of the Town of Hempstead, remained part of Queens County until they seceded to form the new Nassau County
on 1 Jan 1899, whereupon the boundaries of Queens County and the Borough of Queens became coterminous. With consolidation,
Jamaica once again became the county seat, though county offices now extend to nearby Kew Gardens also.
Geographically the largest borough and the most ethnically diverse county in the United States, and may overtake Brooklyn as the
city's most populous borough due to its growth. Historically a collection of small towns and villages founded by the Dutch, today the
borough is predominantly residential and middle class. Queens is the site of Citi Field, the home of the New York Mets, and annually
hosts the U. S. Open tennis tournament. Additionally, it is home to two of the three major airports serving the New York metropolitan
area, LaGuardia and JFK airports. (The third is Newark Liberty airport in Newark, NJ.)
Staten Island Richmond 491,730 The most suburban in character of the five boroughs. Staten Island is connected to
Brooklyn by the Verrazano Narrows Bridge and to Manhattan by way of the free Staten Island Ferry. The Staten Island Ferry is one
of the most popular tourist attractions in New York City as it provides unsurpassed views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and
lower Manhattan. Located in central Staten Island, the 2,500 acres Greenbelt has some 28 miles of walking trails and one of the last
undisturbed forests in the city. Designated in 1984 to protect the island's natural lands, the Greenbelt comprises seven city parks.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Five_Boroughs
New York City, one of the largest cities in the world, is composed of five boroughs. Each borough now has the same boundaries as
the county it is in. County governments were dissolved when the city consolidated in 1898, along with all city, town, and village
governments within each county. A borough is a unique form of governmental administration for each of the five fundamental
constituent parts of the consolidated city. Technically, under New York State Law, a "borough" is a municipal corporation that is
2

created when a county is merged with the cities, towns, and incorporated villages within it. It differs significantly from other borough
forms of government used in Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, other states, Greater London and elsewhere.
New York City is often referred to collectively as the Five Boroughs; the term is used to refer to New York City as a whole
unambiguously, avoiding confusion with any particular borough or with the greater metropolitan area. It is often used by politicians to
counter a focus on Manhattan and to place all five boroughs on equal footing. The term Outer Boroughs refers to all the boroughs
excluding Manhattan (although the geographic center of the city is along the Brooklyn/Queens border).
Unlike most American cities, which lie within a single county, extend partially into another county, or constitute a county in
themselves, each of New York City's five boroughs is coextensive with a county of New York State.
All boroughs were created in 1898 during consolidation, when the city's current boundaries were established. The Borough of Bronx
was originally the parts of New York County that had been previously ceded by Westchester County, until Bronx County was
created in 1914. The Borough of Queens originally consisted of just the western part of a larger Queens County, until Nassau
County was created by the secession from Queens County of the three eastern towns in 1899. The Borough of Staten Island was
officially the Borough of Richmond until the name was changed in 1975 to reflect its common appellation.
Each borough is represented by a Borough President and, with the exception of Manhattan, has a borough hall (the same functions,
and others, reside in the Manhattan Municipal Building). Since the abolition of the Board of Estimate in 1990 (due to a 1989 ruling of
the U.S. Supreme Court) the borough president now has minimal executive powers, and there is no legislative function within a
borough. Most executive power is exercised by the Mayor of New York City, and legislative functions are the responsibility of the
members of the New York City Council. Because they are counties, each borough also elects a District Attorney, as does every
other county of the state. Some civil court judges are also elected on a borough-wide basis, although they are generally eligible to
serve throughout the city.
Lodges - Volume III
No. Lodge Name Chartered Noted
304 Concord 22 Apr 1818 55 renumbered No. 50 on 7 Jun 1839; warrant surrendered 1
Jun 1842; revived in 1858
304 Schiller 9M 11 Jun 1853 Whitestone, Queens Co.; of Williamsburgh, Kings Co., in
1855; An offshoot of the Lodge is Copernicus Lodge, No.
545, organized in 1864.
316 Atlas 7 Jun 1854
317 St. Neptune 10 Jun 1854
321 St. Nicholas 13 Jun 1854 Merged with Continental Lodge No. 287.
322 German Union 14 Apr 1819 95 renumbered No. 54 in 1830
323 Amity 5M 10 Jun 1854
327 Acacia Jun 1854
329 Zerubbabel Jun 1854 warrant 'arrested'; forfeit 4 Jun 1896
330 New York Jun 1854
338 Putnam Jun 1854
339 Hibernia 06 Dec - 265
1821
339 Puritan Jun 1854
348 Alelphic
[Adelphic?]
356 United Brothers 9M Whitestone, Queens Co.
360 Silentia 13 Jun 1823 352 See Silentia No. 198, GLNY and No. 2, 27 Sep 1837, St.
John's GL
367 York 03 Mar1824 395 See York No. 197
368 Fireman's 04 Mar1824 396 New York Lodge No. 368, extant 1827
370 Manhattan 26 Mar 1824 396 renumbered No. 62, 7Jun 1839
371 Minerva 27 Mar 1824 396 extant 1827
371 Sagamore-
Napthali
1971 merged with Greenwich No. 467 to become Sagamore
No. 371
371 Sagamore Jun 1855 aka 'Sangamore'; ref. Heritage Lodge No. 371; In 1996,
Sagamore Lodge no. 371 merged with Corinthian Architect
Lodge No. 488 to become Heritage Lodge No. 371.
371 Heritage 4M 1996 formed from merger of Sagamore No. 371 and Corinthian
Architect No. 488 in 1996
373 La Fayette 02 Dec 1824 421 renumbered No. 64, Jun 1839
373 La Sincerite 10M aka Cincerit; prev. No. 122.
378 Hoffman 03 Mar 1825 422 extant 1827
379 Eastern Star CST 04 Mar 1825 422 extant 1827
380 Franklin 06 Apr 1825 422 extant 1827; see also Franklin Lodge No. 447
381 Greenwich 07 Apr 1825 422 Surrendered 7 Dec 1835; revived as Greenwich No. 467 in
1859 [q.v.]
385 Mariner's 07 Sep 1825 445 renumbered No. 67, 7 Jun 1839
386 Bolivar 24 Dec 1825 445
387 Montgomery 24 Dec 1825 445 renumbered No. 68 in 1839
387 La Fraternidad 10M 6 Jun 1856 197 worked in Spanish
388 Tompkins 01 Mar 1826 445 extant 1827
3

389 Mystic 03 Mar 1826 445 extant 1827
390 Locke ca 1826 extant 1827
391 Naval 08 Jun 1826 renumbered No. 69 in 1839
392 Columbia 06 Sep 1826 452 extant 1827
402 Crescent
402 Compact 4M
408 City 01 Sep 1856 date instituted
410 La Clemente-
Amitie-
Cosmopolite
410 France-La
Clemente-Amitie-
Cosmopolite
4 Jun 1857 208 worked in French under the York Rite; name change 15 Nov
1996
10M 15 Nov 196 Prev. name La Clemente-Amitie-Cosmopolitan, 4 Jun 1857;
aka France L.C.A.C.
418 Mosaic
447 Franklin 4M Restored from Franklin Lodge No. 380
449 Hiram
449 Manahatta /
Manhattan
4M Prev. No. 489
454 Kane 4M
457 Harlem ca 1859
457 Liberty ca 1859 succeeded Americas No. 467; merged with Publicity Lodge
No. 1000 to become Publicity Lodge No. 1000 in 2000.
467 Greenwich 1859 Prev. No. 381, 1825; 1971 merged with Sagamore-Napthali
No. 519 to become Sagamore No. 371
484 Columbian 4M ca 1860 *
486 Ionic 8 Jun 1860 * met at St. John's Hall, 181 Bowery; consolidated with Golden
Rule 770 in 1976; formed with some 'healed members' of
Freemen's Lodge No. 3
486 Goldenrule Ionic 1976
486 Goldenrule
Clermont
McKinley
6M 1992 241 formed from merger of Clermont 996 and William McKinley
840; these two merged with Golden Rule Ionic No. 486 in
1992
487 Tecumseh
487 Normal 4M
488 Corinthian Jun 1860 * may have been organized from members of Corinthian No. 3,
under the Scottish Rite by Henry C. Atwood; 1967 merged
with Architect No. 519 to become Corinthian Architect No.
488
488 Corinthian
Architect
1967 from merger of Corinthian No. 488 and Architect No. 519;
Merged with Sagamore No. 371 in 1996 to become Heritage
No. 371
489 Manahatta ca 1860 * extinct; 135 pg Lodge History written 1928; see Manhatta
Lodge No. 449
490 Pyramid 4M 22 Jun 1860 242
498 Zorobabel Jun 1827 St. John's Grand Lodge; Robert Benjamin Folger, Senior
Warden; warrant issued to Hans B. Gram, Robert B. Folger
and Lewis Saynisch.
Concord Lodge No. 304
Warrant: 22 Apr 1818
Renumbered No. 50 on 7 Jun 1839;
Warrant surrendered 1 Jun 1842; revived in 1858
1821 Officers:
George B. Smith, W. M.
Lebbeus Chapman, S. W.
Amasa Higgins, J. W.
Zophar R. Jarvis, Treas.
Josiah L. James, Secy.
Gair Blanchard, S. D.
George P. Morris, J. D.
Gregory Snethen, and William Willis, M. C.
Caleb Comstock, and Matthew Van Yorx, Stewards.
B. Rosseter, T. Lebbeus Chapman, Mortines Swaim, Farnham Hall, Lucius Q. C. Bowles, and Amasa Higgins, Standing
Committee.
1828 Officers
Reported in the American Masonic Record, and Albany Saturday Magazine, Volume 1, No. 22; Saturday, 8 Sep 1827
Thomas C. Williams, W. M.
-----
4

H. A. Simons, S. W.
Austin Melvin, J. W.
Sylvester Spencer, Sec'y
Samuel Clark, Treas'r
William Dymock, S. D.
William A. Mercein, J. D.
M. Osborne, William Ransom, M.C.
J. L. James, William Trowbridge, Stewards
Bryan Rossiter Tyler.
L. Chapman, T. C. Williams, H. A. Simons, Trustees of Perm. Fund
T. C. Williams, H. A. Simons, Austin Melvin, L. Chapman, W. A. Mercein, Standing Committee
Meets the 2nd and 4th Mondays, at St. John's Hall.
Officers elected 14 Dec 1829.
Sylvester Spencer, Master;
John Palmer, Senior Warden;
Peter Crawford, Junior Warden;
Homer Hurd, Secretary;
James Marshall, Treasurer;
H. Cavzaboom, Senior Deacon;
J. P. Davenport, Junior Deacon;
Robert Young, Tyler.
Standing Committee: S. Spencer, John Palmer, Peter Crawford, S. Chapman, H. A. Simons
Officers of Rising Sun Royal Arch Chapter, No. 16, in the City of New-York, elected 24 Dec 1829.
Sylvester Spencer, M. E. H. P.;
John C. Hurd, K.;
Peter Crawford, S.;
James Thomson, C. H.;
Abram Craig. R. A. C;
J. P. Piersan, 3d,
John Palmer, 2nd,
J. P. Davenport, 1st. M. of Vails;
Thomas Slade, Secretary;
John Gasner, Treasurer;
Stephen Garthwait, Sentinel.
Standing Committee: S. Spencer, J. C. Hurd, P. Crawford, J. P. Piersan, J.Hodge.
Memorials of the Society of the Cincinnati of Massachusetts, by Massachusetts Society of the Cincinnati, Francis Samuel Drake,
page 231.
http://books.google.com/books?id=CvJEg2jiPnsC&pg=PA231&lpg=PA231&dq=%22Lucius+Quintius+Cincinnatus+Bowles%22&sou
rce=bl&ots=FcebvE9ljG&sig=w2zQlLv-
WJzTmaNTYslWBVk7WiI&hl=en&ei=4yNZTvW2A9TD0AGHwbzTDA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CBYQ6A
EwAA#v=onepage&q=%22Lucius%20Quintius%20Cincinnatus%20Bowles%22&f=false
Ralph Hart Bowles m. in 1788 Hannah Crocker, d/o Rev. Josiah Crocker, pastor of the first church in Taunton, a woman of great
energy of character, and much esteemed for her many virtues. She d. Roxbury 10 July, 1848, age 82. Her mother was the sister of
Gen. David Cobb and also of Sarah Paine, wife of Hon. Robert Treat Paine, a signer of the Declaration of Indepependence. Her bro.
Capt. Joseph Crocker was the first Assistant Secretary of the Society.
The children of Ralph and Hannah were:
i. Lucius Quintius Cincinnatus.
ii. Hannah Crocker, b. 20 Apr 1791, d. in infancy.
iii. Stephen Jones,
Wallace, Jr., of Harrington, ME,
iv. Leonard Crocker, b. Sep 1796.
b. 07 Jul 1793, merchant; d. Roxbury 26 Mar 1846,m.Elizabeth Thorndike Wallace, d/o Col. Joseph
v. Wm. Ralph Hart, b. Sep 1799; d. 1851.
vi. Mary Jones, b. 06 May 1802, d. 1845; m. Fred'k A. Burrall, merchant of New York.
Lucius Quintius Cincinnatus Bowles - He was the eldest son of Ralph Hart Bowles, whom he succeeded in 1814; was b. 6 Mar
1789, Machias, ME; d. Jul 1843 in Roxbury, unmarried. After an apprenticesbip to John West, bookseller in Boston, he removed to
Montpelier, VT, and while there commanded a company which marched to Plattsburg in 1814, and served to the end of the war. He
was afterward a publisher in New York and subsequently resided in Machias, where he was senator, from Washington Co., for one
or more years.
He may be found in early records as Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus Bowles, Lucius Q. C. Bowles or L. Q. C. Bowles. He was
presumably named for Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus (519 BC – 430 BC), an aristocrat and political figure of the Roman Republic,
serving as consul in 460 BC and Roman dictator in 458 BC and 439 BC. This Roman man was mostly known as “Cincinnatus” and
the one for whom the Society of the Cincinnati is named, of which Bro. Bowles was a member, by virtue of his father’s Revolutionary
War service and his membership in the Massachusetts Society thereof.
He is listed as the publisher of various books, to include the Psalms of David (1814); in Montpelier, VT, “The Lady of the Lake” by
Walter Scott, Esq., was published by Lucius Q. C. Bowles in 1813; The Freemason's Monitor, or, Illustrations of Masonry in two
parts, by Thomas Smith Webb, Published in Montpelier, VT, by:Lucius Q.C. Bowles, 1816 (Walton & Goss)
5

Other works or papers:
Papers, 1718-1846 by Ralph H Bowles in English and held by 2 libraries worldwide: Correspondence, documents, accounts and
receipts, and other papers of Bowles and his sons, Lucius Q. C. Bowles (1789-1843) and Stephen J. Bowles (1794-1846), relating
to the family lumber business, chiefly operated by Ralph H. and Stephen, Bowles's activities as postmaster and local official, and
Lucius Q. C. Bowles's service as Maine state senator.
A reference list of manuscripts relating to the history of Maine, Volume 1
http://books.google.com/books?id=1QNUAAAAYAAJ&q=%22Lucius+Q.+C.+Bowles%22&dq=%22Lucius+Q.+C.+Bowles%22&hl=e
n&ei=_yxZTrbVDqPL0QGdmOikDA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=14&ved=0CGoQ6AEwDQ
-----
Boston, MA
He was licensed as an auctioneer in Boston with an office at No. 59 Cornhill in 1819 “for the ensuing year.”
Lodge of Saint Andrew, and the Massachusetts Grand Lodge, by Freemasons. Lodge of Saint Andrew (Boston, Mass.),
http://books.google.com/books?id=SkEZAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA239&dq=%22Lucius+Q.+C.+Bowles%22&hl=en&ei=_yxZTrbVDqPL0Q
GdmOikDA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=9&ved=0CFAQ6AEwCA#v=onepage&q=%22Lucius%20Q.%20C.%20Bowle
s%22&f=false
In this book he listed as a Past Member of The Lodge of St. Andres, Boston, MA, having been admitted and recorded in 1816 as
Lucius Q. C. Bowles.
The several Masonic Societies in the town of Boston, viz., M. W. Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, M. E. Grand R. A. Chapter,
Boston Encampment of Knights Templars, Boston Council of Royal Masters, St. Andrew's R. A. Chapter, St. Paul's R. A. Chapter,
St. John's, St. Andrew's, Massachusetts, Columbian and Mount Lebanon Lodges, having been deprived of their Masonic Hall in the
Exchange Coffee House by fire, Nov. 3, 1818, chose, at their respective meetings, in the beginning of the year 1819, . . . brethren as
a general committee to procure a place for their future meetings, among whom one member was Lucius Q. C. Bowles.
Montpelier, VT
The history of the town of Montpelier, including that of the town of East ..., edited by Abby Maria Hemenway, page 352.
http://books.google.com/books?id=aYoQ5EssbR0C&pg=PA352&dq=%22Lucius+Q.+C.+Bowles%22&hl=en&ei=_yxZTrbVDqPL0Q
GdmOikDA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=7&ved=0CEcQ6AEwBg#v=onepage&q=%22Lucius%20Q.%20C.%20Bowles
%22&f=false
Among the Merchants and Traders [page 278] he is listed as L. Q. C. Bowles, Walton & Goss, Booksellers, &c. in 1810.
AURORA LODGE, No. 9, F&AM, [Montpelier, VT] was chartered 14 Oct 1796, the petition for.which was signed by Moses Hubbard,
Benjamin Waite, and others. The hall first occupied we have been unable to
ascertain; but in 1805-6 the meetings were held in a room over Geo. B. R. Gove's
store, (the building now occupied by Fisher& Colton,) on Main street. Then from
1809 to 1822, they had a hall in the old Academy building. About the first of
January, 1822, this was destroyed by fire. January 7th of that year, they
assembled at Reuben Lamb's mansion-room, so called; and from Feb. 4 of the
same year held their meetings in the Pavilion hotel, then kept by Thomas Davis,
until they occupied their new hall. The corner stone of this hall was laid Aug. 8,
1822, with masonic ceremonies, the oration being delivered by Erastus Watrous.
The Lodge held their first meeting in their new hall Oct. 7, 1822. This building
stood at the corner of School and Main streets, on the site now occupied by
Bethany church. Among the members of the Lodge we find the names of many prominent citizens of this and adjoining towns, [to
include] L. Q. C. Bowles. He is recorded as being the Junior Warden of Aurora Lodge No. 9 in the 9 Oct 1815 session of the Grand
Lodge of Vermont, and as Secretary in the 17 Oct 1817 session.
MONTPELIER COUNCIL OF ROYAL AND SELECT MASTERS.—Organized Jan. 3, 1818, by Jeremy L. Cross, with Lucius Q. C. Bowles as
T. I. G. M., Nathan Jewett as D. I. G. M., and Daniel Baldwin as P. C. We can find no further record of their proceedings other than
that they existed until the breaking up of Masonry in 1834, though they did not surrender their charter until the revival of Masonry in
this State about the year 1850 or '51, when by so doing they received a new one. [Note also, the appearance of Bro. Jeremy L.
Cross above. Bro. Cross went to publish his now ‘famous’ The True Masonic Chart: or Hieroglyphic Monitor, beginning in 1819]
http://archiver.rootsweb.ancestry.com/th/read/BOWLES/2006-07/1153296382
The first secret organization to establish itself in Waitsfield [VT] was the King Hiram Lodge, No. 45, F. and A.M.
It would seem that numerous citizens of the town had affiliated themselves with the Masonic Order at an early day, for on July 7,
1817, a meeting of Masons residing in the vicinity was held at the home of Roderick Richardson, at which meeting L. Q. C.
Bowles was chosen chairman, and Matthias S. Jones acted as Clerk. It was voted to petition the Grand Lodge for a warrant of
constitution for a local lodge, and on October 6, 1817, the petition was granted and a charter issued.
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6

7 Oct 1817 Lucius was appointed to serve as District Deputy Grand Master for Districts 6 and 10 in Vermont.
7 Oct 1818 he was appointed Grand Marshal by the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Vermont.
New York City
In 1821 Lucius appears on the Standing Committee of Concord Lodge No. 304, but there is no further record of whether this was
as a visitor or if he affiliated with this Lodge.
Maine
http://www.mainemasonrytoday.com/history/Proceedings/proc1839.htm?zoom_highlight=nathaniel
The Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Maine was holden at the Augusta House, in Augusta, on Thursday, the 17th day
of January, A. D. 1839.
Present [among others]: R.’.W.’. Lucius Q. C. Bowles, J. G. Deacon, p. t.
Voted, To choose a Committee on Foreign Correspondence.
Bros. Isaac Hobbs, Oliver B. Dorrance and Lucius Q. C. Bowles, were chosen said Committee.
Augusta, 22 Jan 1839. The Grand Lodge met at the Augusta House, agreeably to adjournment.
Present [among others]: R.’. W.’. L. Q. C. BOWLES, G. Tyler, p. t.
http://68.165.92.196:81/cdm4/item_viewer.php?CISOROOT=/Photographs&CISOPTR=33&CISOBOX
=1&REC=2
R.’. W.’. Geroge B. Smith -Four years after becoming a Mason he was Master of Washington Lodge
No. 21 in 1811. He served as Master of the Lodge again in 1813 and in 1817.
The following year, he and several of his Lodge Brothers put forth a Petition, dated April 11, 1818 to
begin a new lodge. The Petition stated that they had been "induced to withdraw from [Washington
Lodge No. 16] in consequence of a difference of sentiment on subjects connected with the Masonic
Institution. The existence of which differences has prevented the attainment of that degree of Harmony
which is upon all occasions so desirable." In a Lodge history, it was written that, "It was the desire of
the brethren for peace and harmony, or, if you please, Concord, that inspired the formation of Concord
Lodge." George B. Smith served as Master of Concord Lodge No. 304 during their first and second
years, 1818 and 1819, and again in 1823. He served on many Grand Lodge Committees. Smith was
born in Goshen, New York. He served in several minor civil offices and was President of the National
Butchers and Drovers Bank. He gave up all of these positions to devote his entire attention to the
affairs of John Jacob Astor, in whose employ he was.
-----
Schiller Lodge No. 304
Warrant: 11 Jun 1853
Past Master Jewel of George B. Smith
Whitestone, Queens Co.; of Williamsburgh, Kings Co., in 1855; now in the 9th Manhattan Masonic District
An offshoot of the Lodge is Copernicus Lodge, No. 545, organized in 1864.
1855 Masonic Register:
Williamsburgh, Kings Co. - Meets at Masonic Hall, Grand Street, every Friday.
John Jacob Wolf, Master,
Edward Roehr, Senior Warden,
Philip Seitz, Junior Warden,
Henry Redenback, Secretary.
7

A standard history of freemasonry in the state of New York ..., Volume 2, by Peter Ross, page 503.
http://books.google.com/books?id=kWYiAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA503&lpg=PA503&dq=%22Schiller+Lodge+No.+304%22&source=bl&ot
s=YoiFrZEJ5b&sig=TrqxZrqjZjdNNi1CI4ckxsYsZ8I&hl=en&ei=BoRZTvyBIbw0gGA0ujDDA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=8&ved=0CE4Q6AEwBw#v=onepage&q=%22Schiller%20Lodge%20
No.%20304%22&f=false
Carsten Busch was made a Mason in Schiller Lodge, No. 304, Brooklyn, in 1890, and after the usual experience of subordinate
office-holding became its Master in 1896. He was re-elected to the same dignified office the following year,—a fact which shows
sufficiently that Schiller Lodge applauded his efforts throughout his first term and endorsed his administration. Since retiring from
office he has maintained his deep interest in the Lodge and the craft, and his presence is always welcomed not only in Schiller
Lodge, but also in the various German Lodges in Brooklyn.
In that city Brother Busch has resided for some years. Born in Germany, 7 Sep 1852, he went to learn the trade of cigar
manufacturing on leaving school, and worked at that trade after coming to this country in 1875. In 1894 he established a factory on
his own account and has been remarkably successful from the beginning. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows
and of the Royal Arcanum, but outside of his business relations it is in Masonry and Masonic work that he spends the most of his
time. Business is his work, and in the craft he finds pleasure and instruction.
-----
Ibid. page 330.
Louis G. Burger, Treasurer of the Burger Brewing Company, Brooklyn, was born in that city,—borough, we suppose we must call it
now,—26 Sep 1866. After obtaining a superior commercial education in his native place he entered the office of the Burger Brewing
Company,—of which establishment his father was the founder,—and gradually acquired a thorough knowledge of all its details,
especially the details connected with its business. This led to his appointment, in 1887, to the Treasurership of the company, a
position for which his education and experience had eminently fitted him. For the company the appointment has proved an ideal
one, as Brother Burger not only has the business at his fingers ends, but his methods are of the most approved stamp and he is
personally very popular with all having business relations with the company. He has been the means of extending its circle of
operations in many directions and in effecting many improvements made necessary by modern requirements.
Brother Burger was initiated, passed and raised in Schiller Lodge, No. 304, in 1892, and at once took a characteristically active
part in the work of that body of Masons. He served it faithfully in various subordinate ways, gradually increased his popularity among
the brethren, and at the annual election at the close of 1897 was elected Master. That position he still holds, and his management
of the affairs of the Lodge, as its executive head, fully justifies the high encomiums so often expressed by the brethren.
-----
Ibid. page 447.
Karl Buchmiiller is one of the charter members of Kedron Lodge, No. 803, at Bath Beach, and has taken a warm and active
personal interest in the progress of that young and enthusiastic body of Masons. He was initiated, passed and raised, in 1883, in
Schiller Lodge, No. 304, Brooklyn, and was there noted for a long time for the marked attention which he bestowed on its affairs.
Like most of the brethren of Schiller Lodge, Karl Buchmiiller was born in Germany, the date of his birth being 9 Sep 1847. He had no
sooner left school than he was forced, in accordance with the laws of the country, to enter the army, and there he served for six
years. He saw active service in the Franco-German war, and at the expiration of his term, in 1872, came to the United States. Here
he drifted into the meat trade, and for some ten vears was a butcher. Then he went into the hotel business, and gradually built up a
good trade. His establishment at Bath Avenue and Bay. Thirteenth Street, Bath Beach, is a popular resort, is well managed, and its
proprietor deserves the success it has brought to him from the day he assumed its control.
-----
Ibid. page 368.
Gustave Oscar Du Chilio, a well known teacher of languages in Brooklyn, was born in Germany, 20 Oct 1847. In his own land he
became a teacher and acquired considerable prominence as an educator. He came to the United States in 1879 and settled in
Brooklyn, where he has in a quiet way built up a succession of classes for the study of modern tongues. He is a well read man,
deeply versed in literary subjects, and is highly esteemed in the circles in which he moves.
In 1897 he received the Symbolic degrees in Schiller Lodge, No. 304, Brooklyn, and in the short time in which he has been
connected with the Masonic institution has evinced a deep interest in its history, its philosophy and its aims.
-----
A History of Long Island: from its Earliest Settlement to the ..., Volume 3, by Peter Ross, William Smith Pelletreau
http://books.google.com/books?id=wYc-
AAAAYAAJ&pg=PA34&dq=%22Schiller+Lodge+No.+304%22&hl=en&ei=E41ZTq8xhJGBB9rX7KsM&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=res
ult&resnum=7&ved=0CEsQ6AEwBg#v=onepage&q=%22Schiller%20Lodge%20No.%20304%22&f=false
Herman Gerdes, well known because of his active connection with the real estate business of the borough of Brooklyn and ranking
high in local fraternal circles, was born in Germany, and his death occurred when he was in his sixtieth year. For a quarter of a
century he made his home in Brooklyn and throughout that period was engaged in the real estate business. He secured a good
clientage, and the extent and importance of his operations resulted in winning for him prosperity, while his reliable and progressive
business methods won for him the confidence and trust of the business worW. Mr. Gerdes was well known in the Odd Fellows and
Masonic lodges. He served as chaplain of Charles T. Smith Lodge No. 348, I. O. O. F., and was grand secretary for the state of New
York for Peter Cooper Lodge No. 119, O. D. H. S. He was also treasurer of the Peter Cooper Accumulating Association. He held
membership in Schiller Lodge No. 304, F&AM, and in Brooklyn Chapter No. 221, O. E. S.
8

Mr. Gerdes married Miss Sophia Gorlich, and they became the parents of four sons and a daughter: Herman, Arthur, John, Henry
and Gesine. To the welfare and happiness of his family he was greatly devoted, and his loyalty in friendship was also numbered
among his salient characteristics.
-----
The Strebel Family
Schlegel's German-American Families in the United States ..., Volume 2, by Carl Wilhelm Schlegel, American Historical Society,
page 359-60
http://books.google.com/books?id=CnATAQAAMAAJ&pg=PA360&dq=%22Schiller+Lodge+No.+304%22&hl=en&ei=E41ZTq8xhJG
BB9rX7KsM&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=5&ved=0CEAQ6AEwBA#v=onepage&q=%22Schiller%20Lodge%20No.%20
304%22&f=false
The immediate ancestor of this branch of the Strebel family which furnishes the caption of this review, was Georg Friedrich Strebel.
He was born in the historic city of Worms, situated on the river Rhine, province of RheinHessen, Germany, 21 Nov 1829. He was
there educated in the Volksschule, and was reared to years of manhood at the family home. Having learned the trade and
occupation of a locksmith, he followed that line of business throughout the active years of his life.
He married Katherina Saxer. She was born 4 Oct 1837, d/o Johann and Anna (Stisy) Saxer. Her father, Johann Saxer, was b. 8 Jul
1805, in the village of Pfifflichheim. Katherina (Saxer) Strebel died 20 Mar 1885. Issue:
1. Johann, b. 21 Feb 1856; d. April 26, 1876.
2. Charles (Karl), b. 26 Jul 1857, of whom forward.
3. Katherina, b. 10 Nov 1859.
4. Anna Maria Caritas, b. 26 Feb 1861.
5; Maria Katherina, b. 22 Jan 1863; d. 9 Jul 1878.
6. Elizabeth Franziska, b. 06 Feb 1865.
7. Konrad, b. 07 Feb 1867
8. Johanna Luise, b. 29 Jul 1869.
9- George Friedrich, b. 31 Mar 1871.
10. Luduig Joseph, b. 29 Nov 1872.
11. Johann, b. 03 Aug 1873.
Charles (Karl) Strebel, second son of Georg Friedrich and Katherina (Saxer) Strebel, was born at the family home in the historic
city of Worms, on the river Rhine, in the province of Rhein-Hessen, Germany, 26 Jul 1857. Like his father, he received his
educational training in the Volks-schule of his native city, and was confirmed in the Roman Catholic church at the age of fourteen.
Soon after laying aside his schoolbooks he assisted his father in his work in his locksmith and machine shop, and under his
guidance and tuition acquired a practical knowledge of the various details and technique of the locksmith's and machinist's trade as
it was then conducted in the Fatherland. Upon attaining to suitable years the young machinist became eligible and rendered military
service in the German army, and upon his return home again he became actively engaged at his chosen work in his native city up to
1880, in which year he decided to emigrate to the United States. Having arranged his family interests and personal affairs, he
embarked from the seaport city of Rotterdam, Holland, and set sail for the harbor of New York City.
Immediately upon his arrival here, the young German mechanic became identified with his uncle, Edward Sarenze, who was at that
time a builder and architectural iron worker in New York City, where he continued actively engaged for some time. Later, Mr. Strebel
became identified with the Adam Happels Iron Works in New York City, and remained actively engaged there up to 1901. Being
desirous of beginning business on his own account, Mr. Strebel enabled himself as a result of his industry and thrift to establish a
plant at 398 Harman street, in the borough of Brooklyn, where he was successfully engaged in the manufacture of structural and
architectural iron products for building and ornamental purposes. In this undertaking Mr. Strebel met with immediate success as the
logical result of his originality and thoroughness of his work. His business rapidly increased, and in order to meet the requirements
of his trade he erected and established a new building at No. 2360 Myrtle avenue, in the Ridgewood district of the borough of
Brooklyn, where the enterprise had been successfully carried forward by Mr. Strebel up to 1906. He later admitted two of his sons
into partnership, and the firm name was changed to Charles Strebel & Sons Iron Works. The business has since been successfully
carried forward under the direction and management of the father and sons, and at the present time (1917) the Charles Strebel &
Sons Iron Works furnish employment for a large number of skilled mechanics and artisans who have their homes in the Ridgewood
district, where the Charles Strebel & Sons Iron Works have contributed much to the material growth of the neighborhood wherein
they are situated.
Since having taken up his residence in the borough of Brooklyn, Charles Strebel had become identified with the social and fraternal
interests of the community wherein he made his home. He was an active member of the Schiller Lodge, No. 304, F&AM; also the
Mayflower Lodge. No. 5, of Brooklyn; the Morning Star Lodge of the Eastern Star; the Herse-Darmstadter Verein of the borough of
Brooklyn; and the Germania Mannerchor Singing Society, borough of Brooklyn, in all of which he was actively associated. Mr.
Strebel and his family attended the services of the First Presbyterian Church in the Ridgewood district of the borough of Brooklyn,
and since the demise of the husband and father his widow and children continued to worship in the same church. He died at his
home in Halleck street, in the Ridgewood district of the borough of Brooklyn, 19 Aug 1916.
Charles (Karl) Strebel married, in New York City, 2 Sep 1880, Barbara Heinz, born in the village of Kettenheim, near the town of
Alzey, in the Rheinpfalz district of the Kingdom of Bavaria, Germany, 17 Aug 1856, d/o John and Katherina (Merz) Heinz. Both her
parents are natives of Kettenheim, where her father was a successful farmer. Issue:
i. Katherina, b. 01 Dec 1881. She received her early educational training in the public schools of New York City, where
she was born, and later, upon the removal of her parents to the Eastern District of Brooklyn, she there attended the public school
in Grove street. She married, 10 Dec 1910, August Helmuth, born 25 Nov 1883.
ii. Henry Friedrich, b. 05 Apr 1884, of whom forward.
iii. Phillip Karl, b. 17 Nov 17, 1886, of whom forward.
iv. Anna Elsie, b. 01 Feb 1803 at the family home in the borough of Brooklyn..She received her elementary educational
training in Public School No. 86, in Harman street, borough of Brooklyn, and later attended Public School No. 123. and next
entered Public School No. 8, in the borough of Queens, from which she graduated. Soon after her graduation she took up a
course of study in the Euclid Business College, where she studied a bookkeeping course, and also received her diploma for
penmanship. Upon completing her commercial course she entered her father's office, where she assisted him for a period of eight
9

years. Married, in Brooklyn, 2 Sep 1915, Eugene Joseph Brand, born in New York City, 10 Jan 1892, son of Eugene and Mary
(Kaufmann) Brand.
v. Charles George, Jr., b. 28 Aug 1894, of whom forward.
(III) Henry Friedrich Strebel, second child and eldest son of Charles and Barbara (Heinz) Strebel, was born at the family home
in New York City, 5 Apr 1884. His early educational training was obtained under the private tuition of Reverend Robus, and later,
upon the removal of his parents to the borough of Brooklyn, he became a pupil in the public school in Kosciusko street, from
which he graduated. Upon laying aside his schoolbooks and taking up the practical duties of business life, he entered the employ
of a wholesale commercial house in New York City, where he was actively engaged in various capacities for some time. He next
became identified with his father in his office and ornamental iron works, and under his careful guidance and tuition he acquired a
practical knowledge of the various details and technique of the ornamental and architectural iron works trade, as well as the
technical details of his father's establishment. In 1906 Henry Friedrich Strebel was admitted into his father's business, along with
his two brothers, under the firm name of Charles Strebel & Sons, and this arrangement was successfully maintained by the father
and sons up to the time of the demise of the senior member in 1916, and since that time has been successfully carried forward by
his three sons up to the present time (1917).
Fraternally, Henry Friedrich Strebel has become identified with a number of organizations which have for their object the
advancement of the social and moral interests of the community wherein they are situated. He is an active member of Schiller
Lodge No. 304, F&AM, in Brooklyn. He is also a member of Progressive Chapter No. 198; and the De Witt Clinton Commandery
No. 27, Knights Templar. He is an active member of Kismet Temple, Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, all in
Brooklyn. He is also an active member of Queensboro Lodge, No. 878, of the Protective and Benevolent Order of Elks.
He married, in Brooklyn, 15 Aug 1911, Frances Knoblauch, b. 16 Oct 1880, in New York City, d/o Edward and Katherina
(Schmidt) Knoblauch.
(Ill) Phillip Karl Strebel, second son and third child of Charles and Barbara (Heinz) Strebel, was born at the family home in New
York City, 17 Nov 1886. He obtained his early educational training under the private tuition of Reverend Hauptmann, and later,
upon the removal of his parents to the borough of Brooklyn, he became a pupil in the public school in Harman street, Brooklyn.
Soon after laying aside his schoolbooks, Phillip Strebel became identified with his father's office and ornamental iron works
establishment, and under the guidance and tuition of his father he acquired a practical knowledge of the various details and
technique of the business and trade. In 1906 he was admitted into partnership with his father and his two brothers, under the firm
name of Henry Strebel & Sons Iron Works.
Not unlike his worthy brother, he has also become identified with a number of fraternal organizations of the community wherein he
resides. He is an active member of Schiller Lodge No. 304, F&AM, of Brooklyn. He is also a member of Progressive Chapter No.
198, and the De Witt Clinton Commandery No. 27, Knights Templar. He is an active member of Kismet Temple, Ancient Arabic
Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, in Brooklyn. He is also an active member of Queensboro Lodge No. 878, of the Protective and
Benevolent Order of Elks.
He married, in Brooklyn, 15 Sep 1910, Minna Hotz, b. 8 May 1887, in Brooklyn, d/o Frederick and Emma (Weber) Hotz. Issue:
1. Emma, b. 8 Jun 1916. She is of the fourth generation in direct line of descent from Georg Friedrich Strebel, who was born in
the historic city of Worms, province of Rhein-Hessen, Germany, 21 Nov 1829.
(Ill) Charles George Strebel, Jr., fifth child and youngest son of Charles and Barbara (Heinz) Strebel, was born at the family
home in the borough of Brooklyn, 28 Aug 1894. His educational training was acquired in Public Schools Nos. 81 and 88. This he
later supplemented by a course of study in the Queensboro Commercial Institute, in the Ridgewood district of the borough of
Queens, Long Island, from which he graduated and received his diploma. Not unlike his worthy brothers, he has become
identified with a number of fraternal and social organizations of the community wherein he resides. He is an active member of
Tadmor Lodge, No. 923, F&AM, of Queens; and is also an active member of the Long Island Grotto No. 44.
Atlas Lodge No. 316
WARRANT: The warrant in possession of the Lodge is dated June 7, 1854.
The name or number has never been changed.
MINUTES: Intact.
Atlas Lodge was organized during the summer of 1853. The petition is without date and signed by the following:
George W. Duryea.
John Ray.
Abel Gol.
M. Koppel.
John Baldwin.
Elisha T. Baker.
Isidor Singer.
William Bradley.
E. A. Baker. John Falconer.
C. W. Gardner.
The petition was recommended by Palestine Lodge, No. 204, at a meeting held June 30, 1853.
On July 5, 1853, a dispensation was issued by R.’. W.’. JOSEPH D. EVANS, Deputy Grand Master, which named as officers:
WILLIAM BRADLEY, Master.
JOHN FALCONER, Senior Warden.
JOHN RAY, Junior Warden.
The Lodge was instituted July 8, 1853.
The minutes of this meeting state that "The Worshipful Master directed the dispensation granted to Atlas Lodge to be read for
the information of the brethren and ordered the brethren to be clothed for the purpose of opening Atlas Lodge." Thomas Preston had
been selected Secretary and "George W. Duryea, Treasurer. The following officers were elected and appointed:
ELISHA T. BAKER, Senior Deacon.
JAMES SUTHERLAND, Junior Deacon.
WILLIAM GLEASON, Master of Ceremonies.
ISIDOR SINGER, Master of Ceremonies.
10

WILLIAM BROWN, Tiler.
JOHN FALCONER,
JOHN RAY, Trustee.
ELISHA T. BAKER, Trustee.
Abraham Cohen was proposed for membership and on July 22 he was initiated; this being the first work done by the Lodge.
The Lodge continued" to work under the dispensation until June, 1854. During that time it initiated and passed twenty
candidates and raised nineteen.
The following became charter members:
William Bradley.
John Ray.
Abel Go!.
Isidor Singer.
Thomas Preston.
James Sutherland.
William Gleason.
Abraham Cohen.
G. H. Leinhaas.
Simon Whitconski.
Mark Jeretezeki.
Aaron Vanderbilt.
William H. Brown.
John Brown.
Isaac Freeman.
Charles Olds.
John Falconer.
George W. Duryea.
John Baldwin.
Elisha T. Baker.
John Smith.
Joseph Marks.
Andrew Miller.
Charles Nathan.
Emanuel Rosenthall.
James Karressey.
Henry Alexander.
Andrew G. Fargets.
Simon Whitconski.
Charles Saunders.
Charles Con.
James Mills.
The Lodge was constituted and the officers installed by W.’. WILLIAM B. SHOVE, a past Master of Atlantic Lodge, No. 178, on
June 17, 1854. On the same evening the Lodge was opened in conjunction with Eastern Star Lodge, No. 227, and one candidate of
each Lodge was raised to the Sublime degree of Master Mason.
The first meeting place of the Lodge was at No. 68 East Broadway, where it remained until March, 1859, when it moved to the
corner of Broome and Crosby Streets, remaining here until April, 1862, when it moved into Odd Fellows Hall, corner of Grand and
Centre Streets. In February, 1866, it moved to No. 948 Broadway, where it remained until April, 1874, ,when it moved into the
Masonic Hall, corner of Sixth Avenue and Twenty-third Street, remaining here until September, 1909, when .it moved into its present
quarters in the new Masonic Hall on Twenty-fourth Street.
The Lodge was represented at the laying of the corner-stone of the Masonic Hall, corner of Sixth Avenue and Twenty-third
Street, June 8, 1870; the dedication of same June 2, 1875; the laying of the cornerstone of Egyptian Obelisk in Central Park, 9 Oct
1880; the laying of the corner-stone of the Home at Utica, NY, May 21, 1891, and the dedication of same October 5, 1892.
It celebrated its fiftieth anniversary in the Commandery room of the old Masonic Hall on February 2, 1904.
GRAND LODGE OFFICERS
John Boyd served as Grand Steward, District Deputy Grand Master and as Grand Treasurer for seven years, 1880-86. He was
very active in all Masonic affairs for many years; died 14 Nov 1891.
Charles C. Hunt [C. C. Hunt], one of its past Masters, is a past Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter, R. A. M.; is the present
Grand Secretary of that body and editor of the Masonic Standard.
Jacob C. Klinck, Grand Steward, District Deputy Grand Master, Grand Marshal.
William H. Corsa, Junior Grand Deacon.
Edward Dodd, Grand Sword Bearer.
C. Godfrey Patterson, District Deputy Grand Master. John W. Allison, Grand Representative.
1853. William Bradley.
1854. William Bradley.
1855. William Bradley.
1856. William Bradley.
1857. William Bradley.
1858. Dearborn G. Piper.
1859. Alexander Proudfoot.
1860. Alexander Proudfoot.
1861. John Boyd.
1862. John Boyd.
1863. John Boyd.
1864. John Boyd.
1865. John Boyd.
1866. John Boyd.
1867. John Boyd.
1868. John Boyd.
-----
1869. George M. Hays.
1870. William A. Macquoid.
1871. James Phillips.
1872. James Phillips.
1873. George W. Hoskins.
1874. Albert H. Dakin.
1875. Albert H. Dakin.
1876. J ohn Boyd.
1877. William H. Corsa.
1878. William H. Corsa.
1879. William H. Corsa.
1880. William H. Corsa.
1881. Edward Dodd.
1882. Edward Dodd.
1883. William H. Corsa.
1884. Benjamin A. Clooney.
MASTERS
1885. Benjamin A. Clooney.
1886. Hendy E. Brown.
1887. C. Godfrey Patterson.
1888. C. Godfrey Patterson.
1889. C. Godfrey Patterson.
1890. C. Godfrey Patterson.
1891. Alexander H. Dixon.
1892. George W. Gilbert.
1893. George W. Gilbert.
1894. John W. Allison.
1895. John W. Allison.
1896. John W. Allison.
1897. John W. Allison.
1898. George H. Brooke.
1899. George H. Brooke.
1900. George H. Hahn.
1901. William F. W. Koelsch.
1902. William F. W. Koelsch.
1903. Gaston J. Block.
1904. John B. Palmer.
1905. Jacob C. Klinck.
1906. Jacob C. Klinck.
1907. Jay E. Lawshe.
1908. Ralph W. Smyth.
1909. Charles C. Hunt.
1910. Charles C. Hunt.
1911. Hugh C. Harris.
1912. Hugh C. Harris.
1913. Frederick B. Pratt.
Historic Homes and Institutions and Genealogical and Family ..., Volume 4, by William Smith Pelletreau, page 142.
http://books.google.com/books?id=XHrxgFYISmYC&pg=PA143&dq=%22Atlas+Lodge+No.+316%22&hl=en&ei=Dm5aTqbnKqjV0Q
GI8KGVCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=9&ved=0CFgQ6AEwCA#v=onepage&q=%22Atlas%20Lodge%20No.%2031
6%22&f=false
Charles C. Asmussen, well and widely known as an undertaker and embalmer, with a place of business located at No. 355
Bleecker street, New York city, is the proprietor of a business which has descended from father to son. He is a native of this country,
but traces his ancestry to Germany, and has inherited their excellent habits of thrift and industry.
John Frederick Asmussen, father of Charles C. Asmussen, was born in Schleswig-llolstein, Germany, 12 Jun 1838, died in Jersey
City, NJ, 14 Dec 1905. He was but fourteen years of age, when he emigrated to the United States and settled in Jefferson, Sullivan
county, New York, where he worked for some time in a tannery. Later he removed to New York city, where he found employment as
a clerk in a grocery store, and subsequently engaged in the undertaking business with Peter Asmussen, and upon the retirement of
the latter from active duties, purchased the business and conducted it until 1902, when his son, Charles C, took it in charge. John
Frederick also succeeded Peter Asmussen as sexton of St. John's Evangelical Church, and faithfully and efficiently performed the
11

duties connected with that office for twenty years. He was a member of Herman Lodge No. 268, F&AM, and the State Undertakers'
Association. He married, in New York city, Mary Meyn, and had children: Annie, deceased; John F., Jr., deceased; Jacob H.;
Albertina; Elizabeth; William F., deceased; Charles C, see forward; and Edward, deceased.
Charles C. Asmussen, fourth son of John Frederick and Mary (Meyn) Asmussen, was born in New York city, 25 Mar 1876. He
received his education in the old Grove street school house, No. 3, and upon its completion entered the undertaking business of his
father, and has followed the same since that time. He worked in association with his father until the latter retired from business in
1902, and since that time he has been the sole manager of the manifold interests connected with it. He is enterprising and
progressive in his ideas, and enjoys a great measure of popularity among a large circle of friends. He is a member of the following
organizations: Atlas Lodge No. 316, F&AM; Court Our, Iroquois, No. 239; the Old Tough Club of Ninth ward, and Amt Hegener
Club. He married, May 13, 189G, in New York city, Annie Mem, and has one living child: John Frederick.
-----
http://dmna.state.ny.us/historic/reghist/civil/rosters/Infantry/131st_Infantry_CW_Roster.pdf
CORSA, WILLIAM H. - Age 19 years. Enrolled [131st NY Inf. Vols.], 28 Aug 1862, at New York city, to serve three years; mustered
in as 2Lt, Co. E, 6 Sep 1862; as 1Lt, Co. A, 3 Nov1863; as Captain, Co. E, 25 Apr,1864; wounded in action, 19 Sep 1861, at
Opequon, VA; discharged for wounds, 4 Jan1865. Commissioned 2Lt, 21 Nov 1862, with rank from 28 Aug 1862, original; 1Lt, 6 Oct
1863, with rank from 8 Sep 1863, vice G. W. Lyon promoted; Captain, 30 Mar 1861, with rank from 4 Mar 1864, vice J . M.
Hagedorn resigned.
11 Oct 1890 - The New York Times
-----
http://www.onlinebiographies.info/ny/ren/randel-cd.htm
Charles D. Randel, son of Adonijah and Catherine (Van Honten) Randel, was born in Goshen, NY, 18 Nov 1839, and is of English
and Holland descent. He first associated himself in the manufacture of brushes with his father in Williamsburgh (now a part of
Brooklyn). NY, and when nineteen learned the trade of watch case making with Samuel S. Bowman of New York city. He followed
this for two and one half years and then moved with the family to Baliston, Saratoga county, where he was employed for two years
in his father's saw mill. Returning to New York, he engaged in brush making, but soon learned the wax trade and followed it eight
years. In 1882 he came to Troy, bringing a hay band plant to the Griswold Wire Works and operating it until 1887, when he began
the manufacture of buttonholes on contract. In 1888 he purchased the Gifford House on Congress street and has since been its
proprietor. He is a member of Atlas Lodge No. 316, F&AM, and Silver Brook Lodge No. 722, IOOF, both of New York. In 1870 he
married Mary Frances Stine of New York City, and they have one son: Francis Sylvester.
12

Ref. Landmarks of Rensselaer County, by George Baker Anderson, D. Mason & Co. Publishers, Syracuse, NY 1897
Neptune Lodge No. 317
WARRANT: The warrant in possession of the Lodge is dated June 8, 1854.
The name or number has never been changed.
MINUTES: Not intact, all records from June 1, 1859, to October, 1865, are missing.
The petition for Neptune Lodge is dated August 3, 1853, and signed by the following:
James H. Perry.
James M. Wilkins.
John H. Mead.
James Alexander.
Wilmot D. Allaire.
Joseph Stern.
George M. Crane.
David J. Brown.
William Woodruff.
Joseph Hodgman.
The petitioners nominated as officers:
JAMES H. PERRY, Master.
JOSEPH HODGMAN, Senior Warden.
WILMOT D. ALLAIRE, Junior Warden.
Joseph McArthur.
James F. Saunders.
James Redford.
Joseph T. Martin.
Henry G. Saunders.
Samuel Erwin.
James W. Aiken.
Austin R. Pardee.
The petition was recommended by Henry Clay Lodge, No. 277, at a meeting held August 3, 1853.
On August 4, 1853, a dispensation was issued by R.’. W.’. JOSEPH D. EVANS, Deputy Grand Master, which named as officers:
JAMES H. PERRY, Master.
JAMES M. WILKINS, Senior Warden.
JAMES W. AIKEN, Junior Warden.
There appears to have been some mix-up about the Wardens as those first selected were written in the dispensation, erased
and the above names substituted. The first meeting under the dispensation was held August 11 and the Wardens first selected filled
their respective stations. The following officers were elected at this meeting:
JOSEPH T. MARTIN, Treasurer.
HENRY G. SAUNDERS, Junior Deacon.
AUSTIN R. PARDEE, Secretary.
SAMUEL ERWIN, Tiler.
JAMES M. WILKINS, Senior Deacon.
The first applicant for degrees was Andrew H. Adams and the first work done by the Lodge was on October 6, 1853, when
Andrew H. Adams, George W. Thurber, Joseph Hand, John Nixon and Peter L. Neal were initiated.
The Lodge continued to work under the dispensation until the following May. .
On June 8, 1854, a warrant was issued which named as officers:
JAMES H.PERRY, Master.
JAMES M. WILKINS, Senior Warden.
JAMES W. AIKEN, Junior Warden.
The Lodge was constituted and its officers installed by M.’. W.’. JOSEPH D. EVANS, Grand Master, on June 15, 1854.
The first election for officers under the Warrant was held December 21, 1854.
The officers. elected were:
JAMES H. PERRY, Master.
JAMES V. AIKEN, Senior Warden.
HENRY G. MARTIN, Junior Warden.
JOSEPH T. MARTIN, Treasurer.
JAMES HUTCHINS, Secretary:
RICHARD J. ANDERSON, Senior Deacon.
JAMES REDFORD, Junior Deacon.
SAMUEL ERWIN, Tiler.
The first meeting place of the Lodge was in Mariners' Hall, No. 328 Cherry Street, where it remained until May, 1856, when it
moved to No. 68 East Broadway. In May, 1863, it moved to the corner of Broolle and Crosby Streets, remaining here until May,
1866, when it moved to No.8 Union Square, where it remained until May, 1869, when it moved to the corner of the Bowery and
Bleecker Street.
In May, 1879, it moved to No. 33 Union Square, remaining there one year, when it moved into the German Masonic Temple, No.
220 East Fifteenth Street, where it remained until May, 1882, when it moved to the corner of Third Avenue and Fifty-seventh Street.
In November, 1892, it moved into the Masonic Hall on Twenty-third Street; where it remained until May, 1898, when it moved into
the Grand Opera House, corner of Eighth Avenue and Twenty-third Street, where it remained until May, 1910, when it moved into
the new Masonic Hall on Twenty-fourth Street.
In 1868 banker Robert Irwin commissioned architect Nicholas Whyte to design a four-story brick “store and dwelling” at Nos.
316-318 Bowery, on the corner of Bleecker Street. Known as the Irwin Building, this would be one of Whyte’s first commissions. He
produced a strikingly handsome brick and sandstone building in the very latest Italianate style. A corner tower nestles within the
steep mansard roof with its slightly-projecting arched dormers. Two paneled chimneys on the Bleecker Street side are banded with
sandstone. Originally, ornate cast iron cresting would have finished the roofline. Elegant arched limestone lentils accentuate the tall
windows . The upper floors were being rented by both the Atlas Lodge No. 316 and the Neptune Lodge No. 317.
13

The Irwin Building - 316-318 Bowery, corner of Bleecker Street
The Lodge was represented at the dedication of the Masonic Hall on Twenty-third Street, June 2, 1875; the laying of the cornerstone
of the Egyptian Obelisk in Central Park, October 9, 1880, and the laying of the corner-stone of the Home at Utica, NY, May
21, 1891.
James H. Perry, the leading spirit in the organization of the Lodge and its first Master, was an officer in the Texan army under
General Sam Houston. He afterward became a Methodist minister, and during the "War for the Union" as Colonel of the 48th
Regiment, N. Y. Volunteers.
See Appendix IX for further on Rev. James H. Perry’s “Saints”
http://dmna.state.ny.us/historic/reghist/civil/rosters/Infantry/48th_Infantry_CW_Roster.pdf
PERRY, JAMES H. - Age 49 years. Enrolled, [48th NY Inf. Vols.] 24 Jul 1861, at Brooklyn, to serve three years; mustered in as
Colonel, 26 Oct 1861; died, 18 Jun 1862, at Fort Pulaski, GA. Commissioned Colonel, 14 Dec 1861, with rank from 26 Oct 1861.
PERRY, JR., JAMES H. - Age 21 years. Enrolled [48th NY Inf. Vols.], 29 Jul 1861, at Brooklyn, to serve three years; mustered in as
2Lt, Co. I, 14 Sep 1861; discharged, 3 Sep, 1862. Commissioned 2Lt, 14 Dec 1861, with rank from 11 Sep 1861, original.
JAMES H. PERRY, Grand Chaplain.
FREDERICK F. FRITTS, Grand Director of Ceremonies.
1853. James H. Perry.
1854. James H. Perry.
1855. James H. Perry.
1856. George W. Thurber.
1857. George W. Thurber.
1858. George W. Thurber.
1859. George E. Mendum.
1860. George E. Mendum.
1861. John Nixon.
1862. George W. Thurber.
1863. Martin England.
1864. Martin England.
1865. William Davis.
1866. Jesse G. Keyes.
1867. Jesse G. Keyes.
1868. John W. Howard.
1869. John W. Howard.
1870. James Sinclair.
1871. Frederick Gugel, Jr.
1872. Frederick Gugel, Jr.
1873. Daniel L. Griffiths.
1874. Frederick Gugel, Jr.
1875. John H. Tharp.
1876. John H. Tharp.
1877. Louis Rust.
1878. John R. Knox.
1879. Cortlandt Lake, Jr.
1880. Cortlandt Lake, Jr.
1881. Cortlandt Lake, Jr.
1882. George Blackburn.
1883. George Blackburn.
1884. George Blackburn.
GRAND LODGE OFFICERS
MASTERS
COURTLAND LAKE, JR., Grand Steward.
EMIL R. THIEFES, Grand Representative.
1885. Daniel Sullivan.
1886. Daniel Sullivan.
1887. Jacob Raber.
1888. Jacob Raber.
1889. Thomas J. Crichton.
1890. Thomas J. Crichton.
1891. August H. Kassing.
1892. George O. Foster.
1893. George O. Foster.
1894. George O. Foster.
1895. Francis J. Hale.
1896. Francis J. Hale.
1897. Francis J. Hale.
1898. Francis J. Hale.
1899. E. B. Bates.
1900. Walter C. Bates.
1901. Charles S. Hayward.
1902. John E. Waltz.
1903. John E. Waltz.
1904. Jerome Schenck.
1905. William Allison.
1906. Clayton S. Richman.
1907. Fred F. Fitts.
1908. George F. McCrow.
1909. Emil R. Thiefes.
1910. Emil R. Thiefes.
1911. William L. Nelson.
1912. Paul O. Bernhard.
1913. George P. Ullrich.
14

11 Aug 1881 - © The New York Times
http://dmna.state.ny.us/historic/reghist/civil/rosters/Infantry/99th_Infantry_CW_Roster.pdf
NIXON, RICHARD. - Age 38 years. Enrolled [99th NY Inf. Vols.], 28 May 1861, at New York- city, to serve three years; mustered in
as Captain, Co. A , 11 Jun 1861; promoted Major, 21 Jan1862; Lt. Col., 28 Sep 1862; discharged, 2 Jul 1864, at New York city. Not
commissioned as Captain; commissioned Major, 17 Jan 1862, with rank from same date, original; Lt. Col., 20 Sep 1862, with rank
from 19 Aug 1862, vice Gustavus B. Helleday, deceased.
http://dmna.state.ny.us/historic/reghist/civil/infantry/99thInf/99thInfCWN.htm
TESTIMONIAL TO COL. [Richard] NIXON.—The reception of Lieut.-Col. Nixon of the 99th Regiment, New York Volunteers took
place last night at the City Assembly Rooms, by the members of Neptune Lodge No. 317 of Free and accepted Masons.
The testimonial, was one of the best managed and pleasantist affairs of the kind we have ever witnessed. The gallant Colonel may
well be pleased at the unsought for acknowledgement of his worth by his old companions and brothers of Neptune Lodge, Under the
able management of Brothers C. W. Walker, Geo. Mendum, Martin Engling, Jesse Keys, and J. Howard the arrangements were of
the most satisfactory character. The decorations, music, and banquet were in good taste, and gave satisfaction to the number of
gentlemen and ladies who met to do honor to one of the many gallant sons of New York city.
An address to Col. Nixon, by Brother Geo. E. Mendum, called forth a heartfelt reply from the brave old soldier, (whose modesty is
certainly equal to his bravery.)
Several old-fashioned songs were sung by Mr. Leslie, and an original ballad, written in honor of the old 99th, was given with much
spirit by Mr. Dix, who in making an allusion to "our gallant McClellan" met with such a tornado of applause that it was pretty evident
Gen. McClellan was a favorite with the majority of the fraternity then and there assembled.
At a late hour the festivities closed. Numerous pleasant speeches were made by Brother Masons, and officers of the old 99th,
leaving the impression on the minds of all the guests there assembled that they had been favored with a "good thing" and that
Brother C. W. Walker was the right man to get up all the necessary arrangements for the mutual enjoyment of all re...shing a
pleasant old-fashioned entertainment.
15

St. Nicholas Lodge No. 321
WARRANT: The original warrant dated June 13, 1854, is in possession of the Lodge.
The name or number has never been changed.
MINUTES: Not intact, the first minute book containing the doings of the Lodge from its organization to 1858 was missing until
1896. Repeated efforts to recover this book were made by the Lodge, even to the extent of offering a substantial reward for its
recovery. In 1896 a note was received from a Past Master of the Lodge stating that a party had found the book and it was finally
recovered in a mutilated condition on, May 6, 1896.
St. Nicholas Lodge was organized during the summer of 1853. The petition, which is without date, is signed by the following:
William W. Dibble.
William J. Carr.
Horatio N. Otis.
George M. Wheaton.
George Faulkner.
Richard Decker.
Charles A. Jarvis.
J. Robert Tatem.
Thomas E. Garson.
Alfred Waite.
The petitioners nominated as officers:
WILLIAM W. DIBBLE, Master.
CHARLES A. JARVIS, Senior Warden.
HORATIO N[elson?]. OTIS, Junior Warden.
The petition was recommended by Sylvan Grove Lodge, No. 275, at a meeting held August 23, 1853.
On September 12, 1853, a dispensation was issued by R.’. W.’. JOSEPH D. EVANS, Deputy Grand Master. It was returnable
May 25, 1854, but was extended to June 1, 1854, and on June 13 the warrant was issued.
The dispensation and warrant named the same officers as were nominated by the petitioners.
The first meeting place was on the corner of Broome and Mercer Streets, where it remained until May, 1854, when it moved into
Odd Fellows Hall, corner of Grand and Centre Streets.
In May, 1861, it moved to No. 817 Broadway, remaining here until May, 1871, when it moved to No. 946 Broadway, where it
remained until May, 1882, when it moved into the Masonic Hall on Twenty-third Street. In January, 1884, it moved to the corner of
Sixth Avenue and Twenty-fifth Street, remaining here until May, 1884, when it moved into the Grand Opera House, corner of Eighth
Avenue and Twenty-third Street. In April, 1886, it returned to the Masonic Hall on Twenty-third Street, remaining here until
September, 1909, when it moved into its present quarters in the new Masonic Hall on Twenty-fourth Street.
N. Louis Tunis, Grand Senior Deacon.
Frederick W. Norris, Grand Chaplain.
William C. B. Haff, Grand Representative.
GRAND LODGE OFFICERS
Washington E. Conner, Grand Treasurer and District Deputy Grand Master.
1853. William W. Dibble.
1854. William W. Dibble.
1855. William W. Dibble.
1856. Thomas E. Garson.
1857. Thomas E. Garson.
1858. William Adams.
1859. Henry H. Cowan.
1860. William Adams.
1861. Thomas E. Garson.
1862. Thomas E. Garson.
1863. Thomas E. Garson.
1864. David R. Garniss.
1865. Thomas J. Rayner.
1866. William H. McNary.
1867. Jerome Buck.
1868. Jerome Buck.
1869. Jerome Buck.
1870. Jerome Buck.
1871. Jerome Buck.
1872. Jerome Buck.
1873. Jerome Buck.
1874. George W. Ely.
1875. Jerome Buck.
1876. Homer H. Warner.
1877. Washington E.
Conner.
1878. Washington E. Conner.
1879. James H. Percival.
1880. Thomas G. Rigney.
1881. Ernest A. DesMarets.
1882. Ernest A. DesMarets.
1883. Louis C. Wachner.
MASTERS
Louis C. Wachner, Grand Representative.
G. Edwin Sawyer, Grand Steward.
William H. Sage, Committee on Antiquities.
1884. Louis .C. Wachner.
1885. N. Louis Tunis.
1886. Silas B. Bostwick.
1887. Silas B. Bostwick.
1888. Wallace Straiton.
1889. Wallace Straiton.
1890. John W. McClellan.
1891. John W. McClellan.
1892. William H. Sage.
1893. Dyer Pearl.
1894. Herman R.
Kretschmar.
1895. George W. Sutton.
1896. Maurice V. Conner.
1897. Henry W., Srnith.
1898. Louis L. Jackson.
1899. W. Myron Reynolds.
1900. Clifford H. Gest.
1901. Gustave Weinberg.
1902. John Atkins.
1903. William C. B. Haff.
1904. Sidney B. Taylor.
1905. George M. Kirkner.
1906. Andrew Lindsay.
1907. Francis E. Pratt.
1908. James R. McLaren.
1909. Louis J. Stokes.
1910. John: Atkins.
1911. John Atkins.
1912. G. Edwin Sawyer.
1913. Arthur L. Tunis.
History of the City of New York, 1609-1909: from the earliest discoveries to ..., by John William Leonard, 565
http://books.google.com/books?id=4486AQAAIAAJ&pg=PA566&dq=%22Nicholas+Lodge+No.+321%22&hl=en&ei=iQhbToiBJOfk0
QGNuNCUCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=10&ved=0CFgQ6AEwCQ#v=onepage&q=%22Nicholas%20Lodge%20No
.%20321%22&f=false
Washington Everett Connor, one of the most distinguished financiers in New York, and long a leading figure of the New York
Stock Exchange, is a native of the old village of Greenwich, which later became known as the "old Ninth Ward," New York City. He
was born 15 Dec 1849, the son of Cleveland A. Connor and Eliza Lamber. His family is of English derivation and was transplanted
in America by John Connor previous to 1765, and Mr. Washington E. Connor is a descendant of his son, John Connor, Jr., born 6
Feb 1771, who married Janet Sayre, born 23 Nov 1775. The house in which Washington E. Connor was born, on Spring Street,
stood next to that in which his grandfather had been born, and which, with some adjoining property, had been owned by Mr.
Connor's father for more than half a century. His father, Cleveland A. Connor, was a well-known merchant and banker, who for over
thirty-six years was connected with the Village Bank, which was for a long time the financial headquarters of the people and
institutions of the old Greenwich Village.
16

Washington Everett Connor received his early education in the public schools and was afterwards for eighteen months in the Free
Academy, now the College of the City of New York. He had a good record in college, being a bright student, especially in
mathematical studies, for which he early manifested a great aptitude.
On leaving college he entered business life in 1866 as a clerk in the banking house of H. C.
Stimson & Company, bankers and brokers, and there acquired a thorough training in the
business of Wall Street, and established a wide acquaintance among influential financial
men. He became a member of the New York Stock Exchange, 6 Oct 1871, and soon
became a prominent figure in the financial world, with a reputation for great ability in the
handling of stock exchange matters and for his devotion to the interests of his clients.
Mr. Connor's genius and ability attracted the attention of the late Jay Gould, whose
judgment of men has never been excelled for keenness and accuracy, and in 1881 the firm
of W. E. Connor & Company was formed, with George J. Gould as a general partner and
Mr. Jay Gould as a special partner. This firm for many years was the confidential
representative of the interests of Jay Gould, and had charge of the most important of his
operations in Wall Street, and Mr. Connor was also a favorite broker of the late Russell
Sage and many other of the most prominent capitalists operating in Wall Street in that day.
No man ever held a more influential position in connection with the operations of the New
York stock market than did Jay Gould, who was the successful general in many a hardfought
financial campaign, in which the cooperation and administrative ability of Mr. Conner
was a valuable factor in the successful outcome.
The large brokerage business which he built up for his firm, together with extensive private
operations on his own account, secured for Mr. Connor a most substantial fortune. While
engaged in the brokerage business Mr. Connor was especially distinguished for his ability to
keep his own counsel, and this he did to such an extent that during the famous Western
Union Telegraph campaign, which resulted in the transfer of the control of that corporation from the Vanderbilts to Jay Gould, Mr.
Connor, who personally conducted all of the operations, did it so quietly that Wall Street carried the impression that his firm was
heavily short of stock, when in fact it was the principal owner of it. This misapprehension had been so general among the brokers
that it had found its way into the newspapers of the city, and several articles had been predicated upon it to the effect that Mr. Gould
had at last met his Waterloo.
At one time during the panic of 1884 it was ascertained that W. E. Connor & Company were borrowers to the extent of $12,000,000,
and a combination was formed to drive them into bankruptcy. This combination began their attack by a heavy assault upon Missouri
Pacific stock, but Messrs. Connor and Gould so outmatched their adversaries that when the day of reckoning came, one 147
houses were found short of Missouri Pacific and were forced to "cover" at heavy losses to themselves and at a great profit to W. E.
Connor & Company. Mr. Jay Gould retired from Wall Street in 1886, and in the following year Mr. Connor also retired from the
brokerage business. He retained, however, an active interest in many railway and other corporations for several years, but more
lately has given up, largely, directorships in corporations, devoting his attention to the care of his own large property interests.
Mr. Connor has long been prominent in the Masonic fraternity, in which he has served as Master of St. Nicholas Lodge, No. 321;
District Deputy Grand Master, Grand Treasurer of Grand Lodge of the State of New York, Grand Representative of Grand Lodge
of England. Mr. Connor is a member of the American Geographical Society, Metropolitan Museum of Art, The American Society of
Natural History, and is a member of the Union League, Lotos, Republican and National Arts Clubs of New York; also of The
American, Boston and Larchmont Yacht Clubs, New York Athletic Club and Rumson Country Club. He takes active interest in many
forms of recreation, but especially in yachting, with which he has for years been influentially identified; and has a favored place in
the best society of the metropolis.
He married, in London, 25 Jun 1887, Louise Hynard, and has one son, Wayne Everett Connor, born 13 Apr 1888.
-----
The Railway Age, Volume 43, 8 Feb 1907. page 197.
http://books.google.com/books?id=7YJNAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA197&dq=%22Nicholas+Lodge+No.+321%22&hl=en&ei=iQhbToiBJOfk0
QGNuNCUCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=11&ved=0CF0Q6AEwCg#v=onepage&q=%22Nicholas%20Lodge%20No.
%20321%22&f=false
Charles S. Henry, whose sudden death at his home in Evanston, IL, was recorded in our Issue of last
week and whose portrait is herewith reproduced, had been for over 20 years a prominent figure in the
railway supply trade. He was not only a good salesman, thoroughly Informed with regard to his business,
but he was a man of no little personal force. He had an exceptionally wide and friendly acquaintance,
both east and west. Mr. Henry was born at New Brunswick, N J, on 8 Dec 1856. He first entered the
railway supply field through his connection with the Iron Car Equipment Company, of which for a time he
was president. Thereafter he served the A. French Spring Company and the New York Air Brake
Company. His connection with the A. French Spring Company (now a part of the Railway Steel Spring
Company) lasted for a period of eight years, during which time he handled the business of that company
In New England and New York with conspicuous ability and success. On 1 Oct 1889, he became
associated with the New York Air Brake Company as western manager, with offices at Chicago, and his
success in this connection was just as pronounced as that which attended his former efforts. Mr. Henry
was chairman of the Railway Supplymen's Executive Committee for the Mechanical Conventions held at
Old Point Comfort in June 1899. He was a member of St Nicholas Lodge, No. 321, F&AM, the Engineers' Club of New York, the
Chicago Club, the Chicago Athletic Association and the Exmoor Country Club of Chicago.
-----
17

A Standard History of Freemasonry in the State of New York ..., Volume 2, by Peter Ross, page 354.
http://books.google.com/books?id=kWYiAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA354&dq=%22Nicholas+Lodge+No.+321%22&hl=en&ei=iQhbToiBJOfk0
QGNuNCUCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CDYQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q=%22Nicholas%20Lodge%20No.
%20321%22&f=false
John Atkins - On 1 Dec 1897, John Atkins was made a Mason in St. Nicholas Lodge No. 321, New York, and early in the
following year received the Royal Arch degrees in Jerusalem Chapter No. 8. At the close of the year he received the Masonic
Knighthood in Clinton Commandery No. 14, Brooklyn. It will thus be seen that Brother Atkins has just entered the fraternity, and that
his Masonic career lies wholly in the future. We can only repeat here a remark by one of his many friends to the effect that he will
yet win an enviable record in one branch of the fraternity at least, if not in all.
Brother Atkins was born in London, England, 21 Nov 1870, and received his educational preparation for the battle of life in that great
and wonderful city. He was with a firm of chartered accountants early in life, and had a good deal of mercantile experience. For ten
years he was in the service of the famous paper house of John Dickinson & Co., Limited, London, and in September, 1896, came to
New York and assumed the position of resident manager of the firm. He has already won a host of friends in business, social and
Masonic circles, and will doubtless add to their number as the years roll on.
----
Ibid. page 216.
W. Myron Reynolds, M. D. - For many years Dr. Reynolds has been a familiar figure in Masonry in New York, and especially in
connection with Royal Arch, Commandery and Scottish Rite work. He has shown a thoughtful interest in everything pertaining to
Masonry, has essayed the duty of piercing through its higher mysteries and has succeeded, as do all intelligent brethren who have
earnestly bent themselves to the work, or, to put it more Masonically, have been zealous workers in the quarries or on the walls of
that Temple around which the grand old institution is gathered. Masonry is a progressive study. We call a man a Mason who has
taken the first degree, and the brother is certain he is a Mason when he has been raised in the third and signed the bylaws of the
Lodge. But the student knows better. He knows that to receive Masonic light he has to press onward, and even the oldest worker is
fully aware that much is hidden from his view. Dr. Reynolds is an active Mason, a studious Mason, a Mason of many years standing
and yet we are sure no one will more cordially indorse what has been written. A good Mason will always do so for he knows that the
words of Alexander Pope are applicable to the craft as to all other studies: "Hills peep o'er hills, as Alps o'er Alps arise."
Dr. Reynolds was born at Stamford, CT, 15 Apr 1849. After the usual common school education in his native town he began the
study of medicine when only fourteen years of age. He was for a year a student under Professor Muzzy, of Cincinnati, and afterward
studied with Professor Samuel D. Gross, of Philadelphia, the founder of the Louisville Medical College. Later he entered Jefferson
Medical College and was graduated in 1869. He at once began practice in Philadelphia, but soon removed to New York, where he
continued in active practice until 1890. Since then his time has been devoted mainly to the management of two large estates. Dr.
Reynolds is, naturally, well known in New York, but his "chain of friendship" extends all over the continent. He has been a great
traveler and has journeyed between the Atlantic and Pacific coasts no fewer than thirty-two times, besides undertaking many other
extensive journeys. He attended the first International Convention of Gold Producers, held at Denver, CO, and was one of the Vice
Presidents of that body, and he is President of the Alaska Development Company; also President of the Marks Chair Company.
Dr. Reynolds made his first acquaintance with Masonry in Astor Lodge No. 603, afterward uniting with St. Nicholas Lodge No.
321, New York, of which he is Senior Warden. He was exalted in Phoenix Chapter, No. 2, Royal Arch Masons, and at once became
interested in its work. He found much in its ritual to appeal to his own higher sentiments, and, becoming a student of its ritual, he
was advanced in its official list until he was elected High Priest, an office he filled with marked success throughout two terms. He
received the Cryptic degrees in Adelphic Council No. 7, R&SM, and was knighted in Palestine Commandery No. 18. In the last
named organization the Doctor has filled many of the subordinate offices and is at present on the staff of the Prelate.
In the affairs of the New York Consistory, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, he has been active since his initiation, and is seldom
absent from the meetings of any of the bodies in Scottish Rite Hall. In the Council of Princes of Jerusalem he was twice elected to
the office of Grand High Priest, and in much of the work presented he is regarded as an adept. He is justly popular with the brethren
in all the Masonic bodies to which he belongs and his active interest is always relied on for every movement which is just and
regular and which bears the stamp of fraternal approval.
Being now at 2840 Third Avenue. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Rechborner Mannerchor, Schwabische Saengerbund,
Melrose Turn Verein and the Cassover and Morrisania Yacht Clubs.
-----
Ibid.page 417.
Henry W. Smith is an active and bright young lawyer, well known in this city. He was born in Woodbourne, Sullivan, NY, 4 Mar
1857, and attended the Monticello Academy and Cornell University, graduating in 1877. He studied law with his father and others,
was admitted to the bar in 1883, and authorized to practice in the Supreme Court of the United States in 1893. Beginning the
practice of his profession in his native town, he remained there two or three years, during part of which time he was Assistant
District Attorney of Sullivan County. In January, 1886, he removed to New York City, where he has since practiced, building up an
extensive and lucrative connection. For three years Brother Smith served as legal examiner in the New York Custom House. He is a
member of the New York Bar Association and a member of the Democratic Club.
Brother Smith is a member of St. Nicholas Lodge No. 321, and was its Master in 1897. He is a member of Jerusalem Chapter No.
8; Adelphic Council No. 7; and is the present Commander of Coeur de Lion Commandery No. 23. He is a member of Aurora Grata
Consistory of Brooklyn and all the intermediate bodies, and has crossed the sands in Kismet Temple, Mystic Shrine. He has taken
an active interest in all the Masonic Bodies to which he belongs, devoting much time to the good work of our beloved craft.
Bro. Smith’s extended biography may be read at Appendix X below.
18

It may be considered by some this extended biography may too long for an average Brother to be bothered to read, but it is worth
noting the for most of our Brothers and Lodges we have absolutely no information surviving, or pitifully small snippets from an ‘obit’
in some newspaper or genealogical record.
In other cases we have whole books on some of our Brothers, not all of them rich, powerful or famous, but evincing a charming
homespun character of the life and times of our honored predecessors.
Please consider leaving some historical and anecdotal record of your having passed this way on this beautiful Earth of ours so that
future generations may be able to view the Tapestry of Life a little more clearly, or not run into one of those frustrating dead ends
when trying to assemble our ancestral heritage.
-----
g. l. h.
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_3_K_to_P.htm
George Law (1806-1881) American financier known as the "Steamboat King." b. 25 Oct 1806 in Jackson, NY. Left his farm home at
age of 18 and worked in quarries, building canals, etc. Self educated, he became an engineer and draughtsman. He soon became a
large contractor for railroads and canals. In 1837 he went to New York City where he contracted for public works, and subsequently
purchased and extended the Harlem and Mohawk railroads. He bought the steamer Neptune in 1843, and built the Oregon in 1845.
He then contracted to carry the U.S. mails to California. He added the steamers Ohio and Georgia, and carried the first passengers
by steamboat to Panama. In 1851 he bought out the rival Pacific Mail Steamship Co. He started the railroad across the Isthmus of
Panama in 1852. He was the presidential candidate for the "Know Nothing" party in 1856. He was a member of St. Nicholas Lodge
No. 321 of New York City. d. 18 Nov 1881.
-----
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dyer_Pearl
Dyer Pearl b. 1857; d, Sep 1930, was a prominent Wall Street businessman and a member of the New York Stock Exchange for 26
years. His grandfather, Dyer Pearl, founded Dyer Pearl & Company in Nashville, TN, before 1820. Pearl was active on Wall Street
for 54 years before retiring in 1928. His family was involved in stock brokerage for a century. He transferred his seat on the NYSE to
his son in 1910. Pearl was a member of the New York Club, the Stock Exchange Luncheon Club, and St. Nicholas Lodge 321,
F&AM, of which he was a Past Master. Hel died in 1930, at the of 73, from injuries he suffered when he was struck by a motorcycle
near his home. Services were held at his residence and he was buried at Woodlawn Cemetery.
-----
Biographical directory of the state of New York, 1900, by Biographical directory co., New York, pub, page 318.
http://books.google.com/books?id=Hns_AAAAYAAJ&pg=PA381&dq=%22Nicholas+Lodge+No.+321%22&hl=en&ei=iQhbToiBJOfk0
QGNuNCUCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=9&ved=0CFMQ6AEwCA#v=onepage&q=%22Nicholas%20Lodge%20No.
%20321%22&f=false
Eugene W. Pratt - Manager, 120 Broadway, New York City; residence 596 West 152d street. Born in Ripon, Wis., 22 Aug 1857.
Educated at Jamestown, NY, Collegiate Institute. (Married.) Was United States examiner of merchandise and United States
assistant appraiser at the port of New York; manager Equitable Life Assurance Society of the United States. Member Sons of the
American Revolution, Seventh Regiment Veteran Association, Society of Founders and Patriots of America, Thirteen Club, New
York Consistory, 32nd degree, and St. Nicholas Lodge No. 321, F&AM.
-----
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_D._Sloat
John Drake Sloat b. 6 Jul 1781; d. 28 Nov 1867, was a Commodore in the U. S. Navy
who, in 1846, claimed California for the United States. He was born at the family home of
Sloat House in Sloatsburg, NY, of Dutch ancestry, and was orphaned at an early age, his
father, Captain John Sloat, having been mistakenly shot and killed by one of his own
sentries two months before he was born, and his mother dying a few years later. Sloat was
brought up by his maternal grandparents.
Appointed midshipman in the Navy in 1800, he was sailing master of the frigate United
States under Commodore Stephen Decatur during the War of 1812, and was promoted to
lieutenant for conspicuous gallantry in the capture of the frigate HMS Macedonian. Sloat
then commanded the schooner Grampus during which he fought the Action of 2 March
1825 against the pirate ship of Roberto Cofresi. He later served on the ships Franklin and
Washington, and from 1828 commanded the sloop St. Louis with the rank of master
commandant, to which he had been promoted in 1826. He was promoted to Captain in
1837, and from 1840 to 1844 was in charge of the Portsmouth Navy Yard.
In 1844 Sloat was appointed to command the Pacific Squadron, and in 1845, as tensions
with Mexico grew, he was instructed to land in Alta California and claim it for the United
States if war broke out. Receiving a report of fighting on the Texas border while off
Mazatlan, he raced north (the British were reportedly interested in California too), engaged
in a skirmish called the Battle of Monterey, raised the flag over the Customs House at
Monterey on July 7, 1846, and issued a proclamation announcing that California was now part of the United States. He was a
Military Governor of California for only seven days, before handing over the office to Robert F. Stockton.
19

The American flag flies over Monterey, Ca, 1846
Later, his poor health forced Sloat to take commands ashore, where he commanded the Norfolk Navy Yard 1847-51, directed the
construction of the Stevens Battery in 1855, and helped plan the Mare Island Navy Yard. After his retirement in 1866 he was
promoted to Rear Admiral. Sloat was a Freemason, and belonged to St. Nicholas Lodge No. 321 in New York City. He died in New
Brighton, NY, , and was buried in Brooklyn's Green-Wood Cemetery.
Ref. also The Life of the late Rear Admiral John Drake Sloat: of the United States Navy ..., by Sloat Monument Association of
California. 1902. 258 pages.
http://books.google.com/books?id=s_I8AQAAIAAJ&pg=PA106&dq=%22Nicholas+Lodge+No.+321%22&hl=en&ei=CwZbTq6uBqPw
0gG5m7iUCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=5&ved=0CD8Q6AEwBA#v=onepage&q=%22Nicholas%20Lodge%20No.
%20321%22&f=false
-----
The American Hatter, Volume 37, 1907. page 95, 93 and 84 [in that order]
http://books.google.com/books?id=lPtYAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA93&dq=%22Nicholas+Lodge+No.+321%22&hl=en&ei=iQhbToiBJOfk0Q
GNuNCUCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=12&ved=0CGEQ6AEwCw#v=onepage&q=%22Nicholas%20Lodge%20No.
%20321%22&f=false
John Collins Wilson
Page 95
HARDLY ever in its history has the entire hat trade been shocked by so horrible and
sudden a tragedy as it was when it learned of the murder of John C. Wilson, of the well
known hat manufacturing concern of John C. Wilson & Co., of New York, Orange and
South Norwalk, which occurred on July 23 [1907], in his New York office. Stricken down
from behind as he was about to assist a former retail customer, who through dissipation
of various kinds, had become drink and drug crazed, the horror and injustice of the event
seems terribly enhanced.
The death of John C. Wilson may be almost directly attributed to the errant cowardice,
coupled with almost unbelievable stupidity, on the part of a group of policemen who a
few hours before failed to either capture or kill Charles F. Warner, a former retail hatter,
who had murdered Miss Esther Norling, twenty-three years of age, and bookkeeper
employed in the men's furnishing goods store of William C. White at 3 West 42d street.
After having successfully eluded the cowardly officers in 42d street, Warner went to his
room, packed a dress suit case and then walked leisurely down to Waverly Place and
Greene Street, where the New York office of Mr. Wilson is located, and asked for the
loan of $10. As Mr. Wilson turned and was walking toward the safe to get the money,
Warner followed him, pressed the muzzle of a revolver to his back and shot him under
the left lung, the bullet going almost through the body and lodging in the abdomen.
So close was the pistol held to the murderer's victim that when Mr. Wilson was assisted to a chair his shirt around the wound was
ablaze.
The final capture of the murderer was due to the quick action of a truckman, Jacob Rose, who is known in the hatting section as "Big
Jake." who struck Warner down with a steel bale hook as he was running away.
Had the police acted with celerity and courage it is beyond question that Warner would have been unable to commit the second
shooting. He had been cornered in the Spaulding Building on 42d street, where he took refuge after murdering the young woman.
Three policemen started up the stairs after him but a shot from Warner's pistol drove them back and they ran into the street,
whereupon one blue-coat telephoned for the reserves and then the courageous (?") trio waited for the arrival of reinforcements. In
20

the meantime Warner by a circuitous route through the building escaped to the 43rd street entrance and made his way down to the
scene of the second murder.
For a time after the shooting it was confidently hoped that the wound would not prove fatal as it in itself was not necessarily so. Mr.
Wilson soon began to weaken, however, and finally passed away at nine o'clock of the evening of the following day at St. Vincent's
Hospital, whence he had been taken after the shooting. He was fully conscious up to the time of his death except during the
extraction of the bullet, when he was given an anesthetic. His immediate business associates, James D. Moriarty, E. M. Blake and
Morris Flood, the first named being Mr. Wilson's confidential and financial office man, and the other two of his salesmen, were with
him to the end, as were several other friends, among them Bernard T. McCann. the retail hatter of 210 Bowery, who for years has
been a close social and Masonic friend of the deceased, and J. P. McGovern.
During the four hours just prior to his death, Mr. Wilson arranged for the continuance of his business and executed a will of which J.
P. McGovern and James D. Moriarty are co-executors.
The death of Mr. Wilson removes from the hat trade a man who for many years has occupied a place of honor and respect among
his fellow workers. He was ambitious and successful in his business, and in all his business dealings was looked upon as the soul of
honor. Strict with others in their business relations, he was no less so with himself and his insistence on square dealing in all
business transactions was a well known characteristic.
The rise to prominence in his chosen vocation in which he was so vitally interested that it seemed to be the dominating factor in his
life was not through any freak of fortune but through hard work and conscientious endeavor and though he seemed at times almost
a slave to his work yet those who knew him best knew of the love that he had for his task, his purpose and hope to perpetuate his
name in an honorable calling and the half finished incorporation of his business through which it was to have been his pleasure to
reward with substantial interests those of his several faithful employees who through their loyalty to him had won a warm place in his
heart.
The funeral services were held at the Westminster Presbyterian Church, 23rd street, between Seventh and Eighth avenues. New
York, on Saturday, July 27, at two P. M., and were largely attended by the Masonic and business friends of the deceased. St.
Nicholas Lodge, No. 321, F&AM, of which Mr. Wilson was a member, took charge of the impressive and beautiful funeral
ceremony. The interment was made the next day at South Norwalk, CT.
The honorary pall bearers were all prominent in the hat trade. They were:
Adolph Wimpfheimer. of A. Wimpfheimer & Co.; Henri Picard, of Schorestene, Picard & Co.; John Cavanaugh, of Crofut & Knapp
Co.; Tames D. Moriarty, of John C. Wilson & Co.: Roger W. Allen, Editor of THE AMERICAN HATTER; Wm. H. Mooney, of W. H.
Mooney & Co.: Martin B. Fisher, of Fisher & Thompson and B. Lachmann.
John Collins Wilson was born in Valparaiso, IN. 59 years ago [ca 1848]. He never married and had no nearer relatives at the time of
his death than a first cousin, William Wilmington, of Toledo, OH. Mr. Wilson's residence at the time of his death was the Tintern
Apartments, 2465 Broadway, New York.
In his early boyhood days he secured a common school education in his home town, and later clerked in his father's country store in
Valparaiso. He later became a salesman for Sweet, Dempster & Co., the Chicago wholesale hat house, traveling for them in
Indiana. Illinois and Ohio, and afterwards went with a Philadelphia hat concern representing them on the road. Mr. Wilson had been
located in the City of New York twenty-two years, and began his first venture under his own name with a capital of $10,000 which he
had industriously earned and saved while a road man.
While he was selling for the Philadelphia house, Mr. Wilson acted upon his idea of making goods for himself by "weighing them out"
to other factories, and for several years literally made his office in his hat. When he first carried on this "weigh out" business it was
on soft hats only. He would sell a bill of hats on the road, would then order the bodies from the body maker, the trimmings and
leathers from the respective manufacturers of those goods, and have them sent to the factory turning out his orders. When he
secured a bill from the factory indicating that the goods had been shipped, after his day's work on the road he would repair to his
hotel room and make out bills mailing them to his respective customers whose merchandise had been delivered. In this way he laid
the foundation for the highly successful business which he conducted at the time of his sudden death. When he severed his
connection with the Philadelphia concern for whom he had traveled, he decided to continue this "weigh out" business in stiff hats
also, and took desk room in a loft at 97 Greene Street, doing business as John C. Wilson. This was between 1885 and 1887. In the
latter year on May 2, he admitted Charles W. Dreyer to a partnership, the business being continued as John C. Wilson & Co. This
arrangement continued until 1 Nov 1894, when Mr. Wilson bought out Mr. Dreyer's interest. It was in 1886 that James D. Moriarty,
the first employee Mr. Wilson ever had, became associated with him and he has therefore rounded out 21 years of loyal service.
From 97 Greene street the firm moved to 124 Greene street, where they continued for four years. The next four years were spent at
213 Greene street and the next at No. 208, when Mr. Wilson moved to 16 Waverly place remaining there eight years. The present
large and handsome quarters were occupied on 1 Feb 1907, and the new business was a source of great pride to the successful
proprietor.
Mr. Wilson was a member of St. Nicholas Lodge, No. 321, F. & A. M., The New York Athletic Club and the several trade
organizations.
John C. Wilson was the sole owner of the business of John C. Wilson & Co., the company being only nominal. Although Mr. Wilson
had no partners, yet his several business associates shared with him a percentage of his profits. James D. Moriarty was his financial
and confidential office manager.
A. M. Blake was his New York City salesman, Morris S. Flood represented him in the West, C. E. Metzger on the Pacific Coast.
Harry C. Blatchley in New England and in charge of the Boston office and John T. Mullen traveled South.
The business year of the firm ended on November 1 and for many weeks prior to his death Mr. Wilson and Mr. Moriarty had been
considering the matter of incorporation under the laws of the State of New Jersey and so far had this progressed that incorporation
papers had been drawn up. The business will be continued along lines laid out in these papers and according to Mr. Wilson's
instructions just before his death.
21

A meeting of the Hat Trade Memorial Fund was held at the Broadway Central Hotel, New York on July 29 to take action relative to
the death of Mr. Wilson. Mr. Charles A. Wharton in opening the meeting said:
"We all know that we have met here today just as we have come together in the past, to pay our last tribute of respect to those
of our associates in business who have passed away, some in the first years of their commercial lives, others after having
reached riper years and still others, as in a couple of recent instances, when they had arrived at extreme age. I have no
recollection, however, of ever having participated in a meeting of this nature in which our friend and associate had been
stricken down under such tragic circumstances. It seems almost incredible that a man, kind as he was, should be stricken
down in the very act of giving money to his assassin.
"However, the remarks of the minister at the funeral services which I attended on Saturday afternoon were brought forcibly
home to me when he said: 'The ways of Providence indeed are inexplicable to us.'
"Mr. Wilson was known to all of us as a man of sterling quality. If there was one thing about him that was more pronounced
than any other, it was his sense of right. He was a man who firmly believed in having everything done just right, even to the
smallest detail. This is an unusual trait for men are so apt to neglect small matters which do not appear at the time of
importance. I remember that at one of the meetings of the hat manufacturers which he attended, he was the last one to sign a
certain resolution, because he wanted time to convince himself first that it was right in every respect. I think that if we would all
follow his example more, it would be a great deal better for our trade.
"Mr. Wilson was a man who under all circumstances wanted to be assured that right and justice was done. We certainly all
mourn his loss and extend our sympathy here today to his associates. We would like to hear from any of those present today
who wish to speak at this time."
Mr. William H. Mooney then spoke as follows:
"Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen:—I. suppose I have known Mr. Wilson probably as long as any man in this city and I would say
almost fifty years. I have been a competitor of Mr. Wilson's and have never had a more honest competitor than he. John Wilson
certainly had the respect of all—his competitors, those he bought goods of and those he sold goods to. His memory should be
held with respect of all men. He was a square honest man and no one feels his loss more than I. We had many pleasant
meetings together socially, while he was in life. He was, as I have said, a firm believer in right and justice. I considered him one
of our best manufacturers in the country. In the production of his goods, he gave good, honest materials and exacted a fair
price for the finished article. I feel his loss very much."
Roger W. Allen, editor of THE AMERICAN HATTER, then said:
"Mr. President and Gentlemen: - As secretary of the Hat Trade Memorial Fund, I have received a letter from the Sigler Hat Co.,
of Philadelphia, expressing their deep regret that they cannot be present at this meeting, and expressing their sympathies on
this occasion."
Continuing Mr. Allen said:
"While I am on my feet, I wish to add at this time that I have been requested by the gentlemen who were probably the closest
to Mr. Wilson outside of a blood relative, to express as well as I can the feelings of deep sorrow which the employees of John
C. Wilson experience in the death of their employer, and their high appreciation of him. We have already heard here this
morning of what I had previously decided to take as the keynote of any remarks I might make regarding our late friend—that is,
his appreciation of the 'square deal' in business.
"In my capacity as editor of one of the trade papers I have come in contact with Mr. Wilson a great many times, personally,
socially and in a business way. The predominating characteristic of his nature was that everything to the smallest detail be
executed strictly in accordance with his conception of the right. He would stick longer over a principle, if he believed that
principle right, than many men that I know.
“I know that a good many people thought that he was a little bit hard, a little bit selfish. That is not so and the men who say that
it is not so are the men who know him best.
“Probably only a few are familiar with the details of Mr. Wilson's business arrangements. While he had no actual partner in the
business, it has been his custom to distribute a certain percentage of the profits, according to the merits of the case, to his
various employees. Even as recently as eight or nine weeks ago the matter of the incorporation of the business was taken
under advisement. I have personally seen the papers which were drawn up for this purpose and whereby the employees who
had served him so loyally were to receive a very generous share in the very successful business that he had built up.
"In my recent conferences with Mr. Wilson's leading employees, if I may use that term, I was more than impressed with the love
and respect that they evidently held for Mr. Wilson, and I am sure that that love, that respect and that admiration for the man go
far to prove that while John C. Wilson was wrapped up with his business affairs—some have even said that he was a slave to
his business—yet he had that human side, that sympathy for others that was bound to make itself apparent in his relations with
his employees.
"We need say nothing as to the details of his death. Of course we were all greatly shocked, and we mourn the loss of a friend.
"I am sure that there is no man the wisdom of whose conservative advice in trade conferences will be more missed and I am
glad indeed not only to have been able to pay my own last respects to the memory of John C. Wilson, but also to have been
the representative of his employees here today, who, owing to business conferences that they have today with their attorneys
and others, the necessity of which you will all appreciate, are unable to be here in person. I only regret that I am so unable to
fittingly express their feelings in the matter."
Chester E. Clark then spoke as follows:
22

"I have known Mr. Wilson personally for a number of years. When I first came here in connection with the trimming business a
few years ago Mr. Wilson was among the first hat manufacturers that I called upon. Since then he has impressed me as a man
willing and ready to give good advice and ready to offer it when he thought it would be appreciated. In recent years I had called
upon Mr. Wilson many times and had become intimately acquainted with him.
"I was in Boston when I first heard the tragic circumstances that resulted in his death and upon my return to New York
regretted to learn that he was so seriously injured. Later I was glad to hear that he was recovering from the effects of .the
injuries and then the news of his death came as a terrible shock. I felt as though I had lost a good friend.
"Mr. Wilson was a man of honor, integrity and uprightness and one always ready to help his fellow-man."
Mr. Charles M. Biggs said:
"It is undoubtedly a gratification to all of us to hear such earnest expressions of regard for the character of our friend who has
passed away. There is no man who has been identified in any way with the hat trade who has occupied a higher position in it.
The gentlemen who have spoken have given expression of feelings which I think were universal in the trade.
"He was a good merchant and a square man and it is unnecessary for us to say that we regret such a loss, such an untimely
end.
"I move therefore, that a committee be appointed to draft fitting resolutions that will express, even if only feebly, the sense of
the trade and this meeting in the loss which has been sustained."
At a meeting of the Hat Trade Memorial Fund, held on July 29, the following resolutions were unanimously adopted.
Whereas, in the inscrutable Providence of an Almighty and all-wise God, our friend and business associate, John C. Wilson, in
the prime of his manhood has been suddenly called to the great beyond, and
Whereas, the trade of which he was a respected and beloved member desires to pay this its last tribute to his uprightness and
probity and to his many other characteristics which may be taken as examples for the future conduct of life, therefore,
Resolved, that in his sudden call to his eternal rest and reward we are again impressed with the uncertainty of human life and
are self-admonished to prepare for our own journey hence:
Resolved, that his high sense of honor and his principles of square dealing express to us the high estate of an honest business
man. We mourn his loss, we cherish his memory and we extend sympathy to all those most near and dear to him.
Resolved, that these resolutions be published in the journals of the trade and a suitably engrossed copy be forwarded to his
business associates.
German Union Lodge No. 322
Warrant: 14 Apr 1819
Renumbered No. 54 in 1830
1828:
John G. Rohr, W. M.;
John Seidel, S. W.;
Frederick Leise, J. W.;
H. Gaveils, Secretary;
Paulus Hedl, Treasurer;
H. Winkler, S. D.;
F. Hartman, J. D.;
D. Klauberg, J. A. Seidel, M. C.
H. Chapmann, C. V. Saltzon, Stewards;
H. Feechtman, Tyler.
C. Meday, B. Leistner, J. Tiemman, C. Blanche, F Mickel, Standing Committee;
Met 2nd and 4th Thursdays, at Union Hall.
IRVING GERRY,
FRED P. WASHBURN,
HENRI PICARD.
W. H. MOONEY,
ROGER W. ALLEN,
Committee.
http://books.google.com/books?id=mtBFAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA119&lpg=PA119&dq=%22Paulus+Hedl%22&source=bl&ots=5SjFx2pbu
L&sig=Hpjhx4pDwxIOdx6JjqtbrxHBRPk&hl=en&ei=2ShcTsHDOsHa0QHQg7CUCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=7&v
ed=0CD0Q6AEwBg#v=onepage&q=%22Paulus%20Hedl%22&f=false page 119.
Paulus Hedl, a German blacksmith, who was educated in the arts of design, gave a new turn to his manufacture. He designed the
railing around the Capital and the President's house at Washington, and all the ornamental railings in this city [New York], except
those of Trinity Church and St. John's Park, which were from drawings by J. W. Bennet, an English artist, who traveled through
Egypt with Belzoni. Paulus Hedl, by his skill and taste, acquired a competency at middle life and retired, while others without his
knowledge of the arts of design continued to plod on without improvement .
The wrought iron gates at the entrance to the 175th annual Philadelphia Flower Show [March 2005] once parted for presidents and
world leaders in Washington, D.C. Hand-forged in New York by Austrian smith Paulus Hedl, the bronze, Gothic-style gates were
installed at the White House after the War of 1812.
23

http://www.prop1.org/history/1996/960704a1.htm
A “cranky German ironmonger” in New York, Paulus Hedl, made the gates and presented Monroe with the keys. Andrew Jackson
disliked the fence, a mere 12 years later, and ordered the stone pillars rolled apart 30 or 40 feet, as well as having the fence
straightened out between them—straight as an arrow. None of this has changed in appearance since then. Even one set of gates
remained until 1976, when retired to storage.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/emilio_guerra/4240012060/
John G. Rohr
< 506 Canal Street House - Tribeca, Manhattan
John G. Rohr was born in Baden and naturalized on 3 Nov 1826 at twenty-five or
thirty years of age. A member of the German Society from 1830 to 1838, he first
made his mark as a merchant tailor . . . In a court case involving the sale of what
became to Collins Hotel, he is noted having been deceased ca 1861.
The red brick building at 506 Canal Street is part of a rare surviving cluster of early
nineteenth-century structures in lower Manhattan on a block partially created on
landfill located close to the Hudson River waterfront. It was built in 1826 with the
adjacent house at 508 Canal Street on a midblock site between Greenwich and
Washington Streets by John G. Rohr.
Rohr, a merchant tailor, developed several properties on both sides of Canal Street
and had his business in a building at the northwest corner of Canal and Greenwich.
He lived with his family in this building between 1830 and 1853. The building
retains distinctive characteristics of the Federal style, including Flemish bond
brickwork, brownstone window sills and entrance archway, and peaked roof. The
most unusual feature is the three-bay castiron storefront with semi-elliptical arches,
which appears to date from the original construction of the building and is the only
known storefront of its kind to survive in New York City. The presence of 506 Canal
Street is a striking reminder of the initial phase of the development of New York
City in the years of the early republic.
The section of Canal Street on which these surviving early nineteenth-century
houses are located forms part of the northern boundary of the neighborhood known
since the 1970s as Tribeca (Triangle Below Canal Street).3 Much of the area was
part of a land grant made in 1705 from Queen Anne to Trinity Church. A significant portion of this was leased to [Bro.] Leonard
Lispenard as farmland and was commonly known as the Lispenard Meadows.
Amity Lodge No. 323
Lodge Website: http://www.amity323.com/
Old Lodge Website: http://www.amitylodge.org/history.htm [as of 2006] with an extremely brief history, as follows:
Amity Lodge was organized under the following circumstances: In 1853, there met on the east side of the City, a number of
congenial spirits who were members of the Old Volunteer Fire Department. One of their machines was known as "Old Amity," hence
the name of the lodge.
Amity Lodge was organized under dispensation, 1 Sep 1853 and was instituted, 10 Jun 1854. The first meetings were held at
Broome and Crosby Streets; and then successively at each of the following addresses: 819 Broadway, corner Twelfth Street; over
Helmbold's Drug Store; Kane Lodge Room, Broadway and Twenty-second Street; and the old Masonic Temple. On completion of
the new Masonic Temple in 1909, Amity Lodge moved into the Ionic Room and eventually the Corinthian Room, on the 8th floor,
where we currently meet.
The charter members were John J. Tinsdale, Henry W. Turner, John B. Leverich, R.T. Entwistle, William Drew, Josiah Waterman,
George H.E. Lynch, James B. Daniels, John Miller, P.J. Dalt, and John J. Spowers.
W.’. John J Tinsdale was the first Master of Amity and served in that capacity from 1853-1855. He afterwards became Secretary of
the Lodge and served for over 20 years in that capacity. William Drew was the first Treasurer and served for 28 years.
R:.W:. Richardson Wright, an expert and author on gardening wrote over 20 books on gardening. One of his works was "Revels in
Jamaica," published in 1937.
-----
WARRANT: The warrant in possession of the Lodge is dated June 10, 1854.
The name or number has never been changed.
MINUTES: Not intact.
Amity Lodge was organized during the summer of 1853. The petition, which is without date, is signed by the following:
John J. Tindale.
Henry W. Turner.
Roderick T. Entwistle.
The petitioners nominated as officers:
JOHN J. TINDALE, Master.
John Miller.
George H. E. Lynch.
John J. Spowers.
James B. Daniels.
Patrick J. Daly.
Josiah Waterman.
John B. Leverich.
24

HENRY W. TURNER, Senior Warden.
JOHN B. LEVERICH, Junior Warden.
The petition was recommended by Polar Star Lodge, No. 245, at a meeting held September 14, 1853, and by Doric Lodge,
No. 280, at a meeting held September 15, 1853.
On September 24, 1853, a dispensation was issued by R.’. W.’. JOSEPH D. EVANS, Deputy Grand Master.
The first work done by the Lodge was on October 8, 1853, when Richard McLoughlin and Dennis M. O'Sullivan were initiated.
While working under dispensation the Lodge initiated forty-nine, passed forty-three and raised forty-one.
The warrant named the same officers as were nominated by the petitioners.
The first officers were:
JOHN J. TINDALE, Master.
HENRY W. TURNER, Senior Warden.
JOHN B. LEVERICH, Junior Warden.
WILLIAM DREW, Treasurer.
RODERICK T. ENTWISTLE, Secretary.
The first meeting place was on the corner of Broome and Crosby Streets, thence to No. 819 Broadway, then to the corner of
Broadway and Twenty-second Street. The next place was over Helmbold's Drug Store, on Broadway above Prince Street, thence to
33 Union Square; afterward it moved into the Masonic Hall on Twenty-third Street, where it remained until 1909, when it moved into
its present quarters in the new Masonic Hall on Twenty-fourth Street.
The Lodge celebrated its fiftieth anniversary in 1904.
It was represented at the laying of the corner-stone of the Masonic Hall on Twenty-third Street June 8, 1870; the dedication of same
June 2, 1875; the laying of the corner-stone of the Egyptian Obelisk in Central Park, October 9, 1880; the laying of the corner-stone
of the Home at Utica, May 21, 1891, and the dedication of same October 5, 1892.
A sketch of Amity Lodge without reference to R.’. W.’. JOHN R. POPE, who, for nearly forty years, was one of its conspicuous
members, would be incomplete. He became a member, in 1874; was Master in 1879-80, and again in 1882-83, and was its
Secretary at the time of his death. He was District Deputy Grand Master of the Sixth District, Grand Lecturer and Grand Librarian.
He was active in organizing the General Masonic Relief Association of the United States and Canada, serving as its Vice-President,
President' and Secretary. He was President of the New York Board of Relief for many years. His death occurred May 20, 1912.
GRAND LODGE OFFICERS
Henry W. Turner, District Deputy Grand Master
Charles K. Hyde, District Deputy Grand Master.
Samuel C. Seaman, District Deputy Grand Master.
William J. Magee, Grand Sword Bearer.
John R. Pope, District Deputy Grand Master, Grand Lecturer, Grand Librarian.
1853. John J. Tindale.
1854. John J. Tindale.
1855. John J. Tindale.
1856. Henry W. Turner.
1857. Henry W. Turner.
1858. Samuel B[oyd].
Tobey, Jr.
1859. Henry W. Turner.
1860. Henry W. Turner.
1861. Henry W. Turner.
1862. Henry W. Turner.
1863. Andrew M. Underhill.
1864. Alvin Graff.
1865. Samuel C. Seaman.
1866. Dominicus Snedeker.
1867. Dominicus Snedeker.
http://www.amity323.com/Past%20Masters.htm
1868. John D. McKee.
1869. Andrew M. Underhill.
1870. Henry Templer.
1871. Charles K. Hyde.
1872. Charles K. Hyde.
1873. Charles K. Hyde.
1874. Edward B. Brush.
1875. John H. Higgins.
1876. John H. Higgins.
1877. Charles K. Hyde.
1878. Charles K. Hyde.
1879. John R. Pope.
1880. John R. Pope.
1881. John H. Higgins.
1882. John R. Pope.
1883. John R. Pope.
MASTERS 1853-1913
MASTERS 1914-2009
1884. Peter J. Ferrier.
1885. Joseph Souza.
1886. Joseph Souza.
1887. Joseph Souza.
1888. Burtis Van Hennik.
1889. Burtis Van Hennik.
1890. Elbert Schulte.
1891. Elbert Schulte.
1892. Dominicus Snedeker.
1893. Dominicus Snedeker.
1894. William J. Behrens.
1895. George Rae.
1896. George Rae.
1897. Henry Schwoon.
1898. Henry Schwoon.
1899. Charles K. Hyde.
1900. Charles K. Hyde.
1901. Albert Schulte.
1902. Albert Schulte.
1903. William J. Magee.
1904. William J. Magee.
1905. William J. Magee.
1906. Conrad A. Meyer.
1907: Conrad A. Meyer.
1908. Conrad A. Meyer.
1909. Howard P. Moser.
1910. Howard P. Moser.
1911. George T. Mundorff.
1912. George T. Mundorff.
1913. Maxmillian F. Barton
1914-16 Maxwell Green
1916-17 A. O. G Lenning
1917-18 George F. Lewis
1918-20 George E. Jubitz
1920-21 Frank S. Parkin
1921-22 Edgar G. Greiner
1922-23 John A. Bates
1923-24 Frank C. Werner
1924-25 William P. Walter
1925-26 Henry Schwoon, Jr.
1926-27 Charles F. Van Wickle
1927-28 John Becker
1928-29 Harry R. Borchers
1929-30 Julius Beer
1930-31 Edward J. Freund
1931-32 Bernard Williams Cohen
1932-33 Frederick Vonder Esch
1933-34 Richardson L. Wright
1934-35 George G. Arlook
1935-36 Merwin E. Busch
1936-37 Robert J. Kenning
1937–38 Edward F. Wallace
1938-39 Sidney Sugarman
1939-40 John G. Crandall
1940-41 Jack Harmon
1941-42 William H. Coleman
1942-43 Arthur S. Jarcho
1943-44 George E. Hoffman
1944-45 Charles F. Brand
1945-46 N. Waldo Johnson
1946-47 Arthur Brown
1947-48 George Schiffer
W:. Walter E. Neit 1948 - 1949
W:. Marcus Stern 1949 - 1950
W:. Jules Kopelson 1950 - 1951
W:. S. Jerry Nayer 1951 - 1952
W:. Oscar A. Borges 1952 - 1953
W:. Paul P. Pollack 1953 - 1954
W:. Neil J. Smith 1954 - 1955
W:. Leo M. Evans 1955 - 1956
R:.W:. Steve S. Grant 1956 - 1957
W:. William S. Peck 1957 - 1958
W:. Albert Sherman 1958 - 1959
W:. Lawrence Edleman 1959 - 1960
W:. Joseph Simon 1960 - 1961
W:. Aurel Rosenfield 1961 - 1962
W:. David Pearlman 1962 - 1964
W:. George Pearlman 1964 - 1965
25

W:. Jules Cast 1965 - 1966
R:.W:. Vincent J. D'Aversa 1966 - 1967
W:. Henry Schneider 1967 - 1968
W:. Morris Blumenrich 1969 - 1970
W:. Nathan Auerbach 1970 - 1971
W:. Norton L. Rothschild 1971 - 1972
W:. Mel Asnes 1972 - 1973
W:. Bernard Preman 1973 - 1975
W:. Abraham Fishler 1975 - 1976
W:. Sheldon Auerback 1976 - 1977
Michael Cregan
W:. Tobias Ebinger 1977 - 1978
W:. Ronald Kunic 1979 - 1980
W:. Gary Auerback 1981 - 1982
W:. Ronald Kunic 1982 - 1983
W:.Nick Mitchell 1983 - 1984, 1990 -
1992, 1995 - 1997
W:. Ed Sasso 1985 - 1988
W:. Nick Cutaneo 1988 - 1990
W:. Eddie Weigert 1992 - 1995
W:. Basim Ali 1997 - 1998
W:. Khristos Karastathis 1998 - 2004
W:. Josue A. Garcia 2004 - 2005
W:. Dr. Hamid Lalani 2005 - 2006
W:. Valentin Peytchinov 2006-2007
W:. George Liberis 2007-2008
W:. Eugene Biz 2008-2009
2009-10
2010-11
John Pofanti 2011-12
CRAGAN [CREGAN], MICHAEL - Age 18 years. Enlisted [82nd NY Inf. Vols.] at New York city, to serve three years, and mustered
in as musician [drummer], Co. I, 12 Jun 1861; returned to company as private, no date; reenlisted as a veteran, 29 Dec 1863;
transferred to Co. C, 21 May 1864; promoted drum-major, 1 Jun 1864; transferred to 59th Infantry, 10 Jul 1864; also borne as
Greegan and Cregan.
CREEGAN [CREGAN] , MICHAEL - Drum-major, 82nd Infantry; transferred to this regiment [59th NY Inf. Vols.], 10 Jul 1864;
mustered in as 2Lt, Co. C, 18 Jan 1865; mustered out with company, 30 Jun 1865, at Munson's Hill, VA; also borne as Cragen,
Gragin, Creagon and Cregan; veteran. Commissioned 2Lt, 22 Dec 1864, with rank from 14 Dec 1861, vice W. Bell discharged; 1Lt
and Adjutant, not mustered; 30 Jun 1865, with rank from 31 Mar 1865, vice G. Mathews promoted.
http://query.nytimes.com/mem/archive-free/pdf?res=F20D11FE3D5E10728DDDAE0994D1405B8784F0D3
17 Sep 1887 - The New York Times
A Standard History of Freemasonry in the State of New York ..., Volume 2, by Peter Ross, page 456.
http://books.google.com/books?id=kWYiAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA457&dq=%22Amity+Lodge+No.+323%22&hl=en&ei=_dVcTv5f5-
jRAdjvqd0C&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=10&ved=0CGQQ6AEwCQ#v=onepage&q=%22Amity%20Lodge%20No.%20
323%22&f=false
26

Charles H. Heyzer. Since the death, in 1896, of Charles T. McClenachan, Brother Charles H. Heyzer has been regarded, and justly
so, as the leading spirit of Scottish Rite Masonry in the State of New York. Unlike the York Rite, leadership in that system which is
called "Scottish" requires something more than mere official position to insure actual leadership. It is essentially a system in which a
man must be a diligent student to occupy the first rank. To understand it thoroughly one must go below the surface, must
understand the reason for many things which in the York Rite are permitted to pass
unheeded,—not that we desire by saying this much to express any opinion whereby it
might be said that the Scottish Rite is superior to that to which we give the name of York.
To do so would be regarded as treason, and rightly so. But the Scottish Rite goes so far
beyond the York Rite in its work that much which is of little consequence inthe three
degrees of the Symbolic Lodge, or the four degrees of the Chapter, assume a vital
importance when we get into the ineffable degrees in our journey toward the Consistory.
To be thoroughly equipped in Scottish Rite Masonry one must not only be a delver into
history but a thinker on matters which after all are the higher philosophy,—the philosophy
of life, of death, of the hereafter,—and such men are not by any means common in our
circle. To acquire such knowledge takes time, to enter into such realms of thought
requires not only patience but a mind naturally reflective, and in this busy, bustling,
moneyhunting age, when men have to work harder than ever to keep in the line of the
business current, to earn their daily bread, or to retain their social position in the
community, few present these necessary qualifications. When Brother McClenachan
passed away, it was felt that he left vacant a place that was hard to fill. He had won more
than ordinary fame as a Masonic historian and author, his fame as a ritualist was
widespread in the Scottish Rite, while in the York Rite he had been active for years. In
the New York Consistory he had long been a leading figure. Masonically he was without
a peer in the New York bodies, and his influence was felt in Lodge, Council, Chapter and
Consistory so that his removal, even at a ripe old age, was regarded as an irreparable
loss. But associated with him for twenty-seven years in all that pertains to Masonry was
Charles H. Heyzer; and when the time came the latter quickly stepped into the departed
leader's place in the fraternity and filled it so well and so completely that the change was
hardly felt.
No one has ever heard Brother Heyzer deliver the lecture which in the Blue Lodge generally follows the work of the third degree, or
in the Lodge of Perfection listened to his address to candidates, or heard him speak to a class in the Consistory, without recognizing
in him a close student of Masonic history or a master in that grand system of philosophy to which all Masonic teachings tend, no
matter what the rite or subordinate organization. A Masonic orator he never was, never will be, but somehow his words carry with
them a degree of conviction which comes to us only when we are impressed with the idea that the words of the speaker come from
the heart, that he is giving to us not merely a sufficiency of sentences to fill a certain space in the ritual, but is imparting to us truths
which he himself has uncovered as a result of his work in the quarries of Masonry. He is no believer in Masonic shams, he is no
blind follower of others; he thinks for himself, proves for himself and gives utterance to his conclusions,— not with the dogmatism of
the man wno "knows it all," but with the diffidence of a student who is still a seeker after truth, one who is still in search of more light,
but who is as sure as mortal man can be of the honesty of all that he tries to inculcate. Standing at the head of the New York
Consistory, and one of the leaders in the higher circles of the York Rite, a power in the Shrine, Brother Heyzer is still a disciple and
will be to the end of his career. In that fact lies the secret of his eminence and his great popularity in the Mystic circle.
Charles H. Heyzer was born in New York City, in 1841, and for many years has held an important position in the New York Custom
House. In 1871 he was initiated, passed and raised in Amity Lodge No. 323, but afterward affiliated into Chancellor Walworth
Lodge, No. 271, of which he was Master in 1892-1893 and 1895. In 1897 he was accredited by Grand Master John Stewart as
Representative of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales near the Grand Lodge of New York, an appointment which had been held
bv Brother McClenachan from the time that the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, which he had represented for years, turned its back
on the entire representative system. In Capitular Masonry Brother Heyzer has also won prominence as a member of Ancient
Chapter No. 1, while in Chivalric Masonry he has held the high office of Commander of Columbian Commandery No. 1. He has also
been for some twenty-six years High Priest of Mecca Temple, Mystic Shrine. As to his connection with Scottish Rite Masonry we
have already spoken, and it only remains to say that he received the thirty-third and last degree, Sovereign Grand Inspector
General, in 1884. He died 8 Feb1904, age 62.
-----
http://query.nytimes.com/mem/archive-free/pdf?res=F10F15FE355E10738DDDAA0894D0405B8685F0D3
3 Aug 1896 - © The New York Times
27

-----
Samuel Boyd Tobey, Jr. joined the 19th New York Volunteers in 1861 and spent most of the next two years in New Bern, North
Carolina.
TOBEY, SAMUEL B., JR.—Age, 29 years. Enlisted [3rd Artillery*], April 29, 1861, at Auburn; mustered in as sergeant, Co. A,
Nineteenth New York Volunteers, May 22, 1861, to serve two years; appointed regimental quartermaster-sergeant, August 12,
1861; Nineteenth Infantry changed to Third Artillery. December 11, 1861; mustered in second lieutenant. Battery K, February 24,
1862; first lieutenant. Battery M, February 24, 1863; appointed regimental quartermaster, April 25, 1863; relieved and returned to
Battery M, date not stated; resigned, June 19, 1864; commissioned second lieutenant, March 10, 1862, with rank from March 10,
1862, original; first lieutenant, April 10, 1863, with rank from February 24, 1863, vice F. W. Prince, resigned.
Note: * The 19thNY Volunteers was accepted by the State and organized as a regiment of infantry for two years' service; it served
as infantry until December 11, 1861, when it was converted into a regiment of artillery and designated the 3rd Regiment, Light
Artillery, under which title its records and service are given.
http://homepages.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~explor19/tobeydta/d6.htm#c16006
Samuel Boyd Tobey [Jr.] b. 6 Dec 1831 in Providence, Rhode Island; d. 30 Jan 1898 in Brooklyn, Kings, NY at age 66, and was
buried in Providence (Providence Quaker Cemetery), Rhode Island. He was the son of Dr. Samuel Boyd Tobey and his first wife
Sarah Lockwood.
-----
28

Nelse Seymour [Thomas Nelson N. Sanderson) b. 5 Jun 1835, Baltimore, MD; d. 2 Feb 1875, was
a minstrel, dancer, and an actor. [photo at right]. He was the son of Col. Henry S. Sanderson, a
prominent Democratic politician, who had held the officers of sheriff and city tax collector and was
one of the original directors and for many years the treasurer of the Front Street Theatre in
Baltimore. It was at that theatrre that Nelse Seymour made his first appearance in public as a
volunteer clown in the circus ring. Shortly afterwards he entered the minstrel profession and was
connected with Myers & Madigan’s Circus, also with Dan Rice’s. He made his first appearance in
public with cork on his face at Apollo Hall, Baltimore, MD, which was then managaed by John T.
Raymond and Fanny Forrest. He made his first appearance in New York 25 Aug 1862. He sailed
for England, 12 Jun 1869, under engagement to appear with Moore & Crocker’s Minstrels in
London. He made a hit among the Londoners but the climate did not agree with him and he was
several time afflicted with hemorrhage of the lings. After a sojourn there of a few months he
returned to New York. He was billed perform with Bryant’s Mistrels Wednesday evening, 27 Jan
1875, in “Deaf in a Horn” and to impersonate the characters of the Policeman and King Kaliko in
the closing pantomime of “Kuliko, or, Harleguin, King of the Sandwich Islands;” but being too ill to
perform his duties, his place in “Deaf in a Horn” was supplied by W. H. Brockway and one of the
attaches of the theatre went of for the policeman and Mr. Seymour impersonated King Kaliko only. His illness increased so rapidly
during evening that at the close of the performance he was compelled to ask the aid of a brother performer to wash the cork from his
face. He was conveyed in a carriage to he residence, where he remained until his spirit winged its flight. His remains were escorted
from the residence of his mother to the church by 182 members of Amity Lodge of F&AM, and by the New York Lodge No. 1 of the
B. P. O. Elks. The remains were then conveyed to Evergreen Cemetery, East New York, followed by a long line of carriages; and
the services at the grave were the most imposing of all.
Acacia Lodge No. 327
Ref. Acacia Lodge, No. 327, F. & A. M.: our history for one hundred years 1853-1953 [copy not consulted at the time of this
compilation] There is a copy in the Scottish Rite Library in Lexington, MA, and most likely one in the New York Grand Lodge Library.
-----
A History of Cleveland, Ohio: Biographical, by Samuel Peter Orth, page 1101.
http://books.google.com/books?id=H5U6AQAAIAAJ&pg=PA1101&dq=%22Acacia+Lodge+No.+327%22&hl=en&ei=X3hdTtWfGKjF0
AGb2M32Ag&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=8&ved=0CFEQ6AEwBw#v=onepage&q&f=false
The business record of Frank Bernard Alexander constitutes an integral chapter in the commercial history of Cleveland and also of
other sections of the country. His name is a familiar one in many cities, for he is the president of the Alexander Optical Company,
owning fifty stores in various sections of the United States. The main offices are at No. 907 Euclid avenue, where he has been
located since 1905.
A son of Louis and Satie Alexander, he was born in Boston, MA, 11 Jul 1876, and pursued his education in the excellent public
schools of that city to the age of thirteen years, when, ambitious to provide for his own support, he began canvassing for magazines
and other publications. He displayed notable energy and ability for one of his years and his ambition prompted his careful
expenditure until he had saved a sufficient sum to engage in business on his own account. He was still very young when he
established an optical store at Newark, New Jersey, having acquainted himself with the science under the direction of his father,
who was a well known oculist. The new venture was not long in securing a profitable trade and as the business increased he
opened up many branch houses in different parts of the country until the Alexander Optical Company now owns and controls fifty
stores located in many parts of the leading cities of the United States. Newark, New Jersey, was one of the first branches, and Mr.
Alexander, because of the substantial growth of the business here and the excellent location of the city as a trade center, resolved
to make Cleveland his home. From a small beginning the business has developed along substantial lines until now one thousand
people are employed in his stores and in the factories at New York city and Cleveland. His knowledge of the scientific principles
underlying the work and the excellent service rendered by his representatives under his direction have made the output of the
Alexander Optical Company a standard to the trade. As his business increased he saw the necessity and value of establishing
factories that the goods handled in the stores might be received when demanded and that it might be of the quality desired.
Factories were then opened and are now operating with large forces. The gigantic enterprise that has been built up is due to the
marked energy and executive ability of Mr. Alexander, who has constantly broadened the angle of his activities and has brought to
play a strong initiative spirit in founding and developing the different mercantile and industrial enterprises that are now conducted
under his name. He is also heavily interested in the jewelry business, having made extensive investment in that line.
On 10 Sep 1902, Mr. Alexander was married to Miss Carrie Simon, d/o Isaac Simon, one of New York city's wealthiest merchants,
and they have one child, Selma. Mr. Alexander belongs to Acacia Lodge, No. 327, F&AM, of New York. He is independent
politically but not unmindful of the duties of citizenship. On the contrary he is greatly interested in Cleveland and its welfare and has
been a co-operant factor in many projects which have been of inestimable value in the city's growth and development. Such in brief
is the history of Frank Bernard Alexander. Who would have thought when he started out in the business world at the age of thirteen
that he was to become the founder of one of the leading optical enterprises of the entire country, for he was a boy with no
pretentions to fame or fortune. On the contrary, he was practically unknown outside of the community in which he lived and his
financial resources were limited. However, he manifested intelligent appreciation of opportunity and utilizing the advantages at hand
he has built up a business of mammoth proportions, the splendid growth and development of which is an indication of his ability,
enterprise and strong purpose, while his record is one which reflects credit upon the city of his adoption.
-----
29

The New York red book, page 184.
http://books.google.com/books?id=l3FIAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA184&dq=%22Acacia+Lodge+No.+327%22&hl=en&ei=X3hdTtWfGKjF0A
Gb2M32Ag&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CDoQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q=%22Acacia%20Lodge%20No.%203
27%22&f=false
Harold C. Mitchell, Republican, who represents the 21st Assembly District of New York County, was born in 1872 at Seneca Falls,
NY, was educated in the public schools and at Mynderse Academy, and was graduated from Cornell University School of Law in
1893. He was admitted to the bar in what was then the Fifth Department, settled in Rochester in 1893. For a time he was in the
office of the late Judge Danforth, and that of his son, Hon. Henry G. Danforth, and from 1896 practiced in Rochester, for a time
alone, later as a member of the firm of Mitchell & Bostwick, until 1900. In that year he removed to New York City, where he has
since practiced law and made his home.
He has an extensive and varied practice in the courts of this and other States, and of the United States in the course of which he
has traveled widely in this country and abroad. He belongs to the New York County Lawyers' Association and the American Bar
Association. He has served in the National Guard, is a past master of Acacia Lodge No. 327 F&AM, past high priest of Union
Chapter No. 180, a member of York Commandery No. 55, Mecca Temple and Benevolent Protective Order of Elks.
-----
Schlegel's German-American families in the United States ..., Volume 2, by Carl Wilhelm Schlegel, American Historical Society,
page 158.
http://books.google.com/books?id=CnATAQAAMAAJ&pg=PA159&dq=%22Acacia+Lodge+No.+327%22&hl=en&ei=X3hdTtWfGKjF0
AGb2M32Ag&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4&ved=0CD4Q6AEwAw#v=onepage&q=%22Acacia%20Lodge%20No.%20
327%22&f=false
George Solms, third child and second son of Peter Sohms and Helena Bauer, was born at the family home in New York City, 21
May 1869. He acquired his educational advantages in the public schools of his native city, and remained under the parental roof
until he attained to manhood years, and, upon taking up the practical duties of life, became identified with the Equitable Life
Assurance Society of New York City. He continued actively engaged in this business for a period of over fifteen years. In 1890 Mr.
Solms enabled himself to begin business on his own account, in the building and construction line in Brooklyn, NY, and during the
first eight years of his career in this line of enterprise met with a marked degree of success, as the logical result of his thrift and
enterprise, coupled with honorable methods in all his business transactions. In 1898 Mr. Solms entered into the building material
and coal supply business in Richmond Hill, Queens county, Long Island, establishing a lumber yard, coal pockets and other facilities
and accessories necessary for the efficient handling of both. In this new undertaking he met with immediate success, aided greatly
by his practical experience and thorough knowledge of the building and coal distributing business.
In addition to his commercial interests, Mr. Solms has become identified with a number of organizations in Richmond Hill, which
have for their object the advancement of the moral and social welfare of the community. He is a member Acacia Lodge No. 327, in
New York City. He married Anna Caroline Hunkens, b. 24 Feb 1876 in New York City; d. 9 May 1914, in Richmond Hill, Long Island,
d/o Heinrich and Wilhelmine (Berning) Hunkens. The former was born in the town of Brinkum, about ten miles from the city of
Bremen, Germany, 4 Mar 1844, and his wife, Wilhelmine Hunkens, was born in the city of Bremen, Germany, 12 Dec 1850.
Issue: George Solms, Jr., born at the family home at 85th street and Park Avenue, New York City.
Zerubbabel Lodge No. 329
Warrant: Jun 1854
Warrant 'arrested'; Forfeit 4 Jun 1896
1855 Masonic Register
Met at the corner of 8th Avenue and 29th Street, every Wednesday.
Alexander Bowman, Master,
Amos Burton, Senior Warden,
William Stewart, Junior Warden,
Samuel Wibzinskie, Secretary.
New York Lodge No. 330
Warrant: Jun 1854
1855 Masonic Register
Met at the Odd Fellows Hall, on First and Third Tuesdays.
Charles D. Brown, Master,
John B. Vermy, Senior Warden,
Stephen M. Purdy, Junior Warden,
W. U. S. Ostrander, Secretary.
-----
http://www.mastermason.com/bridgeportlodge181/STRANG04.HTM
On December 20, 1874, a special meeting of New York Lodge No. 330 was held to exemplify the third degree for the edification of a
Brother. His Royal Highness David Kalakaua , King of the Hawaiian Islands, and a member of Le Progres de l'Oceanie Lodge No.
124 (Supreme Council of France) Honolulu, Hawaiian Islands. After the degree was exemplified, the Bible on which George
30

Washington had taken his oath of office was displayed. The royal visitor asked that the book be opened at the page where the oath
was administered. He took the book in both hands and kissed the page saying "I thank God for this privilege." On January 15, 1865,
the same royal visitor attended Chicago's Oriental Lodge No. 33 which had called a special meeting. Over four hundred
distinguished visitors attended.
-----
< Edwin Thomas Booth, b. 13 Nov 1833, was a famous Shakespearean actor,
born in Bel Air, Maryland, and for twenty-five years before his death, on 7 Jun
1893, was a member of New York Lodge No. 330, New York. He was the older
brother of American stage actor and assassin, John Wilkes Booth.
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_1_A_to_D.h
tm
Edwin T. Booth (1833-1893) Famous Shakespearean actor of the American stage.
b. 13 Nov 1833 at Belair, MD. Member of a famous stage family, his father was
Junius Brutus and his brother, John Wilkes, who assassinated Lincoln on 14 Apr
1865. Edwin first appeared on the stage in 1849 and by 1855 was a well
established actor. His later travels carried him throughout the world. He was
greatly admired for his moral strength in rising above periods of poverty and
hunger, his father's addiction to drink and periods of insanity, and his brother's act
of assassination and death. He was initiated in New York Lodge No. 330 on 11
Sep 1857 and raised 23 Sep. His love of Freemasonry is attested by his bequest
of five thousand dollars to the Hall and Asylum Fund, and his statement that ". . .
to be worshipful master and to throw my whole soul in that work, with the
candidate for my audience, and the lodge for my stage, would be greater personal
distinction than to receive the plaudits of the people in the theaters of the world."
He was an honorary member of the Masonic Veterans Association of New York,
and on at least two occasions gave dramatic recitals in Independent Lodge. While
visiting a lodge in Omaha, Nebr. he was called upon to give a short talk and when
asked what his favorite hymn was, he answered Jesus Lover of My Soul, and
recited it. Asked for his favorite prose, he called the members to stand and repeated The Lord's Prayer. In 1925 Booth was elected
to the American Hall of Fame. d. 7 Jun 1893.
On 8 Apr 1868, after the removal of several old structures and blasting out an
unexpected "stone ledge" at the southeast corner of Twenty Third and Sixth Avenue,
Edwin, after "Masonic observances", laid the cornerstone for his new Booth’s Theatre.
Central to the identity of Booth's Theatre was the stage background of Edwin Booth,
who belonged to the Booth Family dynasty, which ruled the American stage in the 19th
century. It was actually touring with his father, Junius Brutus Booth, that gave Edwin his
first break, first appearing as Tressel in Richard II in Boston in 1849. After his father's
death in 1852 Booth toured internationally, visiting Australia and Hawaii and briefly
settling in California before returning to East Coast. Edwin is perhaps best known for his
"hundred nights of Hamlet" in which he played Hamlet for 101 consecutive
performances, a record held until 1922. Booth his also known for his relationship with
his infamous brother, John Wilkes, who assassinated President Abraham Lincoln. After
the tragedy, Edwin and John Wilkes' relationship was highly strained and Edwin even
disowned him at one point.
Booth had been drawn to the idea of erecting his own theatre, particularly after he
purchased the Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia. Plans overtook Booth when a
tragic fire of 1867 consumed The Windter Garden Theatre - Booth's usual performing
home in New York - and with it much of Booth's personal wardrobe. The new theatre
was to be one of the finest of its time, called in the press "A fitting temple for the
presentation of Shakespearean drama.
Booth's Theatre remained Booth's new performing home for several years, during which
time Booth and his elder brother Junius Brutus Booth, Jr., produced productions of the
classics and hosted guest artists, such as Joseph Jefferson in his popular Rip Van
Winkle. Finally, due in part to bad management, Booth lost the theatre to bankruptcy in
1874, and "never again participated in theatrical management." In 1883 the theatre was converted into a department store, which
was demolished in 1965. Presently [2011], the land is occupied by a Best Buy electronics store.
31

Booth's Theatre, Feb 1869, on the southeast corner of Twenty-Third Street and Sixth Avenue
Note: the old Masonic Hall was on the northeast corner, directly across the street.
The present Masonic Hall is also located there.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edwin_Booth
Masonic Hall, ca 1870, northeast corner of Twenty-Third Street and Sixth Avenue.
In an interesting coincidence, Edwin Booth saved Abraham Lincoln's son, Robert, from serious injury or even death. The incident
occurred on a train platform in Jersey City, NJ. The exact date of the incident is uncertain, but it is believed to have taken place in
late 1864 or early 1865, shortly before Edwin's brother, John Wilkes Booth, assassinated President Lincoln.
Robert Lincoln recalled the incident in a 1909 letter to Richard Watson Gilder, editor of The Century Magazine.
32

Robert Todd Lincoln - 1865
The incident occurred while a group of passengers were late at night purchasing their sleeping car
places from the conductor who stood on the station platform at the entrance of the car. The
platform was about the height of the car floor, and there was of course a narrow space between the
platform and the car body. There was some crowding, and I happened to be pressed by it against
the car body while waiting my turn. In this situation the train began to move, and by the motion I
was twisted off my feet, and had dropped somewhat, with feet downward, into the open space, and
was personally helpless, when my coat collar was vigorously seized and I was quickly pulled up
and out to a secure footing on the platform. Upon turning to thank my rescuer I saw it was Edwin
Booth, whose face was of course well known to me, and I expressed my gratitude to him, and in
doing so, called him by name.
Booth did not know the identity of the man whose life he had saved until some months later, when
he received a letter from a friend, Colonel Adam Badeau, who was an officer on the staff of General
Ulysses S. Grant. Badeau had heard the story from Robert Lincoln, who had since joined the Union
Army and was also serving on Grant's staff. In the letter, Badeau gave his compliments to Booth for
the heroic deed. The fact that he had saved the life of Abraham Lincoln's son was said to have
been of some comfort to Edwin Booth following his brother's assassination of the president.
-----
http://localhistory.morrisville.edu/sites/unitinfo/brewster.html
William Root Brewster 29 Jul 1828 – 13 Dec 1869; from The Brooklyn Daily Eagle, 14 Dec
1869:
DEATH OF GEN. BREWSTER.--Yesterday Brigadier General William R. Brewster died in this
city. General Brewster, during the late war, after the promotion of General Daniel E. Sickles,
commanded the Excelsior Brigade. He won honor and distinction in the field. He was a native of
Brooklyn, and before the war was connected with "G" Company of the Thirteenth Regiment.
Since the close of the war he has been in public life, holding a position in the Internal Revenue
Department of the United States.
from The New York Times, December 15, 1869:
DIED - BREWSTER.--In Brooklyn, on Monday, Dec. 13, General WILLIAM R. BREWSTER, aged
41 years and 5 months.
The relatives and friends of the family, also the members of the Excelsior Brigade, N.Y.S.V., and
members of New York Lodge No. 330, F. and A.M., are respectfully invited to attend the funeral
from the Church of the Holy Trinity, corner of Montague and Clinton sts., Brooklyn, on Thursday
afternoon, at 2 o'clock. Remains will be interred in Green-Wood.
He was the son of Nelson Brewster and Lucretta Hannah Root and was married to Julia V. Waldron, d. 29 Mar 1909, age 76.
-----
A standard history of freemasonry in the state of New York ..., Volume 2. by Peter Ross, page 306.
http://books.google.com/books?id=kWYiAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA306-
IA2&dq=%22New+York+Lodge+No.+330%22&hl=en&ei=lCtgTt7ROojWgQfP1ey5AQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=6&
ved=0CEkQ6AEwBQ#v=onepage&q=%22New%20York%20Lodge%20No.%20330%22&f=false
John J. Brogan, who may be now regarded as a veteran member of the metropolitan fraternity, since he was initiated into Masonry
in 1866, is a native of New York City, born in 1844. He received his education in the public schools, graduating at Grammar School
No. 5. Soon afterward he enlisted (May 28, 1862) in the New York Militia, and after the close of hostilities entered the New York
police force. In that body he served for 28 years, gradually rising in the service until he attained the rank of Captain. This latter
position he held for fourteen years, when he retired. He now enjoys life, taking an active interest in all passing events and keenly
observant of all phases of public affairs.
Captain Brogan's first entrance into Masonry was in New York Lodge No. 330. Certainly no man is more respected in its ranks than
he, and probably none is better acquainted with the working of the Lodge. He has served it in various capacities, filling many of its
offices, including that of Master. He received the Royal Arch degrees in Tyrian Chapter No. 219, in 1867, and affiliated with
Manhattan Chapter No. 184, in 1884, and has held the office of King, while the Cryptic degrees were received in Adelphic Council
No. 7. In 1882 he was Knighted in Palestine Commandery No. 18, and the same year he received the Scottish Rite degrees up to
and including the 32d, and so became a member of the New York Consistory and all its subsidiary bodies. He is also a member of
Mecca Temple, Mystic Shrine. In all these organizations Captain Brogan takes a deep interest, and in most of them an active
interest. He is very popular among his brethren in them all, and is as ready now to undertake a bit of Masonic work as he was when
he was climbing up the tree as a Master Mason.
-----
http://www.getnj.com/hudberg/genealogical327.shtml
Valentine Denzer, of West Hoboken, was born in Manheim, Bavaria, Germany, 18 Sep 1834, the son of Valentine Denzer, Sr., b.
29 Sep 1799, and Elizabeth Becker, his wife, and a grandson of AIbinus Denzer. In November 1834, he was brought by his parents
33

to America, and for nearly three years the family lived in New York City. In August 1837. they moved to Washington County, OH, but
in the fall of 1844 returned to New York, retaining, however, their property in the West. The father was a miller, and in New York was
engaged for six years in the grocery business at 500 Fast Fourth Street. In May 1856, they returned to the old home in Ohio, where
Valentine Denzer, Sr., resided until May 1876, when he once more came East, and died in West Hoboken, NJ, 23 Aug 1878. His
wife died in 1884, aged 76. Valentine Denzer, the subject of this article, attended school in a log school house in Lowell, OH, until he
was nine years old. Afterward he attended the public schools of New York City, and when sixteen took a private course of study for
the purpose of entering Columbia College. This ambition, however, was not gratified. At the age of eighteen he became bookkeeper
in a large establishment at 57 Elm Street, New York, which position he held until 1854.
In 1855 he associated himself with Sands & Nathans in the athlete and circus business, and continued with them and their
successors – including; P. T. Barnum, Barnum & Bailey, and others – for seventeen years, traveling from St. John, New Brunswick,
to Denver, CO, three times in a buggy, and also from St. Paul to the City of Mexico with a team. He visited every State and territory
in the Union, and being a close observer gathered an immense amount of information. His work brought him into contact with all
classes of people and enabled him to gain a liberal knowledge of the country. which, with his remarkably retentive memory, makes
him an interesting and instructive conversationalist. Mr. Denzer became one of the best known showmen in the United States. After
leaving the business he formed a co-partnership with his brother-in-law, Valentine Schneider, and Charles H. Medicus, and opened
a furniture store in New York City. The financial panic of 1873, however, forced them to retire, and Mr. Denzer returned to his old
profession of bookkeeper. He is an expert mathematician, methodical and accurate, and his books are models of neatness.
In 1875 he took up his present home in West Hoboken. He is a member, a Trustee, and a Past Master of New York Lodge. No.
330, F&AM, and a member of Manhattan Chapter, R. A. M., of New York City, and of Commercial Lodge, Knights of Honor. He
served two years as Master of New York Lodge of Masons, and when he retired 26 Dec 1893, was presented with a set of
elaborately engrossed resolutions and a handsome sterling silver dinner set, consisting of 72 pieces, as testimonials from the
officers and brethren in appreciation of his services in the chair, in building up the lodge, and inspiring it with his own enthusiasm.
Mr. Denzer was married in New York, 21 Apr 1855, to Barbara Schneider, a native of Germany and the daughter of Valentine
Schneider, who died in New York of cholera, and Christina, his wife, who died in 1869. They have had nine children, six of whom
resided near or with their parents in West Hoboken.
-----
http://www.masonicdictionary.com/fleming.html
Dr. Walter Millard Fleming established the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine in the United States. In 1867
Brother William J. Florence made a trip to the Old World and is reported to have secured there useful information for the introduction
and establishment of the Shrine.
When he returned to the United States with all the data obtainable he communicated the particulars to Doctor Fleming, and thereby
after further consultation with Brother Charles T. McClenachan and other able Masonic ritualists, they prepared the way to establish
the Shrine in the United States. On June 16, 1871, Doctor Fleming, assisted by Brother Florence, conferred the Degrees upon four
Knights Templar and seven members of Aurora Grata Consistory, Thirty-second Degree, and September 96, 1872, the organization
was effected and officers elected.
Doctor Fleming was born on 13 Jun 1838, in Portland, ME, and died at Mount Vernon,
NY, 9 Sep 1913, being buried in Kensico Cemetery. He was a prominent medical man;
joined the Masonic Fraternity 13 Feb 1869; was raised in Rochester Lodge No. 660 of
Rochester, NY. He removed his office and residence to New York City and associated
himself with Aurora Grata Lodge of Perfection in 1870; received the Degrees of the
Consistory up to and including the 32nd Degree on 31 May 1871, and was given, on 19
Sep 1872, his 33rd Degree. 3 Dec 1872, he affiliated with New York Lodge, No. 330,
of New York City, he having demitted from his Rochester Lodge. He was exalted in
Lafayette Chapter No. 207, Royal Arch Masons; became a member of Adelphic Council
No. 7, Royal and Select Masters; was knighted in Columbia Commandery No. 1,
Knights Templar of New York City, 19 Mar 1872, and was unanimously elected Eminent
Commander at the succeeding Conclave, 15 Apr 1872, which office he retained four
successive years. He founded and served as Illustrious Potentate the Mecca Temple,
originally named Gotham, which was the first Temple established by the Shrine.
Mecca Temple received its Charter on 26 Sep 1872, and Brother Fleming held his original office from the time of its inception until
Dec 1887. Re was elected Grand Imperial Potentate at the first Session of the Imperial Grand Council of the Order, 6 Jun 1876, and
retained this office until 14 Jun 1886.
-----
http://www3.gendisasters.com/new-york/855/new-york,-ny-fire-ladder-accident,-sept-1875?page=0%2C1
- Source: Mackey's Encyclopedia of Freemasonry
Chief of Battalion William H. Nash was born in this City on June 18, 1832, and received a common school education. On the
opening of the war he entered the Union Army, and left the service with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. On July 23, 1868, he was
appointed a member of the Fire Department and assigned to Engine Company No.7. On the 14th of November 1868, he was
appointed Assistant Foreman of Engine Company No.28, and three months afterward was made Foreman of the same company. In
August, 1870, he was transferred to the command of Engine Company No.8, and in January, 1872, he was made Chief of the
34

Eighth Battalion, from which he was transferred to the command of the Fourth Battalion. In person he was of fine appearance,
standing six feet high, with erect figure and military air.
New York, NY Fire Ladder Accident, Sept 1875
Posted October 18th, 2007 by Linda Horton
THREE FIREMEN KILLED.
THE NEW SCOTT-UDA FIRE LADDER BREAKS ON ITS FIRST PUBLIC TRIAL----
FOUR MEMBERS OF THE FORCE SLIGHTLY WOUNDED----
IMPROPER MATERIAL USED IN THE CONSTRUCTION SAID TO BE THE CAUSE.
The trial of the Marie-Scott-Uda Fire Ladder resulted yesterday morning in the death of three brave and honored members of the
Fire Department. The accident of yesterday is not the only one which has occurred through the use of this ladder. In its first trial in
the City Hall Park the ladder then used broke in half and two men were injured. At various subsequent trials similar accidents
happened. The invention, in itself, is regarded as sound in principle, and of great advantage in case of large fires. The ladder is
composed of six sections, amounting in all to 100 feet. These sections are connected by means of sockets of iron, through which
wooden keys or bolts are placed. The rungs of the ladders each have a cross-pin on both ends. The ladder is supported on a truck,
and raised by means of a rope windlass on each side, the bolts being fastened by the men using the ladder. Some time ago it was
determined by Chief Engineer Bates to furnish the Fourth Battalion of the department with a ladder, and one was ordered. It was
manufactured by the Concord Wagon Company, of Concord, N. H., by contract, and arrived here a week ago, and yesterday was
the day appointed for its test trial. A preliminary trial was had at 6 o'clock in the morning at the junction of Canal street and East
Broadway. On this occasion the ladder was merely placed in position and a couple of sections run up, in order to insure that it
should be in order for the final test, which was to take place at 10:30 o'clock. At that time a large crowd had assembled in the open
space at the intersection of the streets, mainly composed of women and little children desirous of seeing the exhibition. Capt.
McElwaine, Sergt. Snyder, and Detective Mullen, of the Seventh Precinct, were on the ground for the purpose of preserving order.
Chief Engineer Bates, Mrs. Scott-Uda, and Mr. William B. White were also present. William H. Nash, the Chief of the Fourth
Battalion, was in command. The ladder was place in position and the sections run up. Nash was the first to ascend. As he placed his
foot on the first rung he shook hands with Mrs. Scott-Uda, who was standing by the truck and said, "I know this is going to be all
right, as long as you are here." He then ascended, waving his hand to her as he went. After him went Philip J. Maus, of Hook and
Ladder Company No. 6, and he was followed by William Hughes, of Engine Company No.9. They ascended to the upper section,
and remained there for a moment. As they were ascending, Capt. McElwaine said to Detective Mullen: "What do you think of this?"
Mullen answered: "I don't like it. I think its going to fall. Let us drive them back." Capt. McElwaine, Sergeant Snyder, Detective
Mullen, and the remainder of the Police force at once drove the crowd of people back. By this time Thomas C. Lee, of Hook and
Ladder Company No.9, Robert J. Gould, of Engine Company No.15; C. J. Kingsley, of Engine No. 11, and Michael Cusick, of
Chemical Engine No.6, had mounted the ladder as far as the second section Nash, who was on the top, looked around for a
moment, and waved his hand to the crowds below. As he did so, the ladder bent forward, and canted somewhat to one side. Nash,
it would seem, at once divined that an accident was about to occur, and shouted out, "Tighten those ropes." But before the ropes
could be reached, a crackling sound was heard, and the ladder snapped short in the middle of the second section, about thirty feet
from the ground. Nash, Maus and Hughes fell with the remainder of the ladder a distance of fully one hundred feet, and struck the
street with a sickening thud. Nash and Maus were killed instantly, and Hughes lay gasping on the ground.
Cusick, Kingsley, Lee, and Gould, the men on the lower section of the ladder, escaped with bruises. The crowd, for a few moments
horror-stricken by the terrible accident, pressed around the shattered machine, and were with difficulty driven back by the Police.
Mrs. Scott-Uda, frenzied by the calamity, jumped on an East Broadway car which was running at full speed, and fell senseless on
the platform. She was taken into Dr. Conway's office and attended to. The alarm spread rapidly, and in a moment the square was
filled with people. Telegrams were sent from the Seventh Precinct Station-house in Madison street to Police Head-quarters, calling
for the ambulances of the Department of Charities and Correction. In an incredibly short space of time Commissioner Thomas S.
Brennan was on the scene with a force of the ambulances and a large medical corps. The bodies of Nash, Maus, and Hughes were
taken to the Madison-street Station. Hughes died as he was being brought into the station-house. The scene in the station-house
was of a most extraordinary character.
Chief of Battalion Nash was a great favorite in the department, and the firemen, who went into the station-house by scores, made
no attempt to hide their grief and cried like children. Every moment the wife or sister of some fireman would enter the station-house
and only leave on being assured that her husband or brother was not injured. Mrs. Nash went to the Station-house, and endeavored
to see the body of her husband, but was taken home by some friends, who feared that she might die from fright on seeing the
frightful appearance of her husband's body. Mrs. Maus also went to the Station-house, but was taken home by some of the fireman.
The bodies were placed on stretchers in the rear room of the station-house. Coroner Croker assumed charge, and gave permits for
the removal of the bodies. Commissioner Brenan placed the ambulances of the Department of Charities and Correction at the
disposal of the families of the dead, and subsequently visited the residences of the unfortunate men in order to aid their relatives in
preparing for their interment.
He leaves a family of a wife and three children, a son twenty years old, employed in the Post Office, and two daughters. At his
house, No. 149 Clinton street, yesterday the scene was of a most affecting character. Mrs. Nash appeared to be resigned to her
loss, but her younger daughters were almost frantic with grief. Chief of Battalion Nash was a member of New York Lodge No.330,
F&AM, also a member of Ancient Chapter No.1, and Columbus Commandery, No.1. At the residence of the fireman, Philip J. Mans,
at No. 159½ Essex street, a scene of a still more affecting character occurred. Mrs. Maus received the body of her husband on it
being brought into the house, and sat in the room by the side of the corpse completely broken down. Her only child, a boy thirteen
years old, was at school when he was told by one of the teachers that an accident had happened to his father, and that he had
better go home. The poor little boy hurried home from school and went into the house to find the mangled body of his father lying on
the floor. He gave one look at the ghastly, unrecognizable object and cried, "Oh, mamma, that can't be my papa." His mother caught
him up in her arms and kissed him over and over again, but the boy would not be comforted, and wanted to kiss his father's bruised
35

and unrecognizable face. The firemen in the room, accustomed as they are to scenes of danger and death, were completely
unmanned, and more than one turned aside to brush away their tears. Maus was a member of Enterprise Lodge, No.36, I. O. O. F.
and an exempt member of Old Live Oak Company No.44, in the old Volunteer Fire Department. But the saddest scene of all was at
the residence of the unfortunate young man William Hughes, of Engine No.9. This young man, only twenty-five years old, was
married three months ago to a young and accomplished girl residing at No. 131 Madison Street. His body was taken to his parent's
residence, No.10 Monroe street, and his wife was taken there and apprised of his death. Her grief was terrible, and for a time it was
feared that her mind was impaired. Of the cause of the accident there can be no doubt. It is wholly attributable to the character of
the wood used in making the ladder and the mode of construction. The upright shafts, rungs, and keybolts of the ladder were made
of common spruce wood, similar to that used in the manufacture of parlor matches. It is well known that with the sole exceition[sic]
of hemlock, spruce wood is the poorest and weakest wood used for building purposes. At the point where the second section broke
there were four large knots in the wood. Another fault of construction was, that where the rungs were inserted in the upright shafts, a
cross-pin of common wood was driven through the shaft in order to keep the rung fixed, thus weakening the upright. No iron braces
were placed along the sides of the uprights. Some days ago the ladder was tested by Chief of Battalion Nash, who then reported
that he considered the ladder dangerous at an angle of sixty-five degrees with a man of 170 pounds weight on the top unless the
ladder was supplied with guy ropes. Eleven men have, however, been on the ladder with safety. Last evening Coroner Croker
impaneled the following jury in the case: A. M. Little, of No.628 Broadway; J. Parmly, of No. 658 Broadway; George W. Bishop. of
No. 668 Broadway; H. C. Rover, of No. 678 Broadway; A. Kron, No. 684 Broadway; William Cronin, No. 686 Broadway; A. Bowdine,
No. 718 Broadway; J. C. Atwater, No. 720 Broadway; E. J. Hyde, No. 724 Broadway; W. Phillips, No. 332 East Thirtieth street;
George Schirmer, No. 701 Broadway; J. C. Alwater, No. 2 West Fourth street; C. J. Morell, No.6 West Fourth street, and H. D.
Barclay, No. 596 Broadway. An investigation into the cause of the accident will be begun by the Fire Commissioners, at the Fire
Head-quarters in Mercer street, at 10 o'clock this morning.
-----
The New York Times, New York, NY 15 Sept 1875
William H. Sheeley was Master of New York Lodge No. 330, and served on the official staff of M.'.W.'.S. Nelson Sawyer as Grand
Director of Ceremonies. He was born in New York in 1862, and was a salesman. He is possessed of good executive abilities and
was a brilliant worker. He was an honorary member of Washington Lodge No. 21.
-----
Proceedings ..., by Scottish Rite (Masonic order). Supreme Council for the Northern Jurisdiction, page 246.
http://books.google.com/books?id=DX9LAAAAMAAJ&pg=RA1-
PA247&dq=%22New+York+Lodge+No.+330%22&hl=en&ei=fEpgTuCSNqbt0gG8u9HwDw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnu
m=1&ved=0CDIQ6AEwADgU#v=onepage&q=%22New%20York%20Lodge%20No.%20330%22&f=false
Jacob Rabineau Telfair was born in New York City, 9 Aug 1834. He was a grandson of John Telfair, who was an officer of the
Cerneau Council from 1809 to 1832, and was also prominent in military affairs, a Captain of a company in the 27th Regiment (now
the Seventh) New York State Militia. He was son of William Henry Telfair, a merchant in New York, who died in New Orleans, and
the eldest daughter of Dr. Jacob Rabineau. He lost his father in early youth, and after attending school at South Norwalk, CT, and
on Staten Island, NY, he entered the office of Henry W. Johnson, an Adjuster of Averages in New York, when about fourteen years
old, and thus prepared himself for the vocation which he followed for the rest of his life.
At the age of eighteen he was selected as an Agent of the Marine Underwriters of New York to visit foreign ports, and traveled
nearly around the world, executing the delicate and important affairs entrusted to him so satisfactorily that, on his return, at the age
of twenty, he was offered a partnership in the business of his former employer, Mr. Johnson, but declined it, and formed the firm of
Moody & Telfair, Average Adjusters, which was continued until Mr. Moody became a member of the firm of W. R. Grace & Co., after
which he conducted the business personally until his death.
He was married on his 21st birthday to Anna Augusta Comstock, who died in 1895, leaving a son and a daughter. He resided in
New York until 1878, when he built a fine house on Staten Island, where he lived the rest of his life. He was a member of the
Chamber of Commerce, and was for years one of the Committee on Insurance of that body; was one of the organizers of the
Maritime Exchange, and established the first Wrecking Company for the salvage of vessels and cargoes, and assisted in preparing
several works on wreck and salvage, which are authorities on those subjects. He was a member of the Episcopal Church; the
Manhattan and Union League Clubs; the Light Guard and Old Guard Companies of the New York State Militia; and a patron of the
Academy of Design and of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
He was remarkable for his retentive memory and quick understanding, grasping situations without effort, and acting with strong
friendly impulse. His diversified fund of information, gained by extensive and conscientious study of his large collection of books
(which in his latter days were his chief pleasure), made him always an instructive companion, which, added to his amiability and
uniform courtesy, gained him a host of friends, while his ripe judgment and experience in all matters connected with his profession
were recognized by all who had occasion to transact business with him.
He was made a Mason in New York Lodge No. 330, in 1862; exalted to the Royal Arch in Ancient Chapter No. 1, 1877; received
the Scottish Rite Degrees in Templar Lodge, Council, and Chapter, and Aurora Grata Consistory, 1876, and created Sovereign
Grand Inspector-General, 33rd and last Degree, and Honorary Member of the Supreme Council for the Northern Masonic
Jurisdiction, at Milwaukee, Wis., 18 Sep 1878; was Thrice Potent Grand Master of Templar Lodge of Perfection, 1879; became a
member of the Provincial Grand Lodge of the Royal Order of Scotland for the United States on its organization at Washington, DC, 4
May 1878, and was elected an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, 33°, for the Southern Jurisdiction, . Oct 1880.
He died at his home on Staten Island, 15 Mar 1902, and was laid to rest in Greenwood Cemetery, loved and mourned by all who
knew him.
GEORGE W. GILBERT, 33°
36

-----
http://www.getnj.com/hudberg/genealogical209.shtml
William Thompson, a prominent resident of Marion, Hudson County, and President of the New York Pie Baking Company, of New
York City, was born in Goshen, Orange County, NY, 19 Feb 1826, his parents being James A. Thompson and Catherine Kay. The
Thompsons were originally from Ireland, emigrating to America at the time of the religious rebellion, settling first in Orange County.
NY, subsequently removing to Long Island, and finally locating in Bedford, Westchester, NY. They have been engaged in farming
and dairying for several generations. The Kay family, his mother's ancestors, came to this country from Scotland.
Mr. Thompson was educated in the old Brick Church which stood on the site of the present Tribune building in New York City, and
well remembers that locality as it is now portrayed in history. He also attended Horace Greeley's free lectures. At the age of thirteen
he left home under very adverse circumstances, with nothing but a will and determination to succeed, finding himself in New York
City without a cent. He obtained employment in a bakery, where he worked for five years and thoroughly mastered the business.
When eighteen years old he started on his own account in the baking business, with which he has ever since been identified. His
career in this line of industry has been an eminently successful one and stamps him as a man of unusual ability, of great force of
character, and possessed of that self-reliance and perseverance which characterize the man of affairs. In 1872 be organized the
business now conducted at 82 Sullivan Street, New York City, by the widely known New York Pie Baking Company. of which he is
President. This extensive establishment employs 150 people and sixty horses, has a capacity of producing from eighteen to twenty
thousand pies daily, and is a model in its workings in every respect. It is the largest pie baking establishment in the United States,
and under Mr. Thompson's able and energetic management has achieved a phenomenal success as well as a prominent place
among the leading manufacturing institutions of New York City.
In this connection James M. Gray, M.D., writing in the American Journal of Health, published in New York, says:
The average home-made pie, owing to improper equipment and lacking facilities, is almost invariably a disease breeder instead of
a health help. The pies offered by some of the smaller bakers as evidence of their constructive ability are even worse as a rule. In
every large city, fortunately, there are large concerns which have reduced pie-making to an exact science and whose product is
not only appetizing, but is deserving of all praise from a health standpoint. The New York Pie Baking Company of this city is a
fitting example to illustrate the point in question. This house possesses every facility, every convenience, and every advantage
necessary to the production of an article for household consumption which is above criticism. Their establishment is a model of
cleanliness, and as they use only the finest grades of high-priced flour and richest and purest milk, cream, and lard obtainable,
and combining these with fruits and berries of most superior quality, it naturally follows that the product is all that could be desired
by either the epicure or the hygienist.
There may be, and probably are, in other cities throughout the country, manufacturers whose goods are as wholesome as the
New York Pie Baking Company's pies, but a most searching investigation of this special product enables us to write advisedly
concerning its merits as a health food.
A. N. Talley, Jr., M.D., in an article in the United States Health Reports for August 1, 1899, says:
The evolution and development of the American pie, like all great industries, has created a positive demand for a standard of
excellence, both intrinsically and commercially, Americans being satisfied only with the best of everything. This demand has been
ably filled by the New York. Pie Baking Company, of No. 82 Sullivan Street, New York City, who have established the reputation,
justly deserved, of producing the best and greatest number of pies of any firm in the United States.
In the rigid inspection and examination made by our experts great care was taken to thoroughly note the physical environments
and hygienic conditions of the entire plant and establishment of the company, all of which were found to be in the highest possible
state of cleanliness, with the added fact of complete compliance with all sanitary requirements.
The final reports of our experts have been compiled and unanimously approved by our medical staff, showing so high a grade of
merit that we are pleased to extend to the product of the New York Pie Baking Company, for the protection of patrons, the official
recognition of the United States Health Reports.
Mr. Thompson's vast fund of reminiscence is well known. A most interesting article in a recent number of the Hotel and Restaurant
Magazine, entitled "Reminiscences of New York in the Forties; Gleaned from an Interview with One of the Most Prominent Business
Men in the Metropolis," contains this allusion to his ability to recall pact events:
He who wishes to spend a profitable and interesting hour knows fall well that the reminiscent conversation of the old resident has
a special zest in which the present is linked with the past, and the institutions of the day contrasted with those of former times. In
a recent conversation with Mr. William Thompson, well known to the New York business public as the President of the New York
Pie Baking Company, the writer was entertained for several hours with a graphic portrayal of incidents in Mr. Thompson's
experience back in the forties. Unhappily, written language fails to give the inflections of verbal narration; it fails also to portray the
expression of the features when the mind of the narrator is recalling the events of half a century past. The reader can assist in
obtaining a clearer comprehension of these reminiscences if he will give free vent to his imagination and draw a mental picture of
Mr. Thompson, a hale and hearty gentleman, although seventy years of age. Sitting in his cozy office with a far-away look in his
eyes, living over again, as it were, the days that are gone. As recollections crowded each other for utterance his countenance
would glow with enthusiasm in the one moment and be saddened in the next as he referred to companions who have passed
away. Being requested to give some of the factors which entered into his notable business success, he said: ‘Perhaps the most
valuable factor in my success was the experience back in the forties. At that time there was a great rivalry among pie-baking
establishments – every one was trying to obtain the reputation of making the best old-fashioned pie. The public was a critical one,
and a good pie was in great demand. I entered into the business contest with vim and started an establishment, on a much
smaller scale, of course, upon the site we now occupy. There was one bridge which carried me to success, and I have never
forgotten that it is essential to keep in mind that fact in order to continually maintain our supremacy in the pie business. That
37

idge was first-class material. I personally purchased and inspected every ingredient which entered into a pie, and under no
consideration would I permit any adulterated products or second grade goods to enter my doors. I gave close attention to the
minutest details. Those who bought our pies knew they could thoroughly rely upon every pie at all times, and that no effort to
secure trade by a good article and then afterward furnish an inferior grade would be made.’ The best testimonial to the ironclad
rule, 'never to have one inferior pie leave our doors' is contained in the fact that Dolan – you know him, of course – of P. Dolan &
Nephew, and also Hitchcock, of Oliver Hitchcock & Son, have been my customers for forty years. Well, of course, if anybody in
New York ought to be good judges of things to eat, then Dolan and Hitchcock are those men, as the public fully knows.
Another factor which has aided materially in our success is the fact that our large patrons, when visiting this establishment, are at
perfect liberty at any and all times to go through the various departments – we have no special 'exhibit' days, when extra clean
utensils, floors, etc., are put forward for inspection; every day is inspection day, for every employee knows full well that
scrupulous cleanliness is a rule that can not be infringed upon more than once.
In politics Mr. Thompson has always been a Republican. Deeply interested in the affairs of his country and prominent as a citizen
and business man, he is especially well informed upon almost every current topic. He is a life member and was one of the founders
of the Carteret Club of Jersey City. and is also a member of New York Lodge, No. 330, F&AM. In 1866 Mr. Thompson married
Matilda Robinson, by whom he has had six children: James A., William. Lydia Ann, Matilda, Rachel (deceased), and Catherine.
Putnam Lodge No. 338
Warrant: Jun 1854
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_3_K_to_P.htm
Os-Ke-Non-Ton (Lewis Deer) Mohawk Indian baritone. Raised April 6, 1917 in Putnam
Lodge No. 338, New York City, and received the 32° AASR (NJ) at Buffalo, N.Y. in April,
1923.
http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.com/index.cfm?PgNm=TCE&Params=U1ARTU000
2675
Os-ke-non-ton (b Louie Deer). Baritone, actor, b Caughnawaga (now Kahnawake), Que,
ca 1890, d Lily Dale, NY, ca 1950. Educated in Muncey near London, Ont, in
Caughnawaga, and at Parkdale Collegiate in Toronto, he first worked as a hunter and
guide in the Lake of Bays district of Ontario. There his natural singing talent was
discovered by the Toronto teacher-singer Leonora James Kennedy, who taught him the
rudiments of music and encouraged his further voice studies in New York. As Os-ke-nonton
(or Running Deer, his name as a Mohawk chief) he first sang in the 1920s at the CNE
and in the Toronto Star Fresh Air benefit concerts at Bigwin Inn, Lake of Bays.
Subsequently he performed 1924-36 as the Indian Medicine Man in Coleridge-Taylor's
Hiawatha at Royal Albert Hall, appeared in 1926 in Charles Wakefield Cadman's opera
Shanewis, and gave recitals in 1928 in Toronto and Ottawa. On 25 Jan 1931 he sang with
the TSO in one of its CNR radio broadcasts. He performed in royal command concerts in
Great Britain and sang throughout Europe and the USA. His few recordings for Columbia
(1920) and HMV (1925) and HMV (1925) are listed in Roll Back the Years.
A 1936 newsreel of him performing an Indian love song may be viewed at http://www.britishpathe.com/record.php?id=10648
1855 Masonic Register:
Gilbert Bishop, Master,
E. C. P. Bishop, Senior Warden,
Jos. Cordwan, Junior Warden,
D. A. Stevens, Secretary,
A. H. Colt, Treasurer,
Jos. Jouy, Senior Deacon, .
Hibernia Lodge No. 339
Warrant: 6 Dec 1821
1828 Officers:
John Gilmore. W. M.;
_____
S. W.;
J. Rourke, J. W.;
Joseph H. Forbes, Secretary;
William O'Connor, Treasurer;
Thomas Church, S. D.;
P. Mangin, J. D.;
— Anderson, — Bulger, M. C;
— M'Grath, — Sterling, Stewards;
— M'Cormick, Tyler.
— Rourke, — Neiles,— Wardlow, — M'Auley, Standing Committee;
E. Rodgers, Junior Deacon,
A. R. Phillips, Steward,
E. Scholes, Master of Ceremonies,
P. Pratt, Master of Ceremonies,
H. Flack, Tiler.
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Met on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, at St. John's Hall.
-----
John Armstrong, Jr. - Delegate to the Continental Congress, U. S. Senator and Secretary of War. Freemason in Hibernia
Lodge No. 339, New York.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Armstrong,_Jr.
John Armstrong, Jr. b. 25 Nov 1758; d. 1 Apr 1843, was a soldier and statesman who was a delegate to the Continental Congress,
U. S. Senator from New York, and Secretary of War. He was born in Carlisle, PA, the younger son of General John Armstrong and
Rebecca (Lyon) Armstrong. John Armstrong, Sr., was a renowned Pennsylvania soldier born in Ireland of Scottish descent. John
Jr.'s older brother was James Armstrong, who became a physician and U.S. Congressman.
After early education in Carlisle, John Jr. studied at the College of New Jersey (now
Princeton University). He broke off his studies in Princeton in 1775 to return to
Pennsylvania and join the fight in the Revolutionary War. He service record is sometimes
confused with several other John Armstrongs in the war, including his father.
The young Armstrong joined a Pennsylvania militia regiment, but the following year
became aide-de-camp to General Hugh Mercer in the Continental Army. In this role, he
carried the wounded and dying General Mercer from the field at the Battle of Princeton.
After the general died on 12 Jan 1777, Armstrong became an aide to General Horatio
Gates. He stayed with Gates through the Battle of Saratoga then resigned due to
problems with his health. [He may be seen in the below painting of the Surrender of
Burgoyne by John Trumbull]. In 1782 Gates asked him to return. Armstrong joined
General Gates' staff as an aide with the rank of major, which he held through the rest of
the war.
While in camp with Gates at Newburgh, NY, Armstrong became involved in the
Newburgh Conspiracy. He is generally acknowledged as the author of the two
anonymous letters directed at the officers in the camp. The first, titled "An Address to the
Officers" (dated 10 Mar 1783), called for a meeting to discuss back pay and other
grievances with the Congress and form a plan of action. After George Washington
ordered the meeting canceled and called for a milder meeting on March 15, a second
address appeared that claimed that this showed that Washington supported their actions.
Washington successfully defused this protest without a mutiny. While some of Armstrong's later correspondence acknowledged his
role, there was never any official action that connected him with the
anonymous letters.
Alida Livingston Armstrong and Daughter, by Rembrandt Peale, ca. 1810.
Painting depicts wife and daughter of John Armstrong, Jr.
Later in 1783 Armstrong returned home to Carlisle. He was named the
Adjutant General of Pennsylvania's militia and also served as Secretary of
the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania under Presidents Dickinson and
Franklin. In 1787 and 1788 he was sent as a delegate for Pennsylvania to
the Continental Congress. The Congress offered to make him chief justice of
the Northwest Territory. He declined this, as well as all other public offices
for the next dozen years.
In 1789, Armstrong married Alida Livingston (1761–1822)), sister of
Chancellor Robert R Livingston and Edward Livingston). One of their
daughters, Margaret, married William Backhouse Astor, Sr. of the wealthy
Astor family. John Armstrong moved to New York and took up life as a
gentleman farmer on a farm purchased from her family in Dutchess County.
Armstrong resumed public life after the resignation of John Laurance as U.
S. Senator from New York. As a Jefferson Republican he was elected in Nov
1800 to a term ending in Mar 1801. He took his seat on 8 Jan, and was reelected
on 27 Jan for a full term (1801–07), but resigned on 5 Feb 1802.
DeWitt Clinton was elected to fill the vacancy, but resigned in 1803, and
Armstrong was appointed temporarily to his old seat.
In Feb 1804, Armstrong was elected again to the U.S. Senate to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Theodorus Bailey, thus
moving from the Class 3 to the Class 1 seat on 25 Feb, but served only four months before President Jefferson appointed him U. S.
Minister to France. [He was present 2 Nov 1804 at the Coronation of Napoleon, as may be seen from the below painting.]. He
served in that post until 1810, and also represented the United States at the court of Spain in 1806.
When the War of 1812 broke out, Armstrong was called to military service. He was commissioned as a Brigadier General, and
placed in charge of the defenses for the port of New York. Then in 1813 President Madison named him Secretary of War.
Henry Adams wrote of him:
39

In spite of Armstrong's services, abilities, and experience, something in his character always created distrust. He had every
advantage of education, social and political connection, ability and self-confidence; he was only fifty-four years old, which was
also the age of Monroe; but he suffered from the reputation of indolence and intrigue. So strong was the prejudice against him
that he obtained only eighteen votes against fifteen in the Senate on his confirmation; and while the two senators from Virginia did
not vote at all, the two from Kentucky voted in the negative. Under such circumstances, nothing but military success of the first
order could secure a fair field for Monroe's rival.
He made a number of valuable changes to the armed forces, but was forced to resign in Sep 1814 after he was blamed for the
Burning of Washington in August. Armstrong returned to his farm and resumed a quiet life. He published a number of histories,
biographies, and some works on agriculture. He died at home in Red Hook, NY in 1843 and is buried in the cemetery in Rhinebeck.
Armstrong's farm in Dutchess County is still operating (and owned by the Livingston family). The home he completed in 1811 has a
New York state educational marker on County Road 103.
His book, Notices of the War of 1812, Vol. I, 1836, may be read at
http://books.google.com/books?id=x8QTAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA263&dq=%22john+armstrong%22+%22secretary+of+war%22&hl=en&e
i=E_pgTpu_KOXb0QHB1an-
CA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=7&ved=0CEkQ6AEwBg#v=onepage&q=%22john%20armstrong%22%20%22secretar
y%20of%20war%22&f=false
John Armstrong, Jr., 1758-1843: A Biography (New York State Study) (Hardcover), by Carl Edward Skeen, 272 pages, may be
purchased at www.amazon.com, a copy of which is in the OMDHS Library in Liverpool, NY.
Major John Armstrong in John Trumbull’s painting The Surrender of Burgoyne (shown six in from the right – back row)
40

Puritan Lodge No. 339
Warrant: Jun 1854
1855 Masonic Register:
Theophilus Pratt,
John L. Shaw,
George H. Raymond,
John T. Mearns,
-----
John Armstrong [back row] in the painting of the Coronation of Napoleon by Jacques-Louis David
Master,
Senior Warden,
Junior Warden,
Secretary.
Isaac Hull Brown b. 4 Dec 1812; d. 21 Aug1880, was a large man, who joked that his usual weight was the same number as his
Masonic Lodge; he was the first Master of Puritan Lodge No. 399.
http://www.green-wood.com/2010/fashion-funerals/
Green-Wood has 561,000 individuals interred across its grounds. Some are fascinating; some, not so much. Of the many characters
I have come across in my research on Green-Wood’s permanent residents, few can compete with Isaac Hull Brown when it comes
41

to fascinating lives. Brown was featured in an article this past Monday in The New York Times. So, I thought I would share with you
the section of my book, Brooklyn’s Green-Wood Cemetery: New York’s Buried Treasure, that is devoted to Brown. Here it is:
ISAAC HULL BROWN (1812-1880) wore many hats, and all of them were fashionable.
He was the longtime sexton of Grace Church, “the most fashionable and exclusive of
our metropolitan Courts of Heaven.” As New York’s firs social arbiter, Brown collected
intimate information on every household in his parish, and used that intelligence to
advise his followers whom to invite and whom to snub. He knew the blood lines,
financial affairs, and domestic troubles of everyone in New York Society, and was only
too anxious to pass his gossip along.
A hostess contemplating an entertainment event would send for Sexton Brown, and
together they would choose the proper guests. Brown then made the arrangements
and personally delivered the invitations. When the guests arrived, Brown, in trilby hat
and huge overcoat, was on the sidewalk to greet them; for this he was known as “the
connecting link between Society and the curbstone.” If the hostess had invited certain
guests despite Brown’s disapproval, he greeted those he helped from their carriages
with a whispered warning, “Very mixed, very.”
It was Sexton Brown who made arrangements for New York City’s 1860 gala ball in
honor of the Prince of Wales. The good sexton also created Brown’s brigade, society’s
first male escort service, by compiling a list of presentable young men for hire, who
would appear as needed for supper or dance in black swallowtail coast, white vests,
and white cravats. His ultimate regret, however, was his limited reach: “I cannot
undertake to control society above Fiftieth Street.”
Brown was also in the undertaking and carriage-rental businesses. As he remarked, “The Lenten season is horribly dull, but we
make our funerals as entertaining as possible.” Just as in entertainment, funerals had their fashion. As one New York City guide
wrote of Sexton Brown:
Fashion does not change more frequently in dress than in the method of conducting funerals in high life. What constituted a very
genteel funeral last year would be a very vulgar one this. Cards of invitation are sent out as to a party. Sometimes the shutters of
the house are closed, and the funeral takes place in gas-light. The lights are arranged for artistic effect. Parties who have the
entrée of fashionable life can tell, the moment they enter the rooms, what fashionable sexton has charge of the funeral. The
arrangement of the furniture, the position of the coffin, the laying out of the body, the coffin itself, the adjustment of the lights, the
hanging of the drapery, the plate-glass hearse, the number of horses, the size and quality of the plumes on the hearse and team,
indicate the style of the funeral, and the wealth and social position of the family. Mourning has a style peculiar to itself, and the
intensity of the grief is indicated by the depth of the crape.
One society lady honored stylish and bustling Sexton Brown with this verse:
Oh, glorious Brown! Thou medley strange
Of churchyard, ball-room, saint and sinner!
Flying by morn through Fashion’s range,
And burying mortals after dinner!
Walking one day with invitations-
Passing the next at consecrations;
Tossing the sod at eve on coffins;
With one hand drying the tears of orphans,
And one unclasping ball-room carriage,
Or cutting plum cake up for marriage:
Dusting by day the pew and missal;
Sounding by night the ball-room whistle,
Admitted free through Fashion’s wicket,
As skilled as psalms, at punch, and cricket.
And here’s the sidebar in the book, about Isaac Hull Brown’s curious choice of a cemetery monument. This is an
excellent example of a cemetery marker that tells us a great deal about the deceased:
How to explain why Sexton Brown is buried beneath this statue of Pythagoras? It is unlikely that Brown hoped to
spend his eternity calculating the length of the hypotenuse of a right triangle. Rather, this unusual, perhaps unique,
choice of a monument is in all likelihood related to the belief of Pythagoras (c. 580 b.c.-500 b.c.) in the heavenly
destiny of the soul and the possibility that it will rise to union with the divine. Pythagoras considered himself to be
semidivine, with knowledge greater than that of others because he could remember his earlier incarnations; he
rejected the idea that a human being lives only one life on Earth as the illusion of a lost memory. Salvation,
according to his teachings, would be achieved through study of the cosmic order, and knowledge was the path to
divinity. The idea that the soul lives in the body but can exist apart from it originated with Pythagoras’s followers. It
seems likely that Sexton Brown thought he knew more than anyone else about New York society, and that that
knowledge just might be his ticket to heaven.
Adelphic Lodge No. 348
The American tyler-keystone: devoted to freemasonry and ..., Volume 16, Issue 19, by John. H. Brownell, Arthur Maurice Smith,
Joseph E. Morcombe, Richard Pride . . ., 1 Apr 1902. page 459.
http://books.google.com/books?id=h_nAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA459&dq=%22Adelphic+Lodge+no.+348%22&hl=en&ei=7HNhTpCUL6PE0AG_yRE&sa=X&oi=book_result&
ct=result&resnum=5&ved=0CD0Q6AEwBA#v=onepage&q=%22Adelphic%20Lodge%20no.%20348%22&f=false
On the occasion of the visit of District Deputy James T. Hanrahan to Guttenberg lodge, No. 737, of Albany last month, Geo. Cook,
of Adelphic lodge, No. 348, of New York, presented the lodge a handsomely framed oil painting of his father, Adam Cook, who
42

was the first member of Guttenberg Lodge, which was instituted June 23, 1873. Bro. Cook served the lodge as master for the
first three years of its existence.
-----
Yearbook, by New York County Lawyers' Association, page 270.
http://books.google.com/books?id=bP08AAAAIAAJ&pg=RA2-
PA250&dq=%22Adelphic+Lodge+no.+348%22&hl=en&ei=7HNhTpCUL6PE0AG_yRE&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=9&
ved=0CFYQ6AEwCA#v=onepage&q=%22Adelphic%20Lodge%20no.%20348%22&f=false
Richard M. Farries was born in Sugar Loaf, Orange County, NY, 10 Sep 1873, the only son of Dr. A. P. Farries and Hannah A.
Farries, deceased. He spent most of his early life in Florida, Orange County, NY, where he attended the Seward Institute. Mr.
Farries entered Princeton University in 1891, from which institution he graduated in 1895. He studied law at the New York Law
School and was admitted to the New York Bar in 1898. At the time of his death and for seventeen years prior thereto he was a
member of the firm of Brewster & Farries.
Mr. Farries was a genial, public-spirited man, taking a deep interest in all political and civic matters. He was at the time of his death
one of the Supervisors of Westchester County, NY, representing the Town of Scarsdale where he resided. He was also a
Government Appeal Agent, serving as such at the Federal Draft Board No. 10, located at the Bronx County Court House. He was a
prominent Mason, being a Past Master of Adelphic Lodge No. 348 and also served as a member of the Grand Lodge of the State
of New York during the years 1915-1916.
Mr. Farries died suddenly on 30 Jun 1918, leaving surviving a wife and three children.
-----
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_2_E_to_J.htm
Edward P. Johnson General Manager of Metropolitan Opera Assn., Inc., 1935-50. b. in Guelph, Ont., Canada. Graduate of U. of
Toronto and U. of Western Ontario. Sang in light opera on Broadway for short time, and then studied in Italy under Vincenzo
Lombardi, and in Florence. Made his debut at Teatro Verdi, Padua, in Andrea Chenier, and sang five seasons at La Scala, Milan. In
1914 he was the creator of Parsifal, in Italian, and new roles by Puccini, Alfano, Pizzetti, Zandonai, Montemezzi and Deems Taylor.
He has sung in London, Madrid, Lisbon, Buenos Aires, Montevideo, and Rio de Janeiro. He returned to the U.S. with the Chicago
Opera Co. in 1920, and was with the Metropolitan from 1922. Member of Adelphic Lodge No. 348, New York City, receiving
degrees on Feb. 18, March 4, and April 1, 1902.
-----
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Macoy
Robert Macoy b. 4 Oct 1815; d. 9 Jan 1895, was born in Armagh, Ulster County,
Ireland, but moved to the United States at the age of 4 months. He was a
prominent Freemason, and was instrumental in the founding of the Order of the
Eastern Star and the Order of the Amaranth. He also founded what may be the
largest Masonic publishing, regalia, and supply house currently active, Macoy
Publishing & Masonic Supply Company.
Growing up in America and having attained a considerable degree of education,
Macoy entered the printing craft as soon as he was old enough to work. He spent
most of his life in that business and in Masonic activities in New York City. In 1849,
he started a Masonic supply and publishing business, which, under the name,
Macoy Publishing & Masonic Supply Company, is still in active operation.
Macoy was:
20 Jan 1848 Initiated in Lebanon Lodge No. 191 in New York City,
27 Jan 1848 Passed,
03 Feb 1848 Raised
15 Aug 1855 Withdrew to affiliate with Adelphic Lodge No. 348.
Jun 1856 Elected Deputy Grand Master of New York; reelected in 1857.
5 Sep 1849 Exalted in Orient Chapter No. 138, Royal Arch Masons.
24 Dec 1855 Became a member of Adelphic Chapter No. 150.
He was also affiliated with Union Chapter No. 180, Americas Chapter No. 215, and
De Witt Clinton Chapter No. 142.
He also received the Cryptic degrees and was a charter member of Adelphic
Council No. 7, Royal and Select Masters.
4 Jun 1855 Elected Grand Recorder of the Grand Council.
Feb 1851 Knighted in Palestine Encampment No. 18 of New York City.
Mar 1851 Withdrew to join Morton Encampment No. 4.
28 Apr 1874 Affiliated with DeWitt Clinton Commandery No. 27, Knights Templar, where his membership continued for 20 years.
prior to 9 Dec 1850 He received the Scottish Rite degrees, for on that date he received the 33rd Degree, Sovereign Grand
Inspector General.
1866 Macoy published A Dictionary of Freemasonry, which comprised his own work ("General History of Freemasonry"
and "Cyclopaedia of Freemasonry") as well as George Oliver’s Dictionary of Symbolic Masonry of 1853. It has been reprinted.
43

Robert Macoy and Rob Morris were close friends and their families often visited each other in Kentucky and New York. Before 1860
Macoy became interested in Morris' efforts to promote an organization for female relatives of Masons. Morris had formed
"Constellations" - also the "Family System" in conferring degrees, but these proved too elaborate and cumbersome. Morris turned
over his books on "Adoptive" Masonry to Macoy in 1868.
Macoy published his first Adoptive Rite for the Eastern Star in 1869 having organized the work into the Chapter system and it is from
Macoy's rite that all Eastern Star rituals used today have been taken. In 1883 Macoy founded at New York the Order of the
Amaranth in connection with the Eastern Star.
-----
http://query.nytimes.com/mem/archive-free/pdf?res=F70A13F93E5D147A93C4AB178BD95F4C8185F9
26 Oct 1918 - © The New York Times
44

Mr. Muschenheim was a member of a great number of clubs and societies, a Past Master of Adelphic Lodge No. 348, F&AM, and
a Trustee of the Franklin Savings Bank, of which his late son-in-law was one of the officers.
-----
A Standard History of Freemasonry in the State of New York ..., Volume 2, by Peter Ross, page 163.
http://books.google.com/books?id=kWYiAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA164&dq=%22Adelphic+Lodge+no.+348%22&hl=en&ei=7HNhTpCUL6P
E0AG_yRE&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CC8Q6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=%22Adelphic%20Lodge%20no.%2
0348%22&f=false
Adon Smith - When a man has a record of serving as Master of his Lodge for five years we are justified in regarding him as a
brother whose devotion to Masonry is not only beyond question, but the example of whose devotion deserves to be constantly kept
before the neophyte who is just beginning to tread the round which, if he perseveres, is sure to lead to prominence if not to fame in
the Mystic circle of the craft. Brother Smith certainly demonstrated to the members of his Lodge that he possessed the gifts of
leadership, and their appreciation of these gifts was shown by their electing him to the highest office in their gift so repeatedly.
Those who know from practical experience the thousand and one duties which fall to the Master of a Lodge, who know how often
delicate questions crop up for his decision, how exacting are the labors, outside as well as inside the Lodge, and how the bulk of
what is done, what is accomplished, is unknown to the brethren daily, will need no further evidence to prove that Brother Adon Smith
is a worker than this fact of his five years' Mastership.
But his record shows he has been a diligent worker also in other fields than his Lodge. He served as High Priest of his Chapter for
three years and for a similar space of time was at the head of his Commandery. Such offices occupy a great deal of a man's time
45

and thoughts, and when they are filled by one whose heart is in the maintenance of their dignity and their usefulness, they are each
in themselves sufficient to give a man ample prominence as a zealous Mason. From these remarks the reader may estimate our
sense of the benefit which Brother Smith has conferred on the fraternity by his fervency and zeal.
In his Masonic affiliations Brother Smith seems to have had a fondness for the name Adelphic. He was raised in Adelphic Lodge,
No. 348, exalted in Adelphic Chapter, and received the further mysteries of the Veils in Adelphic Council No. 7, Royal and Select
Masters. Had there been an Adelphic Commandery he would likely have completed the chain of the American Rite by seeking
admission to its conclave, but as there was not he had to seek Masonic Knighthood in Morton Commandery No. 4. He has also
solved the mysteries of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, having passed through all the New York bodies hailing under the
Northern Jurisdiction, stopping, because he could not very well go further, with the 32nd degree. As might be expected he went
across the sands in Mecca Temple as soon as he was qualified for that mysterious journey. He also holds high rank in the Mystic
Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm, being the Grand Monarch of the Order, also Monarch of Azim Grotto No. 7,
located in New York City. That he has hosts of friends in the fraternity goes without saying, for one so active as he has been and is
must of a necessity win new friends all along the line at almost every meeting at which he is present.
Brother Smith was born at Hamilton, NY, 20 Apr 1835. In 1848 he came to New York, and soon after engaged in the produce
business, in which for over 25 years he was a prominent figure. He was one of the first Trustees of the Produce Exchange; held that
office when its first building was erected, and as such his name is on the tablet in the present structure. He has been a member of
the Cotton Exchange for over 25 years, and his face is one of the most familiar in lower Broadway. In early life he had some military
ambition and held a commission as First Lieutenant for a time in the New York State Militia, but he soon gave up his notions in that
line and is quite content to read about military matters in books and newspapers, or engage in a chat now and again with a real live
"sodger" who may happen to be a guest at The Players', of which famous club Brother Smith is a member. Outside of business and
of Masonry he is known in legal circles through having been a member of the sheriff's jury for over thirty years, and foreman of the
second panel for more than ten years, and at present is the dean, so to speak, of that body, having more years of service to his
credit than any of the others. He is noted for the care he devotes to each case, and when serving as foreman he does his utmost to
see that all associated with him are fully fitted, as he invariably is, to render exact and simple justice. Brother Smith is also well
known in religious circles. For over twenty years he was President of the Board of Trustees of the Church of the Holy Trinity, at
Madison Avenue and Forty-second Street, and since its consolidation with St. James' Church, Madison Avenue and Seventy-first
Street, has been the Senior Warden of the new corporation.
-----
Ibid. page 72.
George W. White. Of the many brethren who have devoted their time, their thoughts and
their talents to Adelphic Lodge, No. 348, R. ..W. ..Brother White is a conspicuous
example. His great interest in that Lodge was shown long before he became its Master,—
indeed, it was that interest which marked him out as a fit occupant of the Oriental chair at
an early stage in his Masonic career. His appointment as Deputy Grand Master for the 6th
District reflected additional honor on his Lodge, and the manner in which he performed
the duties of that exalted and much sought after office proved that the confidence of the
appointing power was not misplaced. As Secretary of the Grand Lodge Committee on
Antiquities he did what he could in gathering together and adding to the collection of
curiosities of various kinds which adorn the various halls of the gathering place of the
fraternity in New York City. Brother White is also a member of Adelphic Chapter No. 158,
R. A. M.; Adelphic Council No. 7, R. & S. M., and of Adelphic Commandery No. 59, K. T.
In his Chapter he has been High Priest and in his Commandery has served as Prelate.
Indeed, in whatever branch of Masonry he has affiliated he has taken a practical interest
and endeavored to understand and apply its philosophy as well as to unfold the beauties
of its ritual. He is also a member of the Craftsman's Club and into the "mysterious
mysteries" of Mecca Temple he has delved as deeply as anyone, except, perhaps, the
Grand Potentate himself. At the annual meeting of the Grand Lodge in 1898 Brother
White was elected Grand Treasurer, by acclamation.
Brother White was born in Nyack, NY, on 5 Mar 1849. After completing his education at
the College of the City of New York, he became known as an expert accountant and for
fifteen years held the position of finance officer of the Board of Education of New York
City. In 1892 he became connected with the National Wall Paper Company, holding the
office of chief accountant until he was elected Secretary, in 1896. That position he still holds, and in addition has charge of the
auditing department, so that his duties are not only numerous and complicated, but of a most exacting and confidential nature.
United Brothers Lodge No. 356
Celebrated its 50 Anniversary in 1887.
1860 - WORTH AND SERVICES REWARDED,—United Brothers Lodge No. 356, New York, presented to Bro. JOHN P. ECKHOFF, late
Master of the Lodge, a massive Gold Watch and Past Master's Regalia, as an acknowledgment of his invaluable services.
-----
46

A Standard History of Freemasonry in the State of New York ..., Volume 2, by Peter Ross, page 255.
http://books.google.com/books?id=kWYiAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA255&lpg=PA255&dq=%22United+Brothers+Lodge+No.+356%22&sour
ce=bl&ots=YoiGnTxP5j&sig=mnuA-VonCNzEawwDMDtx-
34_t2g&hl=en&ei=bqhhTobELcKCgAe3iN3LAQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CCUQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q=
%22United%20Brothers%20Lodge%20No.%20356%22&f=false
Florence Bernard Decking - For two years (1897 and 1898) Brother Decking was Master of United Brothers' Lodge, No. 356, in
which Lodge he had been made a Mason in 1894. A study of these duties will prove that he not only quickly grasped "the Masonic
idea," that he patiently made himself acquainted with the work and methods of the Lodge, but that he won the confidence and
esteem of the brethren. We are always in favor of a double term for the Master of a Lodge, because his second election to the office
is in the nature of a complete endorsement by the brethren. It is possible that they may make a mistake in voting a man into King
Solomon's Chair, for when invested with supreme command a brother may develop qualities which would not come to the front while
he held a subordinate position. But a second term proves that a man has fully fulfilled all the pleasing anticipations entertained by
the brethren when they first promoted him to be their official head.
Brother Decking was born in Hoboken, NJ, 29 Mar 1868. He was educated at the Hoboken Academy and Martha Institute, and later
attended college at Watertown, Wis. When his education was completed he entered the employ of a wholesale woolen house in
New York City, and so continued for several years. Then he drifted into the bakery trade and as a master baker has been engaged
in business a long time with marked success.
When Brother Decking was first elected Master of United Brothers' Lodge he gave up membership in all of the many social
organizations to which he belonged in order that he might devote all his time to the business of the craft. His membership was in
every way a brilliant success, and during its continuance he raised nineteen Master Masons.
-----
Ibid. page 56.
Ernst August George Intemann. To have "fought with Lawrence" as one of his principal captains in the marvelous and successful
struggles to throw off the load of debt which lay on the craft and retarded its progress, is an honor which can be enjoyed, at most, by
only a few men. For Lawrence's captains were his associate officers, more particularly his District Deputies, those who brought his
views and expressed his purposes and seconded his endeavors in every Lodge in the jurisdiction. From most of these Grand Master
Lawrence received the most loyal support, and from none did support more heartily come than from R. W. Ernst A. G. Intemann,
who, during the four memorable years, 1885-1889, was District Deputy of the then 28th District (now the 9th District), composed of
Lodges working in German, of New York, Kings and Richmond Counties, into which were grouped the German-speaking Lodges in
what is now the Greater New York. He won repeated expressions of thanks from his leader, and under his able guidance the
brethren in the German District marched step by step with their brethren throughout the State in the campaign against the debt.
But, unlike the other deputies, inspired with the idea of the founding of a home at the
successful close of a victorious campaign, Brother Intemann had another home scheme
on his hands during most of that time. For the German brethren, with that love of
Fatherland which has ever been the leading characteristic of the race, were then
engaged in securing the ways and means for the establishment and support of a home
for their own people. Into this plan Brother Intemann threw himself with all his heart and
gave it most effective aid, but he was careful to see that the Lodges under him, in spite
of this matter which naturally appealed closest to their sympathies, did not feel any laxity
of purpose toward the general scheme. To state the truth, there was no indication of this
even for a moment; the Germans were loyal to Lawrence to the core, but there is no
saying how their energies might have wandered had they not been under a judicious
leader, and that leader Brother Intemann certainly proved himself to be.
Ernst A. George Intemann was born at Eversen, Hanover, Germany, 25 Oct 1848. He
was educated there until his thirteenth year, when, his parents being dead, he crossed
the Atlantic in company with his sister and brother-in-law, who were then on a visit to
Germany. After settling in New York he attended the parochial school of St. John's
Lutheran Church, and when he completed his course started out in the real battle of life
in the employment of his brother-in-law, at 371 Bowery, in the confectionery business.
There he remained until 1869, when he opened an establishment, in the same line, at
590 Eighth Avenue, in company with his brother. The same year he married Catherine
Lange, and they have since seen growing up around them a family of eight children. In
1872 the partnership was dissolved and the subject of this sketch opened a store on his
sole account, at 53 Sixth Avenue. He prospered from the first and for twenty-one years
continued at the same stand, steadily increasing his business. Then, having purchased
the property at 51 Sixth Avenue, he moved there and has there since remained. He has
also a branch establishment at 265 Sixth Avenue, which is managed by his eldest son—
E. A. G. Intemann, Jr.—who is now associated with him in business. In the trade which he has followed all his life Brother Intemann
is held in the highest respect. In 1886 he became President of the United Confectioners' Association, a business corporation,
manufacturers of superior flavoring extracts, importers and dealers in general confectioners' supplies, and has since held that
position. Besides, he is a member of the Mercantile Exchange, and in the many houses with which he has dealings his business
reputation is of the foremost standing. His business career has been a markedly successful one, and this success he owes to his
own industry, to his own enterprise, as well as to a habit he has of dealing justly with all men.
47

In the Craft his career has been equally noteworthy. He was initiated, passed and raised in United Brothers' Lodge, No. 356,
signing its roll on 10 Nov 1873. To its work he at once devoted a good deal of attention and official position quickly followed, for in
no society in the world is earnest endeavor more quickly recognized than in our ancient and honorable fraternity. So far as the
Lodge went, his official career was crowned by his being elected its Master in 1882 and his reelection on to 1886. In 1885 Grand
Master Lawrence appointed him Deputy Grand Master for the 28th District and so appreciated his zeal that the district remained
under Brother Intemann's leadership throughout the four terms over which Lawrence's Grand Mastership extended. In 1892-93 he
was again Master of United Brothers' Lodge. He had during these years many other matters to attend to than those pertaining to the
Grand Lodge, and he never slurred over or neglected any of them. His work alone in connection with the German Home, at Tappan,
of which, as of the German Temple in New York City, he is President, has been enough for one man to undertake who has his daily
business to attend to, without assuming an interest in any other extreme. But hard work, with a good purpose in view, has ever
appealed to him and he has been so richly endowed with the good qualities of perseverance, common sense and energy, that his
popularity among his brethren has kept his hands full even when holding no official position.
Perhaps the details of his Masonic career of which he is most proud is in connection with the dedication of the Masonic Home at
Tappan, which service he performed by direction of Grand Master Lawrence on 24 Oct 1888. The proceedings, which were in
German, were conducted in the presence of Grand Master Lawrence, as a spectator. Brother Intemann acted as Grand Master and
called to his aid a staff composed of members of the Lodges in his district. It was, on the whole, a memorable occasion, and the
entire proceedings were a fitting capstone to a movement the history of which is one of the most honorable in the history of
Freemasonry in the State of New York.
It should be stated that Brother Intemann is an honorary member of German Union Lodge, No. 54; Pythagoras Lodge, No. 86;
Goethe Lodge, No. 629; Beethoven Lodge, No. 661; Klopstock Lodge, No. 760, and Solon Lodge. No. 771.
http://pds.lib.harvard.edu/pds/viewtext/4138010?op=t&n=366
ERNST AUGUST GEORGE INTEMANN, merchant and seventh son of Claus Hinrich and Anna Margaretha (nee Ficken) Intemann,
was born at Everson, Hanover, Germany, 25 Oct 1848, his father being a farm owner. Mr. Intemann received his preliminary
education in the schools of his native place, was an orphan at ten years old and at the age of twelve years and six months he came
to America, where he attended St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church Parish School until 1853, then under the direction of Peter
W. Moeller, then superintendent. After completing his education he in the same year entered the confectionery trade as an
apprentice and in 1869 started in that business on his own account. In 1886 he took charge of the United Confectioners'
Association, 43 Jay Street, now the United Confectioners' Supply Company, located at No. 561 Greenwich Street, New York City, of
which company he is now the president and general manager. In 1900 Mr. Intemann organized the Confectioners' Manufacturing
Company of No. 112-118 Bank Street, manufacturers of Hygienic Ice, of which he is also the president.
He is closely identified with several benevolent organizations, is of high standing with the Free Masons, among which he has held
high offices of trust, which, in consequence of said services he was elected to honorary membership to seven lodges working in the
German language in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Richmond boroughs, New York City. Mr. Intemann was for several years president of
the German Branch of the Y.M.C.A., formerly at Nos. 140 and 142 Second Avenue, but now out of existence.
He was for many years engaged in the manufacturing and retail confectionery business at 51 and 53 Sixth Avenue, New York City,
which he conducted up to the time of his being made president of the corporations with which he is now connected. Aside from his
manufacturing interests Mr. Intemann is chairman of the Allied Underwriters at New York and Chicago Lloyds. He has never held
any political office, but was instrumental in having laws enacted for the benefit of the confectionery business as well as for the public
in general. He is a prominent member of St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, president of the Board of Trustees; United
Brothers' Lodge No. 356, F&AM; General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen; Confectioners' and Ice Cream Manufacturers'
Protective Association; Orphan Asylum; the Home for the Aged and a number of other institutions.
On 6 Sep 1869, Mr. Intemann was married to Miss Catharine Margaretha Lange to whom eight children have been born, viz: Mary
Margaretha, Caroline Wilhelmina, Ernst A. G. Jr., Charles Lewis Henry, Alfred Christopher, Agnes Henrietta, Florence Dorothea and
Frederick William. Mr. Intemann was elected honorary member of the following Masonic lodges : German Union No. 54; Pythagoras
Lodge No. 86; Goethe Lodge, No. 629; Beethoven Lodge, No. 661 ; Allemania Lodge, No. 740 ; Klopstock Lodge, No. 760 and
Solon Lodge, No. 771.
-----
Ibid. page 399.
Christian J. Wahmann - For quite a number of years Brother Wahmann has been proprietor of a cafe at Sixth Avenue and
Sixteenth Street, New York, and has been remarkably successful. His establishment is at one of the busiest corners of the business
section of New York, and commands a high-class trade. He was born in Bassum, Germany, 22 Jan 1864, and came to America in
1878. For four years he was a resident of Green Point, but with that exception he has been a citizen of what is now the Borough of
Manhattan.
In 1895 he was initiated, passed and raised in United Brothers' Lodge, No. 356, and has since been noted for the interest he has
taken in all matters pertaining to the craft. He is also a member of the Order of the Golden Chain, the New York Schuetzen Club, the
West Shore Bowling Club, and the Scharmbeck Verein, of which he is President. He is a Trustee of the Liquor Dealers' Association
of the Nineteenth District, New York, and a member of the General Committee of Tammany Hall.
-----
48

Historic Homes and Institutions and Genealogical and Family ..., Volume 4, by William Smith Pelletreau, page 219.
http://books.google.com/books?id=XHrxgFYISmYC&pg=PA220&dq=%22United+Brothers+Lodge+No.+356%22&hl=en&ei=K-
9hTpGNH6Hn0QGW56ytCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=7&ved=0CEkQ6AEwBg#v=onepage&q=%22United%20Brot
hers%20Lodge%20No.%20356%22&f=false
Carl H. Krull, a valued and well known citizen of New York city, who for a period of seventeen years was the faithful and efficient
sexton of St. Raid's German Evangelical Church, was a native of Germany, but had resided in this country for many years, and died
in New York city, 13 Dec 1904. He was born in the province of Mecklenburg, Germany, 25 Jul 1863, and his education was acquired
in his native land, where he also learned his trade of baking. He emigrated to the United States in early youth, settling in New York,
where he worked at his trade until 1888. He was appointed sexton of St. Paul's Church in March of that year, and filled that office
very acceptably until the time of his death. About the same time he established himself in the undertaking business on West
Seventeenth street, and later removed to No. 330 West Twenty second street, where the business is still conducted by his widow.
He was an exemplary citizen in every respect and all his actions were honorable. In friendship he was sincere, in his home
affectionate and devoted. He was public spirited and helpful in his intercourse with his fellowmen, and his manner was genial,
courteous and refined. He was a member of the New York Undertakers' Association, and United Brothers' Lodge, No. 356, F&AM,
and other fraternal organizations. He was married, 8 Oct 1889, in St. Paul's German Evangelical Church, Rev. Leo Koenig
officiating, to Johanna Siebenborn, a native of Rhenish Prussia, daughter of Sebastian and Johanna Siebenborn.
-----
Silentia Lodge No. 360
Warrant: 13 Jun 1823
See Silentia No. 198, GLNY and No. 2, 27 Sep 1837, St. John's GL
See also History of Silentia Lodge No. 198, Free and Accepted Masons: Compiled from ..., by John G. Barker
http://books.google.com/books?id=O0gZAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA59&lpg=PA59&dq=%22Silentia+Lodge+No.+360%22&source=bl&ots=
kM8Lh8Bcni&sig=9ZafYV354peLaUELrEgM0yfE4sw&hl=en&ei=yfRhTo2nJo7PgAem14m4Cg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&res
num=1&ved=0CBYQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%22Silentia%20Lodge%20No.%20360%22&f=false
Masonic Library
In view of our now existing Chancellor Robert R Livingston Library of the Grand Lodge of New York [and numerous other Masonic
Libraries and Museums] the following reference is an interesting footnote to history of such libraries in one period our earlier history.
A standard history of freemasonry in the state of New York ..., Volume 1, by Peter Ross, page 281.
http://books.google.com/books?id=-
GciAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA281&dq=%22Silentia+Lodge+No.+360%22&hl=en&ei=mfVhTob9A8ScgQfZzsyRCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&
ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CDMQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q=%22Silentia%20Lodge%20No.%20360%22&f=false
Judged by our notions of the present day, one of the most reactionary incidents of [Martin] Hoffman's Grand Mastership was its
hostility to Masonic literature. The sentiment of the Grand Lodge in regard to this had changed greatly since the time when, under
De Witt Clinton, the brethren had actually voted a sum of money to help along the publication of a Masonic work. In 1822 Kingston
Lodge, No. 20, wrote to Grand Secretary Hicks with reference to a perfectly harmless book entitled the "Masonic Tablet," which was
written and being sold by the Rev. Daniel Parker and the Grand Secretary condemned all publications of that sort. He laid the
communication from Kingston Lodge before the Grand Lodge, together with a copy of his letter, and the response was clear-cut and
conclusive:
Resolved, That this Grand Lodge approve of the answer given by the Grand Secretary to the aforesaid communication, and
decidedly condemn the use of all books or manuscripts, the purport or tendency of which is to elucidate and explain
Freemasonry.
But literature had to undergo a still more severe test and be even more emphatically condemned. On April 6, 1825, a lengthy
petition from Silentia Lodge, No. 360, New York City, was read [at an Emergent Meeting of the Grand Lodge], recommending the
propriety and importance of forming a Masonic library. After enlarging upon the advantages of reading and study, and referring to
the fact that "on the other side of the Atlantic many Lodges devote a part of their revenue to the purchase of books concerning
Freemasonry and the circulation of these works contributes to spread instruction among the brethren, to make them acquainted with
the origin, history and tendency of our Order." In full this appears in the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of 6 Apr 1825 as follows:
“The following communication from Silentia Lodge No. 360, recommending the formation of a Masonic Library, was presented
and read, and referred to the Grand Officers:
To the M. W. Grand Master, the R. W. Grand Officers, and members of the Grand Lodge of the city of New York and the State
of New York:
Agreeably to a motion made by Brother Elias Wolf, and seconded by W. Past Master Hampton Dunham, of Silentia Lodge No.
360 it was
“Resolved, That a Committee be appointed to recommend to the notice of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, the
propriety and importance of forming a Masonic Library.”
We, the Committee nominated and appointed for this purpose, beg leave to address you honourable Body on this subject:
On the other side of the Atlantic many Lodges devote a part of their revenue to the purchase of books concerning
Freemasonry, and the circulation of these works contributes to spread of instruction among the Brethren, to make them
acquainted with the origin, history, and tendency of our Order, to give them information of the Lodges in various parts of the
49

globe, and by promoting light and knowledge among the Fraternity, excites a greater interest for further inquiry, and a livelier
attachment to the great chain of whom they are members.
Masons who travel in their own or foreign countries, may from such a source derive still other advantages. They may, by the
aid of it before they set out, without trouble or expense, make themselves acquainted with the situation of their Brethren in
those parts they intend to visit.
Believing that the same advantages would necessarily result from such an establishment in our city, we feel the more sensibly
the want of it, we deem it superfluous to enlarge on the eminent usefulness we expect from this contemplated establishment, in
addressing a Body who, deriving their light from the pure source of the East, are the better qualified to form a correct opinion of
this matter, and give the object a better direction to accomplish the views of this Committee.
We therefore add only the following to give a short explanation of our ideas on the subject:
That a Masonic library should be established in the city under the care and direction of this Grand Lodge for the use of every
member of the Masonic family.
That the Lodges be respectfully, and the brethren generally, invited to contribute either in books illustrative of Masonic science,
or money for this purpose, by which means we hope to save from destruction many valuable Masonic works and documents
that now lie in the hands of individuals, almost useless to the Craft, and may ultimately be destroyed from not having a
repository for their preservation.
By realizing the above proposition, we hope and expect to see he increased diffusion of Masonic information, and an
enlightened Fraternity whose science of the Order will not be inferior to that of any other country.
In submitting a subject which we deem to be of so much importance, and which may be realized (as we think) with
comparatively small expense, to your mature and deliberate consideration, we indulge an expectation that we shall soon be so
happy as to see the great desideratum supplied.
New York, April 6th, A.L. 5825.
(Signed),
HAMPTON DUNHAM,
HENRY BATTERMAN,
ELIAS WOLF.
This petition, or communication, was referred to the Grand Officers, who [met pursuant to adjournment] on June 3 [1825], after
evidently very careful reflection, joined in submitting the following extraordinary document, which settled the question of a library for
the time being—and for a considerable time afterward:
REPORT OF THE GRAND OFFICERS ON THE PROPOSITION TO ESTABLISH A MASONIC LIBRARY.
The Grand Officers, having given the proposition emanating from Silentia Lodge, No. 360, relating to the formation of a
Masonic Library, the consideration due to the importance of the subject, are of the opinion that, if the object of the proposition
is the collection and preservation of rare and valuable works, connected with, or relating to, the arts and sciences generally, the
necessity of the measure is superseded by the numerous public as well as private and professional libraries which already
abound in this extensive and growing city, and to which every member of the Fraternity, in common with others, may obtain
access; or, otherwise, if thereby is contemplated the collection of the histories, tracts, charts, monitors, illustrations, or by
whatever name may be distinguished the various developments of the Masonic mysteries, and consequent violation of
Masonic obligations, the Grand Officers are of opinion, that so far from contributing in any shape to their preservation, the
Masonic body ought to unite to a man in discountenancing their use as destructive of that simplicity and uniformity which make
Freemasonry the same, meet it in whatever part of the globe you may. Under these impressions the Grand Officers are
constrained to express dissent from the plan proposed, and to recommend that it be discharged from further consideration.
New York, June 3d, A.L. 5825.
(Signed),
MARTIN HOFFMAN,
E. M. KING,
ELIAS HICKS,
RICHARD HATFIELD,
CORNELIUS BOGERT.
It is impossible to read this document without a feeling of shame. That it could have been penned by men most of whom had for
years held high rank in the Grand Lodge and men who, it is to be presumed, were constant seekers after Masonic light, and who
had but recently declared most emphatically that the work of spreading that light by means of appointed lecturers (for lecturing on
the work was part of the duties of the Grand Visitors), was a pronounced failure, can only be wondered at. The only excuse that
might be offered on their behalf is that prejudice had blinded their eyes, that the work of literary charlatans had warped their
judgment. But even that excuse is an insufficient one, and the only conciliatory fact in connection with the document is that none of
the Grand Chaplains signed it. The name of Dr. Matson Smith is also wanting, and in his case we could almost believe that the
absence of his name was the result of a direct refusal.
York Lodge No. 367
Warrant: 3 Mar 1824
See York Lodge No. 197.
Ref. History of York Lodge, no. 197, Free and Accepted Masons, from its formation ... , pages 2-80.
50

http://books.google.com/books?id=CkgZAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA30&lpg=PA30&dq=%22York+Lodge+No.+367%22&source=bl&ots=HU-
PKU8-px&sig=MzYfVEMPVt9iKWZseKT9rUgRfts&hl=en&ei=QwZiTqiaHafJ0AGe_-
iaCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CB8Q6AEwAg#v=onepage&q=%22York%20Lodge%20No.%20367%22&f
=false
During the early part of the month of December, 1823, a number of Brethren met at St. John's Hall, No. 8 Frankfort Street, and there
drew up, signed and subsequently presented to the E. W. Grand Lodge of the State of New York the following petition:
To the M. W. Grand Lodge o f the State of New York:
We, the undersigned members of regular Masonic Lodges in the State of New York, being desirous of forming a new Lodge in the
City of New York, to be named "YORK," pray for a Dispensation, or Warrant to empower us to assemble and discharge all the duties
of Masonry in a constitutional manner, according to the Order and regulations of this R. W. Grand Lodge.
That we have nominated, and do desire Bro. John W. Timson to be the first Master, Bro. Thomas G. Potter to be the first Senior
Warden, and Bro. Henry Basley to be the first Junior Warden. And if this petition be granted we promise to conform strictly to all the
constitutional laws and regulations of the R. W. Grand Lodge and the ancient usages of the Order.
JOHN W. TIMSON, of Silentia Lodge, No. 360, now "No. 198."
HENRY BASLEY, " " " " "
Adolphus Andreas, German Union, No. 322, now " No. 54."
Thomas G. Potter, (name of Lodge not known.)
George G. Sickles, " " "
Abraham Jacobs, " “ "
JOSEPH TAYLOR, " " "
The petitioners were recommended by
Washington Lodge, No. 84, now " No. 21,"
Benevolent Lodge, No. 142, now "No. 28," and
Concord Lodge, No. 304, now "No. 50."
This petition was favorably received by the R. W. Grand Lodge, and a Dispensation granted, and on the 13th day of January, A. L.
5824, the R. W. Grand Master, Martin Hoffman, empowered the following Brethren to install the officers of York Lodge:
LEBBEUS CHAPMAN, as Grand Master.
B. SPENCE, " Senior Warden.
ALEXANDER CASCADEN, " Junior "
H. SANDS, " Treasurer.
E. S. BELLAMY, " Secretary.
AMASA HIGGINS, " Senior Deacon.
ISAAC PHYFE, " Junior "
A Lodge of Master Masons being opened in ancient form, Wor. Bro. Chapman read a Dispensation from the R. W. Martin Hoffman,
Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, authorizing the Brethren therein named to form and hold a.Lodge of
Free and Accepted Masons in the City of New York, under the name of "York Lodge."
Wor. Bro. Chapman then proceeded (pursuant to a Warrant directed to him for that purpose) to install the following Brethren as
officers of York Lodge:
JOHN W. TIMSON, as Master.
THOMAS G. POTTER, " Senior Warden.
HENRY BASLEY, ".. Junior Warden and Treasurer.
ADOLPHUS ANDREAS, " Secretary.
After the usual charges had been given, and proclamation made agreeably to the ancient usages of the Fraternity, the officers of
York Lodge took their several stations, when Bro. Potter proposed for membership the following named gentlemen: Peter Coutant
and Isaac Clagg; and Bro. Basley proposed William Marshall.
On motion it was resolved that their names be entered on the minutes and handed to Bros. Potter, Basley and Taylor as a Special
Committee for investigation.
Wor. Bro. Chapman, on behalf of York Lodge, returned thanks to the Officers and Brethren of Benevolent Lodge for their kindness in
tendering the use of their Jewels and giving their assistance on this occasion.
No further business offering, the Lodge was closed with a demonstration of satisfaction and pleasure.
EDWD. S. BELLAMY, Act. Secretary.
At a regular communication of York Lodge, No. 367, held at St. John's Hall, Jan. 20th, A. L. 5824, the Lodge being opened on the E.
A. Degree and no business appearing, the Lodge was closed in due and ancient form.
ADOLPHUS ANDREAS, Sec'y.
Jan. 29th. Mr. Isaac Clagg, being duly elected to become a member of this Lodge, paid the sum of twenty dollars as initiation fee,
and the Degree of E. A. was then conferred upon him.
51

Feb. 3rd. Isaac Clagg was brought forward and received the F. C. Degree; and on the same evening Bro. Alex. Cascaden, Senior
Warden of Benevolent Lodge, No. 142, presented an elegant bound copy of the Holy Bible to this Lodge and received the sincere
thanks of the members.
Feb. 17th. A report was read from Trinity Lodge, No. 39 (unimportant).
March 3rd. Bro. Fellow Craft Isaac Clagg was raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason, he being the first candidate raised in
this Lodge.
March 16th. Propositions for membership were received and referred to the Standing Committee.
March 30. Messrs. Nathaniel M. Brown and John W. Bloomer, being duly balloted for and elected to become members of this
Lodge, received the E. A. and F. C. Degrees after paying the initiation fee of twenty dollars each.
An extra meeting was held on April 2nd for the purpose of conferring the M. M. Degree on Bros. Brown and Bloomer, and at the
close of the ceremonies the Master appointed Bro. N. M. Brown as Senior Deacon and Bro. J. W. Bloomer as Junior Deacon, and
also appointed a committee to draw up a code of By-Laws, consisting of Bros. Timson, Potter and Andreas, and announced that he
would serve on the committee himself.
May 4th. The Master, John W. Timson, presented the Lodge with a set of Jewels made of tortoiseshell of curious workmanship,
which were much admired and highly appreciated by the Brethren.
Mr. John Kneringer was then brought forward and received the E. A. and F. C. Degrees. A communication from Minerva Lodge, No.
374, requesting the loan of the Lodge furniture was received and the request granted. A bill was presented for refreshments
furnished at the Installation of Officers, also a bill for rent and candles, amounting to $12.81, when on motion both bills were ordered
paid.
May 18. Mr. J. D. Salters was brought forward and received the E. A. Degree, and Bros. Chas. Harris and John Kneringer
received the M. M. Degree.
ST. JOHN'S HALL,
No. 8 Frankfort Street, bet. Chatham aud William Streets.
June 1st. . Communications were received from Washington Lodge, No. 84, and Morton Lodge, No. 63, of Hempstead, Long
Island, stating that several of their members had been suspended for non-payment of dues. Bro. E. A. John D. Salters was brought
forward and received the F. C. and M. M. Degrees. A bill of $9.00 presented for furnishing Seal of the Lodge was ordered paid.
June 15th. The Lodge received a communication from St. John's Lodge, No. 1, (unimportant,) which was ordered on file.
June 24th. The first By-Laws of the Lodge were approved and adopted.
July 6th.
Bro. Isaac Clagg was elected Treasurer of the Lodge, he being the first elected Treasurer.
July 20th. Nothing of importance transpired.
Aug. 3rd. A communication from Washington Lodge, No. 84, was received, read and ordered on file. Bros. Fellow Crafts Yates
and Bower were raised to the Sublime Degree of M. M. in due form.
Aug. 17th. A petition for relief for a distressed Brother was received from Athol Lodge, No. 7, and five dollars donated him.
Sept. 7th. Nothing of importance was brought forward.
52

Sept. 15th. The Wor. Master read a communication from the Grand Lodge requesting him to ascertain on or before the 17th inst.,
how many of the members of York Lodge would be present at the celebration in honor of our distinguished Brother General La
Fayette, at which time a public dinner would be given.
Sept. 21st. On this communication one hundred copies of the By Laws were ordered to be printed.
Oct. 5th. A communication was received from Washington Lodge, No. 84, and read by the Secretary. Bros. E. A. Brown and
Blanchard were brought forward and received the F. C. and M. M. Degrees.
Oct. 19th. A communication was received from St. John's Lodge, No. 1.
Nov. 2nd.
Bro. Fellow Craft James C. Everett received the M. M. Degree.
Nov. 6th an extra meeting was called for the purpose of conferring the Third Degree on Bros. Fellow Crafts Samuel Butler and
Isaac Anderson.
At the regular communication, Nov. 16th, Bros. Timson and A. Lamoreau were brought forward and raised to the Sublime Degree of
M. M. At this communication Past Master Abraham Jacobs was made an Honorary Member, being the first Honorary Member of
York Lodge. This Brother, being a Charter Member, was made an Honorary Member of the Lodge for the purpose of relieving him
from the payment of all dues except to the Grand Lodge.
Dec. 7th.
Dec. 12th
Dec. 21.
Communications from different Lodges were read and ordered on file.
was an extra meeting, called for the purpose of conferring the Third Degree on Bro. Fellow Craft Richard W. Manny.
An election of officers for the ensuing year took place and resulted as follows:
THOS. G. POTTER being chosen Master.
ADOLPHUS ANDREAS " Senior Warden.
JAMES C. EVERETT " Junior "
JOHN W. TIMSON " Treasurer.
PETER B. BROWN " Secretary.
ADOL. ANDREAS, J. C. EVERETT, J. ANDERSON, J. BOWER, and JOHN W. TIMSON,
Stand'g Committee.
This closes the transactions of York Lodge, No. 367, for the Masonic year 5824. The compiler of this history has been particular in
noting all the details of the first year's existence of the Lodge, in order that its members may know precisely how it was organized
and its business conducted during that early period. It will be noticed that all the business of the Lodge was transacted in the First
Degree.
-----
The records of the Lodge show that a regular meeting was held at No. 8 Frankfort Street, April 5th, 5825, when the Grand Officers
of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York were announced and received with the Grand Honors. A committee of three was
appointed to procure a Jewel for P. M. Timson.
On May 17th, Mr. Leicester Vining received the Three Degrees in Masonry, by Dispensation granted by the Grand Master. This was
the first Dispensation under which the Degrees had been conferred in this Lodge.
Bro. Chas. Harris was duly elected Secretary of the Lodge, for the remainder of the year, at a communication held on the 17th of
June.
On July 18th, the Lodge granted permission to Bro. A. Lamoreau, to withdraw from membership, this being the first withdrawal from
the Lodge.
Bro. Henry C. Atwood was proposed as adjoining member on Sept. 20th.
An extra meeting was called on the 24th of Sept. for the purpose of conferring the Three Degrees on Mr. Thos. Uavilaud, under
Dispensation granted by the Grand Lodge.
On Oct. 4th,
Bro. Henry C. Atwood was duly elected to become a member of this Lodge.
On Dec. 19th, the constitutional time having arrived for the election of officers for the ensuing year, the Brethren proceeded to
ballot with the following results:
ADOLPHUS ANDREAS was chosen Master.
JAMES BOWER " Senior Warden.
GEORGE G. SICKLES " Junior "
JOHN W. TIMSON " Treasurer. .
ISAAC GOOLD " Secretary.
The above officers were then duly installed, after which the Master appointed a committee to procure a Jewel for P. M. Thos. G.
Potter.
This ends the transactions for the year 5825, during which year 15 candidates were raised to the Sublime Degree of M. M.
Jan. 3rd, 5826, Bro. David McGee and others were recommended by York Lodge to the M. W. Grand Lodge for a Warrant to
constitute a Lodge in the City of New York.
-----
53

On Dec. 19th, a committee was appointed to procure a suitable present for W. Bro. Adolphus Andreas, the amount to be employed
for this purpose not to exceed $30.00.
The following officers were duly elected and installed to serve for the year 5827:
James Bower, Master.
George G. Sickles, Senior Warden.
John Blanchard, Junior "
John W. Timson, Treasurer.
ISAAC GOOLD, Secretary.
The following brethren were duly elected and installed as officers for the ensuing year at a communication held Dec. 18th, 5827:
Geo. G. Potter, Master.
Geo. G. Sickles, Senior Warden.
Henry Basley, Junior "
J. Bower, Treasurer.
ADOLPHUS ANDREAS Secretary.
At a regular communication of the Lodge, held at their rooms, St. John's Hall, No. 8 Frankfort Street, January 1st, 5828, the
committee appointed to examine the Amendments and the revised Constitution of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, as
furnished by the Grand Secretary, reported in favor of the Constitution as already in operation, whereupon it was unanimously
resolved that York Lodge adopt and abide by the said Constitution and Amendments.
Adolphus Andreas,
Sec. of the Committee.
At a communication held Dec. 16th, the following Brethren were chosen as officers for the year 5829:
Henry Basley, Master.
John M. Devoy, Senior Warden.
Thos. S. Barnes, Junior "
John W. Timson, Treasurer.
PATRICK FINEGAN Secretary.
On May 19th, 5829, the Lodge changed its place of meeting from St. John's Hall, No. 8 Frankfort Street, to Masonic Hall, on
the east side of Broadway, between Duane and Pearl Streets.
Dec. 14th, the Master, having announced this as being the constitutional time for the election of officers for the ensuing year [1830],
ordered the balloting .to proceed, and the following named Brethren were duly elected and installed:
John M. Devoy, Master.
Robert Downs, Senior Warden.
Edward Ferris, Junior "
John W. Timson, Treasurer.
JACOB L. C. ROOME, Secretary.
Bros. Long, French and Kelly's names appear on the records as receiving the E. A. and F. C. Degrees, but there is nothing in the
minutes to show that these Brethren ever received the M. M. Degree, yet they appear as members in good standing and two of
them held office. It is probable they received the M. M. Degree in other Lodges.
Feb. 22nd, 5830, Officers of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York were announced, received with the Grand honors and, after
being introduced to the Brethren and welcomed by the Master, occupied seats in the East.
On the 3rd of March this Lodge again changed its place of meeting, this time to Union Hall, corner Oliver and Henry Streets.
On May 19th a communication from Silentia Lodge, requesting this Lodge to meet with other Lodges in celebrating St. John's Day,
was received and a committee appointed to make the necessary arrangements.
It was resolved at the communication held Oct. 6th, that the Lodge pay five dollars to the Grand Lodge for a Dispensation to attend
the funeral of our deceased Brother Peter Long.
The following Brethren were duly elected and installed on the 15th of December as officers for the ensuing year [1831]:
Robert Downs, Master.
John Vanderbeck, Senior Warden.
John French, Junior "
Henry Basley, Treasurer.
PATRICK FINEGAN Secretary.
On Jan. 5, A. L. 5832 [1831], a committee was appointed to procure a Jewel for Wor. Bros. Basley and Devoy.
An extra meeting of the Lodge was called Aug. 10th for the purpose of paying the last tribute of respect to our Wor. Master Robert
Downs, and a Dispensation read from the li. W. Grand Lodge granting permission to attend the funeral of this Worthy Brother.
On Dec. 21st, the following Brethren were duly elected and installed as officers of the Lodge for the year A. L. 5832:
John Vanderbeck,
Master.
54

John French, Senior Warden.
Henry B. Roberts Junior "
John Turrell, Treasurer.
JAMES SHAW, Secretary.
York Lodge, as well as other Lodges, had at this time a novel way of paying their Tiler. The amount he received depended upon the
number of candidates raised and affiliated, the number of funerals attended, and the number of communications at which he tiled
during the year; the allowance in these cases being as follows: For each communication, $1; for each candidate raised, $1.25; for
an affiliation, $1 ; for an attendance at a funeral, $1.25. He was also allowed $1.50 for services on St. John's Day. As but one
funeral took place, and but one candidate was raised during this year, and no affiliations having occurred, and the Lodge not having
taken part in the St. John's Day parade, the Tiler of that year cannot be said to have held a sinecure.
Feb. 1st, A. L. 5832. The Past Secretary Patrick Finnegan was duly expelled for unmasonic conduct in appropriating the funds of the
Lodge to his own use.
The following officers for the ensuing year were elected and installed at the December communication, 19th inst. [for year 1833]:
John French, Master.
Henry B. Roberts, Senior Warden.
John Turrell, Junior "
John M. Devoy, Treasurer.
JAMES SHAW, Secretary
Feb. 6th, A. L. 5833, a communication was received from Mariners' Lodge, No. 385, stating that Patrick Healy had been expelled for
felony. The Master ordered his name placed on the Black Book.
On Dec. 18th of this year, the following Brethren were duly elected officers of York Lodge for the year A. L. 5834:
John W. Timson, Maser.
John Turrell, Senior Warden.
John Blanchard, Junior "
Sands Lane, Treasurer.
JAMES SHAW, Secretary.
April 2nd, A. L. 5834. The Lodge was draped in mourning in consequence of the death of Past Master Abraham Jacobs, a Charter
Member of this Lodge.
At a special meeting of the Lodge, held June 24th, it was resolved to form in funeral procession in honor to the memory of our late
Brother General La Fayette, on the 26th inst., whose worth the members desired to fittingly recognize. It was also decided to
procure a banner for this occasion.
On the last communication in December the following Brethren were elected and installed officers for the ensuing year [1835]:
JOHN TURRELL was chosen Master.
SAMUEL HUGG " Senior Warden.
WILLIAM WALLING " Junior "
SANDS LANE " Treasurer.
JAMES SHAW " Secretary.
A committee was appointed on April 1, A. L. 5835, to procure one hundred and fifty copies of the revised By-Laws printed.
Bro. Jas. Shaw tendered his resignation as Secretary, and Bro. R. D. Simonson was elected to fill the office for the remainder of the
year. P. M. Devoy, late of York Lodge, presented a handsome Dirk to the Lodge, which was accepted and a vote of thanks tendered
the donor, and his name ordered to be engraved upon it with date, March 4th, A. L. 5835.
An inventory was ordered of the furniture and effects of this Lodge at the first May meeting. The following articles appear: 12
Officers' Jewels, 2 Silver Globes, 1 Seal, 4 Columns, 8 Books, 1 Bible, Square and Compasses, 3 Gavels, 1 Box of Working Tools,
1 Dirk, 3 Swords and Belts, 3 Candlesticks, 8 Glass Tumblers, 9 Wine Glasses, 2 Trays, 4 Rods, 1 Bell, 1 Ballot box, 1 Banner, 30
Linen Aprons, 14 Lambskin Aprons., 1 Mahogany Box, 2 Pairs of Slippers, and 1 Pair of Snuffers.
A Dispensation was granted by the Grand Master Morgan Lewis, to confer the E. A., F. C. and M. M. Degrees on Mr. James Kelly,
and on Sept. 7th, the ceremonies were performed.
On Nov. 4th [1835], a ballot was taken on the petition of Bro. Henry C. Atwood, P. M., for affiliation in this Lodge. Two black
balls appeared, when the Lodge was closed by proclamation on account of confusion created by some of the Brethren. On the
following communication a special committee was appointed for further investigation in this case, and on the next regular
communication of Nov. 18th, the committee of investigation reported favorably, and a ballot being ordered he was declared elected.
It was then regularly moved and seconded that P. M. John W. Timson be suspended for unmasonic conduct, for making false
accusations against the Lodge, and in failing to appear to answer charges against him when duly notified. A ballot taken to sustain
the above charges resulted in favor of the motion. It was therefore carried. Subsequently, on the appeal of Wor. Bro. Timson to the
Grand Lodge, the Grand Secretary sent the following communication to the Master of York Lodge:
"By direction of the Grand Steward's Lodge I transmit for the information of the Lodge over which you preside, a copy of the
preamble and resolutions adopted by said Grand Steward's Lodge:
55

After an examination of the facts in evidence on the appeal of the Wor. P. Master John W. Timson, from a vote of suspension by
York Lodge, No. 367:
Whereas, It appears from the statement of the complainant, John W. Timsou, and of the Officers of York Lodge, No. 367, who
have been examined, that the said Brother Timson had not had a legal trial in conformity to the 9th Article of the ByLaws of the
Lodge;
Therefore, Resolved, That Past Master John W. Timson has not been legally suspended by York Lodge, No. 367, and that he is
still a member thereof in good standing.
Signed, JAMES HERRING, Grand Sec'y.
At a communication held Dec. 16th, the Lodge proceeded to ballot for officers for the ensuing year [1836], the result being as
follows:
Sam. Hugo, Master.
Sands Lane, Senior Warden.
Horace B. Wade, Junior "
John Turrell, Treasurer.
JOHN J. RICKERS, Secretary.
The officers were then duly installed. On the same night [16 Dec 1835] the great fire in New York City took place, destroying
several million dollars' worth of property.
Dec. 19th, the election of officers took place for the year A. L. 5837:
Henry C. Atwood, Master.
John J. Rickers, Senior Warden.
Thos. Darby, Junior "
Edward Robinson, Treasurer.
'ADOLPHUS ANDREAS, Secretary.
At this meeting it was resolved that the Lodge be draped in mourning for one year, in memory of Past Grand Masters Jacob Morton
and E. W. King, deceased.
The Grand Lodge granted a Dispensation, dated May 10th, A. L. 5837, for York Lodge to confer the Three Degrees on Mr.
Lawrence Mahoney, which degrees were duly conferred upon him.
-----
On June 5th 1837, it was resolved that this Lodge celebrate the anniversary of the birth of St. John the Baptist on the 24th inst. The
Wor. Master thereupon appointed a committee to confer with other Lodges and conclude the necessary arrangements.
The committee accordingly met, and at a joint meeting of the several committees from other Lodges deputized a sub-committee of
seven Brethren to ascertain of the Deputy Grand Master officially if it was necessary to procure a Dispensation from the Grand
Officers for said celebration.
In performance of this duty they called at the Grand Secretary's Office and there found the Deputy Grand Master and Grand
Secretary, of whom the committee inquired:
"Is there any provision, in the Constitution relative to Masonic processions, or any requirement necessary for holding the same?"
The Grand Secretary replied: "You have the Constitution and can as well judge as me."
They responded that they were aware of that, that they had searched and could not find any clause denying the right of a Lodge
to hold a procession; but they came for official information, and required an official answer; they also desired to know "if there
were any writing, not printed in the Constitution, forbidding the same?"
56

The Grand Secretary replied, "there was not, that he was aware of." And to their request the Rt. Wor. Bros, decided officially there
was nothing in the Constitution which prohibited any regular Lodge from celebrating that day (24th June) in the usual manner
without permission from the Grand Lodge.
The subcommittee thereupon reported to the joint committee, who selected a Committee of Arrangements, and they performed their
duties by engaging a church, orator, music, dinner, &c. Notice of the contemplated celebration was forthwith published in the
principal newspapers of the city.
On the morning of June 24th [1837] (St. John's Day), the Lodge assembled, Wor. Bro. Henry C. Atwood, presiding; J. J. Rickers,
Senior Warden; Thomas Darby, Junior Warden, and a numerous assembly of Brethren being present. The Lodge was opened in
due form, when Wor. Bro. Atwood stated that he had received a prohibition, signed by the Deputy Grand Master, forbidding the
contemplated celebration, which was read to the Brethren present; notwithstanding which they decided almost unanimously to
proceed, and were about forming in procession, when the Deputy Grand Master and Grand Secretary appeared in person, and
inquired of Wor. Bro. Atwood the meaning of the assembly after the edict issued by him.
Bro. Atwood replied that he knew of no constitutional rule or regulation of the Order which authorized the Deputy Grand Master to
issue such an edict, and if it ever did exist he (the Deputy Grand Master) had waived it by informing the committee that any Lodge
had a right to celebrate the anniversary, in the usual manner, without permission of the Grand Lodge.
He furthermore remarked, that, at all events, it was evident that the prohibition was ill-timed, as all the arrangements had been
effected, the expenses incurred, and that the church was then nearly filled with ladies and gentlemen awaiting their approach;
furthermore, that a recession at that moment would be attended with injury and disgrace to the Fraternity.
The Deputy Grand Master replied that he knew his duty and his prerogatives; and he should perform the former, and exercise the
latter.
Wor. Bro. Atwood answered that no such prerogative existed, that he knew his rights and dare maintain them, and stated that it was
his intention to proceed, and was unanimously seconded by all present by cries of "Onward! form! form!”
The procession, consisting of over three hundred Brethren, moved though the principal streets to the Rev. Bro. A. McClay's Church
in Mulberry Street, where an elegant oration was delivered by Wor. Bro. W. F. Piatt, of La Fayette Lodge, after which it returned to
Union Hall and the Lodge was duly closed.
On July 3rd [1837], the following resolution was read and adopted:
Resolved, That the thanks of York Lodge be respectfully tendered to the Trustees and Officers of Bro. A. McClay's Church for
their kindness in granting the use thereof on the festival of St. John the Baptist, also to the Choir for their kind and efficient
assistance on that occasion, and that Bro. H. C. Atwood and J. W. Timson be a committee to present the same.
On July 12th [1837] a special meeting of the Grand Lodge was held, at which the R. W. James V. Van Benschoten read a
communication relative to his issuing the proclamation prohibiting the proceedings of the 24th June last, and reviewed the personal
endeavors to prevent the same.
After which a motion was made to refer the subject to the Grand Stewards' Lodge, and that the Grand Officers be directed to prefer
charges, accompanied with specifications, against the Members of the Lodges implicated.
To which Wor. Bro. Atwood objected, upon two grounds: firstly, that any action of the Grand Lodge affecting the general interests of
the Craft, except at the annual communication, was contrary to the Constitution. Secondly, that the Grand Stewards' Lodge was an
improper tribunal to try this question, as it was composed of the first six Grand Officers and twelve Masters of Lodges, and as the
former were instructed by a resolution of the Grand Lodge to prefer the charges, they would consequently be both judges and
accusers.
Notwithstanding these objections, R. W. Bro. Herring urged the question, which was taken by a show of hands, the decision of
which being disputed, another vote was called for, which the tellers should count. Two tellers were appointed for the occasion,
instead of letting the Wardens perform that duty, agreeably to the Constitution.
Wor. Bro. Atwood moved for a call of Lodges, and stated that there were Lodges represented which were not entitled to vote.
The appeal was disregarded, and the vote taken by show of hands, and reported by the tellers as lost.
R. W. Bro. Herring called for another vote. W. Bros. Marsh, Piatt, Atwood, Dugan and Brady protested against such a proceeding.
A third vote was taken, when the Deputy Grand Master declared it to be carried in the affirmative.
W. Bro. Atwood challenged the vote and asked for protection.
Wor. Bros. Brady, Dngan, Bruen, Marsh, Davis, Lineback, Moore and Bennett each rose and similarly challenged the vote, all
agreeing that the vote stood 39 affirmative and 45 negative.
Bro. Henry Marsh again arose and exclaimed, “Brothers, for God's sake, pause before you take this step; you are about to open a
breach which will take a long time to heal, and bring disgrace upon the Order."
Nothwithstanding the remonstrances the resolution was declared adopted.
At a regular communication of the Lodge on Monday evening, July 17th [1837], and in consequence of the arbitrary and tyrannical
proceedings of the Grand Lodge at their meeting of the 12th inst., the following preamble and resolutions were read, and received
the unanimous approbation of this Lodge:
57

Whereas, at an emergent meeting of the R. W. Grand Lodge of the State of New York, on the evening of the 12th inst., R. W.
Deputy Grand Master, James V. Van Benschoten, in the Chair, he did in writing prefer divers solemn and serious charges against
two Lodges under his jurisdiction, and also charges against several Brethren of different Lodges in this city for a violation of the
Constitution of the Grand Lodge;
And Whereas, the said James V. Van Benschoten, during the time he preferred the said charges, did during the session of the
Grand Lodge continue to preside, and did refuse to hear the officers of the said charged Lodges and Brethren in their own
defense and justification, and when they attempted to address the Chair he declared them out of order and ordered them to take
their seats;
And Whereas, on a question of reference to the Grand Lodge, a motion was made and seconded, that the said question should
be taken by a call of the Lodges by the Grand Secretary, which he refused to put, but took the same by a show of hands and
declared it carried by a vote of 39 to 37. When several of the members testified there were 44 votes in the negative and
requested it might again be put, he refused and declared the Grand Lodge closed without reading the minutes;
Therefore Resolved, That the said James V. Van Benschoten, in refusing to put the question by a call of the Lodges when duly
made and seconded, transcended the powers vested in him by the Constitution of the Grand Lodge and rendered himself
unworthy of being acknowledged longer as Presiding Officer.
Resolved, That the R. W. James Herring, in sending special notices to Past Masters, and permitting Lodges and members to vote
when in arrears of dues to the Grand Lodge on the aforesaid question, has forfeited our confidence and that he be requested to
tender to the Grand Lodge his resignation as Grand Secretary.
Resolved, That as Masons we are bound to support the Constitution of the Grand Lodge, and that, therefore, Bros. John W.
Timson, John J. Rickers, Thos. Darby, Jos. Homer and Edward Robinson be appointed Delegates from this Lodge to confer with
such Delegates as may be appointed from other Lodges who disapprove of the arbitrary and unmasonic conduct of James V. Van
Bensdhoten and James Herring in the Grand Lodge on the 12th inst., and to endeavor to preserve the Ancient Landmarks and
Constitution of Masonry from being destroyed either by tyrants or false friends.
On the evening of Aug. 7th [1837], the Senior Warden read to the Lodge two communications of Aug. 1st; one from the R. W. Grand
Stewards' Lodge, containing a notice of the expulsion of P. M. William F. Piatt, of La Fayette Lodge, No. 373, and the second was a
summons for W. Bro. Henry C. Atwood, of York Lodge, No. 367, to appear before the R. W. Grand Stewards' Lodge on the evening
of the 2nd inst. with the Officers, Past Masters and Brethren of York Lodge, and answer to certain charges thereunto annexed, and
which would be then and there preferred by the Grand Officers. The Secretary also read Wor. Bro. Atwood's letter to the Grand
Secretary, stating his reasons for not being able to attend at so short a notice, and also a summons from the R.. W. Grand
Stewards' Lodge, dated the 3rd inst., to appear with the Officers, Past Masters and members of York Lodge before them at the
Grand Lodge Room, on the evening of the 9th inst., at 8 o'clock.
The following preamble and resolutions were then read and passed unanimously, the question being taken on each section
separately:
1st. Resolved, That we will at all times cheerfully adhere to, abide by, support and maintain and respect the Constitution, Rules
and Resolutions of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York.
2nd. Resolved, That we will cheerfully comply with, respect and obey all orders, directions, communications or proclamations at
all times given by or sent from the Grand Master or his legal representative, so long as they keep within the limits of the
Constitution, and conform to the ancient customs of the Fraternity, and do not infringe upon the Ancient Landmarks of the Order.
3rd. Resolved, That the D. G. M. James V. Van Benschoten, in arraigning our Bro. William P. Piatt, P. M. of La Fayette Lodge,
No. 373, and our Wor. Master Henry C. Atwood, of this Lodge, before the Grand Lodge for celebrating the natal day of our patron
saint, was arbitrary, oppressive and unconstitutional, and stands without a precedent in the records of Masonry from the
foundation of the Institution.
4th. Resolved, That the conduct of the Deputy Grand Master, James V. Van Benschoten, while the subject relating to Wor.
Bros. Piatt and Atwood was under discussion, was unmasonic, and marked with persecution and partiality, in proof of which we
offer the following, viz.: By he being the accuser and judge at the same time, by declaring a member out of order while reading
the Constitution, by declaring it a vote to refer the subject to the Grand Lodge when it was not, but refusing to put the question of
a call of Lodges when a motion was made and seconded to that effect, and by refusing to order to be recorded the repeated
protests of Wor. Bros. Piatt and Atwood (whose characters were at stake) against the manner in which the vote was taken, but
turned a deaf ear to them and declared the Grand-Lodge closed without the minutes being read and approved.
5th. Resolved, That the conduct of the Grand Secretary, James Herring, while acting as Grand Secretary at the emergent
meeting of the Grand Lodge, on July 12th last, calls loudly for censure, and is revolting to the feelings of all reflecting Masons, by
deviating from the path of all his predecessors in sending special summonses to Past Masters, by suffering votes to be counted
and received at that meeting which he knew to be illegal, that such conduct is unmasonic in any member of the Grand Lodge and
much more so in one holding the active and important station of Grand Secretary.
6th. Resolved, That we are fully convinced that the expulsion by the R. W. Grand Stewards' Lodge of Wor. Bro. Piatt, of La
Fayette Lodge, and Wor. Bro. Henry C. Atwood, of York Lodge, is unwarranted by the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of the
State of New York, and inconsistent with the ancient usages, customs and principles of this our Ancient and Honorable Institution.
7th. Therefore Resolved, That we do not countenance or recognize the expulsion of Wor. P. M. William F. Piatt, of La Fayette
Lodge, nor of our Wor. Master Henry C. Atwood, of this Lodge, but in the person of Henry C. Atwood we recognize our Wor.
Master and Presiding Officer, and that in the person of William F. Piatt we recognize an undeviating, firm, zealous and unflinching
Mason, and shall be happy at all times to receive him within the walls of this Lodge.
58

8th. Resolved, That we individually place our names under and affix them to the above Resolutions, and in support of which we
pledge our honors and reputations as Master Masons.
The above having been read and adopted, a committee of the Deacons was appointed to invite Wor. Bro. H. C. Atwood and William
F. Piatt to the Lodge, who on entering were received standing, and Wor. Bro. Atwood conducted to the Chair. The following
resolutions were then offered and adopted in reference to the communication received by Bro. John J. Rickers from the R. W. Grand
Lodge, and from the Grand Stewards' Lodge, and laid by him before this Lodge:
Resolved, That we respectively decline to receive the said communications and refuse to appear as a Lodge before the R. W.
Stewards' Lodge as per summons of the 1st of August, we not being aware of any such meeting of the Grand Lodge having taken
place at that date.
Resolved, That Bro. John J. Rickers be requested to appear before the R. W. Grand Master and inform him that York Lodge
desires to know by what authority he summoned the Officers, Past Masters and Brethren of York Lodge.
On the evening of Aug. 9th [1837], after evidence had been taken, the Grand Lodge
Resolved, That the Warrant of York Lodge, No. 367, be forfeited, void, and of no further effect; and that the Officers and
Members of said York Lodge, No. 367, be expelled from all the rights and privileges of Masonry.
The Grand Secretary was then ordered to notify the Lodges in the city, and the Brethren expelled by the above resolution.
At a meeting of the Grand Stewards' Lodge, on the evening of the 16th of August, the Grand Officers reported that the Grand
Secretary had issued summonses to
ORLANDO WARREN, W. M., Silentia Lodge, No. 360.
HENRY WEAVER, S. W., " " " "
JOHN BENNETT, W. M., Benevolent " " 142.
WILLIAM CASCADEN, P. M. " " " "
HENRY WALTERS, J. W. " " " "
SAM. JONES, S. W., La Fayette " " 373.
Will. HEMMA, S. W., Concord " " 304.
MARTIN O'CONNOR, J. W., Hibernia " " 339.
PATRICK MANGIN, P. M., " " " "
to appear before the Grand Stewards' Lodge this evening (Aug. 9th) at 8 o'clock, to answer the charge of unmasonic conduct; which
charge aud specifications, the following being a copy, had been attached to each summons:
Charge against the members of the Grand Lodge who participated in the proceedings on the 24th of June, A. L. 5837, viz.:
FOR UNMASONIC CONDUCT.
Specification 1st.— By encouraging, promoting and assisting at a public procession, clothed as Masons, without any right or
authority to do so on June 24th, A. L. 5837.
Specification 2nd.— By encouraging, promoting and assisting at said public procession, in contempt of the repeated decisions of
the Grand Lodge, adverse to such proceedings; in contempt of the declaratory resolution of the Grand Lodge passed in March A.
L. 5827, "that such proceedings ought to be prohibited," aud which they, together and individually, as members of the Grand
Lodge, ought to have prohibited on the aforesaid occasion.
Specification 3rd.— By encouraging, promoting and assisting at said public procession, in contempt of the prohibition of the
Deputy Grand Master, publicly read at Union Hall, by Wor. Henry C. Atwood, and at the Howard House, by Wor. John Bennett,
and of the personal prohibition of the D. Grand Master on the morning of the 24th of June, at Union Hall, when the Fraternity were
assembled at that place.
Specification 4th.— For evil example to the Fraternity, by using their influence as members of the Grand Lodge, to induce other
Brethren to contemn and nullify the acts of the Grand Lodge, and set at defiance the authority of the Deputy Grand Master.
Bros. Warren, Weaver, Cascaden, Ivins, O'Connor and Mangin, being announced, were admitted.
Wor. Bro. Warren was asked if he had been in the procession on the 24th of June last. He said that he had; also, that he had been
personally informed of the prohibition by the Deputy Grand Master, and asked permission to read a defense of his conduct.
The Brethren against whom the charges had been preferred, were then severally asked if they were guilty or not guilty.
To which they all responded in the negative.
Bro. Weaver was then asked if he had been in the procession, to which question he refused to answer, and asked leave to retire,
informing the Grand Stewards that he saw they had made up their minds to expel him, and if they did so, that they would do it at
their peril. After demanding the names of the Grand Stewards he retired.
Bro. Samuel Jones admitted that he was in the procession, that he heard the Deputy Grand Master prohibit the procession, and that
he carried the Jewels and Hangings of La Fayette Lodge in the procession and went himself in the capacity of Senior Warden. In his
defense he stated that he considered his conduct correct in joining the procession, and moreover, that he conceived the subject had
not been referred to the Grand Stewards' Lodge by the majority in the late meeting of the Grand Lodge, and introduced W. Bro.
Hudswell as a witness to that effect.
59

After the examination of several witnesses relative to the facts the Grand Stewards' Lodge adjourned to meet on the Friday
following.
On the evening of the 23rd of Aug., A. L. 5837, the Grand Stewards' Lodge convened pursuant to adjournment from the 18th and
22nd of August [1837].
The Grand Stewards proceeded to consider the charges and specifications preferred against Wor. Bros. Orlando Warren and John
Bennett, and Bros. Henry Weaver, Wm. Cascaden and Samuel Jones.
The Grand Stewards' Lodge, by an unanimous vote, affirmed that the charges and specifications had been fully proved. The abovenamed
Brethren were upon motion severally expelled for unmasonic conduct, and the Grand Secretary directed to inform the
Brethren expelled, also to notify the Lodges in the City of New York, Brooklyn, and Staten Island, of the expulsions decreed in the
Grand Stewards' Lodge.
At a quarterly meeting of the R. W. Grand Lodge held Sept. 6, A. L. 5838, W. Bros. Atwood and Piatt announced themselves at the
door of the Grand Lodge ready to appeal from, and protest against the proceedings of the Grand Stewards' Lodge.
They were informed by R. W. Bro. Herring that they could not be admitted; that they were expelled Masons; they responded that
they could not be expelled until the proceedings ot the Grand Stewards' Lodge were approved, R. W. Bio. Herring's reply was, "You
cannot be admitted at any rate."
Wor. Bro. Lineback, of St. John's Lodge No. 1, announced to the Grand Lodge that he desired to present an appeal from the
Brethren expelled by the Grand Stewards' Lodge, and protested in their behalf against the decisions of said Grand Stewards' Lodge,
and offered to read an appeal and defense, to which objections were made. The Grand Master decided the appeal should be heard,
R. W. Bro. Myers then moved an adjournment, which was carried. After the Grand Master, the M. Wor. Morgan Lewis, had left the
room, R. W. Bro. Myers, who had been acting as Deputy Grand Master, called the Grand Lodge to order, and again opened the
Grand Stewards' Lodge. The appeal was then taken from the table and read by the Secretary, as follows:
To the R. W. G. Lodge of the State of New York, and all Free & Accepted Masons throughout Hie Globe:
We, the undersigned, Master Masons, do hereby appeal from, and protest against the prohibition of the R. W. Deputy Grand
Master, James V. Van Benschoten, of the 23rd of June last, forbidding the Fraternity from celebrating the natal day of our Patron
Saint, as an unwarrantable assumption of power, an unjust and unmasonic interference with the rights and privileges of a
Warranted Lodge and the Craft generally, and an open violation and infringement of the Ancient Landmarks of the Order. We also
protest against the proceedings had at an emergent meeting of the Grand Lodge on the evening of the 112th July, they having
been conducted in a manner heretofore unheard of, as arbitrary, unjust and unmasonic, utterly at variance with the Constitution
and true principles of the Order.
We protest against, and appeal from the subsequent acts and doings of the Grand Stewards' Lodge, because the subject was not
legally referred to that Body; because if legally referred, it was not a proper, fair, and impartial tribunal to investigate the matter,
they acting in a two-fold capacity of prosecutors and judges, and for this, that all their proceedings and acts relating thereto are
unconstitutional, unjust, oppressive and unmasonic.
We, therefore, confident in the justice of our cause, do In the most solemn manner declare and publish this, our protest, under a
full determination to lay the same before, and appeal to, the whole Masonic family for redress against the injustice we have
received.
HENRY C. ATWOOD, W. M. of York Lodge, No. 307.
JOHN W. TIMSON, P. M. " " "
ADOLPHUK ANDREAS, P. M. " " "
JOHN VANDERBECK, P. M. " " "
THOK. DARBY, " " "
JOHN CARRUTHERK, " " "
WILL. MORROW, " " "
SMITH W. HORTON, " " "
CHAS. H. HORTON, S. D. " " "
ASA. ONDERDONK, " " "
BEN. OWEN, " " "
DAVID GOULD, " " "
JED. T. THOMAS, " " "
JOHN J. RIOKERS, S. W. " " "
F. MAHOFFY, " " “
Peter Fields, " “ “
WILLIAM F. PIATT, P. M. of La Fayette Lodge, No. 373.
ORLANDO WARNER, Wor. M. of Silentia Lodge, No. 360.
SAMUEL JONES, S. Warden of La Fayette Lodge, No. 373.
HENRY WEAVER, S. Warden of Silentia Lodge, No. 360.
The document was objected to by the R. Wor. Grand Chaplain and other Brethren, as indecorous in its language.
On motion, duly made and seconded, it was
Resolved, That no further proceedings be had on the subject, until the parties who think themselves aggrieved make a respectful
application to this Grand Lodge.
After said action of the R. W. Grand Lodge towards the aggrieved Brethren, they being refused a hearing, a meeting was called at
Castle Garden to take the subject into consideration. Committees were appointed to intercede and even to remonstrate with the
Deputy Grand Master and Grand Secretary, but their efforts were unavailing.
Being thoroughly convinced that under the authority of certain members and Officers of the Grand Lodge justice was denied them, a
large number of the Fraternity duly assembled, pursuant to notice, at the Howard House (corner of Broadway and Howard Street), in
the City of New York, on Monday evening, Sept. 11th, A. L. 5837.
The Wor. Bro. Chas. F. Lineback, of St. John's Lodge, No. 1, was called to the Chair, and the Wor. Bro. Adolphus Andreas, of York
Lodge, No. 367, was appointed Secretary.
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The object of the meeting having been fully explained, it was unanimously resolved that the same be approved. Whereupon, a
Lodge of Master Masons was duly opened under the authority of the Warrant of Benevolent Lodge, No. 142.
Present—Wor. Bro. Chas. F. Lineback, as Wor. Master, in the Chair; the Wor. Bro. Samuel Davis, as Sen. Warden, pro tem; Wor.
Bro. Henry Marsh, as Junior Warden; Wor. Bro. William Cascaden, as Treasurer; and Wor. Bro. Adolphus Andreas*, as Secretary;
and a large and respectable number of Brethren duly assembled.
The Wor. Master then submitted the following Preamble and Declaration of Rights and Independence, for the consideration of the
Brethren; which was ordered read:
-----
Whereas, All Free and Accepted Masons, endowed by the spirit and principles of the Institution with certain inalienable rights and
privileges, inherent in their nature, guaranteed by the original Constitution, and established by the ancient usages and customs of
the Fraternity, of which they cannot be deprived by any new Law or Regulation subversive of either;
Whereas, Also it is a paramount duty, incumbent on every Brother, to preserve inviolate the "Grand Masonic Constitution," and to
resist all encroachments that may tend to remove, or make innovations or infringements on any of the Ancient Landmarks of the
Order which our Fathers have set;"
And Whereas, We, the undersigned members of the "Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons,"
have witnessed with much anxiety and pain the unconstitutional, unjust and arbitrary proceedings of the present Grand Lodge of
the State of New York, and its subordinate Body, the Grand Stewards' Lodge, whereby an odious and oppressive distinction has
been created, influenced by design and sinister motive; and feeling ourselves deeply aggrieved by the more recent unjustifiable
and uncharitable acts of the said Grand Stewards' Lodge, and Grand Lodge, whereby a large number of respectable and worthy
Brethren in this city have been most unjustly, wantonly, and ruthlessly expelled from their Masonic Rights and Privileges, and
viewing with just abhorrence and utter astonishment the violation of all Masonic rule and principle by the said Grand Lodge, in the
proceedings had at its quarterly communication, on Wednesday evening last, the 6th inst., whereby the respectful Appeal and
Solemn Protest of the accused Brethren was contemptuously rejected— a hearing of their defense refused by resorting to mean
subterfuge and base expedients, and whereby they were uncharitably prejudged and unjustly condemned without a hearing;
Therefore, fully assured that our wrongs and grievances will not be redressed by the present Grand Lodge, that justice has fled
therefrom, and that with it "Charity is but a name,"—sensible that in such case forbearance is no longer commendable —actuated
by the spirit and principles declared in the foregoing preamble, and impelled by a conscious sense of duty, we are constrained to
renounce all further communion therewith, and hereby declare ourselves absolved from all Masonic allegiance thereto—an
independent body of Masons, determined to proceed forthwith to establish a new Grand Lodge, from whence to hail!—to support
in their pristine purity, the Original Constitution and the Ancient Landmarks of the Order, and to preserve inviolate the Rights and
Privileges thereby guaranteed;
Wherefore, Confident in the justice of our cause, and resolved to appeal to the whole Masonic Fraternity, we attest this our
solemn Declaration, by subscribing our names thereto.
Done at the Howard House, in the City of New York, on Monday evening, Sept. 11th, A. L. 5837.
* R. Wor. Bro. Andreas, Past Grand Standard Bearer of the Grand Lodge, is at this time of writing in the enjoyment of perfect health,
an active member of this Lodge and a regular attendant at its communications, beloved by his Brethren, who delight to do him
honor, he being the only one left of the seven Worthy Brothers, who sixty three years ago drew up and signed the petition to form
this Lodge. May the Grand Master of the Universe spare him for many years to come.
-----
The Declaration of Rights and Independence having been read, was received by the Brethren with much enthusiasm, and on motion
duly made and seconded, it was unanimously approved and adopted as the sense of all the Brethren convened;
Wherefore, it was Resolved, That every Brother present proceed to subscribe his name thereto, which being completed (127
signatures having been affixed), it was further resolved, by a unanimous vote, that it should take immediate force and effect, and
that the Brethren govern themselves accordingly.
Resolved, That we adopt tor the time being the Constitution of the Grand Lodge from which we have heretofore hailed.
Resolved, That the Brethren now proceed to elect Grand Officers for a new Grand Lodge, and that every Brother whose name is
appended to the foregoing Declaration, etc., be entitled to vote for the same.
The Wor. Master appointed the Wor. Bro. Orlando Warren and Bro. John J. Rickers as tellers, and the Brethren proceeded to ballot.
Whereupon the following Brethren were severally declared unanimously elected Grand Officers, viz.:
The M. W. HENRY MARSH, Grand Master.
" Rt. W. ORLANDO WARREN, D. G. Master.
“ ” ” THOS. S. BRADY, S. G. W.
" " " JOHN W. TIMSON, J.G.W.
" " " WM. CASCADEN, Grand Treasurer.
" " " CHAS. F. LINEBACK, Grand Secretary.
Resolved, That the election of R. W. Grand Chaplain be deferred for present.
The Wor. JOSEPH HOMER, Grand Pursuivant.
" " SAMUEL JONES, Grand Tiler.
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It was then Resolved, That the Grand Officers elect be and they are hereby duly authorized to perform all duties incumbent upon
them, by virtue of their election to office, until they shall be duly installed therein.
Resolved, That this Body adjourn until Friday evening next, the 15th inst., at 7 o'clock, to meet at this house, at which time and
place the Brethren are respectfully invited to attend.
Adjourned.
HOWARD HOUSE, Friday Evening, Sept. 15, A. L. 5837.
Members of Benevolent Lodge, No. 142; York, No. 367, together with a large and respectable number of Brethren from other
Lodges, met pursuant to adjournment.
Rt. Wor. Bro. F. Lineback, as Wor. Master, in the Chair ; the Lodge was opened in the M. M. Degree.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Brethren then proceeded to elect a Grand Chaplain, when the
Rev. Samuel Davis, P. M., was declared dulyI elected.
The Wor. Master then appointed Bros. Piatt and Dugan to present the Grand Officers elect for induction into office, which ceremony
was performed in Due and Ancient Form, when the meeting closed in harmony and order.
The history of York Lodge is so intimately connected with that of St. John's Grand Lodge that it becomes necessary to deal
somewhat extensively with the transactions of that Body. The records give its first proceedings as follows:
-----
ST. JOHN'S GRAND LODGE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
At the first communication of the newly created Body, held at the Howard House, in the City of New York, Friday evening, Sept.
15th, A. L. 5837. Present—The M. W. Henry Marsh, G. Master; Rt, W. Orlando Warren, D. G. M.; Thos. S. Brady, S. G. Warden;
John W. Timson, J. G. W.; Chas. F. Lineback, G. Sec'y; William Cascaden, G. Treasurer; Rev. Sam. Davis, G. Chaplain; Joseph
Homer, G. Pursuivant; Samuel Jones, G. Tiler; and a number of Past Masters, Officers of Lodges and other Brethren duly
assembled.
The Grand Lodge opened in Ample Form with solemn prayer. The minutes and proceedings of the two preceding meetings were
read and approved.
It was then resolved that the style of this Grand Lodge shall be " St. John's Grand Lodge, of the Most Ancient and Honorable
Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York."
Resolved, That this Grand Lodge adopt, for the time being, the present Masonic Constitutions, and that the M. W. Henry Marsh,
R. W. Charles F. Lineback, Rt. W. Wm. Cascaden, Rt. W. Orlando Warren, Rt. W. Samuel Davis, W. Bro. Wm. F. Piatt and Wor.
Bro. Henry C. At wood, be a Committee to revise the same, and that they enter upon the duties of preparing a Constitution for this
Grand Lodge as soon as practicable, and report accordingly.
Resolved, That the Wor. Brethren composing the above Committee be also, and they are, hereby constituted a Committee of
Finance.
After a Benediction pronounced by the Rt. W. Grand Chaplain, the Grand Lodge adjourned, subject to the call of the M. W. Grand
Master, or in his absence the presiding Officer.
ADJOURNED MEETING.
Charles F. Lineback,
Grand Secretary.
HOWARD HOUSE, Sept. 27th, A. L. 5837.
ST. JOHN'S GRAND LODGE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
Grand Lodge assembled in due form, according to notice, for the purpose of Consecration and Installation. Present, in addition to its
Officers elect and members, the M. W. Gen. John S. Darcy, and the M. W. Jeptha B. Munn, P. G. Masters of the Grand Lodge of the
State of New Jersey.
The M. W. Jeptha B. Munn, as G. M., assisted by
" " " John S. Darcy, as D. G. M.
" " " John Bennett, as S. G. W.
" Rt. " John W. Timson, as J. G. W.
" " " Charles P. Lineback, as G. Secretary.
" " " William Cascaden, as G. Treasurer.
" " " Samuel Davis, as G. Chaplain.
" Henry C. Atwood, as G. Pursuivant.
" Samuel Jones, G. Tiler.
The Brethren being called to order, the M. W. G. Master declared St. John's Grand Lodge of the State of New York opened in ample
form, after solemn prayer.
62

St. John's Grand Lodge was then consecrated in due and ancient form, and dedicated to God and the Holy St. John, with solemn
ceremonies. The Wor. William F. Piatt, as Grand Marshal, then presented the M. Wor. Henry Marsh, G. Master elect, for installation,
which was performed in accordance with the ancient usages and customs of the Fraternity; the Brethren responded thereto with
three times three. Also,
The Rt. W. Orlando Warren, D. G. M. by proxy
" " " Thomas S. Brady, S. G. W. by proxy.
" " " John W. Tiinson, J. G. W. in person.
" " " William Cascaden, G. Treas. "
" " " Charles P. Lineback, G. Sec. "
" " " Samuel Davis, G. Chap.
" " " Joseph Homer, G. Pursuivant by proxy.
“ ” " Samuel Jones, G. Tiler in person.
A petition was presented, signed by eight Brethren, duly vouched for, praying for a Warrant to establish a Lodge of Free and
Accepted Masons in the City of Port au Prince, Island of St. Domingo, Hayti, the place of their residence; to be known and
distinguished by the name of Mount Liban Lodge, No. 1, Bro. John B. Charlesteguy, to be the first W. Master; Bro. Peter Liautaud,
the first S. Warden; and Bro. Emile Ballette, the first J. Warden.
On motion, duly made and seconded, the prayer of the petitioners was granted.
The W. Bro. John Bennett, of Benevolent Lodge, No. 142, in behalf of himself and his Brethren composing said Lodge, then
informed this Grand Lodge that having renounced all communion with the Grand Lodge from which they formerly hailed, they no
longer acknowledged any allegiance thereto, and therefore solicited St. John's Grand Lodge to confirm to them their Warrant, and to
receive them under its jurisdiction; which request, on motion duly made and seconded, was complied with, and said Lodge directed
to make immediate returns of its members for Registry to the Grand Secretary.
The Grand Lodge then adjourned.
Charles F. Linebaok,
Grand Secretary.
At a regular communication of York Lodge, No. 367, held at their rooms in Union Hall, on Monday evening, September 18th, A. L.
5837, Wor. Bro. Henry C. Atwood in the Chair, John J. Rickers, S. VV., Thomas Darby, J. W., and a number of Brethren duly
assembled.
The Lodge was opened on the M. Mason Degree, and the following preamble and resolutions were read and unanimously adopted:
Whereas, York Lodge, No. 367, has on this 18th day of September, A. L. 5837, by resolution, formerly renounced their allegiance
to the R. W. Grand Lodge of the State of New York, so called, and has accepted a Dispensation duly authorizing it for the present
to assemble as a Masonic Lodge under the jurisdiction of St. John's Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of
Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York, under which this Lodge will continue to act, until a Warrant can be obtained
therefrom;
Therefore Resolved, That the Warrant under which this Lodge has heretofore acted be retained by the Wor. Master as a deposit,
in order to enable this Lodge to preserve its just claims to a portion of the permanent fund, now in the possession of the Grand
Lodge from which it formerly hailed.
These minutes were then read and passed as correct, when the Lodge closed.
ADOLPHUS ANDKEAS, Secretary.
At an adjourned meeting of St. John's Grand Lodge, held at the Howard House, St. John's Day, Wednesday, Dee. 27th, A. L. 5837,
on motion duly made and seconded, a Committee on Warrants was appointed, consisting of Wor. Bro. Henry C. Atwood, Rt. Wor.
Bro. Chas. F. Lineback and Rt. Wor. Wm. Cascaden, to whom was referred for consideration the propriety of confirming the old and
issuing new Warrants and Numbers to several of the Lodges under the jurisdiction of St. John's Grand Lodge, and to report thereon
at the next quarterly communication. The ceremony of installing the Officers elect for the ensuing year in the several subordinate
Lodges, and by them duly returned, was then performed with the usual impressive solemnities, and the customary charges
delivered to each; when the Installation Ode was sung, and the Grand Lodge closed in due form.
At the quarterly communication of St. John's Grand Lodge, March 6th, A. L. 5838, the Committee on Warrants appointed December
27th, A. L. 5837, handed in their report.
COPY OF REPORT.
The Committee on Warrants, appointed to take into consideration the propriety of confirming the Old, and issuing the New Warrants
and Numbers, to several of the Lodges under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge and report thereon at the next quarterly
communication, respectfully report, that they have had the subject under due consideration, and after inquiry and mature reflection,
present the following as the results of their investigation:
1st. That the Warrant of Benevolent Lodge, No. 142, was issued by the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, and bears date
Sept. 6th, A. L. 5806; that the said Benevolent Lodge continued to hold its meetings and act under said Warrant up to the time of
instituting this St. John's Grand Lodge of the State of New York, when on the day of its consecration and installation (Sept. 27th,
A. L. 5837), said Benevolent Lodge, No. 142, made formal application to be recognized by and received under the jurisdiction of
this Grand Lodge and to have its said Warrant confirmed; which request was duly complied with, and said Benevolent Lodge
accordingly fully acknowledged and established as such.
63

2nd. That the Warrant of Silentia Lodge, No. 360, bears date June 13th, A. L. 5823, and that the Warrant of York Lodge No.
367, is dated 13th of Jan., A. L. 5824, under which Warrants said Lodges regularly convened until the formation of this Grand
Lodge, when they formally petitioned to be recognized by, and to become subordinate to, the same, setting forth "that the Officers
and Members of said Lodges were desirous of acknowledging the jurisdiction of St. John's Grand Lodge, and of uniting with it to
promote the true principles of Masonry agreeably to the Ancient Landmarks and the original Constitutions of the Order." The
prayer of the petitioners was granted, and Dispensations issued in accordance therewith by the M. W. Grand Master to
Silentia Lodge under date of Sept. 21, and to York Lodge under date of Sept. 18, A. L. 5837, authorizing and empowering
said Lodges respectively to convene, agreeably to their By-Laws, and to do and perform all such acts as set forth and granted in
and by their said Warrants, until the further pleasure of the Grand Lodge shall be known; under which authority both said Lodges
have ever since convened and their acts fully recognized.
3rd. That the Warrants of said three Lodges have been declared void and annulled by "the Grand Lodge of the State of New
York;" the Warrants of Silentia and Benevolent Lodges both subsequent to the recognition by and since their being received
under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge (as appears by their published proceedings, Dec. 6th, A. L. 5837).
These acts of said Grand Lodge are evidently intended to injure the character and standing of St. John's Grand Lodge of the
State of New York, and of the Lodges who hail under and acknowledge it as their head. Your Committee refrain from expressing
any further opinion relative to the motives of said Grand Lodge in pursuing this course, other than to remark that they believe
them to have originated in the same spirit of oppression and persecution heretofore practiced against many of our most worthy
Brethren, and which ultimately led to the organization and instituting of this Grand Lodge. Comment is therefore unnecessary.
4th. The Committee also find that the Warrant granted by this Grand Lodge to Mount Liban Lodge, No. 1, at Port au Prince,
Hayti, bears a later date, to wit, Sept. 20th, A. L. 5837, than either said confirmation of Warrant to Benevolent Lodge, or the
Dispensation granted to Silentia and York Lodges, and that consequently the Lodge, No. 1, inserted in said Warrant, is not
uniform and should b» corrected. Your Committee therefore, and for the sake of uniformity, respectfully recommend that St.
John's Grand Lodge, of the State New York, do fully recognize and confirm to said Benevolent, Silentia and York Lodges, their
respective Warrants (at present held by them and attempted to be abrogated as above stated), by endorsement thereon of a
certificate in proper form, dated Sept. 27th, A. L. 5837, under the seal of the Grand Lodge and signed by the proper Grand
Officers; and that said Lodges be severally required to retain the same in their possession until demanded by this Grand Lodge.
Also that at any time hereafter, if either of said four elect to make formal application to the Grand Lodge for a new Warrant, the
same shall be issued in the following order, to wit: To Benevolent Lodge. No. 1; to Silentia Lodge, No. 2; to York Lodge, No.
3; toI Mount Liban Lodge, No. 4; all of which is respectfully submitted.
Mar. 6th, 5838.
H. C. ATWOOD, )
CHAS. F. LINEBACK, )Committee.
A regular communication [of York Lodge No. 3] took place on Monday evening, Oct. 16th, A. L. 5837, Wor. Bro. H. C. Atwood in
the Chair, when it was
Resolved, In consequence of Brethren hailing from Lodges under this jurisdiction (namely St. John's Grand Lodge) being refused
admittance to the Lodges under the old Grand Lodge, it will therefore be required of every Brother visiting York Lodge and hailing
from other Lodges in the City and County of New York, to acknowledge the legality of St. John's Grand Lodge, and on refusal so
to do, they shall not be admitted.
The records show this to be the first communication, held under the authority of St. John's Grand Lodge of the State of New York.
An extra meeting was held on the 20th of the same mouth for the purpose of paying the last sad tribute of respect to the remains of
our departed Brother and Past Master Samuel Hugg, it being his last request.
At the regular meeting on Dec. 18th the Brethren cast their ballots for officers for the ensuing year, with the following results:
Henry C. Atwood, Master.
John J. Rickers, . Senior Warden
Thos. Darby, . Junior "
EDWARD ROBINSON, Treasurer.
ADOLPHUS ANDREAS, Secretary.
There are no records to show that the Lodge met between March and Sept. of this year (A. L. 5838).
At a regular communication of York Lodge, No. 3, Dec. 17th, the election of officers took place for the year A. L. 5839, with the
following results:
JOHN W. TIMSON, Master.
JOHN J. RICKERS, Senior Warden.
THOS. DARBY, Junior "
DAVID PEARSALL, Treasurer.
STEPHEN H. FEEKS, Secretary.
On the 7th of Jan., A. L. 5839, York Lodge, No. 3, met in their rooms in the Walton Mansion House, No. 236 Pearl Street, New York
City, and on the following month the Grand Secretary gave notice that the article relating to returns of the different Lodges to the
Grand Lodge would be enforced.
The Brethren not being satisfied with their rooms in the Walton House, an extra meeting was held in conjunction with Benevolent,
Fidelity and Silentia Lodges for the purpose of forming a committee to procure more suitable rooms, and on May 27th the committee
64

handed in their report, stating that they had agreed with Bro. Hitchcock for the use of Lodge rooms in Union Hall at the annual
rental of sixty dollars, including light and fire and for the cleaning and keeping of the rooms in proper order for business. This
arrangement meeting with the approbation of the Brethren, the committee received the thanks of the Lodge and were discharged.
Another committee was appointed to act in conjunction with the same Lodges for the purpose of making arrangements for
celebrating the festival of St. John the Baptist on Monday morning, June 24th, and at 10.30 o'clock on that morning, York Lodge, in
conjunction with Silentia, Fidelity and Benevolent Lodges, formed themselves into a profession and moved onward to the .Rev.
Isaac Walters' church, on the corner of Broome and Norfolk Streets, preceded by martial music. The religious services were opened
by the choir singing a Masonic Ode. The Rev. I. Walters offered up a solemn prayer to the Throne of Grace, when Rt. Wor. Henry G.
Atwood, Deputy Grand Master, delivered an eloquent oration on the "Origin and Principles of the Most Ancient and Honorable Order
of Freemasonry," fully delineating the virtues whereon the basis of Masonry is founded, viz., Charity, Brotherly Love, Truth and
Good Fellowship. At the conclusion of the ceremonies a collection was taken up for the relief of the widows and orphans belonging
to the church, amounting to forty-nine dollars. The procession again formed and returned to the Hall, when the Rt. Wor. Master
informed the Brethren that a dinner was provided; and invited all to join and unite with them in the festivities of the occasion.
On Dee. 15th an extra meeting was called for the purpose of conferring the Third Degree on Mr. Gilbert S. Herbert, under a
Dispensation from the R. W. Grand Lodge of St. John's.
At a regular communication on the 16th the following Brethren were elected officers for the ensuing year [1840], viz.:
John J. Rickers, Master.
Samuel Brown, Senior Warden.
Smith W. Horton, Junior "
Peter Field,
Treasurer.
STEPHEN H. FEEKS, Secretary.
At this communication Bro. Peter Field was installed as Treasurer, and the remaining officers on the 27th inst. by the officers of the
Most Wor. St. John's Grand Lodge." At the regular meeting held at Union Hall on Jan. 6th, A. L. 5840, Bro. John Kennedy, of St.
John's Lodge, No. 436, Bolton, Lancashire, Eng., claimed admittance, and upon being found worthy was invited to enter".
At this meeting Bro. Feeks tendered his resignation as Secretary. The resignation was accepted. John J. Rickers also resigned as
Master.
Eight dollars was appropriated towards defraying the expenses of a delegation of the St. John's Grand Lodge, appointed to meet the
Grand Lodge of the State of New Jersey at Trenton, in that State.
On Jan. 20th [1840], the Lodge, being without a Master in consequence of the resignation of Wor. Bro. John J. Rickers, proceeded
to a new election, when Rt. Wor. Bro. Henry G. Atwood was duly elected Master. The Lodge, being without a Secretary by the
resignation of Bro. Stephen H. Feeks, proceeded to ballot, when Wor. Bro. John J. Rickers was duly elected Secretary for the
balance of the year.
An emergent meeting was held Jan. 27th in conjunction with Silentia Lodge. The Wor. Master informed the Brethren of the demise
of Past Master Joseph Shiner, and appointed Bros. Hitchcock, Knowlton, Kent and Homer pallIbearers, to go to Jersey City and
accompany the remains to New York, and on the following day the last tribute of respect was paid to the deceased Wor Brother.
At a regular meeting, Feb. 3rd, Mr. George W. Matsell, who was at that time a Customs officer, and afterwards for many years Chief
of Police of New York, was initiated as an F. A.
On the same evening the following inventory of property belonging to the Lodge was handed in by the committee:
Six Lambskin Aprons and 10 Officers' ditto $30 00
Master's Hat and Ivory Mallet 8 00
Working Tools and Case 10 00
Two Bibles, Square and Compasses 5 00
Two Columns and 2 Mallets 8 00
Two Silver Inkstands 0 50
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Five Account Books 5 00
Eleven Collars and Jewels 77 00
Three Swords and Belts 3 00
Two Banners 15 00
Two Spears and Rods 20 00
One Large Belt and Sacking 20 00
BallotIbox and Contents 3 00
Five Pairs of Gloves 2 00
One Chest and Small Box 7 00
Altar Lamps, Slippers, &c 3 00
Total $266 00
On Monday, 18th, at a regular communication of the Lodge, in conjunction with Benevolent Lodge, No. 1, the Secretary being
absent, Bro. Robert Hinchman, a member of a sister Lodge, was requested to act in his place, which he did. This was his last
official act in the Body, as on the following day he came to his death by being crushed beneath a pile of falling lumber. His minutes,
which had been written upon a loose sheet, are still preserved in the minute book of that date, agreeably to a resolution of the
Lodge, on motion of Bro. Bickers, as follows:
Resolved, That the minutes be annexed to our book of minutes, without transcript, and be thereby retained as a memento of his
worth and Brotherly love, as well as also to put us in mind at every meeting that in the midst of life we are in death; Peace be to
his ashes and everlasting bliss to his soul!
On Nov. 2nd the Lodge opened, in conjunction with Silentia Lodge, for the purpose of paying the last tribute of respect to the
memory of Bro. A. North, deceased member of Silentia Lodge.
At the tirst meeting in December, the Rev. Joseph Silcox was initiated in the E. A. Degree, and on motion it was resolved that the
initiation fee of the Rev. Brother be remitted.'
On the second and last meeting of the year the annual election of officers took place [for 1841], which resulted as follows:
Smith W. Horton, Master.
G. S. Herbert, Senior Warden.
Avery Green, Junior "
Hugh Riley,
Treasurer.
HENRY C. ATWOOD, Secretary.
On motion it was resolved that the Secretary and Treasurer be installed at this communication and a vote of thanks tendered the R.
W. Bro. Henry C. Atwood for his arduous services as Wor. Master during the last two years. A vote of thanks was also tendered to
Wor. Bro. John J. Rickers for his services as Secretary.
On Dec. 28th, the Lodge opened in conjunction with Benevolent, Munn, Fidelity and Silentia Lodges, and after a due observance of
the usual ceremonies in memory of our Patron St. John the Evangelist, the Lodge closed.
On Jan. 4th, A. L. 5841, at a regular communication of the Lodge, Brother the Rev. Joseph Silcox received the M. M. Degree, when,
by a unanimous vote of the Lodge, he was elected as their Chaplain for the ensuing year. The following visitors were present: Bros.
Bingham, of Mount Vernon Lodge, Rhode Island; Ward, of Hiram Lodge, New Haven, CT; Aldrich, of Fidelity Lodge, Hyatt, of
Benevolent Lodge, and Hitchcock, of Munn Lodge, New York City; all of whom recognized the authority of St. John's Grand Lodge
of the State of New York.
At a communication held on the 1st of February, the Lodge having become dissatisfied with the Hall in which it was then meeting,
resolved to secure more suitable quarters, and appointed as a committee for that purpose Bros. Atwood, Herbert and Timson. This
committee, acting in conjunction with a like committee from several other Lodges under the jurisdiction of St. John's Grand Lodge,
secured a hall in the Shakespearian Hotel, and on the 17th of May the first communication was held therein.
On June 21st, the Secretary presented an invitation from the Committee of Arrangements of Union Lodge, No. 40, of Danbury, CT,
inviting the members of St. John's Grand Lodge and the members of the subordinate Lodges under its jurisdiction, to unite with the
Brethren in Danbury in celebrating St. John the Baptist Day on the 24th inst., and the following resolutions were proposed and
unanimously adopted:
Resolved, That as Masons we hold it as an inherent right, and claim it as a duty we owe to the memory of our Patron Saint, to
whom we dedicate our Lodges, to meet as a band of Brothers and mutually extend to and receive from each other those mystic
and friendly signals of recognition which distinguish us as Masons from the rest of mankind;
Therefore Resolved, That we hail the invitation from Brethren in Danbury as the harbinger of the near approach of the period
when the Masonic Institution will be restored to its high and palmy station in the community and its principles maintained in their
pristine purity;
Resolved, That we cordially accept the invitation, and request all our members and the members of sister Lodges to unite with us
in the festivities of the day;
Resolved, That the Secretary transmit a copy of the above resolutions, and congratulate Union Lodge in living in a State where to
celebrate St. John's Day is considered a duty and not a crime.
From some unknown cause there appears to have been no communications of this Lodge between that of June 21st, A. L. 5841,
and Sept 28th, A. L. 5849, a period of over eight years. On the latter date the members of the Lodge again met and elected officers
as follows:
M. N. ABBOTT, Master.
RICHARD THUM, Senior Warden.
WILLIAM FREEBORN, Junior "
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At a subsequent meeting held during the following month, at Warren Hall, cor. of Henry and Oliver Streets, R. W. Bro. John W.
Timson was elected Treasurer and Bro. Hamilton elected Secretary.
On the 24th of Oct. the Grand Lodge Officers were announced, and in due time proceeded to install the officers of York Lodge, No.
3.
The Bay View Cemetery Company, having offered a burial plot to the Lodge, and such offer being communicated to the Brethren
at a meeting held on the 7th of November, a committee, consisting of Bros. Timson, Thum and Howe, was appointed to attend to
the transfer. It was also ordered at this communication that a new code of By-Laws be prepared and submitted to the Lodge for
approval. The Brothers chosen for this purpose were Wor. Master Abbott, John W. Timson and Richard Thum.
At a communication held on the 21st of November [1849], Wor. Bro. John W. Timson was duly authorized to receive and hold the
deed of the plot in Bay View Cemetery in trust for the Lodge, and a committee was appointed to return thanks to the New York Bay
Cemetery Company for their praiseworthy and generous donation. On the same evening Bro. Richard Thum was elected Master;
Bro. Wm. Freeborn, Senior Warden; and Bro. W. R. Howe, Junior Warden, by Dispensation from St. John's Grand Lodge, caused
by Wor. Bro. Abbott resigning the office of Master.
The records appear to show that the Charter of York Lodge, No. 3, had lapsed previous to a meeting held Nov. 28th [1849],
as it is recorded in the minutes of that date that "five dollars was ordered to be paid to St. John's Grand Lodge for
restoration of Charter."
The following Brethren were elected officers for the ensuing year at a communication held Dec. 26th:
William Freeborn Master
William R. Howe Senior Warden
Alexander Cabre * Junior “
John W. Timons Treasurer
Robert Hamilton Secretary
* Alex. Cabre, Junior Warden, withdrew his membership, May 29th, and John McCollum was installed in his office, Oct. 16th, A. L.
5850.
On the first meeting of the Lodge in the year A. L. 5850, the Grand Officers from St. John's Grand Lodge were announced and
properly received, when they proceeded to examine the books and work of the Lodge, and being satisfied therewith, pronounced the
Lodge in a very flourishing condition.
At a communication held on the 3rd of April of the same year, the report of the Committee on By Laws being under consideration,
the following section was adopted:
That after the 3rd of July, A. L. 5850, the initiation fee shall be fifteen dollars; seven dollars for the E. A. Degree, three dollars for
the F. C. Degree and five dollars for the M. M. Degree; adjoining members under the jurisdiction of St. John's Grand Lodge shall
pay a fee of five dollars, and those without the jurisdiction of St. John's Grand Lodge shall pay a fee of seven dollars, in all cases
before the admission of the candidate.
A communication from a committee appointed by St. John's Grand Lodge on July 17th, A. L. 5850, to make necessary preparations
for paying the last tribute of respect to the memory of Zachary Taylor, late President of the United States, was read by the
Secretary, and it was determined that York Lodge, on Tuesday, July 23rd, should turn out and join with their Brethren and fellowcitizens
in the funeral solemnities.
At a special meeting of St. John's Grand Lodge, on the morning of the 22nd of Oct., A. L. 5850, the Grand Lodge was convened by
order of the M. Wor. Grand Master, for the purpose of hearing the report of the committee appointed at the last September
communication in accordance with the following resolutions, to wit:
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed by this Grand Lodge to meet a similar committee from the M. W. Grand Lodge,
for the purpose of amicably arranging the unhappy Masonic difficulties now existing in this State.
Resolved, That the committee of five appointed this night have full power and authority to settle the difficulty between this Body
and the M. W. Grand Lodge of the State of New York, in accordance with the propositions adopted at the last annual
communication, subject to the approval of the M. W. Grand Lodge, and that said committee be directed to report at the next
quarterly communication such proceedings and progress as they may at that time have made.
The following report was accepted, the resolutionsadopted and ordered to be transmitted to every subordinate Lodge under this
jurisdiction:
To the M. W. Grand Master, Officers and Members of St. John's Grand Lodge:
The undersigned committee, appointed at the last quarterly communication of this M. W. Grand Lodge to make final
arrangements for the adjustment of the Masonic difficulties on the basis of the Five Propositions adopted by both Grand Lodges
in June last, respectfully report:
That in accordance with the resolutions adopted for their instructions, they immediately informed the M. Wor. Grand Lodge of the
State of New York of the fact of their appointment, and that they would proceed to business as soon as a committee from that
Body should appoint a time to meet them.
A communication was soon after received informing us of the existence of a committee, but no meeting of the committee was
called until the 14th inst., meanwhile the following circular was issued by the M. Wor. Wm. H. Milnor, Grand Master, and scattered
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oadcast throughout their jurisdiction, and as a natural consequence many copies fell into the hands of Brethren acknowledging
this jurisdiction.
The circular is as follows:
To the Wor. Musters, Wardens and Brethren:
GRAND SECRETARY'S OFFICE, CITY HOTEL,
NEW YORK. Sept. 13th, A. L. 5850.
It is known throughout the Masonic world that for some years past difficulties have existed within this jurisdiction.
It has been a matter of deep regret to all, and great anxiety has been both felt and manifested that peace and harmony might
again be established within our borders.
At the last June communication certain measures were adopted which, we trust, will ultimately effect this much desired end. A
committee was appointed by this Grand Lodge to receive any propositions or suggestions that may be presented to them by any
members of this Grand Lodge, or others, with a view to the restoring of entire harmony of feeling to the whole Fraternity of this
State; and the committee were empowered to use their discretion as to laying the same before the Grand Lodges. A committee
from St. John's Grand Lodge (so called) applied for an interview. The result of the conference was the recommendation of the
following Five Propositions, which were reported to the Grand Lodge and unanimously acceded to:
1st. Recognition of all Lodges subordinate to St. John's Grand Lodge as Regular Masonic Bodies.
2nd. That their members are lawful Masons.
3rd. That they (the Lodges) be put on the Registry of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York.
4th. That each and every such Lodge may at any time, with their own consent, come under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of
the State of New York.
5th. That if St. John's Grand Lodge shall, on or before the next June communication, by a vote of their body, decide to give up
their organization as a Grand Lodge and proffer themselves to the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, their Grand Officers
and Past Grand Officers shall be received and admitted as Past Grand Officers of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York.
It will be at once perceived that these propositions form the basis of an union. But such union cannot be consummated until
certain conditions understood to both parties are complied with. The St. John's Grand Lodge (so called) must be disbanded, and
her subordinates take out Warrants from us, and thus be constitutionally placed upon our Registry. Until these conditions are
complied with the propositions are of no effect, and until all the propositions are carried out, no one of them is binding. We were in
hopes that soon after the close of the communication the whole matter would have been concluded. But delays on their part,
necessary, perhaps, have occurred to prevent it.
Soon after the June communication, applications were made by the members of St. John's at the doors of our Lodges for
admission. The request was granted on the second proposition, although coinciding in the opinion that no one of the propositions
was binding until the whole were complied with. Still, believing that no harm could result, but that the encouraging of kind feeling
would lead to prompt action, I gave the requested permission. I have since became convinced that it has not effected the
intended good, but has been rather productive of error and confusion, and have therefore revoked it. It had already led to
misunderstanding, and might, if not recalled, have led to serious difficulty. The propriety, indeed necessity, of issuing an
explanatory circular is then apparent. The general impression out of New York is that all the difficulties are completely adjusted;
we regret to say that this is not the fact, they are in progress of adjustment, but not yet concluded. The St. John's Body have not
yet been disbanded, the subordinates have not yet taken out Warrants from us, nor have they been placed on our Register. Until
this is done, no union can be effected. We vouch for no Lodge but those upon our Registry. We claim Masonic privileges for no
individual but those connected with them. We are in alliance with no Body claiming to a Grand Lodge in this State, for we
acknowledge none but our own within its limits. We trust the day is not far distant when we shall be one fold under one shepherd.
We will do all in our power to hasten this desired end consistent with Masonic propriety and principle. We have entered into this
present negotiation with the honest intention to carry it out. We trust and believe that equal sincerity influences those who must
cooperate with us. Due notice will immediately be given the various Grand Lodges when this contemplated union has taken place.
Attest: JAMES W. POWELL, M.D., Grand Secretary,
WILLIAM H. MILNOR, Grand Master
of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York.
It is no perversion of language to say that this document fell among us like a fire brand, scattering sparks of disgust and ill will in
every direction. Although frequently appealed to, your committee could give no reason for its issue or explain the inconsistency
therein set forth. The language of the propositions seemed perfectly plain, it was certainly good language, and, like the Craft in
general, we supposed they meant simply what they said. Determined, however, to probe the motive of its issue, letters were
immediately addressed to the Brethren comprising the June Committee from the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, and
although one of them had in the hearing of this Grand Lodge expressly declared the propositions exactly what they set forth, and
that no tricks or technicalities were concealed, no doubts or ambiguities executed therein and no obstacle could possibly intervene
to prevent the consummation of the paternal harmony designed, yet the answers received from them took an entirely different view,
and instead of affording us any light only involved the subject in greater mystery.
Resolved, however, to show the Masonic world that the good faith of our jurisdiction had not been violated, and that the honor of St.
John's Grand Lodge still remained pure and undefiled, we counseled the M. Wor. Grand Master to issue a counter circular, couched
in mild language and recommending some course of action for the government of the Fraternity of this jurisdiction.
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Acting on this advice our M. Wor. Grand Master immediately issued the following:
Grand Master's Office,
New York, Sept. 21st, 1850, A. L. 5850.
To the Wor. Masters, Officers and Brethren of the Lodges acknowledging the Jurisdiction of St. Joint's Grand Lodge of Free
and Accepted Masons of the State of New York.
BRETHREN :—Within a few days a circular (a copy of which is herewith annexed) has been issued by William H. Milnor, Esq.,
Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, which seems to require some notice at our hands.
The construction placed on the meaning of the propositions adopted in June last are entirely novel, and originated solely with
the distinguished Brother from whom they emanated; they do not, we are happy to say, express the feelings of the
constituency, and we believe if the M. Wor. Grand Master himself will reflect on them, he must see that, if adopted, they will
entirely destroy the peace now existing between us. The tenor of its language has a tendency to mislead Brethren and induce
them to believe that there are certain conditions, understood by both parties, to be complied with.
It is only necessary to say that there are no private conditions to be complied with. All the conditions and understanding
(expressed or implied) are to be found embodied in the propositions. We have endeavored to be consistent in every act
committed by us in connection with this subject. St. John's Grand Lodge unanimously adopted the articles in good faith, and
with the honest intention of complying with all its promises and negotiations. We believe that there exists wisdom enough in the
M. W. Grand Master of the State of New York to carry out the only construction that should be, or was intended to be, applied
to the propositions, personal constructions to the contrary notwithstanding, and we rest in the fullest confidence that when the
circular referred to shall be presented for their inspection, it will be laid aside as useless and as never sought for to complete
the building.
We would therefore earnestly request the Brethren under the jurisdiction of St. John's Grand Lodge to firmly adhere to the
propositions in their spirit and letter, until the will and pleasure of the M. W. Grand Lodge of the State of New York is known.
As it has been our desire to end the unfortunate questions of discord too long existing, we are now favorably impressed with
the conviction that feelings of conciliation will govern the Brethren throughout our jurisdiction by extending the hand of
friendship to every worthy Brother who may approach our doors. Let the principles of Masonic hospitality actuate us, and
cheerfully welcome within our Lodges the Brethren acknowledging the M. W. Grand Lodge of the State of New York of which
the M. W. Bro. Wm. H. Milnor is Grand Master. Let us continue to open our doors to all who can prove themselves entitled to
the privileges of the Craft and thus materially assist in producing harmony in the whole Masonic family within our borders.
ROBERT MACOY, Grand Secretary.
HENRY C. ATWOOD, Grand Master
of St. John's Grand Lodge,
of the State of New York.
From this it will be seen that no disposition existed on the part of the Grand Officers and your committee to retrace any step they
had taken in this matter, or to recall any action emanating from them in regard to the original basis of settlement. In the early part of
the present month a notice was. received from R. W. Bro. Powell, Grand Secretary, stating that the committee from the Grand
Lodge of the State of New York, consisting of the elective Grand Officers, would be pleased to meet with your committee for the
purpose of discussing the subject entrusted to our deliberations.
The committee representing the two Bodies met on the 14th inst., and both parties were fully represented. The same views were
entertained on that occasion by the committee representing the Grand Lodge of the State of New York as are expressed in the
Circular already referred to, with this addition, that they still consider us irregular and clandestine, and that no acknowledgment of
our Lodges or numbers could take place until St. John's Grand Lodge had dissolved its organization and the subordinates had taken
Warrants from them. This, it will be perceived, could never be carried into effect, because it would be entirely setting aside the
original terms of agreement, besides forcing us to the humiliating process of being Masonically healed, thereby acknowledging that
we had been irregular or clandestine, a condition which your committee take this opportunity of saying they never have, nor never
will admit.
Your committee thereupon informed the committee from the Grand Lodge of the State of New York that such conditions would never
be entertained, and if nothing else could be offered our labors were at an end; at the same time, to prove our sincerity, we offered to
make the original propositions Positive instead of Conditional, but this being refused we withdrew under the impression that all
hopes of aunhonorable union were at an end.
On the following day, however, a request from them was received, that we would not report to our Grand Lodge until a meeting of
theirs had been called, and another effort made to reconcile our differences.
Determined then that no blame should be laid at our doors in case of an eventual failure, we concluded to offer the following
propositions as the ultimatum of the Fraternity under our jurisdiction, and beyond which we, as a committee, felt we had neither the
power nor inclination to go:
To the M. W. Grand Lodge of the State pf New York:
The committee appointed by St. John's Lodge of the State of New York, for the purpose of consummating a Fraternal Union with
the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, do hereby submit the following propositions, as a substitute (in consequence of a
misunderstanding and misconstruction as to the true intent and meaning of the original Five Propositions) for the Five
Propositions unanimously adopted by the Grand Bodies in June last, to wit:
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1st. That St. John's Grand Lodge shall on or before the 27th day of December, 1850, pass a resolution to disband its organization
as a Grand Lodge on said 27th day of Dec, 1850.
2nd. That each and every Lodge under the jurisdiction of St. John's Grand Lodge shall on or before the 23rd day of Dec, 1850,
with their own consent surrender their Warrant to St. John's Grand Lodge and take out Warrants from the Grand Lodge of the
State of New York.
3rd. That the Grand Lodge of the State of New York shall immediately on the adoption of these propositions acknowledge the
Lodges now subordinate to St. John's Grand Lodge as regular Masonic Bodies and their members as lawful Masons, entitled to
all the protection of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York throughout its correspondence, provided that St. John's Grand
Lodge and its subordinates also adopt said propositions.
4th. On the consummation of the Union of the two Bodies, all the Present and Past Officers of now St. John's Grand Lodge shall
be installed as Past Grand Officers of the State of New York, and be entitled to receive all the Grand Lodge honors and privileges
thereunto belonging.
5th. That the Grand Lodge of the State of New York shall immediately after the confirmation of the above proposition, transmit the
same throughout their own jurisdiction, and also to every Grand Lodge in their correspondence.
6th. That whenever any of the subordinate Lodges now under the jurisdiction of St. John's Grand Lodge shall have passed a
resolution or resolutions in accordance with the tenor of these propositions, said Lodge or Lodges shall forthwith transmit a copy
thereof, duly authenticated by the officers of the Lodge, and the seal of said Lodge attached thereto, to the Grand Secretary of the
Grand Lodge of the State of New York.
Committee on behalf of St. Join's Grand Lodge, New York,
October 18th, 1850, A. L. 5850.
(Signed) Daniel Cochrane,
HENRY C. ATWOOD,
ROBERT MACOY,
JOHN W. SIMONS,
DANIEL SICKLES,
THE OLD WALTON HOUSE,
East side Franklin Square, between Peck Slip and Dover Street.
The above propositions, it will be perceived, are more liberal than any heretofore offered, while at the same time they contain the
principle that the Lodges and members of this jurisdiction are entirely, regular and entitled to all the rights and privileges of Masonry
before the final consummation of the Union.
The following extract from the minutes of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York show their action on the subject, and is now
presented to this jurisdiction for final adjudication.
GRAND SECRETARY'S OFFICE,
NEW YORK, Oct. 18th, A. L. 5850.
At a special meeting of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, held on Friday evening, Oct. 18th, A. L. 5850, the following
preamble and resolutions were adopted:
Whereas, a communication containing six propositions, signed by David Cochrane, Henry C. Atwood, Robert Macoy, John W.
Simons and Daniel Sickles, Committee on the part of St. John's Grand Lodge, is now before this Grand Lodge; and
Whereas, the Body which said committee represent have submitted the said Six Propositions with a preamble setting forth, that
for the purpose of consummating a Fraternal Union with the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, they do submit their
propositions; and
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Whereas, this Grand Lodge is desirous of consummating the several propositions adopted by it in June last and assented to by
St. John's Grand Lodge, which several propositions intended to restore entire harmony of feeling between the two Bodies;
therefore
Resolved, That if provided St. John's Grand Lodge shall on or before the 27th day of December, 1850, adopt a resolution to
disband its organization as a Grand Lodge on said 27th day of December, in accordance with the Fifth Proposition passed in
June last, and shall furnish an authenticated copy of said resolution under its seal, signed by its Grand Officers, to the R. W.
James W. Powell, Grand Secretary of this Grand Lodge, and provided a certified copy of the passage of similar resolutions by
each and all its subordinate Lodges, under the jurisdiction of said St. John's Grand Lodge, shall be furnished the R. W. James W.
Powell, Grand Secretary, the M. W. William H. Milnor be requested, on the receipt of the above mentioned, certified by the R. W.
Grand Secretary, to revoke the Edict issued by him on Sept. 13th, 1850, and that the Lodges now subordinate to St. John's
Grand Lodge shall be considered as regular Masonic Bodies and their members as lawful Masons entitled to the protection of the
Grand Lodge of the State of New York.
Resolved, That this Grand Lodge, being desirous of consummating the Five Propositions agreed to in June last, and of restoring
harmony and good feeling between the two Bodies, will use every constitutional means to carry each and every of said
propositions into effect.
The above is a true extract from the minutes.
JAMES W. POWELL, M.D., Grand Secretary.
Thus, Brethren, this vexed question is at last placed in a position to be finally and honorably settled. In placing the whole subject in
your hands for final consideration, your committee entertain the happy conviction that your deliberations will be in unison with the
Fraternal teachings of the Masonic Institution ; that your acts will convince the world of your love and respect for Harmony, Unity and
Universal Masonic enfranchisement. The Fraternity of the Empire State has long and earnestly called for the cessation of hostilities
in a family avowedly identical with the divine principles of Friendship, Truth and Brotherly Love.
The subordinate Lodges will receive new Warrants from the M. Wor. Grand Lodge of the State of New York without fee. No
alterations of condition or abrogation of privileges is demanded. No Ledge will be required to change even its name, its officers,
property or place of meeting, nothing but what is purely just and strictly honorable is proposed.
In conclusion, your committee would congratulate the Grand Lodge and the Fraternity on the happy termination of their difficulties,
and express a hope that a Union about to be consummated may be as lasting as that which now cements the great confederacy in
which we live.
The following resolutions are therefore for your adoption:
Resolved, That St. John's Grand Lodge approve of the propositions presented to the Grand Lodge of the State of New York by
your committee, and cordially concur in the preamble and resolutions adopted by the M. W. Grand Lodge of the State of New
York.
Resolved, That our M. W. Grand Master recommends to all the subordinate Lodges acknowledging this authority, that
immediately on the receipt of the foregoing report and the accompanying resolutions that the Wor. Master be directed to summon
the Lodge on its next regular communication for final action on the propositions, and when such action is taken to send a properly
authenticated copy to our R. W. Grand Secretary, that it may receive an endorsement and be forwarded to the R. W. Grand
Secretary of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, according to the terms of the propositions.
Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be directed to forward a copy of the above report and resolutions to every Lodge under this
jurisdiction.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
David Cochrane, )
Henry C. Atwood, )
Robert Macoy, ) Committee.
John W. Simons, )
DANIEL SICKLES [SICKELS],
(Extract from the minutes of a special meeting of St. John's Grand Lodge, held Oct. 22nd, A. L. 5850.)
York Lodge, No. 3, after considering the action of the St. John's Grand Lodge as detailed in the foregoing extract from its records,
adopted the following:
Resolved, That the propositions and report of the Committee of Conference of St. John's Grand Lodge be and are hereby
accepted.
Resolved, That the resolutions attached to the report of the Committee of Conference of St. John's Grand Lodge relative to the
proposed union with the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, be adopted.
Resolved, That York Lodge, No. 3, do surrender its Warrant to St. John's Grand Lodge in accordance with the above-named
resolutions, and apply for a Warrant from the Grand Lodge of the State of New York.
Resolved, That the Secretary of this Lodge be instructed to forward to the Grand Secretary of St. John's Grand Lodge a copy of
the above resolutions under the seal of this Lodge.
R. HAMILTON, Secretary.
71

At a regular communication of York Lodge, No. 3, held Dec. 18th, a Committee of Arrangements was appointed to make
preparations for the celebration of the Union between the two Grand Lodges, to take place on Dec. 27th, A. L. 5850. Bros.
Hendershott, Brewer and Devoy were appointed such committee.
The proceedings on the memorable occasion of the Union consummated between St. John's Grand Lodge and the Grand Lodge of
the State of New York on St. John's Day, December 27th, A. L. 5850, are copied from the transactions of the Grand Lodge of the
State of New York as follows:
A special meeting of the M. W. Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of the
State of New York was held at the Grand Lodge Room, City Hotel (late Howard House), 429 Broadway, in the City of New York, on
Friday, the 27th of December, A. L. 5850, to consummate the Union of the Brethren hitherto under the jurisdiction of St. John's
Grand Lodge with the Grand Lodge of the State of New York.
The Grand Lodge opened at 9 o'clock, A. M., in ample form, and with solemn prayer.
M. Wor. WILLIAM H. MILNOR, Grand Master.
R. Wor. OSCAR COLES, as Dep. Grand Master.
Wor. THOS. DUGAN, as Senior Grand Warden.
" B. S. ADAMS, as Junior Grand Warden.
R. Wor. JAS. W. POWELL, Grand Secretary.
" " G. BOYCE, Grand Treasurer.
" " & Rev. SALEM TOWN, LL.D., Grand Chaplain.
" " " A. E. CAMPBELL, " "
PRESENT.
VISITORS.
" " S. ABRAHAMS Grand Marshal.
Wor. E. JENKS, as Grand Standard Bearer.
" GEO. GIBBONS, as Grand Sword Bearer.
“ FINLAY M. KING, as Grand Steward.
" JOHN L. LEWIS, Senior Grand Deacon.
" Jos. D. EVANS, Junior Grand Deacon.
“ GEO. SKINNER Grand Pursuivant.
“ SENAL FISK, Grand Tiler.
The M. Wor. Grand Lodge of the State of Connecticut.
M. Wor. A. C. Babcock, P. Grand Master of Connecticut.
M. Wors. D. B. Bruen, E. Stewart, J. S. Darcy, and S. B. Munn, Past Grand Masters of the Grand Lodge of New Jersey;
and R. Wor. Bro. Kerwood, our Representative at the Grand Lodge New Jersey, with Representatives of forty-four Lodges in this
and other jurisdictions.
The Grand Master, after some appropriate remarks on peace and unity, informed the Brethren that the day had arrived for the
consummation of the UNION, which had been so ardently looked forward to by the Fraternity throughout the entire United States, of
the Brethren hitherto under the jurisdiction of St. John's Grand Lodge with the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, and for that
purpose he had convened this special communication of the Grand Lodge.
The Grand Marshal introduced the M. W. Grand Lodge of Connecticut, comprising all her Officers, the Grand Officers of New
Jersey, and the other visitors respectively, who were all cordially welcomed by the Grand Master.
The Grand Master then directed the Grand Marshal to form the procession.
The procession was accordingly formed under the direction of the Grand Marshal with twelve assistants in the following order, and
moved at 10 o'clock up Broadway to Tripler Hall, 659 Broadway, opposite Bond Street.
United States Band.
The Lodges of this State in rotation according to seniority of rank,
the Junior preceding, divided into six divisions,
under the Banners of FAITH, HOPE, CHARITY, WISDOM, STRENGTH and BEAUTY.
Lodges from other States. Grand Lodges of the State of Connecticut and New Jersey.
Past Grand Officers of other States.
Representatives of Grand Lodges.
-----
Atkin's Brass Baud.
Grand Tiler, with drawn Sword.
Grand Stewards, with White Rods.
A Brother carrying a Golden Vessel of Corn.
Two Brethren carrying Silver Vessels, one of Wine the other of Oil.
R. W. Grand Secretary.
R. W. Grand Treasurer.
-----
The Cornucopia borne by two Brethren.
Four Past Masters, bearing the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses, supported by two Stewards with White Rods.
The Tuscan and Composite Orders.
The Doric, Ionic and Corinthian Orders.
The Bee-Hive.
Past Grand Officers.
The Globes.
The Ark of the Covenant,
Borne by four Grand Officers of the Grand Lodge of Conn.
72

R. W. and Rev. Grand Chaplains.
R. W. Junior and Senior Grand Wardens.
R. W. Deputy Grand Master, supported by two Stewards with Rods.
The Master of the oldest Lodge, carrying the Book of the Constitutions.
Grand Standard Bearer, with the Banner of the Grand Lodge, assisted by two Brethren.
M. W. GRAND MASTER.
The Grand Deacons, on a line seven feet apart, on the right and left of the Grand Master, with Black Rods.
Grand Sword Bearer, with a drawn Sword.
Two Stewards, with White Rods.
On arriving at the Hall, the procession halted, opened to the right and left, and faced inward, while the Grand Master and others, in
succession, passed through and entered the Hall, and took the places assigned to them. During the entree, and while the Brethren
were taking their respective positions, the bands continued to play appropriate airs. The galleries were already filled with ladies and
gentlemen—the invited auditors.
At the sound of the gavel, the Brethren all arose, when the R. Wor. and Rev. Alfred E. Campbell offered up an eloquent and most
impressive prayer, imploring the blessing of the Supreme Architect of the Universe on the good work of Peace, Harmony and Love
in which they were about to engage.
The following Hymn was then sung in admirable style by an efficient choir, conducted by Stephen Leach, Esq., accompanied by Bro.
W. B. Rockwood on the organ.
MASONIC HYMN.
Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in virtuous love;
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above.
Before our Father's throne
We pour our ardent prayers;
Our fears, our hopes, our aims are one,
Our comforts and our cares.
When we asunder part,
It gives us inward pain;
But we shall still be join'd in heart,
And hope to meet again.
This glorious hope revives
Our courage by the way;
While each in expectation lives,
And longs to see the day.
From sorrow, toil and pain,
And sin we shall be free;
And perfect love and friendship reign
Through all Eternity.
While these ceremonies were progressing St. John's Grand Lodge and its subordinate Lodges assembled at the Grand Lodge
Room, 274 Grand Street, and moved in procession, accompanied by Dodworth's and Shelton's Brass Bands, to Tripler Hall, under
the direction of R. Wor. Wm. H. Underhill, Grand Marshal.
SPECIAL AIDS.
Chas. W. Willets, Joseph C. Pinckney.
Assisted by Brothers
Geo. W. Stevenson, A. N. Brewer,
John Cranshaw, Will. Cooper,
Reuben Van Tassell, Henry Vogelsang,
Wm. H. Applegate, Andrew Fisher,
Chas. Newton, L. Moriarty,
W. B. Worrall, Robert H. Shannon.
Their approach was heralded by a flourish of trumpets. Being duly announced and admitted, they were received with the public
grand honors. The whole scene, at this time, was truly magnificent and intensely exciting. Each tier of the immense saloon was
densely crowded by the youth and beauty of our city. The stage, considerably enlarged beyond its ordinary dimensions, was
occupied by the Grand Officers of the Grand Lodges of Connecticut and New Jersey, the invited guests from our sister States, and
other Brothers of high rank in the Order. On one side of the Grand Master rested the Sacred Ark, with the Cherubim; and on the
other side the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses, on a crimson cushion. The members of the subordinate Lodges, attended by
their officers, were ranged along the floor of the Hall. At this moment the trumpets sounded—the doors were thrown open; St. John's
Grand Lodge entered the Grand Saloon in most admirable order, escorted by the Sir Knights Templar of Palestine Encampment,
and followed by its subordinate bodies and marching with military precision, filed off to their allotted positions. The four bands
continued to play in unison several soul stirring pieces of music. The entire area and platform of this immense saloon was now
thronged with between three and four thousand Masons. The numerous flags and banners, bearing aloft various striking Masonic
emblems and devices—the gorgeous Regalia of the Grand Officers, their glittering jewels, the appropriate and beautiful clothing of
the Officers and Members of the Blue Lodges, contrasting with the bright scarlet of the Royal Arch Masons and the antique costume
of the Templar— combined to form a Masonic pageant never equaled in the New, and probably never surpassed in the Old World.
But the enthusiasm and deep heartfelt joy manifested by all Brethren present, far surpassed, in the estimation of the sincere lovers
of our Order, the dazzling brilliancy and splendor of this sublime and never-to-be-forgotten scene.
As soon as each Grand Officer of St. John's Grand Lodge had taken the place reserved for him, at the right of the corresponding
Grand Officer of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, and their subordinate bodies had assumed their positions on the floor of
the Hall,—the Grand Lodge of the State of New York gave them a Grand Salute.
73

The M. W. Grand Master of St. John's Grand Lodge, Henry C. Atwood, then arose and made a short address, congratulating the
Brethren upon the occasion which they were about to celebrate. Addressing Grand Master Milnor, he narrated in brief the
circumstances under which the dissension originally occurred. Speaking of himself and companions who then left the Grand Lodge,
he said, the olive branch had been extended to them, and they had returned—but not alone: no, they were attended by this escort
(pointing to the numerous assemblage of persons in the centre of the house). He concluded by saying, I present them to you as
Masons—Masons by name and by practice.
Grand Master Milnor replied:
M. W. SIR AND BROTHER:
In the name and on behalf of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, I bid you and your associates welcome. As the official head
of the Grand Lodge, I receive you and your Brethren, Masons good and true, who have faithfully endeavored to promote the great
principles of our Order, as members of this jurisdiction—hereafter to be recognized as such, entitled to all the rights and privileges
thereunto belonging.
My Brethren: The union, so long desired by the Masons, not only of this great State, but throughout the United States, is now
completed. All difficulties which heretofore may have existed are ended. The wall of partition is broken down, never, I trust, to be
rebuilt. There seems a peculiar propriety that such a Union should be consummated on this day—a day held sacred by all
Masons—a day on which multitudes of the Brethren, throughout the civilized globe, are gathered together to renew their pledges of
love and fidelity, to rekindle their zeal, to confirm their faith. There is many a joyous meeting at this moment, where hands are
clasped and hearts are knit in true Masonic friendship; but there are none more joyous than this. The happy countenances before
and around me speak this more forcibly than words of mine. Who can look upon a scene like this and not realize, in all its fullness,
“How good and how pleasant it is for Brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down
upon the beard, even Aaron's beard; that went down to the skirts of his garments; as the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that
descended upon the mountains of Zion." Thanks to the Supreme Architect, who has imbued our hearts with the spirit of Unity, and
has so disposed the minds of the Brethren, that with one accord they have come up to this house today to honor His Holy Name, by
obeying His commands. Glory be to God on High.
(Response by the Brethren, So mote it be. Amen.)
My Brethren, I am but the organ of others. There are hundreds of hearts around us, beating responsive to mine, when I again, most
cordially, bid you a Fraternal welcome. I extend to you the grip of friendship and fellowship, and receive you amongst us, as a Past
Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York.
A round of cheers of welcome was here given by the Grand Lodge and subordinates, and each Brother, grasping his fellow by the
right hand in Fraternal embrace, consummated this glorious Union. The scene of cordial greeting and mutual congratulations that
ensued baffles description. Few could control their feelings, a tear of joy gushed from many an eye, and trickled down over many a
manly and honest face. Such a scene, to be at all appreciated, must have been witnessed. It was an epoch in Masonry ever to be
remembered.
Grand Master Henry C. Atwood then called for Grand Standard Bearer Thos. Hyatt, of St. John's Grand Lodge, who came forward
and received the custody of the Banner of St. John's, with the injunction to protect it as faithfully as he had heretofore defended it.
This the Grand Standard Bearer promised to do, and the Grand Master addressed the members of the Lodges on the subject of the
dissolution about to take place. He enforced upon their minds the necessity of obedience to all the mandates of the Grand Lodge
under whose jurisdiction they were about to place themselves. In conclusion, he said:
"Under the sound of the same gavel that first called the Lodge to order, I now declare St. John's Grand Lodge dissolved." He then
desired the Brethren of Lodges until now under the jurisdiction of St. John's Grand Lodge to salute the Grand Master of the Grand
Lodge of the State of New York. This was done in a manner worthy of men and Masons, and we venture to say that this salute was
never before given in this city by so large a body of the Fraternity or with such heartfelt enthusiasm.
The union was thus happily accomplished and St. John's Grand Lodge passed into history. The following song was then sung by the
choir, accompanied by Dodworth's Band:
Thus happily met, united and free,
A foretaste of Heaven we prove;
Then join heart and hand and firmly agree
To cultivate Brotherly love.
With corn, wine and oil our table replete,
The altar of friendship divine;
Each virtue and grace the circle complete,'
With aid of the musical nine.
74

Thus blest and thus blessing in work so supreme
May Masonry daily increase;
Its grand scheme of morals our favorite theme,
The source of contentment and peace.
The Masters of the several Lodges which had worked under the jurisdiction of the St. John's Grand Lodge were called upon to come
forward and receive their new Warrants. The first Master called was Wor. Bro. Thos. Abbott, of Independent Lodge, No. 7, his Lodge
being designated the Senior Lodge of that jurisdiction. On coming upon the stage Past Grand Master Henry C. Atwood introduced
him to the Grand Master. The Grand Secretary read to him the new Charter of Independent Lodge, which henceforth was to be No.
185. The other Masters were then called forward, but the ceremony of reading the Charter was not performed in any instance
except the first.
The following are the names of the Lodges with the new numbers which they received with their Charters:
After the presentation of the Charter, the following Masonic Ode, written for the occasion by Bro. George W. Stephenson, was sung
by the choir:
Hail to the day that cements our loved band;
Hail to the day that sends peace through the land;
Let Masons rejoice—spread the glad tidings wide—
Our Union's completed, no more to divide.
This day sees the blest consummation of love;
The olive branch borne in the beak of the dove;
Prosperity smiles, and bright virtue stands pleased,
That the demon of discord has now been appeased.
May we ne'er from the pathway of peace again stray
Nor forget to pluck wisdom from life's stormy way;
That our future career may with pleasure abound,
When sweet mystical love does our circle surround.
To the great Divine Architect let us give thanks
That His wisdom has brought us in brotherly ranks;
Let the mantle of charity cover all faults;
From danger and faction we're safe from assaults.
An oration was next delivered by the Grand Master of the State. The eloquent and impressive production was listened to with
breathless attention by the vast multitude present, and frequently interrupted by warm plaudits.
A hymn was then sung by the choir, after which a truly beautiful and touching prayer and benediction was pronounced by the gifted
and venerable Brother, R. Wor. and Rev. Salem Town, LL.D., Grand Chaplain. The Grand Lodge then reformed in order of
procession, when the United Brethren fell into their respective positions, and moved down Broadway to the Park, up Park Row,
Chatham Street and the Bowery, to Union Square, and down Broadway to Tripler Hall, where about one thousand Brethren sat
down to a superb and elegant banquet.
So after a period of thirteen years York Lodge returned to the body which granted its original Charter.
Fireman’s Lodge No. 368
Warrant: 4 Mar 1824
New York Lodge No. 368, extant 1827
Grand Lodge Proceedings, session of 2 Mar 1825:
The following petition from Fireman’s Lodge No. 368 was read and the prayer of the petitioners granted:
To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the State of New York:
-----
The petition of Fireman’s Lodge No. 368 respectfully showeth that the original design in obtaining a Warrant for this Lodge, was the
introduction of Masonry more generally among the Firemen of this city, but contrary to the expectations of its founders, a very
inconsiderable number of firemen have been initiated, and the idea of continuing it a fireman’s Lodge has been abandoned, and the
members conceiving that the interest of the Lodge would be materially promoted by changing its name, there therefore pray that the
M.’.W.’. Grand Lodge would grant them the name of New York Lodge instead of their present name, and as in duty bound, they
ever pray, etc.
In behalf of Fireman’s Lodge No. 368,
Niel Gray, Master
Uzziah Wenman, SW
David M. Beall, JW.
75

Surrendered its Charter in 1835 or 1836
1827 Officers:
New York Lodge, No. 368.
David M. Prall, W. M.;
C. W. Timpson, S. W.;
N. G. Miles, J. W.;
William P. Hawes, Secretary;
Gideon De Angles, Treasurer;
John A. Miller, S. D.;
Charles A. Peck, J. D.;
Henry Q. Green, J. N. Van Antwerp, M. C;
J. C. Stoncall, B. Armitage, Stewards;
A. Couley, Tyler.
V. Vandewater, Niel Gray, U. Wenman, W. P. Luff, Charles A. Peck, Standing Committee;
V. Vandewater, Niel Gray, U. Wenman, M. P. Luff, D.M. Prall, Trustees of the Perm. Fund;
Met the 2nd and 4th Thursdays, at Masonic Hall, Broadway.
Manhattan Lodge No. 370
Warrant: 26 Mar 1824
Renumbered No. 62, 7Jun 1839
1828 Officers:
Benjamin Barrell, S. D.;
Gilbert Reynolds, W. M.;
James P. Gisner, J. D.;
J. L. Tashiera. S. W.;
George W. Gantz, Thomas Vepe, M. C;
Wm. Belden, J. W.;
Lewis Sutton, J. Van Winkle, Stewards;
John J. Gantz, Secretary;
William G. Henshaw, Tyler.
D. W. Townsend, Treasurer;
Lewis Belden, William Belden, Augustus I. Cornwell, J. L. Tashiera, Stephen Ketcham, Standing Committee;
Met on the 1st and 3d Fridays, at Union Hall.
James L. Tasheira was a native of New York, and was born in 1796. He was a cabinetmaker by trade, and lived at 23 Downing
Street. He was raised in Manhattan Lodge No. 370 in 1824, and served as Master of that Lodge in 1826. He affiliated with
Washington Lodge No. 21, 1 Sep 1840, and continued a member until the time of his death on 4 May 1847.
History from the 1904 Grand Lodge Proceedings:
The warrant in possession of the Lodge was issued March 26, 1824; its first number was 370. It was given No. 62 June 7, 1839.
MINUTES: Intact from organization.
Robert Young.
Charles St. John.
Augustus Cornwall.
Daniel H. Van Sice.
Augustus H. Sands.
M. H. Knapp.
Lewis Belden.
Joseph Bills.
Daniel Ward.
CHARTER MEMBERS
At a quarterly communication of the Grand Lodge held Mfych 26, 1824, in answer to a petition which had been presented, a Warrant
was granted Manhattan Lodge, No. 370, naming RORERT Young, Master; AUGUSTUS H. SANDS, Senior Warden, and CHARLES ST.
JOHN. Junior Warden.
The first meeting to complete the organization of the Lodge was held in St. John's Hall, Frankfort Street, on April 7, 1824, where
agreeably to a notice received from the Grand Secretary the following officers were duly acknowledged and installed.
Robert Young, Master.
Augustus H. Sands, Senior Warden.
Charles St. John, Junior Warden.
M. H. Knapp, Secretary.
Augustus Cornwall, Treasurer.
At the conclusion of the ceremonies of installation the Grand Lodge Officers retired, the Master took the chair and declared
Manhattan Lodge open in the Master's degree.
The second meeting was held April 16, 1824, at Union Hall, corner of Oliver and Henry Streets, where the Master and Wardens
were appointed a committee "to draft a code of by-laws."
The first election of officers occurred December 17, 1824. The records show that "the present Master signified his intention of
resigning the chair and nominated BRO. A. H. SANDS as his successor, who was duly elected." The remaining officers were
nominated by the Master-eject and duly elected.
The Lodge prospered for a time but when the Morgan episode swept over the State its blighting influence seriously affected the
Lodge, members lost interest and officers became discouraged. In a sketch of the Lodge prepared by BRO. HARRY KUHLKE in 1899,
he says, concerning the affairs in December, 1829:
76

"The proceedings of the Lodge about this time do not appear to have been harmonious. It was hard to collect dues, and the Lodge
did not appear to be in n prosperous condition. W.’. BRO. EDMONDS was Master of the Lodge, and at the next communication
presented a lengthy report, signed by a committee appointed to investigate the condition of the Lodge.
"The substance of the report was that the Lodge was irretrievably in debt, and concluded by expressing the opinion that there was
no alternative but to give up the warrant to the Grand Lodge. The report was read and accepted, and the committee discharged.
"Bro. TOWNSEND offered a resolution to the effect that the Lodge should be wound up. and the warrant returned to the Grand Lodge.
The resolution was seconded but (by request) BRO. EDMONDS moved that it should lie over for future consideration. What a
spectacle! The Master of a Lodge being a prime mover in measures looking to its dissolution, and deliberately contemplating harikari!
"Monday, March 29th. met pursuant to adjournment. BRO. TOWNSEND gave notice that at the next regular meeting he would offer the
following resolution, viz.: that the yearly dues of all members be raised to the sum of $10.
"April 2. 1830, the resolution of BRO. TOWNSEND offered at the last meeting was taken up. duly seconded, 'and unanimously
adopted,' and so it was that the existence of the Lodge was maintained by the pluck and fidelity of a single member."
This incident appears to have instilled new life into the Lodge; the officers gathered courage and members again became interested,
and it continued to thrive and prosper. The zeal and pluck of BRO. TOWNSEND had stayed the whirlwind of persecution, the timid and
weak again became strong and the organization was maintained during all this troublous period.
When in 1837 the St. John's Grand Lodge came into existence, Manhattan Lodge remained with the Grand Lodge.
The following interesting incident is found in the sketch of BRO. KUHLKE'S:
"From the minutes of April 15, 1840, I quote: 'Two dispensations from the R.’. W.’. D. G. Master, WM. WILLIS, were received,
authorizing this Lodge to confer the three degrees of Masonry upon GEORGE JAMISON [Jemison] and N. T. STRONG, Chiefs of the
Senecas in this State, at one and the same time, which were read and accepted; when it was resolved that this lodge proceed to act
accordingly.' The records proceed to show that they were passed and raised at the same communication. At a special meeting on
the 5th of June, 1840, the Wor. Master received four dispensations from the Grand Lodge of the State, empowering him to confer
the three first degrees at one and the same time, upon Messrs. J. JAMISON, S[pencer]. H. CONE and WHITE SENECA, Seneca Chiefs,
and Mr. B. BOWLES, an Oneida Chief, and the degrees were accordingly conferred. The degrees appear to have been conferred at
the request of the Grand Lodge Officers, and although the candidates paid the usual initiation fees, no ballot was had upon their
admission, nor do they appear to have been considered as members of the Lodge."
For some unexplained reason interest in the Lodge again lagged; the financial condition was such that the obligations of the Lodge
could not be met, and it was decided best to surrender the charter. BRO. KURXKE thus states the matter:
"Four years subsequently the warrant was revived, and the history from that time—1847 to 1874—was ably and clearly presented to
you by Wor. HENRY V. MYERS, at the celebration of our semi-centennial. From my first knowledge of the Lodge, the fly-leaf of our bylaws
has borne this inscription, "Instituted March 26, A. L. 5824,' and so we celebrated our supposed fiftieth anniversary on the 2(5th
of March. 1874, when as a matter of fact the Lodge had no existence until April 7, 1824. In the summer of 1874, when the office of
the Grand Secretary was being removed to a new Hall, numerous old books, etc., came to light. From among the rubbish there were
unearthed two minute books of Manhattan Lodge, No. 370, covering the entire per!od from date of organization to the surrender of
warrant in 1843. These minute hooks I received from the Grand Secretary, and we are now in possession of the complete records of
the Lodge from its organization down to the present time."
The Lodge was not permitted to remain dormant but a short time. Through the effort of DANIEL II. VAN SICE, who was Master in 1843,
a successful effort was made to revive the Lodge, and in 1847 the warrant was restored.
Masters
1829. William Belden.
1830. Francis W. Edmonds.
1831. Charles B. Allaire.
1832. Robert Young.
1833. Stephen Ketchum.
1834. Robert Young.
1835. Charles B. Allaire.
1836. John B. Costa.
1837. Robert Young.
1838. Lewis De Forest.
1839. Lewis De Forest.
1840. Lewis De Forest.
1841. Daniel H. VanSice.
1842. William L. Hall.
1843. Daniel H. VanSice.
1847. Daniel H. VanSice.
1848. Daniel H. VanSice.
1849. William M. Stone.
-----
1850. Daniel H. VanSice.
1851. John C. Derr.
1852. Wm. G. McLaughlin.
1853. Wm. G. McLaughlin.
1854. Wm. G. McLaughlin.
1855. Michael Duff.
1856. George Debenham.
1857. George Debenhnm.
1858. Justus Chollar.
1859. Samuel M. Chambers.
1860. Philip Botzong.
1861. William T. Woodruff.
1862. William T. Woodruff.
1863. William T. Woodruff.
1864. William T. Woodruff.
1865. William T. Woodruff.
1866. William T. Woodruff.
1867. William T. Woodruff.
1868. Charles E. Hartshorn.
1869. Wm. L. Hartshorn.
1870. John C. Boak.
1871. William T. Woodruff.
1872. John C. Boak.
1873. Moses G. Wanzor.
1874. Henry V. Meyers.
1875. Henry V. Meyers.
1876. Wm. C. Smith.
1877. Wm. C. Smith.
1878. William H. Long.
1879. John H. Wood.
1880. John H. Wood.
1881. John W. Warth.
1882. John W. Warth.
1883. Wm. H. Froment.
1884. Zachary T. Sailer.
1885. Zachary T. Sailer.
1886. Lewis P. Warth.
1887. Lewis P. Warth.
1888. James W. Wilson.
1889. James W. Wilson.
1890. John Whelan.
1891. John Whelan.
1892. Frederick J. Brown.
1893. Frederick J. Brown.
1894. John M. Bogert.
1895. William O. Campbell.
1896. Henry A. Griffin.
1897. Henry A. Griffin.
1898. Henry A. Griffin.
1899. William H. Higgins.
1900. William H. Higgins.
1901. Harold Yarcoe.
1902. Hiram R. Hulse.
1903. Hiram R. Hulse.
1904. V. F. Lichtenhan.
77

http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_1_A_to_D.htm
S. H. Cone - A Seneca Indian chief who received the three degrees in Manhattan Lodge No. 370 of New York City on June 5, 1840.
American Masonic Register and Literary Companion, Volume 1, No. 48, 1 Aug 1840. page 377.
http://books.google.com/books?id=KltJAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA377&dq=%22WHITE+SENECA%22&hl=en&ei=HOdiTr7LAoTagQeQrP3
ACg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=6&ved=0CEUQ6AEwBQ#v=onepage&q=%22WHITE%20SENECA%22&f=false
INTERESTING INCIDENT.
We cheerfully comply .with the request of Ancient Chapter No. 1 of the city of New York, in publishing the subjoined resolutions of
that body, as well as the .extract from the "talk" of our Red Brother and companion. Col. Jemison, one of the chiefs of the Seneca
nation, who with his brother, White Seneca and S. H. Cone, severally received all the degrees of ancient masonry to the Royal
Arch, during the last month. The admission of Col. J. and his associates, among us, as "brethren of the mystic tie," affords
somewhat a novel and interesting circumstance, and will undoubtedly be the means of introducing a feeling in the " far country,"
which if carried no further, will recognise the claim of one brother on the other. Many of our readers are acquainted with the
anecdote related of Brandt, of revolutionary notoriety. His tribe had taken a captive, who was doomed to the stake. Already had he
been fastened to the tree—the faggots were placed around him, the torch was kindled, and the chief was preparing to give the fatal
word, when the captive in his agony let fall that mysterious token, which no Mason ,can disregard—the faggots fell from him, the
cords were unloosed, and the prisoner fainted in the arms of his red brother. Brandt had been made a mason in England, some
years previous.
Our red brethren, who are the subject matter of these remarks, are all chiefs or head men of the Seneca nation, residing on their
reservations of land near Buffalo, and composing one of the Six Nations of the original New York Indians. Their business in New
York, and at Washington, was in reference to their recent treaty with government. They have been brought up in the neighborhood
of populous settlements, and consequently are in a state of civilization. Should the Senecas comply with the recent treaty made with
the government, (in which there is some diversity of opinion among the chiefs and head men) their destination and future homes,
will be west of the Mississippi, and adjoining the western line of the State of Missouri.
Their motives in becoming masons, as we understand, were to associate themselves with an order, which they had heard so much
of, and which they said must be a good one, because their Great Father, Gen. Washington, lived and died in its communion. (By the
by, not a bad thought for some certain Anti's to ponder over.)
Mary Jemison*, a white woman, who once resided on the Genesee River, and married a Delaware Indian (or chief) was the
grandmother of Col. Jemison, and John his brother. White Seneca was a head warrior under Red Jacket, and fought with Gen.
Scott on the frontiers during the late war. S. H. Cone is a young man, very well educated, and speaks and writes the English
language fluently. They all speak our language very well, except White Seneca.—Ed.
New- York, July 14, A. L. 5840.
MOST EXCELLENT COMPANION,—It becomes my pleasing duty to transmit to you an extract of the minutes of Ancient Chapter No. 1,
passed at a regular meeting at their Chapter Room, Howard House, last evening.
On motion, it was unanimously
Resolved, That the address of Col. George Jemison of this Chapter, one of the chiefs of the Seneca nation of Indians, in behalf of
himself and Brothers White Seneca, John Jemison and Spencer H. Cone, of Manhattan Lodge No. 62, and interpreted by
Spencer H. Cone, in Alexandria, DC, at the celebration of the anniversary of St. John the Evangelist, in the Washington Lodge
Room June 24th, A. L. 5840, be read by the Secretary, which was accordingly done ; when
On motion it was unanimously
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to wait on Comp. Jemison, and request a copy to be engrossed on the minutes,
as also one for publication in the Masonic Register, when James Miller, Comp. William Norris. and Josiah Burton, were appointed
such committee, who subsequently reported that they had performed that duty, and that Comp. Jemison had in the kindest manner
consented.
On motion, it was unanimously
Resolved. That the thanks of this Chapter be tendered to Comp. Jemison,
On motion,
Resolved, That the Secretary be directed to transmit a copy of the same, together with an extract of the minutes, to M. E. Comp. L.
G. Hoffman. Respectfully, your ob'dt serv't, Fraternally,
JOSIAH BURTON.
78

* see also A narrative of the Life of Mary Jemison: the White Woman of the Genessee, by James Everett Seaver, 1918, at:
http://books.google.com/books?id=UCUTAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA249&dq=%22WHITE+SENECA%22&hl=en&ei=HOdiTr7LAoTagQeQr
P3ACg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=8&ved=0CE0Q6AEwBw#v=onepage&q=%22WHITE%20SENECA%22&f=false
Minerva Lodge No. 371
Warrant: 27 Mar 1824; extant in 1827.
Heritage Lodge No. 371
In 1967, Corinthian Lodge No. 488 merged with Architect Lodge No. 519 to become Corinthian Architect Lodge No. 488.
In 1971, Sagamore-Napthali Lodge No. 371 merged with Greenwich Lodge No. 467 to become Sagamore Lodge No. 371.
In 1996, Sagamore Lodge no. 371 merged with Corinthian Architect Lodge No. 488 to become Heritage Lodge No. 371.
http://www.heritage371.org/node/13
Heritage Lodge No. 371 was formed on April 29th, 1996, but its Heritage goes back nearly two centuries. Heritage Lodge is the
combination of five Lodges that have consolidated throughout the years:
Sagamore Lodge No. 371
Greenwich Lodge No. 467
Corinthian Lodge No. 488
Architect Lodge No. 519
Naphthali Lodge No. 752.
The earliest of these Lodges can be traced back to 7 Apr 1825, when a dispensation was granted to form a Lodge in Greenwich
Village, with the number 381. Due to unknown circumstances, Greenwich Lodge No. 381 surrendered its warrant to the Grand
Secretary on 7 Dec 1835. A petition was presented to revive Greenwich Lodge on 28 Jan 1859, and the Lodge number was raised
to 467.
The first consolidation occurred sometime before 1965 [an exact date is still being confirmed], with Naphthali Lodge No. 752 and
Sagamore Lodge No. 371, renamed Sagamore-Naphthali No. 371.
When the Lodge merged with Greenwich Lodge on 4 May 1971, the name Sagamore Lodge No. 371 was accepted.
Corinthian Lodge No. 488 merged with Architect Lodge No. 519 on 3 May 1967, and renamed Corinthian-Architect No. 488; and
nearly 30 years later united with Sagamore Lodge to form Heritage Lodge, No. 371.
The following is the chronicle of each Lodge, its ancestral milieu, as well important dates related to each.
http://www.heritage371.org/node/73
Sagamore Lodge No. 371
Constituted July 3, 1855
------
On March 31, 1855, Most Worshipful Joseph D. Evans, Grand Master of Masons of the State of New York, issued a dispensation to
12 Master masons from Neptune Lodge No. 317, which was itself less than a year old, to form a new Lodge to be known as
Sagamore. First Master was Morris Wilkins. First meeting held on 10 Apr 1855 in a building at Broome and Mercer Streets; First
regular communication on June 12.
In 1879, Sagamore moved to the Masonic Temple at 6th Avenue and 23rd Street.
Consolidated with Greenwich No. 467, remained Sagamore Lodge—By Laws approved by the Grand Lodge on 4 May 1971--$125
Initiation fee; $20 yearly dues. “Seal shall consist of the Head of tan Indian with Inscription Sagamore No. 371 Free and Accepted
Masons July 3, 1855.
50th Anniversary celebrated on 1 Mar 1905 at Madison Square Concert Hall. R.’.W.’. William Andrews read on an Anniversary
address. After referring to the great services rendered to the Lodge by W.’. Morris Wilkins, founder and first Master, Bro. Andrews
turned to the Box where Bro. Wilkins was seated, calling upon the audience to rise, and saluted him with three-times-three. Nearly
300 members were present
Charles E. Snavely, WM, May 1933 Communication: “. . .with a membership of almost 300, why is it we never have more than 6 out
to any meeting??”
December, 1939—“The morale of our membership of necessity must be strengthened. Within the past 10 years [since the
depression] roster loss of 40%, a reduction from 312 to 192, and 40% of those have been on the Roster for over 30 years. It is said
by great military leaders, the first line of defense is the morale of the people. In substance there are practically 100 members whose
dues, when paid, defray less than 50% of the current and fixed expenditures. By our very actions we must produce a bond of
friendship that will give encouragement and strength to those needing it.
Consolidated with Naphthali Lodge No. 752 sometime before 1965.
2400th Stated Communication (April, 1995): Confer the Fellowcraft (1-Sagamore, 2 Corinthian-Architect) WM Joe Martinez Taitano,
“I am unhappy to report that there has been no movement on the consolidation with Corinthian-Architect Lodge No. 488
79

Consolidation with the Lodges occurred on 29 Apr 1996, to form Heritage Lodge No. 371.
The following is a letter sent to Sagamore Lodge regarding one of its brothers, and the Heritage of Freemasonry itself:
“Brotherhood of the Wise”
Dear Brother: About fifteen years ago it was my pleasure to assist in raising in Sagamore Lodge, New York City, a Brother by the
name of William Churchill. He had been Consul to Samoa under President Cleveland. He had an affinity for language and dialect,
and while in Samoa got in touch with the native tribes and was initiated into what he translated as “The Brotherhood of the Wise”.
Some weeks after his being raised in Masonry he gave a lecture on the similarity between that Brotherhood and the Masonic
Fraternity which was most remarkable, and furnished the clearest proof I have ever know of the antiquity of the Craft. Among
several things in his lecture which I remember was this: in their barbaric work of fire-worship, in the fourth degree of their order—
which was the final degree—they were taught to feed the fire from piles of leaves in a manner which left the hands in precisely the
position in which every Mason salutes the East from the alter in the third degree. Again, the rough clothing tied in different degrees
at different positions marked in different stages of the work with charcoal by horizontals and perpendiculars, which by the final
arrangement of the clothing for the last degree so brought the horizontals and perpendiculars together as to form a square. This of
course was among people who for centuries had been divorced, as far as all records go, from the rest of the world. Certainly their
traditions were not received in recent days. They have kept no records, and as Brother Churchill said, they have no legend of how it
originated.
Cordially and Fraternally, Charles A. Alden, Illinois
http://www.heritage371.org/node/69
-----
Joseph W. Bartlett
http://www3.gendisasters.com/massachusetts/8751/buzzards-bay-ma-yacht-mystery-wreck-aug-1883-memorial-services
THE LOST IN THE MYSTERY.
A service was held yesterday afternoon at Grace Church, One Hundred and Sixteenth-street, near Third-avenue, in memory of Mr.
Joseph W. Bartlett, one of the young gentlemen who was on board the yacht Mystery, which was wrecked at the entrance to
Buzzard's Bay, on the southern coast of Massachusetts, Aug 12 [1883], and, who, with all the others on board, was drowned. Mr.
Bartlett was a member of Sagamore Lodge, No. 371. F&AM, and all the members of that lodge who are now in the City were
present at the services held yesterday. At 4 o'clock Mrs. Bartlett and her two daughters, dressed in deep mourning, entered the
church. After a hymn had been sung by the choir the Rev. D. B. Ray, Rector of the church, made a short prayer. The Rev. John O.
Bache, associate Rector, and also a member of Sagamore Lodge, made an address, in which he alluded to the love and respect
with which the young man had inspired all those who were intimately acquainted with him; to the pure life he had always led, and to
the sorrow felt by his relatives and friends over his untimely death. The Rector then read a letter from William H. Andrews, Master
of the Lodge, who is now at Rocky Bar, ME, who spoke of the great sorrow he felt for Mrs. Bartlett and her daughters, and ordered
that the lodge go in mourning for their deceased brother. After a hymn had been sung by the choir and congregation the relatives of
the deceased man were escorted to carriages in waiting by the members of the lodge, and were driven to their homes.
The New York Times, New York, NY 1 Oct 1883
-----
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_1_A_to_D.htm
Harvey Wiley Corbett b. 8 Jan 1873; d. 21 Apr 1954. Architect who designed the Rockefeller
Center and the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. b. 8 Jan 1873 at San
Francisco. He graduated from Univ. of California and
also studied abroad. He lectured in architecture at
Columbia Univ., and was member of advisory board of
school of architecture, Princeton Univ. Among the many
buildings of his design are the Holy Innocents Church,
Brooklyn; Bush Terminal Office Building, NY; Bush
House, London; Metropolitan Life Ins. Building, NY;
Roerich Museum, NY. His wife, Gail Sherman Corbett,
is a sculptress who executed a portrait of Washington
for the Masonic Memorial at Alexandria, VA, which her
husband designed. Corbett was a member of
Sagamore Lodge No. 371, being raised on 15 Feb
1922.
George Washington Masonic National Memorial, 101
Callahan Drive, Alexandria, VA. This 333-foot-tall temple towers above the homes and
businesses in Alexandria. Architect Harvey W. Corbett modeled the building after Egypt's
Lighthouse at Alexandria.
-----
80

http://www.fidelitylodge.com/history3.php
John Martin Knapp was made a Mason in Sagamore Lodge No. 371 of New York City on 31 Oct 1865. He was a lawyer, in
business in New York. His stationery carried the imprint
Knapp and Calkins
Attorneys & Counselors
289 Greenwich Street, New York
His profound interest in Masonry is attested to in many ways. Among the books in the library of Fidelity Lodge No. 113 [Ridgewood,
NJ], there are bound copies of the Grand Lodge Proceedings bearing the personal notes he made. There were also Masonic
journals in the library to which he was a subscriber.
He was born in Hackensack, NJ, 3 Oct 1837. It is not known just when he came to Ho-Ho-Kus but the Ridgewood Atlas published in
1876 shows him living in Ridgewood on Ridgewood Avenue about where the Warner Theater and the Telephone Company now
stand. He was a Captain in the National Guard of New Jersey from the Hackensack area since his name is not listed with the
service men of the Civil War from Ridgewood.
As this history will reveal, Bro. Knapp did succeed in establishing Fidelity Lodge No. 113 and was its Master during Dispensation
and after Constitution for the years 1871 and 1872. He appears to have had a side acquaintance in Masonic circles in Newark,
Paterson, and the Pascack Valley as well as among the Grand Lodge Officers of the day.
In 1872 when M.’. W.’. William Pine was Grand Master [of New Jersey], Bro. Knapp was appointed to the Committee on Finance of
the Grand Lodge and in 1874 he was appointed Grand Representative to the Grand Lodge of the State of Rhode Island. After his
retirement as Master of Fidelity Lodge he continued a lively and active interest in Lodge affairs up to a very short time before his
death in 1908 at the age of 71. He was Secretary in 1873, 1875, 1876, and 1877, Tyler in 1874, Junior Warden in 1881 and Marshal
from 1894 to 1896.
-----
A Standard History of Freemasonry in the State of New York ..., Volume 2, by Peter Ross, page 34.
http://books.google.com/books?id=kWYiAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA180&dq=%22Sagamore+Lodge+No.+371%22&hl=en&ei=h3djTqD5LY
XdgQf-
35GWCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=6&ved=0CEUQ6AEwBQ#v=onepage&q=%22Sagamore%20Lodge%20No.%2
0371%22&f=false
William H. Andrews. The Nestor and moving spirit, since its inception, of the Committee of Antiquities in connection with the Grand
Lodge,—a committee whose work will be more and more appreciated as time rolls on,—is William H. Andrews, whose name has
been more or less prominent in Grand Lodge matters for many years. Bro. Andrews was born at New Haven, CT, 18 Apr 18, 1849,
of a family which had settled at Farmington, in that State, in 1640, and whose present homestead at New Britain has been in their
possession since 1770. He was educated at private schools in New York City, where his father, Horace Andrews, was a practicing
lawyer, and in the Hopkins Grammar School, at New Haven, where he prepared for Yale College. He was compelled by ill health to
abandon the idea of going to Yale, much to his regret, as his grandfather, Professor E. A. Andrews, of fame as a Latin scholar, his
father and two brothers were graduates of that institution. Subsequently he entered the Law School of Columbia College, and was
graduated there in 1869. Since being admitted to the bar he has practiced his profession in the city of New York.
William H. Andrews was raised in Sagamore Lodge, No. 371, on 27 Apr 1878, and after filling various chairs was its Master in the
years 1883-1885,—the longest continuous term in the history of the Lodge. Since retiring from the East he has been one of the
trustees. When, in the year 1884, Most Worshipful Frank R. Lawrence, then Deputy Grand Master, originated the plan of the
reading-room and library, as it now exists in the Masonic Hall, Brother Andrews was appointed secretary of the committee having
the project in charge, conducted the correspondence with the contributing Lodges, and was instrumental in carrying the matter
through successfully. He continued to discharge the duties of secretary until 1889, when, upon his report and recommendation, the
Grand Lodge assumed the control and maintenance of the reading-room. Upon the motion of Brother Andrews the Grand Lodge, in
1886, created an additional standing committee, the Committee of Antiquities. This committee acquired a collection of curios that
had been accumulated by the Reading Room Committee, and has since largely increased the number. Brother Andrews became
chairman of this committee on its organization and still so remains. One of the first contributions was made by him, being the apron,
jewel and certificate presented to his grand uncle, Wor. Levi Andrews, Master of St. John's Lodge, No. 2, of Newberne, N. C., in
1792.
In 1885 Grand Master Lawrence appointed Brother Andrews his deputy in the Sixth District, where he rendered effective service in
the payment of the debt on the Masonic Hall, the subscription of the Sixth District being larger than that of any other in the State. In
1886 Brother Andrews was nominated and confirmed as one of the Commissioners of Appeals and continued in that office until
1892. Though more than once elected High Priest of Phoenix Chapter, he has been forced by other engagements to decline the
office. He was received and greeted in Adelphic Council No. 7, R&SM, 1 Feb 1890; was elected its Master in 1894, and served
acceptably for two years. He has been a member of Mecca Temple, O. M. S., for several years. He is also a member of Azim Grotto
No. 7, MOVPER. Early in his Masonic career Brother Andrews became a member of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, and has
always maintained his interest therein. He joined New York Lodge of Perfection on 8 Apr 1882, and has twice been Orator of that
body. Receiving the 32nd degree the same year, he has served the Consistory in various capacities, having been Chief Judge since
the death of Brother Samuel Jones, 33rd degree. He is also Commissioner of Appeals for the Valley of Brooklyn. These facts
indicate an active Masonic career and an example to the young brethren who today flock to our doors, showing them that work—
good work and square work—is appreciated in the quarries of the craft.
-----
81

Ibid. page 61.
Herbert P. Dedrick, the genial Representative of the Grand Lodge of California near that of New York since 1893, was born at
Saratoga Springs, NY, 15 Jan 1852. After being graduated from the High School of that place he entered the service of the National
Express Company and the entire sketch of his business career up to the date of this writing has been in connection with that
corporation. His first business teacher was Henry Smith, the veteran agent of the company at Saratoga. In 1867 Mr. Dedrick was
given a clerkship at Troy, and then in the line of promotion he became messenger between Montreal and New York, and in 1872
way-bill clerk in the latter city. On 1 Jun 1883, he received the appointment of agent for the company at New York. These
successive promotions were the result of merit, of diligence, and of genuine hard work and honest ambition, and among his many
associates, even among those whom he outstripped in the race for position, no one could truthfully say they were not duly earned
and rightfully won.
15 Apr 1885, Brother Dedrick was raised in Sagamore Lodge, No. 371, New York. He, in time, was elected its Master 1893 and
1894, and as a result his membership in the Grand Lodge won him hosts of friends in Masonic circles throughout the State and led
to his selection as the Representative of the Grand Lodge of California. He was exalted in 1894, in Amity Chapter No. 160, RAM,
and held the office of Scribe, King and High Priest,—the last in 1897,—and he is a member of York Commandery No. 55, KT, and of
Mecca Temple, Mystic Shrine. He is known everywhere as an enthusiastic Mason, one who seeks by its teachings to acquire higher
ideas of life and conduct and who is ever ready to engage in any movement that promises to benefit his Lodge, Chapter or
Commandery.
At the same time Brother Dedrick is fond of home life. He was married 18 Mar 1873, to Julia Francis Hard, at Arlington, VT. He
shares with her a happy home in this city, and there the latch-string is always at the service of a wide circle of attached friends. He is
also what might be called "in politics," to the extent which he considers the duty of every man who claims to be a good citizen. He is
a member of the enrolled Republicans of his district,—he believes in a man standing up to be counted, and then tries to bring his
personal influence to bear upon all questions which interest city, State or nation. He is a firm advocate of the principle of party and in
the old-fashioned American method of "pulling together" to get the sentiments of the majority into the field and so accomplish
something practical in the way of legislation for tho benefit of the whole people.
-----
Ibid. page 101.
Samuel Dana Hubbard, M. D., was born in Montgomery, AL, 19 Mar 1869, and was educated in the University of Alabama. He took
up the study of medicine immediately after leaving that institution, and, entering Bellevue Hospital Medical College, he graduated in
1891. For a time he was Resident Physician at North Brother Island Hospital, serving there in 1891 and 1892, and at present he
holds the responsible position of Diagnostician of the Health Department of New York City.
Dr. Hubbard is a member of the Academy of Medicine, the New York County Medical Association, the Alumni Society of Bellevue
Hospital and the New York Physicians' Mutual Aid Association. He is also a member of the Royal Arcanum and of the True Blues of
Montgomery in his native State of Alabama, and he is now Assistant Surgeon of the Ninth Regiment, N. G. State of N. Y.
He was made a Mason in Montgomery Lodge, No. 68, New York, but affiliated with Sagamore Lodge, No. 371, where he served
as Senior Deacon. In Royal Arch Masonry he was exalted in Phoenix Chapter No. 2, and served very acceptably as its High Priest.
He was knighted in Palestine Commandery, and is a member of Mecca Temple and of the Consistory of the City of New York. Dr.
Hubbard is also a member of the Fraternal Union, Order of Anointed High Priests, and of the Veiled Prophets. He was married, in
1895, to Armilla Monell, of New York City.
-----
Ibid. page 180.
George Darling Johnson. Although constantly engaged in business enterprises, each of which is alone sufficient to absorb the
attention of an ordinary man's working hours, Bro. Johnson, of Sagamore Lodge, No. 371, finds time to gather with his brethren
around the Masonic altar. He was born in New York on 28 Jan 1860, and received his Entered Apprentice degree in Ocean Lodge,
No. 214, Brunswick, GA, in 1890. He received the other two Symbolic degrees in Sagamore Lodge, in 1895, and in quick
succession was exalted and Knighted in Capitular and Chivalric Masonry, holding in each an appointive office. But while devoted to
Masonry, willing to aid in its progress, and ready to do what lies in his power, he is debarred from giving as much time to it as he
would like, on account of his business responsibilities. He is President of the Johnson Drug Company of New York, and also of the
Sagamore Alaska Gold Mining, Prospecting & Trading Company. It is men of his stamp who form
the bone and sinew of the craft, men who can be relied on in season and out of season, and who
are prepared to face with it every possible emergency which may arise.
-----
Ibid. page 184.
Dr. George Knipe, M. D., is a familiar figure among physicians as well as among Masons. He is the
present Junior Warden of Sagamore Lodge, No. 371. His name is also on the rolls of Constitution
Chapter and of Adelphic Council No. 7, and. he is a member of the Consistory of the City of New
York. Dr. Knipe is now serving a second term as Eminent Commander of York Commandery No. 55,
which, according to Templar custom, makes him a life member of the Grand Commandery of this
State. He is a member of Mecca Temple, of the Craftsman's Club and of the Knickerbocker Athletic
Club, and among other organizations to which he belongs may be mentioned the New York State
Medical Association, the New York County Medical Association, the New York County Medical
82

Society, the Physicians' Mutual Aid Society, Academy of Medicine, Royal Arcanum, National Provident Union, Order of United
Friends, and Templars of Liberty of America.
Dr. Knipe was born in Londonderry, Ireland, 28 Jan 1859, and was educated in the excellent Model school of his native city and in
Toronto, Canada. He came to New York City in 1879 and entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons, where he graduated in
1885 and began to build up a practice. It was not long before he became known among the leaders in his profession as one worthy
of their confidence, and this was shown by his holding for three years the post of Professor of Anatomy in the New York Veterinary
College. Dr. Knipe is often consulted in important cases by his professional colleagues, and as a consulting physician his services
are in general demand. His manners are such as to win at once the confidence of the patient, and, as everyone in the profession
knows, this quality is one of the most valuable which a physician can enjoy, for confidence in the healer is one of the best of salves
or medicines.
-----
Ibid. page 304.
Edwin H. Hammer - Having passed through the degrees of the York and the Ancient
and Accepted Scottish Rite, Brother Hammer may be said to have exhausted all the
sources of light which legitimate Masonry in this State can bestow. To pass through
these degrees and affiliate with the various bodies is not, as some thoughtless writers
have asserted, simply the satisfying of a thirst for "jining,"—a vain desire, by the
possession of many degrees, to pose before one's brethren and the world as a Mason of
superior qualifications,—but rather a desire to be as far as possible a perfect Mason.
When one is impressed with the teachings of the three Symbolic degrees (and what
thinking man is not?) it is natural that he should desire to go further, and so the mysteries
of the Holy Royal Arch system are explored. Then, given time and opportunity, it is likely
the student will seek to penetrate still beyond, and, passing through Council and
Commandery, wind up with the Consistory, so that he may be ready intelligently and
satisfactorily to discuss Masonry from every lawful standpoint.
That certainly seems to have been the governing principle of Brother Hammer's Masonic
career. He was first brought to Masonic light in Sagamore Lodge, No. 371, New York,
and was exalted in Amity Chapter No. 160. Passing onward in the York Rite, he received
the Cryptic degrees in Adelphic Council No. 7, and the Knightly orders were conferred
upon him in Palestine Commandery No. 18. Then he became a member of the New York
Lodge of Perfection, the Council of Princes, the Rose Croix Chapter and finally received
the 32d degree in the New York Consistory, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern
Masonic Jurisdiction. He had his name enrolled among the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine
in Mecca Temple and further showed that he fully appreciated the social side of Masonry
by becoming an active member of the Craftsman's Club. Our good brother has not been
an aspirant for office, but he has filled two difficult ones—Senior Deacon of his Lodge,
and Senior Warden and Captain General of his Commandery, and Dec. 21, 1898, he
was elected Master of Sagamore Lodge, just mentioned; and there is no doubt further and higher honors await his acceptance in
the future should he see his way clearly to fulfill their duties, and under no other circumstances would he accept.
Brother Hammer was born at Cleveland, OH, 6 Oct 1857, and an education begun in the grammar schools of that beautiful city was
completed by a classical course at the Northwestern College of Chicago. Then, determining on a commercial career, he went into
the drug business and followed the details of that branch in Cleveland, Philadelphia and New York. For a while he traveled as
salesman for the famous firm of Keasbey & Mattison, and when that concern was incorporated as the Keasbey & Mattison
Company, in 1892, he was elected its Vice-President. In 1895 he organized the American Therapeutic Company and was chosen its
President. He is a member of the Drug Club and one of its directors, and in the circle of that business is prominent in every
movement. He enjoys the complete confidence of all his business associates, and, although he fills many onerous and honorable
positions, it is not thought by his thousands of business friends that his commercial record is by any means closed.
In Masonic circles he is justly popular, and his popularity is of the stamp that "sticks and grows." He takes a practical interest in
every branch to which he belongs, even to the Order of Veiled Prophets. But as the writer of this sketch knows nothing further of that
body except its name he can say nothing of its. Masonic position except that many very worthy brethren are enrolled in its list of
members— or prophets. He died 29 Dec 1915.
-----
Ibid. page 368.
Samuel C. Milbourne is a native of New York City, having been born here on 28 Oct 1863. He
received one of the best educations in the public schools and looks back to his school days with
considerable pleasure. He held one or two minor positions in the city, and in March 1884, he entered
the service of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Co. as passenger agent at Philadelphia, PA. In 1891 he
severed his connection with that company and accepted a similar position with the Union Pacific
Railroad Co. After serving at Pittsburg for two years, and for the next two years at Philadelphia, he
was, in Sep 1895, transferred to the New York office as their passenger representative. He is a very
successful man in the particular line of business that he occupies, and his services are highly
appreciated by his superiors. He is an active member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks,
83

eing a member of Atlantic City Lodge, No. 276, besides prominent in various other associations. His name is also popular in
railroad fraternal circles.
Brother Milbourne was initiated, passed and raised in Crescent Lodge, Pittsburg, PA, was exalted in Shiloh Chapter, and received
the Chivalric degrees in Tancred Commandery, both in the same famous Pennsylvania city. In each of these bodies he held minor
offices, and advancement on the official ladder would have been sure but for the necessity of his removal. On settling in New York
he affiliated with Sagamore Lodge, No. 371, F&AM, Amity Chapter No. 160, RAM, Adelphic Council No. 7, R&SM, and Palestine
Commandery No. 18. He also crossed the burning sands of Mecca Temple, Mystic Shrine, and, it is said, enjoyed the journey. In the
present year (1899) he holds the offices of Senior Deacon of Sagamore Lodge, Principal Sojourner of Amity Chapter, and Junior
Warden of Palestine Commandery. It will be seen from all this that Brother Milbourne is devoted to the fraternity, and we are certain
that the future has in store for him many honors in return for this devotion.
-----
Ibid. page 496.
John B. L'Hommedieu, M. D. - One of the best qualified and most popular of the professional assistants of the Health Office of the
Port of New York is Dr. John B. L' Hommedieu, who is now located at the quarantine station on Staten Island, after having had a
wonderful amount of practical experience in almost all the public institutions of New York City. Wherever he has been stationed he
has made many warm personal and professional friends, and in the medical service of Greater New York no man is today held in
greater honor or is more highly appreciated.
Dr. L' Hommedieu was born at Medina, NY, 27 Mar 1866. After passing through the primary and grammar schools of his native town
he determined on adopting the medical profession and entered the University of the City of New York. He was zealous in his
attendance on all the classes and demonstrations, studied hard, and held a good position in the class of 1890, in which he was
graduated. Obtaining his degree, he was for a time attached to Bellevue Hospital, and from there went to the Insane Asylum on
Ward's Island, and later became associated with the Health Department with a charge on North Brother Island. His present
appointment at Quarantine was pronounced, when it was made, a most fitting one, and since then the valuable assistance he has
rendered at that important station has fully justified the high anticipations then expressed.
Dr. L' Hommedieu is devoted to the principles of the Masonic fraternity, but the necessities of his official position are exacting and
leave him less opportunity for showing his devotion than he desires. He was initiated, passed and raised in Medina Lodge, No.
336, in 1889, but after settling in New York affiliated with Sagamore Lodge, No. 371, of which he is now a member.
-----
Ibid. page 530.
William F. Browne, one of the best known sanitary plumbers of New York, was born in Polo, IL, 13 Mar 1858. For the past
twenty-seven years he has been engaged, mainly in New York, in the plumbing business, and as an advanced worker in that line
has acquired more than local eminence. He has devoted the utmost care to the scientific improvements which have of recent years
been made in the business and has kept fully abreast of the wonderful details which have raised plumbing almost from a trade into a
profession.
Brother Browne was made a Mason in Sagamore Lodge, No. 371, and has served as its Master. He received the Royal Arch
degrees in Amity Chapter No. 160, in which he has held the office of Scribe, and he was Guard in Palestine Commandery No. 18,
KT. He is a member of New York Council No. 348, Royal Arcanum, and of Metropolis Council, L. A. B. No. 12.
Other Members
Masters:
Luther B. Pert: Petitioner, May 1861, for the National Zouave Lodge, U.D. [q.v.], & Master of Montgomery Lodge No. 68, 1863-64.
Charles W. Wilson: noted as a Master in the 1890 GL Proceedings.
Ulysses Baker: also noted as a Master in the 1890 GL Proceedings.
Sagamore-Napthali Lodge No. 371
1971 merged with Greenwich No. 467 to become Sagamore No. 371
In 1967, Corinthian Lodge No. 488 merged with Architect Lodge No. 519 to become Corinthian Architect Lodge No. 488.
In 1971, Sagamore-Napthali Lodge No. 371 merged with Greenwich Lodge No. 467 to become Sagamore Lodge No. 371.
In 1996, Sagamore Lodge no. 371 merged with Corinthian Architect Lodge No. 488 to become Heritage Lodge No. 371.
La Fayette Lodge No. 373
Warrant: 2 Dec 1824
Renumbered No. 64, Jun 1839
La Sincerite Lodge No. 373 [aka Cincerit] [prev. No. 122 – q.v.]
1887 Grand Lodge Proceedings:
In the matter of the application of La Sincerité Lodge, No. 373, F. & A. M.
84

This is an application of La Sincerity Lodge, No. 373, F. & A. M., for a revival of a warrant granted to it on the 10th of April, 1805,
and a cancellation of the warrant under which the said lodge now works, with certain amendments hereinafter noted. This lodge
was, by a warrant granted in 1805, known as No. 122. It appears that on the 1st of September, 1813, upon petition, the Grand
Lodge permitted the lodge to suspend its work, with a proviso that upon application the work could be resumed at any future time.
Leave to resume work was given by the M.’. W.’. Martin Hoffman, Grand Master, and approved by the Grand Lodge June 2d, 1824.
The warrant was again surrendered and accepted by the Grand Lodge March 3d, 1830, with the same proviso with relation to
resuming work upon application duly made. When the lodges were renumbered in 1839, Mount Morris Lodge was assigned No.
122, and is known by that number at this time. This number was the old number of La Sincerite Lodge, the last mentioned lodge
being now No. 373. The application is for a revival of the warrant granted in 1805, and for its amendment by your Grand Body to the
extent that the old charter number be changed from 122 to No. 373, and for the further relief that La Sincerité shall be allowed to
surrender for cancellation the warrant under which the lodge now works. While the application has undoubted merit, yet after due
deliberation your Committee doubt the power of the Grand Lodge to afford the relief asked. There being no opposition, the following
resolution is recommended for adoption:
"Resolved, That the prayer of the petition of La Sincerite Lodge, No. 373, F. & A. M., dated May 1, 1887, be denied."
-----
1885 Grand Lodge Proceedings:
R.’ . W.’. Jacob Tartter departed this life, after a severe illness of several years duration, on the 29th of March last, in the seventysecond
year of his age. He was made a mason in L'Union Franchise Lodge No. 17, in 1851, and founded La Sincerite Lodge
No. 373, in 1853, of which he became the first elected Master, serving as such for fourteen years. In 1873 he was appointed District
Deputy Grand Master of the Latin District. He was an enthusiastic mason, taking a deep interest in blue lodge matters, and dearly
beloved by the members of his lodge and by all those who knew him.
-----
A Standard History ofFfreemasonry in the state of New York ..., Volume 2, by Peter Ross, page 508.
http://books.google.com/books?id=kWYiAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA508&lpg=PA508&dq=%22La+Sincerite+Lodge+No.+373%22&source=
bl&ots=YoiGoWyH2i&sig=EqGK6EOZzOgy6znVCXeYoVWLn0&hl=en&ei=56RjTs7AJeHb0QHOmdyBCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=7&ved=0CDYQ6AEwBg#v=onepa
ge&q=%22La%20Sincerite%20Lodge%20No.%20373%22&f=false
William Louis Mathot has been one of the most devoted members of the Masonic fraternity in New York since 7 Jun 1893, when
he was raised in La Sincerite Lodge, No. 373. and has been a close Masonic student. As Master of La Sincerite Lodge for four
years—1896, 1897, 1898 and 1899— he made the meetings of that body landmarks in the yearly routine of Masonic work and
attracted to each communication throngs of visitors who desired to see the manner, peculiar in most respects, in which the three
degrees were conferred, in French. Brother Mathot received the Capitular degrees in Triune Chapter No. 241, and the Cryptic
degrees in Adelphic Council, No. 7 R. & S. M. That was as far as he cared to proceed along the way of the so-called '"York" Rite.
In the meantime Brother Mathot had received the degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, up to and including the 32nd,
in the bodies in New York working under the sanction of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. He became a student of the work and
history of that rite from his entrance and he bestowed careful and intelligent attention upon the various bodies and eagerly watched
the exemplification of each of the degrees. He was elected Master of the Lodge of Perfection in 1897 and under his care the work of
that body was one of the most elevated Masonic pleasures in New York. But he felt impelled to decline further service at the close of
1897. However, although out of office, he still continues his deep interest and thus maintains a prominence in the craft which has
come to him, so to speak, as a family legacy, his father and grandfathers having all been prominent, in their day and generation, in
Masonic circles.
Brother Mathot was born in New York City 28 Sep 1870. He was educated for the bar at New York University, where he took the
degree of LL. B. and pursued a post-graduate course, and he now holds the degree of Ph. B. from St. Francis Xavier's College. He
is an active member of the Delta Upsilon college fraternity and the Delta Chi, a legal society, and was associate editor of one of their
catalogues. On leaving college he entered upon his profession as a lawyer and has quickly built up a lucrative practice as a trial
lawyer.
Hoffman Lodge No. 378
Warrant: 3 Mar 1825; extant in 1828.
1828 Officers:
Daniel F. Lee, W. M ;
John Dick,
J. D.;
Charles N. Baldwin, S. W.;
A. A. Carpenter, Samuel Forbes, M. C;
John G. Haight, J. W.;
Rev. J.Truair, Chaplain;
J. P. Persson, Secretary;
E. Windust, William Freeman, Stewards;
Samuel Brower, Treasurer;
E. Norcross, Tyler.
Thomas Kendall, S. D.;
Job Sheldon, C. N. Baldwin, John G. Haight, J. P. Persson, Samuel Brower, Standing Committee;
C. N. Baldwin, J. G. Haight, Samuel Brower, Committee of Charity Fund;
Met on the 1st and 3d Thursdays, at Masonic Hall, Broadway.
85

History of the Military Company of the Massachusetts, . . ., Volume 3, by Oliver Ayer Roberts, page 23.
http://books.google.com/books?id=9jIMAQAAMAAJ&pg=PA73&dq=%22Hoffman+Lodge+No.+378%22&hl=en&ei=VQJkToigLIrF0A
G38tSCCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CDMQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q=%22Hoffman%20Lodge%20No.%20
378%22&f=false
James Hunt, carpenter, of Boston, son of John and Rebecca (Hicks) Hunt, of Watertown, was born 13 Oct 1796; d. 8 Oct 1851. He
was married four times: (1) 1 Jan 1817, to Mary Stevens, (2) 21 Sep 1829, to Sarah Hadlock, (3) 17 May 1836, to Mary Hadlock,
and (4) 23 Jun 1850, to Sarah Hill, of Billerica. He died childless. He resided, at the time of his decease, at No. 25 Walker Street,
Boston. For five years he held the office of ensign; was afterward captain of the Mechanic Rifles and Winslow Blues; third sergeant
of the Artillery Company in 1830; first sergeant in 1832 and 1835, and lieutenant in 1837. His brother, Ensign William H. Hunt, joined
the Artillery Company in 1820. James Hunt was elected to membership in Columbian Lodge, of Boston, March 5, 1835.
Ibid. page 73.
James Hunt, housewright, of Boston, joined the Artillery Company 29 Sep 1823, and was discharged 19 Jan 1827. He was
reinstated as a member 11 May 1829, and was discharged 27 May 1833. Capt. Hunt was orderly sergeant of the Artillery Company
in 1832-33. Having been tried by a court martial and found guilty of conduct unbecoming an officer of the militia, he was not
permitted to retain his position of first sergeant of the Artillery Company. He therefore resigned his warrant of sergeant, and
requested a discharge from the Company, which was granted.
Capt. Hunt received the Masonic degrees in Hoffman Lodge, No. 378, New York, Jan. 25, 1829. He was a member of the
Universalist Church, in Boston. He resided in New York City for a time, and erected several large buildings for business purposes.
Eastern Star Lodge No. 379
Warrant: 4 Mar 1825; extant 1827
1827 Officers:
Cornelius B. Timpson, W. M.;
Abraham Lamereaux, S. W.; [Lamoreaux]
Andrew Williams, J. W.;
Samuel Harned, Secretary;
E. G. Dunnel, Treasurer;
Hugh Parks, S.D.;
John Strickland, J.D.;
J. S. Inglee, Benjamin Brown, M. C;
Alexander Brown, Thomas Winship, Stewards;
John Green, Tyler.
Met on the 1st and 3d Thursdays, at Eastern Hall, Manhattan Island.
Franklin Lodge No. 380 [No. 447]
Warrant: 6 Apr 1825; extant in 1827.
Revived as Franklin Lodge No. 447 [q.v.].
American Masonic Record, and Albany Saturday magazine, Volume 1, 22 Sep 1827, page 256. [for Lodge Nos. 380 thru 392
below]
http://books.google.com/books?id=wENJAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA265&lpg=PA265&dq=%22Franklin+Lodge+No.+380%22&source=bl&ot
s=CB2609u9cz&sig=am0I-
PhIeybpzC9oQ5869GfqjkE&hl=en&ei=T9RkTvGLEobUgAfC7v28Cg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CCEQ6AE
wAQ#v=onepage&q=%22Franklin%20Lodge%20No.%20380%22&f=false
Franklin Lodge, No. 380.
Charles Cleeve, W. M.; Pallin Sims, S. W.; O. Donnington, J. W.; J. Curamerford, Secretary; William Hibbard, Treasurer; Abraham
D. Brower, S. D.; John Conklin, J. D.; J. C. Stanly, L. Nettieton, M. C; A. H. Castaing, J. N. Magee, Stewards; Charles Cleeve, M. D.
Hosp.; Jacob Shinkle, Pallin Sims, O. Donnington, William Bloodgood, A. D. Brower, Standing Committee; William G. Henshaw,
Tyler.
Meet 2d and 4th Fridays, at Union Hall.
Greenwich Lodge, No. 381.
Warrant: 7 Apr 1825
Surrendered 7 Dec 1835; revived as Greenwich No. 467 in 1859 [q.v.]; Consolidated with Sagamore-Naphthali Lodge No. 371 in
1971, which became Sagamore No. 371..
Daniel H. Weed, W. M.; John, H. Martine, ST W.; P. Underwood, jr. J. W.; F. M. V. Pfister, Secretary; Daniel French, Treasurer;
Joseph Bender, S. D.; John Stewart, J. D.; F. R. West, John Boyce, M. C; David D. Page, S. D. Trouse, Stewards; P. Underwood,
Jr. J. H. Martine, Richard B. Fosdick, Robert Addams, George Weed, Standing Committee; R. D. Clements, Tyler.
Meet 1st and 3d Thursdays, corner of Sixth Avenue and Fifth-street.
86

Daniel H. Weed was born in 1795, most probably in the City of New York. He was a carpenter and builder by trade and pursued that
business for many years in old Greenwich Village. In 1839 he left the city and took up a trail for the West, which was to terminate at
Madison, Wisconsin. The following clipping from the "Wisconsin Argus," Madison, Wisconsin, April 2, 1850, was received by the
Lodge shortly afterward:
"DIED - of paralysis, at his residence in Madison, to-day (April 2), Daniel H. Weed, age fifty-five years.
"The deceased had resided in Madison about one year. The attack which terminated his life was very sudden and unexpected,
and his family and surviving friends have the warmest sympathy of the whole community in their bereavement.
"The funeral will take place at ten o'clock on Thursday morning, and an invitation has been extended to the members of the Sons
of Temperance, Mechanic's Association and Odd Fellows to be present."
Bro. Weed was raised in Washington Lodge [No. 21] on August 17, 1819, and served as Master in 1824. In 1825 he withdrew to
organize old Greenwich Lodge No. 381, and became its first Master. Overwhelmed by the Morgan trouble, this Lodge
surrendered its charter and Bro. Weed re-affiliated with Washington Lodge in 1837. Bro. Weed was also connected with
Jerusalem Chapter No. 8, R. A. M.
http://heritage371.org/node/71
Greenwich Lodge No. 467
History dates back to Jan 1825, when Daniel H Weed and others petitioned the Grand Lodge to grant a dispensation to form a
Lodge in Greenwich Village, to be known as Greenwich Lodge; this was recommended by Temple Lodge No. 10, Patriot Lodge No.
39 and Washington Lodge No. 84. On 7 Apr 1825, a dispensation was granted to Greenwich Lodge No. 381, W Daniel Weed first
Master. Greenwich Lodge continued until 1833. This is the last year that any record can be found until the convention of the Grand
Lodge in 1835, when the Grand Secretary reported that he had been informed that Greenwich Lodge #381 had no Lodge room,
neglected to elect Officers, and that there was little probability of reorganization of its members on a working basis. The Grand
Master then ordered the Lodge to elect their Officers and proceed with the business of the Lodge in due and ancient form or
surrender their warrant. On 7 Dec 1835, the warrant was surrendered to the Grand Secretary.
28 Jan 1859, a petition was presented for a dispensation to revive Greenwich Lodge, which was recommended by Empire City
Lodge No. 206, and signed by seven of the original members, and nine others joined mostly from National Lodge, and the
dispensation was granted. The first preliminary meeting was held in the Odd Fellows Hall on the following day, 29 Jan 1859, first
Master, W John A. Lefferds, with 15 charter Members. The Lodge number was changed from 381 to 467
Jan 1860, it had 65 members, and 24 were added that year.
At one time, known as the Police Department Lodge, at another time, the Railroad Lodge.
100th Anniversary on 2 May 1959, at that time, had 203 members (136 active, 67 life members)
Consolidation with Sagamore-Naphthali, By Laws approved by Grand Lodge on May 4, 1971. 1 Apr 1971, Stated Communication:
Resolved, Insofar as the name adopted in the “Agreement of Consolidation” of Sagamore-Naphthali Lodge No. 371, may and has
caused some confusion, we respectfully request the Charters Committee to substitute for Masonic Lodge No. 371, the name
Sagamore Lodge No. 371 (submitted by Charles F. Kramer III, Senior Warden and Past Master).
Mariners' Lodge, No. 385. [see also Mariners’ Lodge No. 67]
Samuel Morton, W. M.J Thomas D. Johnson, S. W.; Jacob Moore, Jr. J. W.; Joseph Allen, Secretary; William Miller, Treasurer; John
Waydell, S. D.; James King, J.'D.; John Harrison, W. Whittimore, M. C; Joseph Henderson, W. S. Seaman, Stewards; William G.
Henshaw, Tyler.
Meet 2d and 4th Wednesdays, at Union Hall.
The Corsairs Club was founded by members of Mariners Lodge No. 67 and Joshua Lodge No. 890.
The Corsairs Club aims to improve our understanding of Freemasonry. Our meetings are characterized by
lively philosophical debate. Club members present papers on Masonry, discuss books and work together to
develop an educational curriculum for new initiates. We aim to both deepen our understanding of the Craft and
to develop the skills needed to articulate that understanding. We will learn to think well and speak well.
87

http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:gOb9OSM_ZP0J:www.mariners67.org/pages/archives/1831.html+%22Ma
riners'+Lodge,+No.+385%22&cd=2&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=us
1831
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday evening (Crossed out Dec) (in Pencil January 12th) 5831
Present. John Waydell WM
Enoch C Chapman SW
John W Barney JW
Wm. G Henshaw Tyler and a number of Brethren duly Assembled Entd. A Lodge was opened in form minutes of the meetings on
the 22nd & 27 december was read & approved. a letter from Br. Jo. P Buxton was read, wherein he wishes to withdraw from this
Lodge . on motion that his dues re remitted and he be permitted to withdraw. On motion resolved that this Lodge present to WPM
Moore a piece of Plate, or jewel, or any thing, he may make choice, (to the value of Thirty Dollars) WPM Harding Arnold & Chapman
be a committee to procure the Same. WM Waydell proposed for Initiation in this Lodge Mr. Jesse West profession Cooper on motion
that his name be entered on the minutes & handed to the Standing Committee for Investigation. Br. Elisha Sawyer dues being paid
up Regularly withdrew his member from this Lodge the Rt W P Scety Reccomended to this Lodge to appoint a Visiting Committee to
visit the Different Lodges of this city. On motion resolved that a committee of five be appointed to fufill that duty. On motion Brs.
Waydell Arnold Haring Hemingway & Chapman be that Committee. On motion that Br. Willson chaplain of this Lodge, be added to
that Committee. A communication from Washington Lodge Cont. the names of a number of Suspended members was read, ordered
to be filed. (crossed out no other business) nothing futher offering the Lodge closed.
Recd. P Rollins dues $3
J Weast prol. Fee br Br. Waydell $2 James F Harding
Btate (?) amtd. $5
The Standing Committee of Mariners Lodge 385 Beg leave to state that they have examined the Secty and Treasurer’s books and
have to report that on Sept. 22nd 1830 There was a Balance in the Treasury of Sixteen 65/100 Dollars that he has received from the
Secretary since that time, Fifty Eight Dollars that he has paid out as for Vouchers Seventy two 52/100 Dollars. Leaving a balance at
this time of Fifty One 95/100 Dollars in the Treasury that he has in due bill Seventy five Dollars, The Committee also report that
there is in the Old Savings Bank to the credit of Br. Harding, two hundred Dollars with Intrest from Deposit. The committee also
report that tha chairman of the Charity Committee had in his hands on 22d Sep 1830- seven 50/100 Dollars that he had paid out for
charitable purposes Six dollars, leaving a balance of One 50/100 Dollars in Hand. All of which is respy. Submitted.
$10.45 in Treas. 22 sept 1830 James T Harding
58.00 recd fm Secty since George Arnold
74.45 whole amo
22.50 pd out as p voucher
51.95 ball.ce in treasury New York 17th January 3831
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday evening Jany. 26 5831
Present. John Waydell WM
Enoch C Chapman SWPT
John Redding JW
Wm G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree the minutes of the last
meeting together with the report of the S Committee on the state of the funds was read and approved. The S committee reported
favorably of Mr. West on motion that the report be received & he be balloted for the balls were unanimous in favor of his admission
Mr. West being in waiting was brought forward duly prepared and received the degree of EA. WPM Br. Morton stated that the widow
of our late Br. Oliver Barton to be in a distressed state on motion carried that she be referred to the C. Committee. The Committee
appointed to procure a piece of plate reported that they had procured the same when our WPM Br. Arnold presented to WPM Moore
one ? dozen of Teand Tablespoons valued at Thirty Dollars. The Visiting Committee having performed their tour of duty was
discharged & a Committee of three appointed in their place to perform that duty till our next regular meeting committee consist of Br.
Arnold Heally & Miller(?) On motion that the WM draws on the Treasurer for fifteen dollars in favor of CC was carried on motion.
That a committee of 3 be appointed to ascertain what a room could be had for the ensuring year. WM appd. Br. Arnold Harding &
Chapman to report at the next meeting. The following bills was passed for payment A Farrs for refreshments $8. 75/100 Stebbins &
Hows (Thomas E. Stebbins & Howe New York Silversmiths) for spoons $30 W G Henshaw for tyling $17.50/100 received visiting
comitte from Hiram Albion Phoenix Trinity and Permain illion Lodges. No other business the Lodge closed.
Collected Mr. West inian. Fee $18.00 James T Harding Secy.
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday evening Feb 9th 5831
Present. John Waydell WM
“ Jacob Moore Jr. SWPT
“ John Dudley JWPT
Wm G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree the minutes of the last
meeting together with the report of the S Committee on the state of the funds was read and approved. EA lodge closed and FC
opened. Br. West was brought forward and received the degree of F Craft. Lodge of FC closed that of MM opened. Br. West being
brought forward was raised to the Sublime degree of a Master Mason. A petition for charity from the widow of Capt. Clement
88

Cathell( was second in command to Privateer Captain Boyle during the War of 1812 , on the Comet Ship was sold to a syndicate in
New York, and Cathell outraced a British ship from Wilmington NC to New York Harbor). On motion was referred to the C
Committee. A petition for charity from the widow of Capt. Hed (?) Hilger was referred to the C. Committee. A petition from John
Bank and Robert F. Jones was severally referred to Charity Committee. A bill for rent from the proprietors of Union Hall for 1st inst.
for & 15 passed for payment. Received Committee(s) from the following Lodges Minerva Permain Llion Mechanic New Jerusalem
Trinity King Mt. Tabor & Montgomery committee appointed to ascertain what a room could be hired, have conferred with the several
proprietors of Lodge rooms and find that Fifty dollars is the lowest terms. On motion the report of Committee be referred back to
committee with power to hire the room in Union Hall. The visiting having performed their tour of duty was discharged and a new
committee appointed to consist of five vis. Br. Waydell West Barney Reeves Hemingway. A petition from P Stewart was referred to
the CC. On motion Br. John T Davis be erased from our list of members no other business offering Lodge closed.
Received from M Reeves 3 dlls. James T Harding
Paid Treasurer $26 in full
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday evening Feb 23 5831
Present. John Waydell WM
John Dudley SWPT
Enoch C Chapman
Wm G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree the minutes of the last meeting
together with the report of the S Committee on the state of the funds was read & approved. Br Harrison proposed Br. G. Ward he
having been made by dispensation in this Lodge, motion made and seconded that his name be handed to the Standing Committee
for investigation. Br. Moore stated that it was the wish of Br. Elisha Sawyer to resume his membership in this Lodge it was on motion
that he be received on paying his dues from the time of his withdrawal. Br. Moore proposed for initiation Mr. John George
accountant on motion that his name be handed to the SC for investigation. The visiting Committee aving performed their tour of duty
was discharged & another appointed to consist of five viz; Br. Waydell West Harris or Chapman & Gowen. No other business the
Lodge closed.
Recd. From Br. Peterson $3.50
M Petty 5.25
M Sylvester 6.00
Prepostion (sic) fee 2.00 for Br. Moore fr J George
$16.75
Pd GL dues to 27th December
385 $18.50/100 Int. fee $2.00
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday evening March 9th 5831
Present. John Waydell WM
Jacob Moore Jr. SW
Enoch C Chapman
Wm G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened the minutes of the last meeting was read
and approved .The SC Committee favorably of Mr. John George for Initiation also for Br. G Ward for membership on motion they
were balloted for and unanimously received Mr. George being in waiting was duly prepared and received the degree of EA. Br.
Arnold was appointed to procure a ballot-box & balls for this Lodge. The Committee appointed to procure a room reported that they
have hired the room in Union Hall for the ensuing year at Fifty Dollars. On motion the report be received and Committee discharged.
On motion that Br. Jno. F Davis be requested to come forward and pay his dues on the next regular meeting. On motion that the
Secy. Be directed to notice all delinquent members in this city to come and pay their dues by the next regular meeting. The Visiting
Committee was discharged and another appointed viz. Br. Arnold Chapman Allen Omsburg (?) & Harding. A list of suspended from
Silencia Lodge was read and ordered to be filed . No other business the Lodge closed.
Received from J George $8
C. Stewart 3.75
W Ingurson 1.00
$12.75 James F Harding
Secy
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday evening Mar 23 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell WM
Enock C Chapman
Carpenter PT
Wm G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree the minutes of the last
meeting was read and approved. A communication from Br. JP Marino was read petitioning for relief. On motion, the petition was
laid on the table. An Extract of the proceeding of the RW Grand Lodge was received and read. On motion carried that as Br. John F
Davis has not come forward as pr Notice to attend this meeting, he be suspended & reported to the grand Lodge for nonpayment of
dues. On motion that the Visiting Committee be discharged and Another of Five to be appointed viz. Br, Sawyer Allen Hemingway
Willson & Waydell-
Br. P Sharpe having pd up his dues Regularly withdrew his membership. On motion that the names of all the Delinquent members
with the amot. Of their dues attached to them be made out, and laid before the Loge at the next regular meeting for their
89

consideration by Br. Joseph Allen. No further business the Lodge Closed in Harmony.
James T Harding
Rec fr. Br. Sharpe $3.62 1/2
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday evening April 13th 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell WM
Jacob Moore Jr PT
Jacob Mull (?) PT
Wm G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree the minutes of the last
meeting was read and approved. A dispensation from the RW D Grand master dated 29th March 5830 to confer the three first
degrees of Masonry on Capt. Nathan Pendleton was read on motion carried that it be received & acted on. Cap. N Pon. Being in
waiting was duly prepared & received the degree of EA the Lodge closed & opened in FC opened Brs. George & Pendleton being
duly prepared was brought forward and received the degree of F Crafts Lodge closed & that of MM opened Brs. George &
Pendleton being duly prepared was brought forward and Raised to the sublime degree of MM in due and ancient form a
communication from Phoenix Lodge reported the suspension of Francis Dominick Rundus (?) & Follerton was received and read.
Br. Allen presented a report of all the delinquent Brothers of this Lodge. on motion that it lay over until the next meeting. A petition
from John Green of lantern Star Lodge was referred to CC. Br. Harrison proposed Br. N Pendleton for membership in this Lodge.
On motion that he be referred to the SC for the usual investigation. No further business the Lodge closed in Harmony.
James T Harding
Rec Initiation fee Br. Pendleton $20.
Due bill Br. George 10-
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday evening April 27th 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell WM
George Arnold PT
Thomas Goin PT
Wm G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in the degree of EA the minutes of the last
meeting was read and approved a petition from Br. Elijah Weems. for charity was received on motion of Br. Arnold it was referred to
the Select Committee of three vis. Brs. Arnold West & Hemmingway. On motion carried that twenty dollars be appropriated to the
CC on motion by Br. Arnold that the list of delinquent members be referred to the S Committee , The SC reported favorably of Br
Pendleton as an adjoining member the report was excepted (sic) and the Br. balloted for and Unanimously received. No other
business the Lodge closed in harmony.
Sigd. John D O’Connor PT
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday evening May 11th 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell WM
Mull PT
Barney PT
Wm G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree the minutes of the last
meeting was read and approved the special committee appointed to wait on Br E Weems reported that they had performed that duty
and granted him five dollars on motion the report was received and the Committee discharged on motion it was resolved that the list
f delinquent Members be read and acted on when the names of Brs. John Abrams Sam Allen John (initial) Bartlett Stafford Brownell
Nathaniel Badger John Clark Edward S. Card Halsey Curtis William Cascaddin John Delesdenier Richard Evans Samuel Goldsmith
Edward Hall (initial) Hitchcock Jack Hickman J W Knight Isaac Overton Abner Pitcher A M Robertson A L Reynold Benj. Richardson
James Rickels Josh. Stardevant William Spurling Matthew Thompson Thor. Walton Nathaniel Stafford Mark Somers Joseph Atkins
Dudley Pillet Jacob Hickman Samuel Jones James King Rick (?) O Neal were read. On motion resolved that they be discharged till
such time as they return and pay up their dues on motion that Br. Peter Robertson be suspended and reported to G lodge. On
motion resolved that the resident members be notified to come forward and pay up their dues by the next regular meeting or show
cause why they should not be suspended on that night, for the default thereof, Br Lewis(?) having paid up his dues withdrew his
membership from the Lodge A bill was read for rent up to the first inst. and passed for payment. No other business the Lodge closed
in harmony.
Recd. Br Lewis(?) dues $5.37 1/2 James T Harding
Sy
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday Evening 25th May 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell W Master
Mull PT
Miller PT
Wm G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree the minutes of the last
meeting was read and approved. On motion resolved that the dues of Br. Isaac Segewick(?) be remitted and he have leave to
withdraw on motion that Br. Henderson have time given him to pay his dues carried. On motion that Br. Morton have time given him
to pay his dues carried. On motion that Br. John Dudley be suspended and reported to GL for nonpayment of dues. Br Waydell
90

proposed for (crossed membership) initiation Cap. James Foster mariner. On motion that his name be handed to SC for
investigation no other business Lodge closed in harmony
Col’d. J Foster fee} James T Harding Sy
From Br. Waydell } $2
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on We’d Evening June 8th 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell WM
Jacob Moore Jr. PT
E C Chapman JW
Wm G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. EA Lodge opened the minutes of the last meeting was read and
approved the SC reported favorably for Cap. Foster, on motion that the report be received & candidate balloted for carried, when the
ballot was examined for his admission. Br Harding proffered his resignation to this Lodge as Trustee of surplus Fund likewise as
Secretary as he should withdraw his membership on the first meeting in July, no onter business the lodge closed in Harmony
James T Harding secy
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday Evening June 22nd 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell WM
George Arnold PT
John Dudley PT
Wm G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree the minutes of the last
meeting was read and approved. Br. Stafford Brownwell having paid up his dues withdrew his membership from this Lodge no other
business the Lodge closed in Harmony.
James T Harding Sec
Col.d for S Brownwell $7.87 ?
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wed Evening July 14th 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell WM
Geo. Arnold
Jacob Moore JR
Wm G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree the minutes of the last
meeting was read & approved. Br. Harding resigned as Secty. & Br. Jesse West was appointed to act as secretary until the next
election. Br. West was appointed trustee of the surplus Fund in place of Br. Harding. No other business the Lodge closed in
harmony.
James T Harding
Collected dues from G. Arnold $1.50
Jn. Waydell 1.50
Jn. Harris 1.50
Calvin Babbage 4.50
Jos.h Allen 1.50
Alex.a le Clair 1.50
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday Evening July 27th 5831
Present RW Jn Waydell WM
Enoch C Chapman Sr. W PT
William Hemingway JW PT
George Arnold tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in the entt.d. apprentice degree the minutes
of the last meeting was read and approved. No business the Lodge closed in harmony.
Collected dues from Wm. Miller $2.00
Paid the same to the Treasurer Jesse West Secy.
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday Evening 10th August 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell WM
Enoch C Chapman SW PT
Jacob Mull JW PT
Brother. George Arnold tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree in due form the
minutes of the last meeting were read and aprd. Br. Chapman moved that a committee be appointed to wait on Br. Richd. Evans to
request him to attend the next meeting or ascertain his intentions in reguard to his dues to this Lodge the motion being seconded
and put was carried. Br Chapman was appointed on that committee and the WM volunteered his services on said Committee. No
other business appearing the Lodge Closed in Harmony.
John D O Connor secy PT
91

At an Extra Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Thursday Evening 18th August AL 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell WM
Enoch C Chapman SWPT
John Murch JW PT
Wm G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree when Mr. David M Foster
was prepared came forward and received the degree of an EA in due form, EA Lodge closed and that of FC opened when Br.
Foster was again prepared came forward and received the FC Degree in due and ancient form no further business appearing the
Lodge closed in Harmony
Jesse West Secy
At an Extra Meeting of Mariner Lodge 385
held at Union Hall on Friday evening 19th August AL 5831
Present Br. George Arnold WMPT
Steven Ketchum SWPT
Jacob Mull JWPT
Wm G Henshaw Tyler and a number of Bretheren duly assembled the Lodge was opened in the MM deg-ree Br. Foster being duly
prepared came for-ward and received the Degree of Master Mason in Due and ancient form no further business the Lodge closed in
harmony.
Jesse West secy
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday Evening 24th August 5831
Present. Br. George Arnold WMP
Wm. Johnson SW PT
John Murch JW PT
Wm. G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree in due form the minutes of
the last Regular and two extra meetings were read and aprd. A dispensation from RWD Grand Master dated 23rd August AL5831 to
confer the first three degrees of Masony on Mr. Wm. Seger was received, on motion carried that it be received and acted on, Mr
wm. Seger being in waiting, was duly prepared brot (sic) forward and received the degree of EA. EA Lodge closed and FC opened.
Br. Seger being duly prepared was brought forward and received the degree of FC fellow Craft Lodge closed and that of M.M.
opened Br. Seger was brot forward and recv,d the Sublime degree of Master Mason in due and ancient formthe following bills being
presented were passed for payment
From the proprieters of Union Hall for rent to 1st inst. $12.50
& Wm. G Henshaw for tyling - - - 22.00
& ballot boxes $5.00 – cabletow $ 2.50- Draws and Slippers $2.50 $10.00
$ 44.50
Recd. From Br. Waydell Initiation fee
Of Br. Foster - $18.00
Initiation fee of Seger 20.00
Paid the Same to the Treasurer $38.00
No further the Lodge closed in Harmony
Jesse West, Secy
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday evening 23 Novbr. 5831
Prt. John Waydell WM
Enoch C Chapman SWPT
Alex P McClain JWPT
Wm G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree the minutes of the last
meeting was read and approved. A motion was made and carried by Br. Arnold that Capt. Guy F. Addams bear honorary member of
this Lodge. A motion was made and carried that a committee of three be appointed to furnish refreshment for the Lodge on the
evening of the ensuing election hereupon Br. WM John Waydell and Br. George Arnold & John Harrison were appointed to that
committee. A motion was made and carried that the expense of said refreshment be paid from the funds of the Lodge. No further
business the Lodge closed in harmony.
Recd. From Br. George Arnold for dues $1.50
Amnt. Of a due bill from Abraham L. Reynolds 15.00
17.50
Jesse West Secy.
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday Evening 14th Sept 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell WM
Enoch C Chapman SW PT
George Arnold JW PT
92

Wm. G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in due form in EA degree the minutes of
the last meeting were read and approved
Br. Waydell proposed for initiation Mr. Wm. Yates by profession a Rigger and Stevedore on Motion Carried his name was reciev,d
and handed to the standing Committee for investigation a petition for relief was received from the widow of Br. Lewis Thatcher and
on being read on Motion Carried was refered to the Charity Committee.
Red. From Br. Waydell Mr. Yates Pro. (erasure) fee $2.00
Dues from br. Robert Steelman $ 1.50
Paid the same to the Treasurer $ 3.50
Jesse West, Secy
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday Evening 28th Sept 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell WM
“ John Allen SW
“ Mull JW PT
Wm. G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree the minutes of the last
meeting was read and approved Br. Harrison proposed for initiation Captn. Lewis Parish by occupation a mariner on Motion carried
his names was received and handed to the standing Committee for investigation Recd. Fro Br. Harrison prn. fee of Lewis Parish
2.00
Paid the same to the Treasurer
Jesse West secy
At a regular (erased)
The Standing Committee of Mariners Lodge No 385 beg most respectfully to report that they have examined the books of the
Secretary and the Treasurer and they find a balance in in the hands of the Treasurer of Twelve 57/100 Dollars. And in due Bilss
Seventy five Dollars making in all Eighty Seven 57/100 Dollars. The committee Also report that there is in the Savings Bank two
hundred dollars held by Br. James T Harding for Mariners Lodge-
The Standing Committee also report that the chairman of the Charity Committee hand in his hands at last report 17th Janry. 1830
One 50/100 Dollars and that he received from the Treasurer Thirty Five Dollars –making Thirty Six 50/100. that he has paid out for
Charity proposes Thirty Two Dollars, leaving in balance in the hands of the Chairman of said Committee of- Four 50/100 Dollars. All
of which is respectfully submitted.
Joseph Allen
New York September 28 1831- George Arnold
E C Chapman
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday Evening 10th Octr. 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell WM
George Arnold SW PT
Reeves JW PT
Wm. G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree the minutes of the last
meeting were read and approved also the reports of the Standing and Charity Committes was read and approved. Mr. William Yates
in Waiting , was duly prepared brot (sic) forward and received the degree of EA in due form EA Lodge closed and that of FC opened
Mr. Lewis Parish was balloted for and unanimously accepted Br Yates being in Waiting was duly prepared, brought forward and
received the degree of FC in due form. No further business the Lodge closed in Harmony.
Recd. From Mr. Yates Initiation fee $18-
Paid the same to the treasurer Jesse West secy.
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday Evening 26th Octbr. 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell WM
George Arnold SW PT
Alex P McLain JW PT
Wm. G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree the minutes of the last
meeting were read and approved. EA loge closed and that of M Mason opened brother Yates being in Waiting was dully prepared
brot (sic) forward and received the Sublime degree of Master Mason in due and ancient form. No further business the Lodge Closed
in harmony.
Jesse West secy
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday Evening 9th Novbr 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell WM
George Arnold SW PT
Alex P Mc Lane JW PT
93

Wm. G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree the minutes of the last
meeting were read and approved a communication was recd. From Concord Lodge and read stating WPM Thomas C Williams was
expelled from all the privileges of Masonry for un Masonic like conduct a bill of rent up to first Inst. was Recd. and passed for
payment no other Business the Lodge closed in harmony
Recd. from Br Chap. Stewart dues to 19th Sept. 5831 Jesse West
Paid the same to Treasurer $1.50 Secy
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday Evening 23rd Novbr. 5831
Present. Br. John Waydell WM
Enoch C Chapman SW PT
George Arnold JW PT
Wm. G Henshaw tyler and a a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in EA degree the minutes of the last
meeting were read and approved a Motion was made and carried by brother Arnold that Capt. Guy F. Addams be an honorary
Member of this Lodge a motion was made and Carried that a committee of three be appointed to furnish refreshment for the Lodge
on the evening of the ensuing Election whereupon Br. W M John Waydell and Br. George Arnold & John Harrison were appointed to
that Committee a motion was made and carried that the expenses of said Refreshments be paid from the funds of the Lodge no
further business the Lodge Closed in harmony
Rec’d from Br. George Arnold for dues $1.50
Amt. of a due bill from Abraham L Reynolds 15.00
& for dues 1.00
$17.50
Jesse West Secy
At a regular Meeting of Mariners Lodge 385
Held at Union Hall on Wednesday evening 14th Decbr. 5831
Prt. John Waydell WM
Joseph Allen SW
Enoch C Chapman JW
Wm G Henshaw tyler and a number of Brethren duly assembled. The Lodge was opened in the MM degree the minutes of the last
meeting was read and approved this being the night of the election for the officers the Lodge for the ensuing year the following
Bretheren were put in nomination and unanimously elected viz. Br. Joseph Allen WM Br. EC Chapman Senior Warden Br.
Alexander McLane JW Brother John George Secy. Br. John Harrison Treasurer Br. Wm. Yates Senior Deacon Br. Wm Ward Junior
Deacon Brs. Calvin Babbage and John Towles Masters of Ceremony Br. Patrick Healy and Wilsey Ingersoll Stuarts (sic) Br. Wm. G.
Henshaw tyler WPM Br. Arnold WPM Br. Waydell and Br. Chapman Standing Committee and WPM Br. Arnold and Brs. Healy &
West Charity Committee and Br. Drake Wilson Chaplain. The several officers elect were then installed in their respective offices in
due and ancient form a motion was made and carried that this Lodge purchase of Br. Richd. Evans a member of this Lodge a
quadrant for the sum of ten dollars the Lodge was then closed from labor to refreshment and from thence to labor no further
business the Lodge closed in harmony
The following brethren paid their dues
John Waydell $1.50 Amount brought up $20.50
Joseph Allen 1.50 John Towles 3.00
Enoch C Chapman 3.00 Calvin Babbage 1.50
Jesse West 1.50 Wm. Ward 11.00
John Harrison 1.50 Wm. Hemmingway 3.00
Wilsey Ingersoll 3.00 Alexander McLain by
Patrick Haly 3.00 Br. Waydell 3.00
Thomas Goin 3.00 Benjm. Yates 3.00
Wm. Miller 1.00 Paid the same to the $38.00
John George 1.50 Treasurer
Amt carried up $20.50
Jesse West , Secy.
Bolivar Lodge, No. 386.
Lemuel Wells, W. M.; John M. Seabury, S. W.; A. H. Bennet, J. W.; Oliver State, Secretary; Samuel B. Flemming, Treasurer; Isaac
B. Weeks, S. D.; Joshua Sawyer, J. D.; R. S. Hubbard, L. D. Gale, M. C; J. W. Douglass, William A. Baker, Stewards; James Wilkie,
J. M Seabury, A. H. Bennett George Gordon. E. C. Chapman, Standing Committee; W. G. Henshaw Tyler.
Meet 1st and 3d Mondays, at Union Hall.
http://freepages.folklore.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~nashvillearchives/templar3.html
John Mumford Seabury. Born Sag Harbor, Long Island, NY, 24 Feb 1796. Master Mason, Adelphi Lodge No. 91, City of New
York, 1818; Royal Arch Mason, Rising Sun Chapter, 1820; Knight Templar, Nashville Commandery 1, March 12, 1852; was Master
of Bolivar Lodge No. 386, New York, during the Morgan excitement; was also Master of Cumberland Lodge No. 8, and Nashville
Lodge No. 156; was Junior Grand Warden of Grand Lodge of Tennessee.
-----
94

Montgomery Lodge, No. 387. [see also Montgomery Lodge No. 68]
Daniel M'Lean, W. M.; Charles O'Conner, S. W.; James J. Ryan, J. W.; Thomas M. Doyle, Secretary; Alexander Divver, Treasurer;
John Darlsy. S. D.; William Pountney, J. D.; John Haven, William Macken, M. C; John Harbinson, John Meehen, Stewards; John
Largey, Daniel M'Lean, Charles O'Conner, James J. Ryan, Joseph Hunt, Standing Committee;
Meet 2d and 4th Thursdays, at St. John's Hall.
La Fraternidad Lodge No. 387
Lodge Website [in Spanish}: http://lafraternidad387.org/
The below is a Google translation of the History of La Fraternidad Lodge No. 387:
Saturday, 06 February 2010 14:54 administrator.
Lodge No. 387 was founded on April 16, 1855. The founding brothers were:
ANDRES CASSARD Venerable Master [engraving at right] >
FRANCISCO PARRAGA Senior Warden
BERNABE DEL POZO Junior Warden
GASPAR DE ARTEAGA Orator
ANIBAL DE MOSQUERA Secretary
JUAN M DE LA CRUZ Treasurer
ENRIQUE D'ESPAIGNE First Expert
JUAN GIGLET
Temple Guardian
Many were of Cuba, Colombia and another one from France, as the case of Guarda Templo. It is currently the oldest Lodge Spanish
speakers in the United States. It has been great dignity of the Supreme Council and other Masonic powers, as shown in our log file.
District No. 10 to which we belong, at that time consisted of only 7 lodges and these were: Le Union Francaise, La Sincerit, La
Fraternidad, La Clemente Amitie, Cosmopolite, Garibaldi and Universal.
It was a difficult time in the disease yellow fever was on the agenda. Fraternity always collaborated with funds.
The wife of the first Venerable of the Lodge, Andres Cassard helped make many aprons at the time.
The quote was from every brother (1 quarter $ 2.50) or whether it is paid for 5 quarters turned out to be $12.50, curiosities of the
time.
At that time many emigrated from Cuba, mainly tobacco, and use that more could be achieved was in the textile, which were already
known in New York and New Jersey, on the other hand, the war was another concern.
At that time many expulsions took place brothers anti-Masonic conduct and so I wrote down in the black book, or oblivion. This
happened often in the lodges of New York.
As shown in the book of Secretary dated 17 September 1855, page 28, the following:
Were present at the meeting that day no less than the likes of Albert Mackey, Robert Macoy and Francisco C. Mosquera, Grand
Protector of Masonry in New Granada, now Colombia.
Fraternity No. 387 has had its ups and downs, but its history has maintained a high quality membership human brotherhood and
wise teaching.
Ernesto Diaz Sigler, Historian of La Fraternidad No. 387
----
This is the only Spanish Lodge ever established in the northern jurisdiction of the United States; it was opened under dispensation,
on the 16th of June, 1855, and chartered June 15th, 1856.
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_1_A_to_D.htm
Andres Cassard - Masonic writer, member of La Fraternidad Lodge No. 387, New York City. Senior Grand Deacon of Grand Lodge
of New York in 1859 and 33° AASR.
http://www.ebooksread.com/authors-eng/leon-hyneman/the-universal-masonic-record-or-links-in-the-golden-chain-of-brotherhood--
con-hci/page-4-the-universal-masonic-record-or-links-in-the-golden-chain-of-brotherhood--con-hci.shtml
Andres Cassard, Deputy Grand Insp. Gen.; Sov. Gr. Insp. Gr. of the 33d and last Degree, Ancient and Accepted Rite ; W. M. and
founder of La Fraternidad Lodge, 387; Most Wise and Sov. President of the Sov. Chapter, Rose Cross; H. R. D. ls\. La Sincerite et
La Fraternidad; First Lieut. Com, of Cosmopolitan Sov Consist, of S. P. R. S. 32d, of New York, &c., &c. Address Box 4206, New
York city.
Francisco Parraga, S. P. R. S., 32d; S. W. La Fraternidad Lodge, 387; Orator of the Sov. Chapter Rose Cross, La Sincerite et La
Fraternidad. Cosmopolitan Consistory of S. P. R. S. of New York
Gaspar de Arteaga, S. P. R. S., 32d ; Orator of La Fraternidad Lodge, 387; Secretary of the Sov. Chapter Rose Cross, La Sincerite
et La Fraternidad ; Cosmopolitan Sov. Consistory of New Y ork.
Francisco Zerega, S. P. R- S., 32d ; La Fraternidad Lodge, 387; Sov. Chapter Rose Cross, La Sincerite et La Fraternidad.
Anibal de Mosquera, S. P. R. S., 32d; Sec. La Fraternidad Lodge 387; J. W. Sov. Chapter Rose Cross, La Sincerite et La
95

Fraternidad; Cosmopolitan Sov. Consistory of S. P. R. S. of New York.
Bernabe del Pozo, J. W. La Fraternidad Lodge, 387; Sov. Chapter Rose Cross ; H. R. D. M. La Sincerite et La Fraternidad, New
York.
Manuel Valient, lawyer. La Fraternidad Lodge, 387.
-----
A Standard History of Freemasonry in the State of New York ..., Volume 2, ny Peter Ross, page 323.
http://books.google.com/books?id=kWYiAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA323&dq=%22La+Fraternidad+Lodge+No.+387%22&hl=en&ei=XPtkTofB8rV0QGk4IyMCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CC8Q6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=%22La%20Fraternidad%20
Lodge%20No.%20387%22&f=false
Antonio Gonzalez. Since 1865 R. W. Antonio Gonzalez has had a most successful business career in New York as an importer of
Havana leaf tobacco. He slowly built up a good trade, dealing solely in Cuban-grown tobacco, and his goods have won a high
reputation in the local market. He was born in Spain, 8 Jan 1839. When fifteen years of age he left his native country and went to
Cuba, where he remained for some ten years, getting a thorough knowledge of all the details of the tobacco business and becoming
in the end a recognized expert. In 1864 he settled in New York, and a year later went into business with the satisfactory results
already referred to.
In 1867 Brother Gonzalez was made a Mason in La Fraternidad Lodge, No. 387, and quickly acquired a thorough knowledge of its
ritual and its business. He held several of the minor offices, and in due time was elected its Master. In 1874 Brother Gonzalez was
instrumental in establishing La Universal Lodge, No. 751, of Brooklyn, of which he was the first Master. In the Grand Lodge he won
many warm friends by his Masonic enthusiasm and the fraternal spirit he displayed on all occasions, and for nine years in
succession he was appointed District Deputy Grand Master of the Latin District. For some years also he has been Representative of
the Grand Lodge of Cuba near that of New York.
-----
Ibid. page 55.
Remigio Lopez - From the hour that Remigio Lopez first received Masonic light he has been noted among his brethren for the
enthusiasm he has displayed and the eagerness with which he has turned, in all legitimate directions, in search of more. An
educated man, of cultivated literary tastes, he saw in the philosophic and symbolic teachings of the fraternity a system so perfect for
the regulation of life and conduct that he at once became interested, and that interest has deepened as his researches extended
and his knowledge became more profound. The amiability of his character, his desire at all times to render service to his brother
Masons, his keen perception of all Masonic duties and his laudable ambition to excel in whatever he undertook made him early in
his career in the craft very popular among the brethren, and that popularity has grown with each speeding year. Initiated in La
Fraternidad Lodge, No. 387, New York, on 12 Apr 1879, he steadily advanced through its chairs until he was elected Master. His
appointment, in 1897, as Deputy Grand Master of the 10th (Latin) District was generally applauded by all its brethren.
Brother Lopez is a member of the Scottish Rite bodies of this city and a member of Mecca Temple. He is also a member of many
social, business and charitable organizations, —the Aurora Grata Club, of Brooklyn, St. Nicholas Republican Club, the Literary
Society, Hispano-American, and is an honorary member of Island City Guard, Florida State Militia, of the city of Key West, where he
resided for some years. In many of these he had held responsible offices of trust and honor. His energy and activity are sought
wherever he is known. He is one of the organizers and a director in the First National Bank of Key West. Brother Lopez is a member
of the well known firm of D. L. Trujillo & Sons, of No. 86 Beaver Street, this city, with factories at Key West.
Regarding the trouble in his mother country, Cuba, he has always been on the side those struggling for their freedom and
independence. He is patriot in the truest sense of the word and the cause of “Cuba Libre” has no more devoted adherent. He is,
however, an American citizen and an active member of the St. Nicholas Republican Club of this city. He believes that the cause of
his much loved native isle can be served in other ways than by the sword, and one of these ways is by exerting a healthy public
sentiment among the voters of this country in favor of Cuba having now the same full, free and perfect measure of freedom which
the patriots of ’76 won when they made the British colonies in America a nation. So he is proud of his citizenship and endeavors to
show that he and his brother Cubans here can at once be loyal to the island of their birth and to country of their adoption.
96

Tompkin's Lodge, No. 388.
Commemorative Souvenir for the 150th Anniversary
Ebenezer Sturges W. M.; James T. Moore, S. W.; William M'Donald, J. W.; JohnGaynorSecretary; Jeremiah Miller, Treasurer; John
Tryon, S. D.; John Davidson, J. D.; Alexander M'Curdy, R. Ormsbey, M.C.; John W. Gibbs, Chap.; Francis B. Hall, George Dollinger,
Stewards; H.B. Harrington, James T. Moore, William M'Donald, D. S.Tulhill, John Davidson, Standing Committee; Jonathan Hall,
Tyler.
Meet 1st and 3d Fridays, at St. John's Hall.
Mystic Lodge, No. 389.
Henry C. Attwood, W. M.; Daniel Tuttle, S. W.; J. F. Henry, J. W.; William C. Burnet, Secretary; John Johnson, Treasurer; Giles
Lindelay, S. D.; Stephen P. Yerks, J. D.; William C. Robinson, M. C; E. D. Rees, A. B. Hathaway, Stewards, H. C. Atwood. Daniel
Tuttle, J. F. Henry, J. W. Bloomer, A. B. Hathaway, Standing Committee: N. P. Furber, Tyler
Meet 1st and 3d Mondays, at St. John's Hall.
Locke Lodge, No. 390.
John F. Sibel. W. M.; Jacob Wyckoff, S. W.; Samuel F. Wilson, J. W.; Samuel D. Jackson, Treasurer; Henry P. Lowerre, Secretary;
A. R. Mesier, S. D.; E. S. Meseir, J. D.; Freeman Dodd, James Anderson, Masters of Ceremonies; Jesse Oakley, E S. Mesier,
Freeman Dodd, James Mowatt, Jacob Wyckoff, Standing Committee; Robert Young, Tyler.
Meet 1st and 3rd Fridays, at Masonic Hall, Broadway.
Naval Lodge No. 391 [see also Naval Lodge No. 69]
Warranted in 1826, but which almost on receipt of its charter abandoned it.
On June 7th, 1826, a petition was received by the Grand Lodge from Ethan Esterbrook, Master; Samuel C. Hart, Senior Warden ;
and Stephen Ball, Junior Warden, to hold a Lodge in the village of Brooklyn, county of Kings, by the name of NAVAL LODGE No. 391,
recommended by Lodges No. 81 and No. 339. Nothing further is known in regard to this Lodge. It probably surrendered its charter
as the same number is now represented by Salem Lodge [No. 391 in Washington County].
It met on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, at Hunter's Tavern, Brooklyn, near the old Ferry. It had By Laws as adopted a late as 23
Jan 1838.
97

Columbia Lodge, No. 392.
Warrant: 6 Sep 1925
Abraham D. Wilson, W M; Richard Hobbs S. W.; Thomas J. Morton, J. W.; Jacob P. Jones, Secretary; M. M'Croskery, Treasurer; J.
M'Croskery S. D.; Isaac D. Boyce J. D.; A. D. Wilson, Hospitaler; James Connor, M. Van Wezel, M. C.; John Stote, G. B. Lothean,
Stewards; Richard Hobbs, Thomas J. Morton, J. M'Croskery, A. M. Harris, Standing Committee; Bryan Rositter, Tyler.
Crescent Lodge No. 402
Warrant: 1856
William R. Merriam served as Master five times in or before 1872.
Grand Lodge bulletin, Volumes 10-15, by Freemasons. Grand Lodge of Iowa, 1907. page 32.
http://books.google.com/books?id=14XOAAAAMAAJ&pg=RA4-
PA32&dq=%22Crescent+Lodge+No.+402%22&hl=en&ei=YghmTvfSJ4vC0AHN6cGMCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum
=10&ved=0CFwQ6AEwCQ#v=onepage&q=%22Crescent%20Lodge%20No.%20402%22&f=false
The Story of a Corner Stone
The following interesting story of the first building dedicated to Masonic purposes in New York may prove of interest to our readers,
it being taken from the Proceedings of New York:
"In January last, while making excavations for the Subway in New York City, there was unearthed by the men employed by Brother
James Bradley of Crescent Lodge No. 402, and of the Bradley Construction Co., one hundred feet east of the Bowery, on
Delancey street, and fifteen feet below the surface of the street, a corner stone bearing inscriptions which identified it as the corner
stone of the first Masonic hall erected in the city of New York. On the back of the stone are the names of the builders and the dates,
October 13, 1802. 5802. The stone is in two parts and is broken, but it is in a fairly good state of preservation, and through the
kindness of Brother James Bradley has been securely fastened with steel bands. The deposit was made in a round hole in the stone
and not in a copper box, as is the present practice. A number of coins were found in the stone, which were speedily confiscated by
the Italian laborers, who, doubtless, in the scramble for further treasure, were the cause of the stone being broken.
"The story of the stone being found so far from the place where it was first laid is interesting. The original St. John's hall was the
first building in New York dedicated to Masonic purposes.. It was situated on Frankfort street, where French's hotel was afterwards
built, and at the rear of the present World building. The hall was four stories high. The ground floor contained n reading room,
saloon, and living apartments. The second and third floors were arranged and fitted for lodge purposes, and were plain. The fourth
floor contained the Chapter and Encampment rooms, which were highly ornate. Political meetings and festivals were held on the
second floor."
-----
Proceedings of the Annual Meeting, Issues 44-49, by American Numismatic Society, page 16.
http://books.google.com/books?id=NofRAAAAMAAJ&pg=RA3-
PA16&dq=%22Crescent+Lodge+No.+402%22&hl=en&ei=tLFmTqvkOsnZgAf5g8SwCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=7
&ved=0CE8Q6AEwBjgU#v=onepage&q=%22Crescent%20Lodge%20No.%20402%22&f=false
John W. Castree, a Life Member [of the American Numismatic Society], elected May 15, 1905, died July 28, 1905, in the 61st year
of his age. He was Trustee of the Irving Savings Institution. He was a member of the New York Botanical Gardens, the Zoological
Society, the American Museum of Natural History, and the Country Club of Westchester. He was very prominent in Masonic
organizations and was Past Master of Crescent Lodge No. 402, F&AM.
-----
Charles Crawford, 33 o , of Albion Lodge, No. 26, died at Elizabethtown, NY, Sunday, 28 Oct
1906, aged sixty-three years. Funeral services were held at Elizabethtown, and interment was in
Evergreens Cemetery, Brooklyn, Tuesday morning. The Lodge burial service was conducted by
M.’. W.’. JOHN STEWART, and Illustrious Brother WILLIAM HOMAN, 33 o , led the Scottish Rite
service. Brother CRAWFORD had been ill for several months, and went to Elizabethtown in the
hope that the change of air might prove beneficial.
Brother CRAWFORD was a veteran Mason, having been raised in 1868 in Harmony Lodge, No.
67, at New Canaan, CT., his native place. He affiliated with Manhattan Lodge, No. 62, New
York, in 1870, and in 1874 became a Charter member of Anchor Lodge, No. 149, at
Plainfield, NJ. On returning to this city he affiliated with Crescent Lodge, No. 402, in 1884,
and some years later joined Albion Lodge. Brother CRAWFORD was very active in the Scottish
Rite Bodies of the City of New York, serving as Master of The Chapter of Rose Croix of New
York City for nine years. He received the Thirty-third Degree at Boston in 1894. He was a
member of the Masonic Veterans and of Mecca Temple. He served in the Civil War, and had
been employed in the New York Custom House for many years.
-----
CRAWFORD, CHARLES - Age 19 years. Enlisted [79th NY Inf. Vols.], 13 May 1861, at New
York city, to serve three years; mustered in as private, Co. D, 27 May 1861; wounded in action, 10 Oct 1863, at Blue Springs, KY;
mustered out with company, 31 May 1864, at New York city.
98

-----
CHARLES CRAWFORD, 33°.
When our brother passed away, 28 Oct 1906, a true, noble and brave man left us for the realms of peace and rest. Our teachings
and belief in this are a great comfort to those who are left to mourn; for Brother CRAWFORD was well beloved by those who knew him
best.
In the language of Shakespeare
"He was a man.
Take him for all in all; we shall not look
Upon his like again."
In disposition he was gentle and affectionate, endeavoring always to screen the faults of erring brethren, chiding mildly and laboring
to bring good from evil. Such traits of character stood out strongly and firmly in all his dealings with his fellow man.
The writer first knew him as a soldier. On May 13, 1861, he joined the 79th Regiment, Highlanders, New York Volunteers, and in
that service commenced a friendship unbroken till his death. He was a good soldier and a faithful comrade. He was wounded at the
battle of Blue Springs, East Tennessee, in 1863, and returned home at the expiration of his time of service in 1864.
Born 3 Sep 1843, at New Canaan. CT, he was not yet 21 years of age when he returned from the army. His abilities procured him a
position of trust in the Customs service in New York City, an office which he filled faithfully until his death. His life was made happy
by his marriage to Agnes J. Farquarson, who, with a son and daughter, mourns the great loss.
His Masonic career was marked and progressive. On 27 Jan 1869, he was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason in
Harmony Lodge No. 67, New Canaan, CT, and was made a Royal Arch Mason in Phoenix Chapter No. 2, New York City. He
affiliated with Manhattan Lodge No. 62, in New York in 1870, and four years later became a charter member of Anchor Lodge No.
149, at Plainfield, NJ. On returning to New York he affiliated with Crescent Lodge, No. 402, in 1884, and afterward with Albion
Lodge No. 26.
Brother CRAWFORD was very active in and took a great liking to Scottish Rite Masonry. Receiving the Ineffable grades 11 Dec 1888;
the Ancient Traditional grades 15 Dec 1888; the Doctrinal grades 22 Dec 1888, and the Modern Historical and Chivalric grades 27
Dec 1888. He was crowned an Honorary member of the Supreme Council, Thirty-third and last degree at Boston, MA, Sep 1894. He
was the Most Wise and Perfect Master of the Rose Croix Chapter of New York City for nine years.
His work in the beautiful degrees of the Rose Croix was calm, instructive and gratifying, and the parts assumed by him in the
Consistory were presented with earnest, zealous and truthful interpretation. His Masonic labors always gained approbation, just as
his modest, true character founded deep and lasting friendship. And now he has gone, we say farewell, farewell!
-----
THOMAS MOORE. 33°.
Rev. Dr. Charles Force Deems b. 4 Dec 1820, Baltimore, MD; d. 18 Nov 1893; son of George W. Deems and Mary Roberts. He
was an intimate friend of the poets, Alice and Phoebe Cary.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Deems
A precocious child, he delivered lectures on temperance and on Sunday schools before he was fourteen years old. He graduated
from Dickinson College in 1839, taught and preached in New York City for a few
months, and in 1840 took charge of the Methodist Episcopal church at Ashbury,
NJ, and removed in the next year to North Carolina, where he was General Agent
for the American Bible Society.
He was professor of logic and rhetoric at the University of North Carolina from
1842 to 1847, and professor of natural sciences at Randolph Macon College (then
at Boydton, VA) in 1847-1848, and after two years of preaching at New Bern, NC,
he held for four years (1850-1854) the presidency of Greensboro Female College.
He continued as a Methodist Episcopal clergyman at various pastorates in North
Carolina from 1854 to 1865, for the last seven years being a presiding elder and
from 1859 to 1863 being the proprietor of St. Austins Institute, Wilson.
In 1865 he settled in New York City, where in 1866 he began preaching in the
chapel of New York University, and in 1868 he established and became the pastor
of the non-denominational Church of the Strangers, which in 1870 occupied the
former Mercer Street Presbyterian Church, purchased and given to Deems by
Cornelius Vanderbilt; there he remained until his death in New York City in
November 1893.
He was one of the founders (1881) and president of the American Institute of
Christian Philosophy and for ten years was editor of its journal, Christian Thought.
Deems was an earnest temperance advocate; as early as 1852 he worked
(unsuccessfully) for a general prohibition law in North Carolina, and in his later
years allied himself with the Prohibition Party. He was influential in securing from
Vanderbilt the endowment of Vanderbilt University, in Nashville, TN. He was a
man of rare personal and literary charm; he edited The Southern Methodist
Episcopal Pulpit (1846-1852) and The Annals of Southern Methodism (1855-
99

1857); he compiled Devotional Melodies (1842), and, with the assistance of Phoebe Cary, one of his parishioners, Hymns for all
Christians (1869; revised 1881); and he published many books, among which were: The Life of Dr Adam Clarke (1840); The
Triumph of Peace and other Poems (1840); The Home Altar (1850); Jesus (1872), which ran through many editions and several
revisions, the title being changed in 1880 to The Light of the Nations; Sermons (1885); The Gospel of Common Sense (1888); The
Gospel of Spiritual Insight (1891) and My Septuagint (1892). The Charles F. Deems Lectureship in Philosophy was founded in his
honor in 1895 at New York University by the American Institute of Christian Philosophy.
He signed the Presented to the president of the United States in favor of the restoration of Palestine to the Jews. His Autobiography
(New York, 1897) is autobiographical only to 1847, the memoir being completed by his two sons.
-----
Autobiography of Charles Force Deems ..., by Charles Force Deems, James Monroe Buckley, 1897. 365 pages; page 249.
http://books.google.com/books?id=C2rUAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA249&dq=%22Crescent+Lodge+No.+402%22&hl=en&ei=tLFmTqvkOsn
ZgAf5g8SwCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=5&ved=0CEYQ6AEwBDgU#v=onepage&q=%22Crescent%20Lodge%20
No.%20402%22&f=false
On the 27th of June in this year [1871] I affiliated with Crescent Lodge, No. 402, Freemasons, meeting then in Union Square. For
years I enjoyed the association of the members of this lodge, acting all the time as their chaplain, except one year, when they
elected me Senior Warden.
Ibid. page 133.
From his diary we learn that on Saturday, June 23d, Dr. Deems delivered a Masonic address at Long Creek, Duplin County, having
been invited to do so by his Masonic friends in that region. He had been raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason by the
Greensboro Lodge No. 76, on 4 Oct 1852. He had been made a Fellow-craft Mason by the same lodge on 7 Sep 1852. The record
of his being made an Entered Apprentice Mason has been misplaced. For the above facts we are indebted to Mr. W. D. Trotter, of
Greensboro, NC, who was Worthy Master of the lodge in 1884. Dr. Deems kept up his interest in masonry all his life, taking the
degrees beyond the "Blue Lodge" as far up as the Commandery. At the time of his death he was a member of Kane Lodge,
Crescent Chapter, and Palestine Commandery, all of New York City, and in all of which he was for years chaplain. Among his many
friends Dr. Deems had none more faithful and enthusiastic than his Masonic brethren. In 1846 he had become an Odd Fellow, but
he did not keep up active membership.
-----
The Insurance Times, Volume 26, page 240.
http://books.google.com/books?id=Dl9JAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA240&dq=%22Crescent+Lodge+No.+402%22&hl=en&ei=4jRmTuHbDNT
3gAfM5cGYCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=20&ved=0CIwBEOgBMBM#v=onepage&q=%22Crescent%20Lodge%20
No.%20402%22&f=false
Edward Bascom Harper
This is pre-eminently an age when industrial and commercial enterprises assume
magnificent proportions. Weak men and measures go to the wall. The demand for
real leaders is heard in every department of business life. Life insurance is one
among the newer enterprises which, within recent years, have sprung into
prominence. Among the masters of this kind of enterprise the name of Edward B.
Harper, president of the Mutual Reserve Fund Life Association, figures
conspicuously.
Edward Bascomb Harper was born near the village of Dover, in Kent county,
Delaware, on 14 Sep 1842. He was left an orphan, without fortune, at the age of
thirteen, and is emphatically a self-made man. He entered a store at Dover, where he
won the highest praise of his employer, and at twenty years of age had accumulated
funds sufficient to carry him through a thorough commercial course.
He graduated with distinction at the head of his class and accepted a position in a
Philadelphia banking house. He soon mastered this business, and from a clerkship
was rapidly promoted to the chief management of a business involving transactions
which amounted to hundreds of thousands of dollars daily.
Capable and successful as Mr. Harper had shown himself to be in this trial at banking
he saw clearly that this was not to be his chosen field, nor the scene of his greater
financial achievements. To the far-sightedness, judgment and quiet skill, the finesse
of the successful financier, he added those more stirring qualities, the
aggressiveness, the push and vim, the combative energy, the unflinching
determination and persistence which fitted him for a decidedly more active career. He
chose life insurance, with its many perplexing details and great field for achieving a
name, as his life work.
In 1869 he became Western manager of a life insurance company having its headquarters in New York, and subsequently general
superintendent. During his connection with this company—a period of about six years—and as the result of his individual efforts, the
volume of business more than doubled; in fact, under his administration as superintendent the company's new business doubled
with in the first six months, i his phenomenal success of a man comparatively new to the business brought Mr. Harper at once into
prominence in insurance circles.
100

In 1875 Mr. Harper became the New York manager of the John Hancock Life Insurance Company, of Boston. Here the same
remarkable success attended his efforts. In this position Mr. Harper brought his faculties into play by introducing a number of new
and novel features into the direction of the insurance business. The success which has attended them is proof good enough of the
foresight and keen business ability which prompted them.
But the position in which Mr. Harper has principally distinguished himself is the one he now holds. He entered upon this work in
1881, only seven months after the inception of the Mutual Reserve. Within the ten years following his assuming the duties of the
presidency, despite serious obstacles and the most determined opposition, Mr. Harper brought the company into a position of great
financial prosperity.
Mr. Harper is a member of the Calvary Baptist Church and a warm friend of its pastor, Dr. McArthur. He is a member of many of the
city's clubs and societies. He is treasurer of the Lotos Club; a member of the Committee on National Affairs of the Republican Club;
a member of the Patria Club; a member of the St. George's Club of London; was president during 1892 of the Delaware Society; is
now a member of the Board of Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund; has been president of the Board; Past Grand
Steward of the Grand Lodge of Masons in the State of New York- Past Master of Crescent Lodge, No. 402, F&AM, and a member
of the New York Geographical Society.
The Mutual Reserve Fund as a life insurance association speaks for itself, and in no uncertain term. It has always done a large
business, and is doing a large business now, and Mr. Harper will not be satisfied unless it does an exceptionally large business
hereafter. He is making all the arrangements necessary to provide for a great advance in every branch of the associations' affairs.
From January 1 of the present year up to the beginning of May the applications received by the Mutual Reserve called for
$19,677,011 of new insurance, being an excess of $3,717,310 over the same months of 1891, and an excess of $833,460 over the
corresponding months of 1892. The death claims paid since organization up to May 15 aggregated $15,695,000, while the reserve
or emergency fund on that date was $3,449, 326.
-----
http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~nynassa2/Bios/bhicks.htm
Benjamin E. [Cock] Hicks, a banker of New York City and member of the firm of Hicks Brothers, in business at Nos. 59-61 Wall
Street, New York, was born in Dey Street, that city, 12 Jan 1843. His parents, George E. and Mary Morrell (Hicks) Cock, were both
natives of the island, and Mrs. Cock was the daughter of Benjamin and Elizabeth Morrell Hicks. In the year 1875 our subject’s name
was changed to Hicks in order to perpetuate the name of Hicks, as the only son, Benjamin Hicks, had died in childhood. The father
of our subject was engaged in the wholesale dry goods business in New York under the firm name of E. & W. Cock & Co., and
carried on one of the most extensive enterprises of the kind in the city. In 1863 Mr. Cock retired from the active duties of life and
made his home in Great Neck, L.I.
Our subject’s boyhood days were passed in New York City during the winter and on the old home place of the Hicks family in the
summer season. He was educated at the Friends’ Institute in New York, also Columbia grammar school, and the school taught by
Mr. Quackenboss. He took a classical course and later began clerking in an importing dry goods store to learn the business, getting
no salary the first year. While still clerking he was sent to Manchester, England, and assumed full charge of the business of buying
for the firm by which he was employed as clerk. He made over sixty trips across the ocean, the first in 1866. In less than five years
he was a partner, but in 1875 the firm dissolved partnership, and after that he embarked as a wholesale dealer in domestic goods.
In 1883 or ‘84 Mr. Hicks and his brother, George Embnee Hicks, formed the present partnership. In polities our subject is a
Republican of the stanch protective kind, but he has never cared to hold office. He is a birthright Friend, but attends the Episcopal
Church at Great Neck, though holding to the views of the former. Fraternally he is a Mason, a member of Crescent Lodge No. 402,
New York City. He has never married, but his brother, who is with him in business, wedded Miss Louise Firth, of Bradford, England.
Our subject, his brother, George, and his sister, Elizabeth (Mrs. Thomas Stewart) are the only living grandchildren of Benjamin
Hicks, for whom our subject was named.
Benjamin Hicks was born at Hempstead, L.I., 14 Jun 1791. About 1823 he bought the old Hicks property from the Morrells, and
made his home on the same the remainder of his days. He was married in 1817 to Miss Morrell and this union resulted in the birth of
seven children, five of whom reached mature years, but only two are now living. Mary M., the mother of our subject, died in 1892,
leaving three children; Sarah Titus died in 1879; Susan M. died in 1851; Caroline, widow of Dr. Amos W. Rogers, resides on the old
homestead; and Phoebe, who is single, also lives on the old homestead.
Benjamin Hicks, Sr., was an earnest, upright citizen who despised public display and who impressed all with whom he came in
contact as a man of great energy and public spirit. No worthy movement was allowed to fail for want of support on his part and he
was a strong believer in the principles of the Society of Friends, as was also his estimable wife, and they were well and favorably
known for their benevolence and hospitality. Mr. and Mrs. Hicks died in 1883 and 1878, respectively, and they are interred in the
Friends’ Cemetery at Manhasset. Mr. Hicks was a near relative of Elias Hicks, who led in the division of the Society of Friends, and
Sarah Cook, our subject’s paternal grandmother, was clerk of the woman’s branch of the meeting at the time of the separation. They
were members of the Hicksite Society of Friends.
Source: "Portrait and Biographical Record of Queens County (Long Island, New York" Copyright 1896 by Chapman Publishing Co.)
-----
Domestic Engineering and the Journal of Mechanical Contracting, Volume 62, 1913. page 22.
http://books.google.com/books?id=xarmAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA22&dq=%22Crescent+Lodge+No.+402%22&hl=en&ei=tLFmTqvkOsnZ
gAf5g8SwCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=6&ved=0CEsQ6AEwBTgU#v=onepage&q=%22Crescent%20Lodge%20No
.%20402%22&f=false
101

T. A. Hill, past president of the National Association of Master Plumpers and president of the Manhattan local association for 1904-
5-6, died at St. Luke's hospital, New York City, December 27 [1913], after an operation for gall stones, aged forty-three years. Mr.
Hill has been one of the most prominent members of the National Association of Master Plumbers for a number of years, being
elected vice-president at the Atlantic City convention in 1906, and president at the Louisville convention in 1907, refusing re-election
in 1908. He was also a member of the Board of Directors for 1908-1910 and 11.
Mr. Hill was elected president of the National Association at a time when a strong, diplomatic man was needed at the helm and
through his wise administration of the association's affairs proved that the association had made no mistake in selecting him as its
chief executive.
-----
http://dunhamwilcox.net/me/me_bio_packard.htm
Mr. Hill was greatly instrumental, during his office as president of the Manhattan Local, in increasing
its membership and encouraging the social side of association affairs. He was a straightforward,
lovable man, with such an amount of magnetism that he made friends immediately with those he
came in contact with, and was possessed with the additional faculty of holding them.
He was born in New York City in 1869, and attended the public schools until he entered his father's
business, William Hill & Son. He was a member of the New York Elks, New York Athletic and Irish
Athletic Clubs, and Crescent Lodge No. 402 Masons.
Mr. Hill served in the Seventy-first regiment as corporal during the Spanish-American war, and upon
his return home became a lieutenant in Company B, Spanish American War Veterans.
He leaves a wife and four children, and a brother, Wm. R. Hill, a prominent New York lawyer. The
funeral services were held at the North Presbyterian church, New York City, Sunday afternoon,
December 29th, with Masonic ceremonies.
Charles William Packard (Charles 6, Hezekiah 5, Jacob 4, Solomon 3, Zaccheus 2, Samuel 1), second child of Rev. Charles and
Rebecca Prentiss (Kent) Packard, was born 7 Mar 1833, in Brunswick, Maine, and was but a youth when his parents removed to
Lancaster, MA. He pursued his education in the public schools, and in the Academy of Lancaster, and began his medical studies at
the age of nineteen years, in 1852, and the next year took a course of medical lectures at Bowdoin College. In the meantime he was
a private pupil of the late Professor E. R. Peaslee, M. D., and continued under his instruction until his graduation from the New York
Medical College in 1855. Immediately after his graduation he became an assistant to Professor Peaslee, and was the latter's
demonstrator of anatomy at Dartmouth in 1855. In 1856 he entered upon his duties as assistant physician of the Blackwell's Island
Hospital, of New York, and after serving one year was appointed as assistant physician of the Blackwell's Island Lunatic Asylum.
This continued one year, after which he resigned and became the deputy resident physician of the Charity Almshouse, Workhouse
and Small Pox hospitals of Blackwell's Island, holding this position two years, making in all four years' service on the island, the first
year being without salary.
At this time the civil war created a great demand for surgeons, and Dr. Packard became a volunteer surgeon, detailed to the large
army hospital at Bedloe's Island, New York harbor. This service continued something more than a year, after which Dr. Packard
accepted an invitation to become resident physician of St. Luke's Hospital, New York, the terms being advantageous. For two years,
from Oct 1863 to Oct 1865, he filled this position, and in the following year was appointed attendant physician at St. Luke's Hospital,
continuing in that position for a period of twelve years, at the end of which time he was appointed one of the consulting physicians of
the institution. His connection with St. Luke's Hospital has now continued for a period of forty-five years, and in the meantime he has
attended to a large private practice. For many years he has been president of the medical board of St. Luke's Hospital, and has
continued as consulting physician since 1878. He is also physician of the New England Society of New York, and for two years, from
1856 to 1858, was a medical inspector for the board of health of New York. In 1883 Bowdoin College conferred upon him the
honorary degree of Master of Arts, and in 1887 Dartmouth gave him the honorary degree of Doctor of Medicine.
Dr. Packard is identified with the leading medical organizations, including the New York Medical and Surgical Society, New York
Academy of Medicine, New York County Medical Society, and the New York Pathological Society. While he has led a very busy life
in the pursuit of an extensive practice and in the performance of the various duties devolving upon him in connection with hospital
work, he has taken an interest in social matters, so far as his time would permit.
He is identified with the Century and Church clubs of New York and the Bowdoin Alumni Association. He has also been a member
of the great Masonic fraternity, affiliating with Crescent Lodge, No. 402, F&AM, of New York City, and with Jerusalem Chapter
R.A.M. On account of other matters, he took a demit, though he still cherishes the high principles peculiar to the order. He became a
live member of the New England Society of New York in 1866. He is a member of St. Bartholomew's (Protestant Episcopal) Church,
of New York City, with his family. He gives no time to political matters and is independent of any party connection.
Dr. Packard married, 11 Dec 1872, Elizabeth McLanathan, of New York City, a daughter of Samuel LcLanathan, of Lowell, MA.
-----
Dwight W. Pardee - Secretary and Treasurer, Grand Central Depot, New York City; residence Sea Cliff, L. I. Born in Westfleld, NJ,
24 Aug 1852. Educated at Wilbraham (Mass.) Academy; Married; Assistant treasurer Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railway
Co.; secretary and director Dunkirk, Allegheny Valley and Pittsburg R. R. Co.; director Detroit and Chicago R. R. Co. and Detroit,
Monroe and Toledo R. R. Co. Member Union League Club of Brooklyn, Nassau Country, Sea Cliff Yacht and Accomack Clubs,
Crescent Lodge No. 402, F&AM, Clinton Commandery No. 14, and Kismet Temple, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine.
-----
102

http://www.ebooksread.com/authors-eng/richard-mather-bayles/history-of-richmond-county-staten-island-new-york-from-itsdiscovery-to-the-p-lya/page-48-history-of-richmond-county-staten-island-new-york-from-its-discovery-to-the-p-lya.shtml
Samuel Adams Robinson, M. D., was born in Franklin, Pa. He is a son of Rev. John Robinson, D. D., a native of Frederick county,
VA, who was a direct descendant of the Scotch-Irish family Robinson, settled in Ulster, Ireland, by James I. in 1603. The parents of
Reverend Doctor Robinson, John and Rosanna Robinson, were the first representatives of the family in America. They brought with
them a strong faith in the Protestant doctrine, with which they had been early inculcated, and their son, on finishing his collegiate
course at the age of 21, immediately entered the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal church. In it he labored with great success for
more than fifty years, being widely known in Pennsylvania, Virginia, New York and Ohio, and filling every position in the gift of his
church except that of bishop. He now resides with the doctor, and though over 80 years of age retains his mental and physical
powers to a remarkable degree.
The doctor's mother, Hannah Walker Adams Plumer, was born at Pittsburgh, PA, and died at the residence of her son in 1886, in
the 76th year of her age. She was a noble example of Christian womanhood, admired and respected by all who saw her and
beloved by all who knew her. Her mother, Patty Adams, was born near Boston, MA, and was closely related to Samuel and John
Adams, the well-known statesmen and orators of the American Revolution. Patty Adams was the wife of Major Samuel Plumer, of
Newburyport, MA, a member of the old Plumer family of that state. Major Plumer was the son of Nathaniel Plumer, who settled at
Pittsburgh, in Pennsylvania, where he purchased a large estate, much of which his descendants still own. The granite mansion
which he built, and in which Doctor Robinson's mother was born, has always been occupied by the family. The major settled in
Venango county, PA, when it was a wilderness. He became possessed of large tracts of land and established a family which is
among the most prominent in that state.
Both of Doctor Robinson's grandfathers died in middle life, leaving their wives, neither of whom married again, to bring up large
families, which they did admirably, training them to lives of usefulness and honor. Both lived to old age, retaining their mental
powers until the last and enjoying the satisfaction of knowing that every child was doing well. The Hon. James Robinson, of West
Virginia, Judge Benjamin Adams Plumer and the Hon. Arnold Plumer, of Pennsylvania, were the most prominent of their children.
Doctor Robinson was chiefly educated by his father. He .showed an early predilection for medicine and began study for his
profession with Dr. Edward Lawrence Lakin when about 16 years of age, finishing a regular four years' course and receiving the
degree of M. D. at Cleveland, Ohio, before he was 20. He has since spent six years in professional study, principally in New York,
London, Paris, Vienna and Berlin. He is a highly esteemed member of Crescent Lodge No. 402, F&AM, Palestine Commandery
No. 18, K. T., and of the four regular A. A. Scottish rite bodies of New York city; also of Tyrian Chapter, R. A. M., of Staten Island.
He took an active part in founding Saint Austin's school, of which he is a trustee, also in the organization and establishment of the
Kill von Kill Working-men's Club and Institute of West New Brighton, of which the Hon. Erastus Brooks was the first president, and
upon the death of whom Doctor Robinson was unanimously chosen to succeed him. He is also a director in one of the largest life
insurance companies of New York city and chairman of its investment committee.
He has a large and very select general practice, extending into New York and Brooklyn, in each of which cities he treats many
excellent families. In chronic diseases he has patients from the most distant states of the Union. He has been a widower since 1874.
His wife was the eldest daughter of the Hon. Hiram Greely Butler, of Pennsylvania, who was a cousin of Horace Greely. He has but
one child, Rush Robinson, who resides with his father. Doctor Robinson is well known in professional and social circles and enjoys
the esteem of all with whom he is brought into contact. In addition to his acknowledged skill and large experience he has a high
sense of personal and professional honor, which renders him at once the safe confidant and true friend of his patients.
-----
A Modern history of New London County, Connecticut, Volume 2, edited by Benjamin Tinkham Marshall, page 43.
http://books.google.com/books?id=ZK4rAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA44&dq=%22Crescent+Lodge+No.+402%22&hl=en&ei=YghmTvfSJ4vC0
AHN6cGMCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=17&ved=0CHwQ6AEwEA#v=onepage&q=%22Crescent%20Lodge%20No.
%20402%22&f=false
At the head of the Saxton Woolen Corporation, of Norwich, stands Charles Adams Saxton, a representative manufacturer of New
London county, Connecticut.
Charles Adams Saxton, son of Lewis J. and Sarah (Bingham) Saxton, was born in Norwich, on 5 Nov 1879. He received his early
education in the public schools of the city, then prepared for a business career in the Norwich Commercial School. He then entered
the mill with his father, but instead of taking a desk position, went into the various departments, making himself acquainted with the
routine of each, and its relation to the office and the outside market, in fact, making himself thoroughly familiar with woolen
manufacture, down to the smallest detail. Next Mr. Saxton took up outside lines of business to become acquainted with general
business principles and methods. He went to New York City in 1900, where he was employed for four years in the offices of the
American Agricultural Chemical Company as clerk. Following that he became a salesman on the road for the Underwood Typewriter
Company, winning from this experience a vast amount of valuable business knowledge, to say nothing of the intimate understanding
he gained of the problems which, later on, his own salesmen would meet. Still further, Mr. Saxton went into the real estate business
in New York City. This was in 1906, and he continued along this line until 1910, when Lewis J. Saxton bought the plant of the
Clinton Mills Company, and the Saxton Woolen Corporation was formed. Mr. Saxton then returned to Norwich, to become secretary
of the company, and upon his father's death in 1912, he became president. This splendid equipment, and long, definite training for
such an executive position, have since told amazingly in the success of the company under Mr. Saxton's presidency.
Mr. Saxton does not allow all of his time to be absorbed in business. He has accepted public responsibility along various lines which
need the balance of business judgment and executive ability. He was a member of the Board of Education from 1918 to 1920, and
also is a member of the Chamber of Commerce. He is a trustee of the William Buckus Hospital, of Norwich, and a trustee of the
Norwich Dime Savings Bank. He has long been affiliated with the Republican party, and a sane, but enthusiastic leader in its ranks.
He has wide social and fraternal connections; is a member of Crescent Lodge, No. 402, F&AM, of New York City; a member of .the
103

Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, No. 430, of Norwich; a member of the Arcanum Club, and of the Golf Club. He also is
chairman of the house committee of the Young Men's Christian Association. He has not declined to become identified with Christian
work, and is a member of the Washington Heights Methodist Episcopal Church of New York City.
Mr. Saxton married, in New York City, on 19 Oct 1905, Eleanor S. Bailey, d/o James H. and May (Mulford) Bailey, of New York City.
-----
The jewelers' circular and horological review, Volume 36, 180 May 1898. page 25.
http://books.google.com/books?id=lHUoAAAAYAAJ&pg=RA2-
PA25&dq=%22Crescent+Lodge+No.+402%22&hl=en&ei=rjhmToKfJMvngQfKt_C0Cg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&
ved=0CDIQ6AEwADgU#v=onepage&q=%22Crescent%20Lodge%20No.%20402%22&f=false
Edward J. Swinney, who had for nearly 40 years been associated with the jewelry business of the late Wm. Moir, died at his home,
467 W. 22d St., Sunday. He was 63 years old, and had been in New York since 1853. He was a member here of the Veterans'
Association of the Boston Light Infantry, and also belonged to Crescent Lodge, No. 402, F&AM; Lafayette Post, G. A. R.. and New
York Council, No. 348, Royal Arcanum. He leaves a widow, one daughter and a son. The funeral took place Monday afternoon, and
the burial was at Woodlawn Cemetery.
-----
Who's Who in New York City and State, Issue 3, by Lewis Randolph Hamersly, page 1356.
http://books.google.com/books?id=0V1IAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA1356&dq=%22Crescent+Lodge+No.+402%22&hl=en&ei=YghmTvfSJ4v
C0AHN6cGMCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=18&ved=0CIABEOgBMBE#v=onepage&q=%22Crescent%20Lodge%20
No.%20402%22&f=false
John Castree Williams - Deputy Collector of Customs, Port of NY, b. NY City, 16 Aug 1861; son of Ezeklel Chas. and Eliza
(Castree) Williams; ed. private schools and P. S. No. 36; m. NY City, 20 Feb 1895, Elizabeth Wilraer Banner of Philadelphia. In
customs service since 1898. Traveled extensively In Europe, U. S., Canada, West Indies, Mexico, South America. Delegate to NY
State Convention which nominated Theodore Roosevelt for Gov., 1898. Republican. Methodist Episcopal. Pres. Mutual Benefit
Ass'n of Customs Employees, Port of NY; mem. St. David's Society (steward); Crescent Lodge No. 402, F&AM (Master, 1905-06);
Jerusalem Chapter No. 8, R. A. M.; Palestine Commandery No. 18, K. T.; Adelphic Council No. 7, R. & S. M.; Mecca Temple No. 1,
Mystic Shrine. Clubs: Republican, West Side Republican. Summer home: Allenhurst, NJ. Residence: 179 W. 87th St. Address: U. S.
Barge Office, NY City.
-----
Ibid. page 682.
Albert J. Holden - Organist, composer; b. Boston, MA, 1811; son of John and Lydia A. Holden; came to NY City in 1855, where he
studied music. Organist more than 30 years at Church of Divine Paternity (Universalist) and Church of Puritans; compositions,
anthems, hymns and other church music number 300; besides songs, part songs, ballads and choruses. Has edited and complied
numerous collections of music. Mem. New England Soc, Lafayette Post 140, G. A. R., Am. Guild of Organists, Crescent Lodge No.
402, F&AM. Residence: 56 W. 36th St. Address: 362 5th Av., NY City. d. 16 Jul 1916.
-----
Ibid. page 1253.
Adelbert Bennett Swetland - Publisher; b. Mayville, NY, 18 Jan 1865; son of Bennett and Augusta (Bates) Swetland: m. Mayville,
NY, 1 Oct 1884, Ellen Hemiline; one daughter, Mattie (21). V. P. and business mg'r The Class Journal Co.; V. P. The Engineering
Review Co. Republican. Mem. Crescent Lodge No. 402, F. and A. M., Jamestown Lodge 263, B. P. O. Elks. Recreation:
Automobiling. Club: Harlem Republican. Address: Flatiron Bldg, NY City.
Compact Lodge No. 402
Lodge Website: http://www.4thmsc.org/compact402.html [next to nothing on it]
2010-11
Worshipful Master: W. Jonathan Edward Cross
Secretary: W. Kurt M. Escbach
Contact: kmesch@aol.com
City Lodge No. 408
Warrant: 1 Sep 1856
Service City Geba Lodge No. 1009 is a consolidation of three old and respected Queens lodges.
Service Lodge No, No. 1009 was Chartered in Flushing, NY, in 1922,
City Lodge No. 408 received its Charter on September 1, 1856 and
Geba Lodge No. 954 was Chartered in Elmhurst, NY, in 1920.
22 Apr 1982 the Grand Lodge approved a Warrant consolidating to form Service City Geba Lodge
(SCG) No. 1009.
104

History written in 1906 by Bernard Vorhaus.
Schlegel’s German-American families in the United States ..., Volume 3, by Carl Wilhelm Schlegel, American Historical Society,
page 34.
http://books.google.com/books?id=VRUwAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA37&dq=%22City+Lodge+No.+408%22&hl=en&ei=FeWITqfqHqHH0AH
Vp_WkBw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=6&ved=0CEYQ6AEwBQ#v=onepage&q=%22City%20Lodge%20No.%20408
%22&f=false
Abram Jesse Dittenhoefer, eldest child of Isaac and Babetta (Englehart) Dittenhoefer, was born in Charleston, SC. His parents
moved to New York City in 1840. He attended the public schools of the latter city, and was prepared for college at the Columbia
College Grammar School, and in 1852 entered Columbia College. The college at that time was in College Place, and Charles King
was president. While at college he distinguished himself among his classmates for his scholarship and his ability to head his class,
and gained invariably the first prizes in Latin and Greek. Professor Charles Anthon was at the time Jay Professor of the Greek and
Professor Drissler of the Latin language, and they found in young Dittenhoefer such a degree of proficiency that Professor Anthon
was in the habit of referring to him at the "Ultima Thule" of his class.
After leaving college, he became a student in the offices of Benedict & Boardman, and was admitted to the bar on reaching his
majority. When he had practiced at the New York bar a short time he was selected by the Republican party of New York City as its
candidate for justice of the city court. Governor Fenton subsequently appointed him a justice of that court to fill the vacancy caused
by the death of Justice Florence McCarthy. He transferred the total amount received as salary to the needy widow of Justice
McCarthy.
Judge Dittenhoefer has been an ardent Republican since the organization of the party. He spoke frequently in support of Gen. John
C. Fremont, the first Republican candidate for the Presidency, before he was of age, and for the election of Lincoln and Hamlin, and
in 1864 for Lincoln and Johnson. He brought out Theodore Roosevelt in politics. In 1864, Horace Greeley, Preston King, then United
States Senator, Mayor George Opdyke and Abram J. Dittenhoefer, were among the presidential electors for the State of New York,
for Lincoln and Johnson, and as such he voted in the Electoral College for the second election of Abraham Lincoln. Of these, Judge
Dittenhoefer is the only survivor. On Lincoln's birthday, 1916, a friend presented to Judge Dittenhoefer one of the original Lincoln
campaign posters, on which his name appears. It is a lithographic print, five feet high and three feet wide, printed in red and blue on
white paper, with a heavy border of stars and shields, and having a large eagle and shield at the top. This is probably the only one
of its kind in existence, and it is prized and safeguarded accordingly.
Judge Dittenhoefer enjoyed the intimate acquaintance of Abraham Lincoln, and frequently visited him in the White House, the last
time only a few weeks before his assassination. It was his rare privilege to know well "The Great Emancipator," and nearly all the
prominent anti-slavery men of those stirring times, such as Henry Ward Beecher, Horace Greeley, Wendell Phillips, William Lloyd
Garrison, George William Curtis, Gerrit Smith, Charles Sumner, Henry Wilson, Thaddeus Stevens, Henry Winter Davis and others.
In 1865 President Lincoln asked Judge Dittenhoefer to accept an appointment as United States District Judge of the State of South
Carolina, his native State, but, preferring to continue his practice in New York, he declined. He served as chairman of the German
Republican Central Committee of New York for twelve years, and in 1876 was a delegate to the Republican National Convention
that nominated Rutherford B. Hayes for President of the United States. In the national campaign that followed, he rendered valuable
service for eight weeks in stumping Ohio and Indiana for the Republican candidates, without compensation.
Judge Dittenhoefer became conspicuous in litigations pertaining to the drama and to the rights of actors and theatrical managers.
When the needs of the actors required organized union, he, in connection with the late A. M. Palmer, proposed and procured the
incorporation of "The Actors' Fund of America," and for many years served the corporation without pay as its chief counsel. It was
through his persistent labors that the license fees collected from theatres and given by law to the Society for the Reformation of
Juvenile Delinquents on the old worn-out ground that the theatre was the nursery of crime, was repealed. He procured an
amendment of the copyright law, which secured more adequate protection for dramatic productions than theretofore existed, and he
is regarded as an authority on the law of the drama and the stage. As counsel for the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City,
he succeeded in defeating the application of the widow of Richard Wagner for an injunction restraining the production of "Parsifal"
by the management. In recognition of his services to dramatic art and artists, he was made an honorary member of the Actors' Fund
of America, and received beautifully illuminated resolutions of commendation.
Judge Dittenhoefer has shown great ability in conducting litigations involving intricate questions of commercial law. Consequently,
his services have been sought by banks and insurance companies and other large corporations. He has been counsel in numerous
important litigations, among them the noted case of Elverton Chapman, of the firm of Moore & Schley, bankers, who, with several
newspaper correspondents, were prosecuted in Washington for refusing to answer certain questions propounded by the United
States Senate Investigating Committee in 1896, which was conducting an investigation of the sugar tariff scandal. This litigation
involved the question of liberty of the press, and resulted in a decision favorable to the newspapers. He was counsel for defendants
in the famous Japanese Silk Fraud cases, and also for the captain and directors of the ill-fated vessel, "General Slocum." He was
made one of the counsel for the Lincoln National Bank, the Franklin National Bank and the Mercantile Credit Guarantee Company.
From 1884 to 1916 his office was located at 96 Broadway, and then, owing to the American Surety Company, owners of the
building, requiring the offices he occupied for its own use, he removed to a well-appointed suite at No. 32 Broadway. His firm for
many years was Dittenhoefer, Gerber and James. He is at present the oldest and most distinguished member of the New York bar,
and still gives personal attention to important litigations. The law reports contain many important cases in which he appeared as
counsel. These will serve as a lasting memorial to him after he has passed away. Judge Dittenhoefer has long been an active
member of the Legal Aid Society of New York, and now shares the honorary vice-presidency with such distinguished men as
Woodrow Wilson, Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft and Andrew Carnegie. For three years he was Master of City Lodge,
No. 408, F&AM.
An interesting anecdote told by Judge Dittenhoefer is the following: During a trip to Europe, as passenger on the steamer "Lahn," he
had as fellow passenger the late Samuel L. Clemens ("Mark Twain"), the author, lecturer and humorist. As a diversion during the
105

voyage, a mock court was instituted for the trial of Clemens on the charge of being the most unconscionable liar in the world. The
part of judge naturally fell to Judge Dittenhoefer, and the jury was made up of Yale students who were on board. The prisoner was
brought before the court securely handcuffed, and the trial proceeded. The defense was insanity. When the jury, after being duly
charged, were called upon for their verdict, they pronounced the prisoner guilty, with a recommendation for mercy, and in view of
this recommendation the judge sentenced him to read his own works three hours each day during the remainder of the voyage.
Mark Twain received his sentence with terror depicted in every line of his countenance, and fell in a swoon on the floor, first crying
out in a loud voice: "For God's sake, Judge, change that sentence; any punishment but that lingering death. Hang me rather than
make me endure such torture." The counsel and audience petitioned the judge to reconsider his sentence, and Judge Dittenhoefer
granted a reprieve on condition that, as the prisoner was going to Germany, and while he remained there he should assume what
would be the name of Mark Twain, Germanized—Bis-Mark, "Bis" being the Latin for "Twain."
Judge Dittenhoefer, on the invitation of Harper & Brothers, wrote in his eightieth year, his reminiscences of Abraham Lincoln, with
whom he was intimate, and of the campaigns of 1860 and 1864. The book is entitled "How We Elected Lincoln." The Judge has
received letters from distinguished men all over the country, including Robert T. Lincoln, Judge Charles E. Hughes, Colonel
Theodore Roosevelt, the late Joseph H. Choate, the late Admiral Dewey, Thomas A. Edison, Chauncey M. Depew, and over three
hundred others, all highly commending his book. He married Sophie Englehart, daughter of Joel Englehart of Cleveland, Ohio.
His book, “How We Elected Lincoln,” 1926, 94 pages, may be read at:
http://books.google.com/books?id=kG5AAAAAYAAJ&printsec=frontcover&dq=%22How+We+Elected+Lincoln%22&hl=en&ei=-
O2ITsC0N-bm0QHp_JHvDw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CC0Q6AEwAA#v=onepage&q&f=false
-----
Myer Dittenhoefer, second child and son of Isaac and Babetta (Englehart) Dittenhoefer, was born in New York City, 25 Dec 1838,
and was educated in the public schools of New York City.
His business experience was acquired in the offices of the Goodyear Vulcanite Rubber Company, where he was closely identified
with the pioneers of the hard-rubber industry in America. Later he engaged in business for himself, and he has become one of the
best-known men in the trade in the United States. He is now vice-president and general manager of the Vulcanized Rubber
Company of New York City and Morrisville, PA.
President Johnson appointed Mr. Dittenhoefer Consul to Mannheim, Germany, and on the accession of President Grant he
continued Consul Dittenhoefer in office. In 1863 he became a member of Mount Nebo Lodge, F&AM, but after returning from
Mannheim, where he established a prosperous vulcanite Tubber company, he affiliated with City Lodge No. 408, F&AM, in which
he served as master for several terms. He is also a member of Empire Chapter No. 170, Royal Arch Masons; of Adelphic Council
No. 7, Royal and Select Masters; the Consistory of the City of New York, and served a term as grand steward of the Grand Lodge of
New York. He is a member of the Craftsman's Club, the Deutsche Liederkranz, and of other social and benevolent organizations. He
married, 17 Jun 1866, Sophie Schneider, d/o Louis and Fredericka (Reinhart) Schneider, of Mannheim, Germany.
-----
A Standard History of Freemasonry in the State of New York ..., Volume 2, by Peter Ross, page 99.
http://books.google.com/books?id=kWYiAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA99&dq=%22City+Lodge+No.+408%22&hl=en&ei=xhRoTqahDqTr0gGy
yrmDCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=5&ved=0CD4Q6AEwBA#v=onepage&q=%22City%20Lodge%20No.%20408%2
2&f=false
R.'.W.'.Myer Dittenhoefer was made a Mason in Mount Nebo Lodge, in 1863, but affiliated with City Lodge No. 408, on his
return from Europe, and he has done much good Masonic work. Passing through the various positions he served the Lodge as
Master for three consecutive terms and was a very successful executive. He is a member of Empire Chapter, No. 170 Royal Arch
Masons, of Adelphic Council No. 7, Royal and Select Masters; and is also a member of the Consistory, of the City of New York.
M.’.W.•. John Hodge, when Grand Master, recognized the ability and worth of Brother Dittenhoefer and appointed him Grand
Steward of the Grand Lodge. Brother Dittenhoefer has always been very active in all the Masonic bodies, but more especially in his
Lodge.
He was born in New York City in December 1838, and graduated at the public schools. He is one of the pioneers of the hard-rubber
industry, with which business he has been connected for over thirty years, and is probably the best known man in that trade all over
the country. The firm is known as the Goodyear Vulcanite Company, of which Mr. Dittenhoefer is General Manager.
The late President Andrew Johnson appointed him United States Consul to Mannheim, Germany, where he served so acceptably
that he was reappointed under General Grant's administration, serving altogether eight years. He is a member of the Craftsman's
Club and other social and benevolent associations. His brother, Brother Judge A. J. Dittenhoefer, is a celebrated jurist in New York
City, a judge whose character and learning are seldom found equaled on the bench in New York.
Brother Dittenhoefer married, in 1863, Miss Sophie Snyder, of Mannheim, Germany, and they have had five children.
------
Ibid. page 271.
Francis Clery, in 1885, was made a Mason in City Lodge, No. 408, New York City, and was quickly recognized by the brethren for
the thoughtful manner in which he interested himself in the affairs of the Lodge and in the work of the craft. He displayed marked
ability in the various subordinate offices he held and filled two successful terms in the time honored office of Master. In 1889 he
received the Capitular degrees in Amity Chapter No. 160, R. A. M., in which popular body of "Royal Masons" he has held many
offices, and he received the Cryptic degrees in Adelphic Council No. 7, R. & S. M. The round of the York Rite was completed when
he received the Knightly degrees in Palestine Commandery No. 18, K. T.
106

Brother Clery was born in Ireland, 12 Jul 1844. In his youth he learned the trade of a painter, and when he came to this country he
found no difficulty in securing employment. In 1881 he entered into business on his own account and has since been at the head of
a steady and profitable trade. He has proved a capable business man, as well as a thorough master of his trade and is justly popular
in the various circles in which he moves.
-----
Historic Homes and Institutions and Genealogical and Family ..., Volume 4, by William Smith Pelletreau, page 163.
http://books.google.com/books?id=XHrxgFYISmYC&pg=PA164&dq=%22City+Lodge+No.+408%22&hl=en&ei=xhRoTqahDqTr0gGy
yrmDCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=8&ved=0CE4Q6AEwBw#v=onepage&q=%22City%20Lodge%20No.%20408%2
2&f=false
Frederick Lohbauer - The death of Frederick Lohbauer, which occurred at his home on Throggs Neck, Westchester, NY, 3 Feb
1904, aged 51, only a few years past the prime of life, removed from the community one of its most prominent and influential men;
one who in all his business relations was integrity personified, and who at every stage of his effort faithfully met every requirement
with entire loyalty and trustworthy devotion. He was born in the seaport city of Ludwig's Haven, on the river Rhine, kingdom of
Bavaria, Germany, 9 Aug 1853, one of a family of four children born to Caspar and Marie Lohbauer, the former a native of
Switzerland and the latter of Frankendahl in the kingdom of Bavaria.
Frederick Lohbauer was educated in the schools of his native city, and later served an apprenticeship at the trade of brewer in the
city of Muenchen, becoming an expert and proficient workman. He pursued that line of occupation in the Fatherland until 1880,
when, having decided to seek larger opportunities and a broader field for his skill and labor in the new world, he set sail and arrived
in the City of New York, 28 Jan 1880. He at once secured employment with John F. Betz, a brewer of New York city, and until 1890,
a period of ten years, worked as a journeyman at his trade. He then took up his residence in Westchester, NY, and opened a public
house on the Boulevard, near Haskins street, known as "The Fishermen's Home," which was largely patronized. In 1896 Mr.
Lohbauer leased the grounds of the Laytin estate, on which he made extensive improvements, comprising all the appurtenances
and requirements of a first-class summer pleasure resort, and thereafter the place was known as Lohbauer's Park, and he was the
genial and popular proprietor up to the time of his decease. The park was patronized by the best class of society, and many church
and Sunday school organizations used the premises in which to hold their annual picnics and outings, knowing that under the
efficient management of Mr. Lohbauer there would be nothing objectionable found there. Mr. Lohbauer was a most genial and
agreeable host, his chief aim being to supply every comfort and convenience to his patrons. Although leaving no stone unturned in
making a success of his park enterprise, he still found time to devote to public affairs, in which he took an active interest, and for a
number of years served as a member of the general committee of Tammany Hall. He also manifested a keen interest in fraternal
and other organizations which had for their object the good and welfare of the community, and was an active member of City
Lodge, No. 408, F&AM, Heimath Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Chippewa Club, and a number of singing societies in
New York city. He was a true type of the enterprising German-American citizen, loyal and faithful to his friends, and firm in his
convictions, always adhering to the truth, no matter what the consequences were. He was warmly liked by those who knew him and
they mourned his loss.
Mr. Lohbauer m., 15 Feb 1874, Magdalena Herrman, b. 7 Oct 1855, daughter of Michael and Elizabeth (Doerr) Herrman, both of
whom were natives of the kingdom of Bavaria, Germany. Their children were: Elizabeth, b. 21 Jul 1876, d. 3 Nov 1896; Clara Anna,
b. 2 Oct 1877, became the wife of Augustus G. Miller, and they are the parents of one child, Madeline Miller; Christopher, b. 19 Aug
1879, d. 28 Oct 1886; Barbara, b. 25 Mar 1882, d. 11 Jan 1883; Leonora Virginia, b. 2 Apr 1887.
-----
http://www.columbinelodge.org/PM/solomon_arthur.htm
Arthur Solomon was born in New York City on 19 Jun 1917 where he was raised and attended high
school. He started work in the textile industry in 1934 and was Raised to a Master Mason on 25 Mar
1941 in City Lodge No. 408, which was known in New York City as the Textile Men's Lodge. Thirty
days later he found himself in the army at Fort Bragg, NC, assigned to the last of the Horse Drawn
Field Artillery Regiments. He eventually was assigned to the Quartermaster Corps at Buckley Field
outside of Denver. It was here he met his wife Ada Kahn and began attending Columbine Lodge No.
147 in Denver, CO. He was discharged as a Captain in 1946. He worked for many years as wholesale
jewelry representative in the Rocky Mountain region until 1957. He then began a long career in the real
estate business and entered the line of officers of the Lodge.
Brother Solomon's year as Master was a very busy one. That same year he was elected president of
the Masonic Officers Association. The Lodge Raised 25 men and received the immediate Past Master
of the Grand Lodge of Israel at an overflow meeting held at George Washington Masonic Temple.
Later that year, at Colorado Night, over 800 were in attendance including Governor John A. Love. An
informal Thanksgiving Dance was held at Temple Emanuel with over 450 in attendance.
He actively participated at Rocky Mountain Consistory, was a member at B'nai Brith and a charter
member of Beth Joseph Synagogue. Brother Solomon was elected Treasurer in 1967, a post he enthusiastically held until he
passed away in 1982. His years of work and dedication to the Lodge are not forgotten and are remembered with fondness. His son
David is an active member of Columbine and successful Denver attorney.
107

La Clemente-Amitie-Cosmopolite Lodge No. 410
Warrant: 4 Jun 1857
Worked in French under the York Rite; name change 15 Nov 1996
A Standard History of Freemasonry in the state of New York ..., Volume 2, by Peter Ross, page 218.
http://books.google.com/books?id=kWYiAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA218&dq=%22Cosmopolite+Lodge+No.+410%22&hl=en&ei=wiBoTtKIF
eXr0gHxsJnWCw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4&ved=0CDkQ6AEwAw#v=onepage&q=%22Cosmopolite%20Lodge%
20No.%20410%22&f=false
Francois L. Gauthey was made a Mason in La Clemente Amite Cosmopolite Lodge, No. 410, New York, in 1890. The
impressive ceremonies attending his initiation, passing and raising impressed themselves deeply upon his mind, and he at once
threw himself into the work of the Lodge with all his native ardor. He was noted for his regular attendance and for the careful study
he devoted to every detail of the exemplification of the degrees. This led to his election to the office of Senior Warden, and after
filling it for one term he was advanced to the office of Master to which he was elected four terms. When he was first elected to
the East, the Lodge had run down very considerably, there being only twenty-eight members on the roll, and there was considerable
indebtedness outstanding. He at once proceeded to build it up and commenced with reviving the interest of the brethren in its
affairs, and it was not long before he had all business entanglements happily adjusted. Increase of membership naturally followed,
and when he finally retired from the Mastership Brother Gauthey had nearly doubled the number on the roll when he started. This
involved more hard work and patient endeavor than most people imagine, for the field open to his' exertions was comparatively
limited. But his record was a grand one—increase of membership, debt wiped out and a handsome balance in the treasury. His
exertions in connection with the Lodge were favorably noticed by the then leaders of the craft in New York, and, as "honest
endeavor" always commends itself in Masonry, it was not long before his services were recognized by his receiving the appointment
of District Deputy of what is now the Tenth District, that embracing the Lodges in New York City working in the French, Italian and
Spanish languages. In Connection with this coveted appointment he also made a most flattering record, and his personal popularity
extended through all the Lodges of which he had official charge.
Brother Gauthey received the Royal Arch degrees in Phoenix Chapter No. 2, and the degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish
Rite were conferred on him, up to and including the thirty-second, in the bodies in New York owning allegiance to the Northern
Jurisdiction. He is also a member of Mecca Temple, Mystic Shrine, so that his Masonic affiliations are enough to make him be
regarded as a thoroughly accomplished Masonic student.
Francois L. Gauthey was born in Neuchatel, Switzerland, 22 May 1850, and until fourteen years of age attended the public schools
there. He then went to the University of Paris, where he was graduated in 1869. Soon afterward he went to Holland and taught at
Doesborgh for nine years. Then he went to England for a time, intending to take a series of special courses of study, but he
remained there for only a brief period, and in 1883 he crossed the Atlantic.
On reaching the United States he went to Virginia, where he engaged in the business of fruit raising for some three years. He then
grew tired of the monotony of that life and removed to New York City, where he soon received an appointment as instructor in
French in Columbia Grammar School, and as a teacher he has been employed ever since. He has for his own edification and
instruction made a special study of entomology and has collected many valuable specimens and a great amount of data, so much
so that locally he ranks among the experts in that branch of science. For about twenty years he has made a special study of
legends, folk-lore and researches on superstition, etc., regarding Masonry. He is a man of keen observation, a thorough student,
broad and liberal minded, and a man who might aptly be classed as one of nature's noblemen. Such men reflect the highest honor
on the fraternity as well as upon society in general.
France-La Clemente-Amitie-Cosmopolite Lodge No. 410
Mosaic Lodge No. 418
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_1_A_to_D.htm
James E. Craig Editor. b. 8 Oct 1881 at Norborne, MO. Served as a reporter successively in Kansas City and St. Louis, editorial
writer for St. Louis Post-Dispatch and then city editor for St. Louis Globe-Democrat. After a stay as editor of Brownsville (Tex.)
Herald in 1920, he went to New York where he became first, city editor of New York Evening Mail, editorial writer for New York Sun,
and chief editorial writer for that paper from 1940 until 1951 when it closed publication. He then became managing editor of the
Protestant World, a new weekly tabloid. He has written the correspondence report for the Grand Lodge of New York, and with H. L.
Haywood was co-author of History of Freemasonry. Craig served as Master of Mosaic Lodge No. 418, New York in 1927, and was
a charter member of the American Lodge of Research (N.Y.). He was the author of "The Meaning of Hiram Abiff," a Masonic
Outlook prize essay.
-----
The Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review, Volume 34. 17 Mar 1897. page 100.
http://books.google.com/books?id=B3UoAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA100&dq=%22Mosaic+Lodge+No.+418%22&hl=e
n&ei=ZbhoTp6RI4XY0QGT0emHDA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=10&ved=0CFcQ6AEwCQ#v=
onepage&q=%22Mosaic%20Lodge%20No.%20418%22&f=false
Charles Francis Ketcham, a widely known jewelry traveler, spent his entire business career with Riker
Bros., Newark, NJ, and their predecessors; a period of over 20 years. He was born in Brooklyn, 29 May 1859,
and when 17 years old, on 26 Oct 1870, entered the employ of William Riker, then a manufacturing jeweler at
1 Maiden Lane, New York. His first position was that of office boy, in which capacity lie remained until the Fall
of '78, when he was made salesman for New York city. Two years later he went on the road for his
employers, first as far as Indiana, and later to Chicago, St. Louis and the west. For nearly 17 years he visited
108

the jewelers in the last named territory, among whom he became well known and made many friends.
The deceased was a member of the Jewelers' League, Mosaic Lodge No. 418, F&AM, De Witt Clinton Chapter No. 142, De Witt
Clinton Commandery, Knights Templar, and of Mecca Temple, Mystic Shrine. The funeral services were held Friday evening [Mar
1897], at his late residence, 86 Wilson St., Brooklyn.
-----
Encyclopedia of Biography of New York: a life record of men and ..., Volume 5, by Charles Elliott Fitch, page 328.
http://books.google.com/books?id=8CoEAAAAYAAJ&pg=RA2-PA328-
IA17&dq=%22Mosaic+Lodge+No.+418%22&hl=en&ei=rLJoTqPyD6HH0AG_07DcDw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=8&
ved=0CE4Q6AEwBw#v=onepage&q=%22Mosaic%20Lodge%20No.%20418%22&f=false
Willard Hall Rogers, Eminent Physician.
While the practice conducted by Dr. Rogers was general in its character, he gave special
attention to electrical treatment and was the inventor of the water electrode now in use
which enables the physicians to administer double the amount of electricity without giving
pain to the patient. While thoroughly devoted to his healing art, Dr. Rogers was a man of
cultured tastes and spent many hours of leisure in his library. He was a particularly deep
student of history, but was well informed on all subjects. His line of descent included the
martyr, John Rogers, burned at the stake in England, for heresy, in the sixteenth century,
his American ancestor being Sir William Rogers, of Delaware. Dr. Rogers was a son of
Greenberry and Eliza (Wall) Rogers, of Georgetown, Delaware.
Willard Hall Rogers was born in Georgetown, Delaware, 24 Apr 1850, died at his home
No. 225 West Twenty second street, New York City, 9 Feb 1917. The first eighteen years
of his life were spent in Georgetown, acquiring an English education, but in 1868 he
began learning the printer's trade in New York City, a trade he followed for seven years,
becoming a foreman. During those years he carefully conserved his earnings, having in
view a medical education, and in 1874 he entered Jefferson Medical College,
Philadelphia, whence he was graduated Doctor of Medicine, class of 1876.
After graduation, Dr. Rogers settled in Cattaraugus county, NY, there continuing his
successful country practice until 1881, winning high reputation as a physician of skill and
reliability. In 1881 he disposed of his practice and located in New York City, maintaining
an office and home on Fifteenth street for two years. In 1883 he opened an office at No.
225 West Twenty-second street [1 ½ blocks west of the old and present Masonic Halls],
also his home, and continued in practice until his death at the age of sixty-six. He was a
member of the Medical Society of the County of New York; the New York County Medical
Association; the Medical Society of the State of New York; the New York Academy of
Medicine; the American Medical Association; the Physicians Mutual Aid Association; and in all took an active interest. He kept
abreast of all medical discovery or advance in diagnosis, treatment or appliance, and was highly regarded by his professional
brethren. He was a member of Mosaic Lodge, No. 418, F&AM, and a man of social, generous nature greatly admired and
respected by all who knew him.
Though the doctor had many close friends, he had few recreations aside from his studies and scientific reading. He was an
accomplished linguist, speaking several languages and had a most excellent library where he spent practically all his leisure hours
reading scientific works and keeping abreast of the latest thought in his profession. He rarely took a vacation, but carried on his
studies both summer and winter to the very day of his death. He is buried in Woodlawn Cemetery and will long be remembered for
his contributions to medical science and apparatus.
Dr. Rogers married, 21 Jun 1876, immediately after obtaining his medical degree, Mary L. Benjamin, daughter of Martin Everett and
Sarah Morell (Shepard) Benjamin, of New York. Mrs. Rogers accompanied her husband to Western New York, and was his devoted
helpmeet during their forty-one years of married life.
Franklin Lodge No.447 [No. 380]
Ref. The First One Hundred Years, Franklin Lodge No. 447, F. & A.M., 1825-1925, Harry S. Ashmun. 1925. 38 pages [not available
or consulted for this compilation].
Lodge Website: http://www.mastermason.com/franklin447/
Franklin Lodge No.447, F&AM, is one of the oldest lodges in New York State. Established as Franklin Lodge No. 380 on [6
Apr]1825 [at an Emergent Communication of Grand lodge, on the Petition of Charles Cleeve and others], Franklin Lodge has
continued actively for more than 180 years in the Masonic tradition.
In June of 1859, at the Annual Communications, Franklin Lodge No.447 was represented by its Master and on June 9th of that
same year, it is stated that the Lodge members petitioned for the restoration of its original warrant; on which the warrant was given
the following day. Grand Master [Nathaniel F.] Waring gave the trowel to the Master of the lodge, who was David D'Ancona*. Be
mindful that this trowel was the exact one used by Benjamin Franklin. The trowel was loaned, in 1885, back to the Masonic Library
and Reading Room, where supposedly it is still on exhibit.
* David Arnold D'Ancona served as Master of New York's Franklin Lodge No. 447 for seven years. He demitted to San
Francisco's Pacific Lodge No. 136. [The Menorah, New York, October 1893, p. 255.]
109

Another version of this trowel [or a different trowel] is recorded in 10,000 Famous Freemasons under Daniel D. Tompkins entry
which reads: “When the affairs of the old United States Bank at Washington, D.C. were wound up, a small gold trowel used by
Benjamin Franklin in his lodge, was found in the safe. Daniel D. Tompkins presented it to Franklin Lodge No. 447, N.Y.C. and the
Lodge later presented it to the Grand Lodge. “
To our understanding, Franklin Lodge No.447 has had four meeting places through out its existence. At first, the meetings took
place at 643 Bleecker St., which no longer is a valid address in New York City. In 1861 the Lodge moved to The Odd Fellows Hall,
by Grand and Centre St. They remained here until the Masonic Temple at 23rd St. and 6th Avenue could be occupied around May
4th, 1874. And around 1910, The Grand Lodge Building and Masonic Hall were finished on the same site as the old Masonic
Temple. We now conduct our meetings in the Corinthian Room of this building.
Hiram Lodge No. 449
A Standard History of Freemasonry in the State of New York ..., Volume 2, by Peter Ross, page 389
http://books.google.com/books?id=kWYiAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA389&dq=%22Hiram+Lodge+No.+449%22&hl=en&ei=CRtpTrmvPIragQ
eG-
7jhDA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=7&ved=0CEgQ6AEwBg#v=onepage&q=%22Hiram%20Lodge%20No.%20449%2
2&f=false
William Collins - This well known and enthusiastic Mason was raised in Hiram Lodge, No. 449, in 1870. That he is exceedingly
popular among the brethren may be judged by the fact that he has been three times elected Master. He is credited, by his
courtesy, suavity, and thorough grasp of Masonic principles, with having done much in helping to bring Hiram Lodge up to its
present high standing in the fraternity. Brother Collins is a native of County Monaghan, Ireland, and was born in 1846. He came to
this country when only ten years of age, but the memory and story of his native land are dear to him, and he has revisited the
scenes of his youth four times. In his early days he worked—and worked hard— at anything by which he could earn an honest
dollar. Ultimately he went into the bakery business with his brother and remained in it for eighteen years. He is now superintendent
of the packing department of Shepherd Knapp & Co., New York, and has to his credit a faithful record of fourteen years with this
firm. He takes considerable interest in the orders of Red Men and Good Templars, being a prominent member of both of these
organizations. He is determined in his advocacy of whatever he deems to be right and honest and true, and is one of those men
who in a quiet but nevertheless effective way have labored and are still laboring to make the world a little better.
-----
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_3_K_to_P.htm
Georg J. Lober American sculptor. b. in Chicago, Ill. He studied with Calder, Borglum, and Longman. He has exhibited in wellknown
galleries and museums throughout the U.S. and in Paris. His works include portrait bust of Theodore Roosevelt, Hall of
Fame; Hans Christian Anderson medal; statue of Thomas Paine, Morristown, NJ. He was knighted by the King of Denmark in 1950,
and in 1952 was recipient of the National Sculptor Society's medal of honor. Member of Hiram Lodge No. 449, New York City.
Manahatta Lodge No. 449 [Prev. No. 489 and Manhattan No. 8 - q.v.]
Instituted 1859
Lodge Website: http://www.4thmsc.org/manahatta449.html [basically no historical or biographical information on it]
Their other website http://www.manahatta449.com/ is a dead link.
110

See notes regarding the above seal at Manhatta Lodge No. 489 below . . .
Kane Lodge No. 454
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_2_E_to_J.htm
William H. Gilder (1838-1900) Arctic explorer and journalist. b. Aug. 16, 1838 in Philadelphia, PA. He enlisted as a private in the
5th NY Volunteers during the Civil War, and waslater on the staff of General Thomas W. Egan. In June, 1878 he accompanied Lt.
Schwatka, as second in command, on his expedition to King Willliam's Land in search of the relics of Sir John Franklin. The
expedition was marked by the longest sled journey on record at that time-3,251 miles. The expedition proved the loss of Franklin,
and found some of the ill-fated expedition's records. In June, 1881 he accompanied the Rodgers expedition in search of the
Jeannette. When their ship, the Rodgers, burned on Nov. 30, he made a midwinter journey from Bering Strait across Siberia, to
telegraph the news of the disaster to the secretary of the Navy. He then joined in the search on the Lena delta for the survivors of
the Jeannette. During these expeditions he was correspondent for the New York Herald. Gilder was a member of the "explorers"
lodge, Kane No. 454 of New York City.
http://www.heritage371.org/node/71
Greenwich No. 467
History dates back to January 1825, Daniel H Weed and others petitioned the Grand Lodge to grant a dispensation to form a Lodge
in Greenwich Village, to be known as Greenwich Lodge; this was recommended by Temple Lodge No. 10, Patriot Lodge No. 39 and
Washington Lodge No. 84. On 7 Apr 1825, a dispensation was granted to Greenwich Lodge No. 381, W.’. Daniel Weed first Master.
Greenwich Lodge continued until 1833—this is the last year that any record can be found until the convention of the Grand Lodge in
1835, when the Grand Secretary reported that he had been informed that Greenwich Lodge No. 381 had no Lodge room, neglected
to elect Officers, and that there was little probability of reorganization of its members on a working basis. The Grand Master then
ordered the Lodge to elect their Officers and proceed with the business of the Lodge in due and ancient form or surrender their
warrant. On 7 Dec 1835, the warrant was surrendered to the Grand Secretary.
January 28, 1859, a petition was presented for a dispensation to revive Greenwich Lodge, which was recommended by Empire City
Lodge No. 206, and signed by 7 of the original members, and nine others joined mostly from National Lodge, and the dispensation
was granted. The first preliminary meeting was held in the Odd Fellows Hall on the following day, 29 Jan 1859, first Master, W John
A. Lefferds, with 15 charter Members. The Lodge number was changed from 381 to 467
January, 1860, had 65 members, and 24 were added that year.
At one time, known as the Police Department Lodge, at another time, the Railroad Lodge.
100th Anniversary on 2 May 1959, at that time, had 203 members (136 active, 67 life members)
Consolidation with Sagamore-Naphthali, By Laws approved by Grand Lodge on May 4, 1971. April 1, 1971, Stated
Communication: Resolved, Insofar as the name adopted in the “Agreement of Consolidation” of Sagamore-Naphthali Lodge No.
371, may and has caused some confusion, we respectfully request the Charters Committee to substitute for Masonic Lodge No.
371, the name Sagamore Lodge No. 371 (submitted by Charles F. Kramer III, Senior Warden and Past Master).
Corinthian Lodge No. 488
Dispensation on June 29, 1859
1st Stated meeting on July 29th 1859 at Utah House (corner of 25th and 8th Avenue)
Acting on a petition of 15 Master Masons, recommended by Montgomery Lodge No. 68.
75 Charter members at the Constitution, 33 being the average age, only 4 over 60 years old. 9 born in the US, 24 England, 13
Ireland, 10 Scotland and 1 in France.
Initiation fees resemble the Stock Market: $15 on July 29, 1859; to $20, to $35. In 1868 was raised to $50, 1919 to $75, 1923 to
$100, 1928 to $150; in 1934 to $100, 1935 to $75, 1941 to $50, 1946 to $75, 1948 to $100, 1957 to $150.
On October 9, 1880, Corinthian Lodge assisted the Grand Master and Grand Lodge Officers in the corner stone laying ceremonies
of the Obelisk (Cleopatra’s Needle) in Central Park.
111

An unusual financial situation arose during the years 1914-15, when 36 brothers died, necessitating changing the Bi Laws where
yearly dues payment was in advance.
Largest membership was 481 members on 31 Dec 1929, the start of the Depression.
50th Anniversary celebrated on 20 Oct 1909 at the Harlem Casino (124th Street & 7th Ave)
1941 was recorded as a dismal year, no one was initiated, passed or raised; 12 died, 6 were unaffiliated, and 1 demitted (a loss of
19).
The Van Court Jewel was instituted in 1937, in honor of Past Master Fredrick K. Van Court, who was Raised in 1878. This was
Corinthian’s “Distinguished Service Medal”, and awarded to a member who had rendered outstanding service to the Lodge over and
above his Masonic Duty and Obligation—eligible to all except the sitting Master and Wardens.
Merged with Architect Lodge No. 519 on 3 May 1967, to form Corinthian-Architect No. 488.
http://www.heritage371.org/node/70
Manahatta Lodge No. 489 [see also Manahatta Lodge No. 449 and Manhattan Lodge No. 8]
Dispensation: 05 Aug 1859 thru 1 Jun 1860
Warrant: 08 Jun 1860
Constituted : 20 Jun 1860 by M’.’.W.’. John W. Simons
Baker, Francis P.
Baylis, John
Bradbrook, Robert
Bray, Dennis
Brown, Samuel
Chase, George W. L.
Fox, Herman
Hibbard, Henry W.
Huston, James
Lichtenstern, Joseph
Charter Members
Lockard, William
Mayer, William
Murray, George
Neabore, Frederick
Neagle, Daniel T.
Nelson, Henry A.
Sollinger, Julius G.
Thompson, Alfred J.
Trapp, John H.
Zieger, Philip
Masters
1859 Henry W. Hibbard, U.D
1860 Henry W. Hibbard
1861 Henry W. Hibbard
1862 Henry W. Hibbard
1863 Henry A. Nelson
1864 Henry W. Hibbard
1865 Henry W. Hibbard
1866 John B. Ewing
1867 George Myers
1868 Henry W. Hibbard
1869 Henry W. Hibbard
1870 George Myers
1871 George Myers
1872 William Byfield
1873 William Byfield
1874 George S. Wygant
1875 William Byfield
1876 Willard A. Pearce
1877 Willard A. Pearce
1878 William H. Price
1879 William H. Price
1880 Jacob James
1881 Jacob James
1882 William J. Lawless
1883 William J. Lawless
1884 William J. Lawless
1885 August Sunmacker
1886 William J. Lawless
1887 William H. Price
1888 William H. Price
1889 William H. Price
1890 Henry A. Conley
1891 Joseph W. Beatley
1892 Joseph W. Beatley
1893 John W. White
1894 John W. White
1895 Adolph Muehsam
1896 John H. Monroe
1897 John H. Monroe
1898 Oliver H. LaBarre
1899 William B. Perry
1900 William B. Perry
1901 Charles Wm. Spiegel
1902 Charles Wm. Spiegel
1903 Willard Cudney
1904 Willard Cudney
1905 James E. McLean
1906 James McClurg
1907 Edward LaBarre
1908 Joseph E. Maddock
1909 Edward Wm. Evans
1910 William Schuckar
1911 William Edw. Welsh
1912 Charles A. Wirth
1913 Norman McLean
1914 Roy Cuthbert Spong
1915 Roy Cuthbert Spong
1916 James G. Bennett
1917 James G. Bennett
1918 Harry C. Jones
1919 Harry C. Jones
1920 Roland Whitehurst
1921 Neil Neilson
1922 Arthur Gower Carter
1923 Arthur Gower. Carter
1924 Nelson E. LaBarre
1925 Nelson E. LaBarre
1926 Howard E. Gercken
1927 Peter C. Ronner
1928 Peter C. Ronner
Ref. History of Manahatta Lodge No. 489 . . ., by R.’.W.’. James Gordon Bennett, 1928. 135 pages. [copy no. 133 of 250 copies], in
the OMDHS Library, Liverpool, NY.
Several notations in the minutes of this Lodge refer to this Lodge’s predecessor, Manhattan Lodge No. 8, as follow:
“A motion was presented, seconded and carried, that a die-sinker be consulted to ascertain if it is possible to alter the seal of the
late Manhattan Lodge No. 8, to suit the purposes of the new Lodge.” [No. 489]
Another entry reads:
“It was moved, seconded and carried that the Trustees be authorized to sell the unused paraphernalia of the late Manhattan
Lodge No. 8”
And later yet:
“The Trustees wish to report that the money formerly deposited in the bank to the credit of Manhattan Lodge, has been
transferred to the credit of Manahatta Lodge.”
An assemblage, of those who sympathized with the movement to revive St. John’s Grand Lodge [now referred to as the ‘Second St.
John’s Grand Lodge’], met on the evening of 13 Jun 1852 at Tollerton Hall, 62 Christie Street, New York City, where they drafted a
set of resolutions setting forth their grievances. On the second Tuesday of Sep 1853, the anniversary of the [first] St. John’s Grand
Lodge, a Grand Lodge was organized and officers were elected. One of the Lodges that was chartered in 1855 by this dissenting
112

ody was Manhattan Lodge No. 8.
In due course of time the Second St. John’s Grand Lodge surrendered and the Deputy Grand Master, R.’.W.’. John W. Simons, was
appointed to arrange and carry out the details of the uniting of the Lodges of the Second St. John’s Grand Lodge with Grand Lodge
of the State of New York. He determined that the Constitution required the exacting of the fee with the issuance of the Dispensation
in each case and further that there must be a remaking of every applicant as implied by “healing.”
In the 1859 Proceedings of the Grand Lodge, page 296, is found Manahatta Lodge, U. D. Thus we see that Manhattan Lodge No. 8
has suddenly become Manahatta Lodge, U. D.
When the members of the late Manhattan Lodge No. 8 were received back into the Grand Lodge of New York they were informed
that the name of’ Manhattan’ had been selected years before [i.e. Manhattan Lodge No. 370, chartered 26 Mar 1824, and
renumbered No. 62 on 7 Jun 1839], and in order to avoid confusion, it would probably be well if they could select another name.
They finally decided on the name ‘Manahatta,’ which is one of the variations of the Indian name for Manhattan Island. The name
Manhattan derives from the word Manna-hata, as written in the 1609 logbook of Robert Juet, an officer on Henry Hudson’s ship, the
Halve Maen (Half Moon). A 1610 map depicts the name as Manna-hata, twice, on both the west and east sides of the Mauritius
River (later named the Hudson River). The word "Manhattan" has been translated as "island of many hills" from the Lenape
[Delaware Indian] language.
The History of Manahatta Lodge No. 489, page 18, further relates the following:
When the members of the late Manhattan Lodge No. 8 selected the name, they realized that the word they were after was
‘Manahatin,’ but they chose the name of the tribe of Indians that lived there [Manahatta], because the former name was too much
like that of the existing Manhattan Lodge No. 62.
In that this present compilation is for the Manhattan Masonic District, the following information pertaining to some of this is inserted
for consideration.
Annual report of the American Scenic and Historic Preservation ..., Volume 14, by American Scenic and Historic Preservation
Society, 1909. page 301.
http://books.google.com/books?id=CYMIAQAAMAAJ&pg=RA1-
PA302&dq=%22manahatin%22&hl=en&ei=DCFqTqbwAaj10gGThejZBA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0C
C8Q6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%22manahatin%22&f=false
MANAHATA AND THE HUDSON RIVER
Manahata: One of the most interesting passages in Juet's Journal is that which mentions "that side of the river that is called
Mannahata." (October 2d.) This is the only place-name mentioned in the Journal in connection with this river. We have said in
the preceding chapter that " Mannahata" was on the New Jersey side of the river where the sense of the passage obviously
locates it, but the name Manhattan came to be exclusively applied to Manhattan island so soon after the advent of the Dutch,
that this passage in Juet's Journal has been the source of no little trouble to students and commentators. But the apparent
inconsistency of Juet in calling the New Jersey side "Mannahata" was not an inconsistency at all. New Jersey was the original
Manahata and the great island opposite was Manahatin. Any doubts on this point are dispelled by the earliest known map of
Manahata, made in 1610, which is in the general archives of Simanoas, Spain.
In a letter dated March 22, 1611, Alonso de Velasco, the Spanish ambassador to England, who secretly conveyed to his
sovereign every bit of information which he could get about English explorations and discoveries, sent to the King of Spain a
map representing the Atlantic coast of the United States from Cape Fear to Newfoundland. Velasco informed his sovereign that
in 1610 the King of England had sent to Virginia a surveyor to survey that province and he had returned to London about the
month of December with a map of all he could discover. Velasco had surreptitiously secured a copy of it and forwarded it to his
master. It is not known who made the original map. There are details of the delineation of the Hudson river — certain bends in
the river — which suggest that it was drawn by some one who had actually been up the river or that it was based upon data
supplied by some one who had personal knowledge of its characteristics. De Laet, writing in the Netherlands in 1624, and
speaking of Hudson's voyage of 1609, says: "Henry Hudson having returned to Amsterdam with this report, in the year 1610
some merchants again sent a ship thither, that is to say, to the second river discovered, which was called Manhattes."
But a passage which tends more directly to confirm Velasco's statement is that of Van Meteren, who, writing in London early in
1610, concludes his account of Hudson's voyage by saying: "It was thought probable that the English themselves would send
ships to Virginia to explore further the aforesaid "river"—the name Virginia being applied then to the whole region from 34 o to
45 o of north latitude. As the legends on the map are in the English language, it was undoubtedly executed by an Englishman,
and probably embodies the discoveries of several navigators on different parts of the coast. By whomever drawn, the map
exists, dating from 1610; and upon it clearly appear the names "Manahata" on the New Jersey side and "Manahatin" on the
New York side. Mr. William Wallace Tooker, who is probably the best authority on the etymology of the name Manahatin. says
that it means "The Island of Hills." The fact that the names Manahata and Manahatin were already in use at the time of
Hudson's arrival is a sufficient answer to the theory advanced about 175 years later by a Delaware Indian who told the
Moravian missionary Heckwelder that Manhattan meant "the island or place of general intoxication," meaning the place where
Indians became intoxicated on white men's liquor . . .
The die sinker, previously mention from the Minutes, thus has little difficulty in altering the seal to Manahatta Lodge No, 489, for
which he received the remuneration of twelve dollars.
113

An inspection of the seal reveals the All-Seeing Eye at the top. On the left side is a representation of the Ark of the Covenant with
the letter “G” suspended from one of its staves. In the center is a kneeling Indian with a drawn bow. On the right is a group of men
in ‘modern’ clothing looking away from us and seeming almost to be waiting in line. The Holy Bible is shown on the lower right,
while at the bottom appears the Square and Compasses.
Having been previously adapted from the seal of Manhattan Lodge No. 8, that of No. 489 was again re-adapted by its successor,
as may be seen by its present appearance for Manahatta Lodge No. 459:
The first meeting room was on the southwest corner of Grand and Clinton Streets at rental of $6.25 per month. Rapid growth soon
necessitated larger quarters which were found in the Botanic Hall, 68 East Broadway at $75 per annum.
-----
8 Oct 1862 the Lodge received a special dispensation to confer the three degrees at one meeting on Lieutenant Dissoway, U.S.A.,
who had orders to leave for the front the following day.
DISOWAY, WILLIAM W[ilkins]. - Age 20 years. Enlisted [1st NY Cav.] 19 Jul 1861, at New York; mustered in as Corporal, Company
B, 19 Jul 1861, to serve three years; promoted Sergeant, 20 Jun 1862; discharged, to date 13 Aug 1862, for promotion as 2Lt, First
New York Mounted Rifles.
DISOWAY, WILLIAM W[ilkins]. - Age 20 years. Enlisted [1st NY Mounted Rifles], 19 Jul 1861, at Lincoln, NY; mustered in as
Corporal, Co. B, First Cavalry, 19 Jul 1861, to serve three years; appointed Sergeant, date not stated; transferred to Co. C, First
Mounted Rifles, as Sergeant, 13 Aug 1862; mustered in as 2Lt, 13 Aug 1862; transferred, 19 Nov 1862, to Co. M ; mustered in as
1Lt, 20 Dec 1862; died, 13 Oct 1863, of gunshot wounds received while in line of duty; also borne as Wm. W. Dissoway;
commissioned 2Lt, 14 Aug 1862, with rank from 13 Aug 1862, original; 1Lt, 18 Feb 1863, with rank from 16 Dec 1862, vice Bates,
resigned.
http://www.examiner.com/history-in-norfolk/a-wartime-murder-williamsburg
As a soldier during a war, the chance of being killed is considered an
occupational hazard… but one does not expect to be murdered by one of your
own comrades…
The story begins in Williamsburg, Virginia, during the Civil War. By late 1863,
the town was occupied by Federal troops and under martial law. The Provost
Officer or military police commander at that time was Lieutenant William W.
Disoway. Newly commissioned and just nineteen years old, Disoway served in
the 1st New York Mounted Rifles.
< Sketch made of the Palmer House during the War between the States (left)
shows stucco had been applied to the brickwork. The house served as the
Union provost marshal's headquarters during Williamsburg's occupation.
114

Defend This Old Town: Williamsburg During the Civil War, by Carol Kettenburg Dubbs, page 316.
http://books.google.com/books?id=bUMvAU8d_BYC&pg=PA316&lpg=PA316&dq=%22disoway%22+%22vest+house%22&sou
rce=bl&ots=AK9LFJJU1H&sig=16eY2CY7DxTkgZwMR4iqxPHlygk&hl=en&ei=aZdqTujII-
3H0AGakvmTBQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CB0Q6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%22disoway%22%20%2
2vest%20house%22&f=false
Col. West had ridden into town and stopped at the Vest House. After inspecting the mansion, Col. West . . . mounted and rode
to the College. There he found the picket reserves under Lt. William W. Disoway, a “new and orderly” nineteen-year-old
“growing his first slender mustache” on his “intelligent, handsome, boyish face.” The lieutenant and colonel had a brief
interview, then West rode back to headquarters, “where he stopped long enough to write out an order which he folded and
addressed to the Lieutenant, dispatching a guard to deliver it.” That evening at dress parade, General Orders No. 47, dated 5
Oct [1863], were read: “1st Lieut. W. W. Disoway, 1st New York Mounted Rifles, is hereby detailed and announced, as Acting
Provost Marshall of this Command to be stationed in the City of Williamsburg. He will be obeyed and respected accordingly.”
Also displacing Fisher in the charge of the provost guard, Disoway took possession of the Vest house the next day, while
Fisher and the guards “retired to their regular quarters or barracks” at the old Female Academy.
Like Fisher, the genteel Disoway quickly became a favorite among the ladies, but his career proved tragically short. On the
morning of 13 Oct [1863], only one week after he assumed the office of provost, Disoway called upon Isabella Sully. “He told
me he had heard I wished to go into the Confederacy,” Isabella wrote in her journal, “and that he had called to offer his
services to procure a passport for me, as he was that day going to York Town.” She was most grateful, and “as he seemed a
gentleman,” she engaged the youthful officer in conversation, asking why he, and only son, left his mother for this war. “He
made some foolish reply about the flag – as they all do,” Isabella recorded. “Lieut. Disoway had only been gone about an hour
when I heard a pistol shot.” Lucy Tucker soon rushed in with the news that he had been killed by one of his own men.
On October 13, Lieutenant Disoway was at the house of Mr. W. W. Vest. When Federal troops occupied the town the year before,
Mr. Vest’s home had become the provost marshal’s office for Williamsburg. Today the house still stands as the Palmer House, and
is one of Colonial Williamsburg’s eighty-eight original buildings.
That morning, Private William Boyle, of the lieutenant’s own unit, was arrested for disorderly conduct as he tried to force his way into
Williamsburg past a sentry. He was apparently drunk and in a foul mood as several guards escorted him to Lieutenant Disoway,
who was sitting in the front doorway of Mr. Vest’s house, reading a newspaper.
The young lieutenant ordered that Private Boyle should be taken back to camp and instructed to return, sober, in the morning. It was
at this instant that Boyle pulled out his service revolver and threatened to shoot the Lieutenant. The surprised guards immediately
leveled their muskets at Boyle, but the lieutenant attempted to calm the situation by ordering them not to shoot. Unfortunately, as he
moved toward Boyle, the private fired his revolver and Disoway was killed instantly. Boyle was quickly overpowered by the guards
and imprisoned as Lieutenant Disoway’s body was taken away to the local undertaker.
The next day saw an impressive military funeral just outside the town. Disoway’s remains were returned home and the Confederate
ladies of Williamsburg sent flowers to show their sympathy for the sad death of the youthful officer, even though he wore the hated
blue.
Private Boyle was tried for murder by a military court-martial and quickly sentenced to death. The court proceedings were then sent
to Washington, for President Lincoln’s approval of the sentence. As everyone awaited the President’s response and expected
execution, however, Private Boyle talked one of his guards into filing off his manacles and helping him escape. Slipping across the
lines and he made his way to the Southern authorities in Richmond. There he was held for a while by the Confederates, and he told
them everything he knew about the Federal forces around Williamsburg including the fact that preparations for a large raid were in
progress. Eventually he was released and disappeared into history.
Sadly, the hapless guard who had assisted Boyle in escaping was himself arrested and given his own court-martial. He was also
sentenced to death, but unlike Boyle his sentence was swiftly carried out and he was executed at Yorktown.
dinov_2@yahoo.com [4th Masonic District] emailed for info 9 Sep 2011.
Pyramid Lodge No. 490
Warrant: 22 Jun 1860
115

28 Aug 1859 their First Communication was held at Jackson Hall, 120 West 28th Street in New York City.
10 May 1860 they moved to rooms at 13th Street and Broadway.
One of the early members of the Lodge R.’.W.’. Harry P. Knowles, Raised 2 Oct 1896.
As a well known architect, he was selected to build the present Masonic Hall on West
23rd Street in 1908. Harry was one of the architects of the New York City Center. The
Masonic Hall is a commercial enterprise, generating funds for the Lodge's charitable
activities. It replaced the Masonic Temple on the same site, built in 1875 and designed
by Napoleon Le Brun. The Hall includes a 1200-seat auditorium – the Grand Lodge
Room – and a dozen other Lodge Rooms, all elaborately ornamented. The Hall's
interior was restored in 1986-96 by Felix Chavez, Fine Art Decorating.
The New York City Center – formerly the Mecca Shrine Temple >
The building's design is Neo-Moorish and features elaborate interior and exterior
polychromed tile work, murals, and a recently restored terra cotta tiled rooftop dome.
The 102-foot wide, 54-foot tall dome is covered with more than 28,000 individual tiles.
The building was designed by architects Harry P. Knowles, who died before its
completion, and Clinton & Russell. The auditorium and three Masonic lodge rooms
included four M. P. Moller pipe organs.
After the financial crash of 1929 the Mecca Shriners were unable to pay the taxes on
the building and it became city property.
-----
Interior view
A Standard History of Freemasonry in the State of New York ..., Volume 2, by Peter Ross, page 423.
http://books.google.com/books?id=kWYiAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA423&dq=%22Pyramid+Lodge+No.+490%22&hl=en&ei=YdRqTqXAJMr
KgQfE1ujeBQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CCoQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%22Pyramid%20Lodge%20No.%
20490%22&f=false
Samuel Agnew was made a Mason in Pyramid Lodge, No. 490, in 1883, and in the following year received the Capitular degrees
in Union Chapter, No. 180, R. A. M. In 1885 he obtained the Chivalric orders in York Commandery, No. 55. In each of these bodies
he has taken a commendable interest, as well as in the fraternity in general. He is a native of County Antrim, Ireland, where he was
born June 19, 1813. In 1872 he came to America, and for two years was clerk in a hardware store. He was in this line altogether
some four years, and from 1888 to 1892 was in the hotel business on his own account. From 1893 to the present time he has been
in his present employment, at 202 9th Avenue, New York. He is justly proud of his Masonic affiliations and never misses an
opportunity of demonstrating his attachment by attendance on one or other of the bodies to which he belongs.
-----
Martin Bryant is particularly proud of his Masonic sponsors. He was proposed for membership in Pyramid Lodge, No. 490, in 1882
by William Hull, one of the veteran Past Masters of that progressive body of Masons. He was raised by W. J. McDonald, now
enjoying the rank of Past Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge. As might be supposed by any one acquainted with all the arts of
these two noted craftsmen, it was not long after becoming a member of Pyramid Lodge before Brother Bryant was receiving the
Capitular degrees in Union Chapter, No. 180, of which they have long been recognized as among the leaders.
Brother Bryant was born in Kings County, Ireland, 31 Oct 1848. He came to New York when quite a young man and started in to
learn the trade of a painter. In 1865 he enlisted in the First Artillery and performed his first duty at the parade in connection with the
funeral of Abraham Lincoln. In this command he served two years. He saw a little more military service, for in 1869 he enlisted in the
116

Washington Greys (Eighth Regiment) and served seven years, during four of which he was Quartermaster Sergeant of Company F.
On leaving the service of the United States he returned to the painting trade, which he still follows, as a partner in the painting
department of the Otto Henschel wagon and carriage shops.
-----
Ibid. page 426.
Robert H. Clark. There are few members of the fraternity in New York better known, and none is held in more general esteem, than
Robert H. Clark, one of the many active Past Masters of which Pyramid Lodge, No. 490, boasts. He is an enthusiast on all that
pertains to the institution and an indefatigable worker for every body to which he belongs. In connection with his Masonic duties, and
these for many years past have been many and increasing, he spares himself neither time nor trouble, and is prepared to go
barefooted or in a trolley car any distance to do any errand which his own kindly heart or his Masonic sense of duty tells him is due
to a brother. He is a splendid ritualist and has risen to the highest honors in every branch in which he has taken a special interest,—
Lodge, Chapter, and Commandery,— and in each his administration has proved more than successful, being in fact worthy of the
application of the term "brilliant."
Robert H. Clark was born in the north of Ireland, 9 Sep 1848, and received most of his educational training in that country,
completing his course after his arrival in America, in the spring of 1865. After a brief
experience in the wholesale grocery business he got a position with his uncle, William
Clark, who had a large connection as a master truckman. He remained in this employment
until 1872, when he started in business as a truckman on his own account. The venture
soon proved a very successful one, and so has continued until the present time. He has
eight or nine trucks constantly at work and does all the hauling for a number of the largest
firms in the city.
In 1877 Brother Clark was made a Mason in Anthon Lodge, No. 769, Brooklyn. In 1883
he affiliated with Pyramid Lodge No. 490, and may then be said to have begun his
Masonic career in earnest. He rapidly forged to the front in the councils of the Lodge,
ascended the official ladder by bounds, and in 1894, and again in 1895, was elected its
Master. In 1882 he received the Royal Arch degrees in Union Chapter No. 180, and as
soon as he vacated the East in the Lodge he was called upon to preside over that active
body of Royal craftsmen as High Priest. This dignified office he held for two terms, and
these were no sooner completed than he was called upon to preside over the destinies of
York Commandery No. 55, as Eminent Commander. He is also a member of Adelphic
Council No. 7, R. & S. M., and one of the Nobles of Mecca Temple, Mystic Shrine.
In the affairs of the Craftsman's Club Brother Clark has been particularly active and has
been elected one of its governors several times. He is also a member of the Square Club,
an organization of Masters, Past Masters and Wardens of the Lodges in the Seventh
Masonic District. In the Fraternal Union of High Priests he has been remarkably prominent,
and he has been equally so in the order of Commanders in the Chivalric branch of the
fraternity. For many years he has been one of the communicants of the Church of the Holy Communion (Episcopalian) on Sixth
Avenue.
-----
Ibid. page 428.
Thomas Swain. To be recognized among his brethren and fellows as a well informed and
consistent Mason is an honor that is justly prized by any member of the fraternity, and that
honor, at least, can be justly claimed by Brother Thomas Swain, of Pyramid Lodge, No. 490.
He was initiated, passed and raised in that splendid body of Masons in 1891, and in 1893
passed through the Capitular degrees in Altair Chapter, No. 237, Brooklyn. In 1894 he was
Knighted in York Commandery, No. 55, and thereafter became a Noble of the Mystic Shrine, by
piercing the secret and awful mysteries of Mecca Temple.
Brother Swain was born in County Antrim, Ireland, June 27, 1852. In 1868 he settled in New
York and learned the plumbing trade, in which he has been engaged ever since. In 1887 he
entered upon business for himself, and has steadily built up a prosperous trade. For many years
he has been a member of the Church of the Ascension, Protestant Episcopal, in which he is at
present Senior Warden.
-----
Ibid. page 430.
John William Smullen. In 1890 Brother Smullen was made a Mason in Pyramid Lodge, No. 490, and has held in it the office of
Junior Deacon as well as a few minor appointments. He proved a careful and intelligent official, well informed on all pertaining to the
ritual and conscientious in the discharge of every duty reposed in him by the Master or the brethren. Further advancement in the
Lodge would certainly have been his had not the limitations on his time determined him to seek no further official preferment.
He was born in New York City, 16 May 1865, and was educated in Jersey City and in Brooklyn, where his parents resided at
different times. In 1885 he went into the business of a butcher and so remained until Aug. 1, 1887, when he was appointed to a
position in the New York post office.
117

-----
James Carson, of Pyramid Lodge, No. 490, New York, was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, 12 Aug 1846. He was educated in his
native country and came to America in 1866. For two years he was engaged as steward on a steamer running to Virginia, but
becoming tired of that life he accepted a position as superintendent of a farm in Connecticut. After three years so spent he came to
New York, where, after an experience of some twenty years in the feed business, he became superintendent of the stables of the
Stephen Merritt Burial Company. Soon after settling in New York Brother Carson became a member of Chelsea Division, Sons of
Temperance. He was active in the membership of St. Peter's Episcopal Church and the order of Chosen Friends.
-----
W. J. Carson, son of the above, was born in New York City, 12 Nov 1872, and received his education in Grammar School No. 11.
He learned the trade of a plumber, and for some six years was with the firm of McCullogh & Co., Sixth Avenue. When only twelve
years of age he became a member of Chelsea Section, Cadets of Temperance, and in due time graduated into Chelsea Division as
an active member.
In 1895 Brother W. J. Carson was made a Mason in Pyramid Lodge, No. 490, and soon took a place among its most active
workers. He made a brilliant Senior Deacon. In 1897 he received the degrees of the Royal Arch in Union Chapter No. 180, in which
was Master of the Third Veil. In the same year he was Knighted in York Commandery No. 55, K. T.
-----
Ibid. page 177.
William Hall. A warm-hearted man, one ever ready to go on a brother's errand and to administer wise counsel, a good citizen and a
faithful friend, might be the words employed truthfully to summarize the character of William Hall, one of the stand-bys of Pyramid
Lodge, a Lodge that probably has more stand-bys in proportion to its members than any other in New York City. William Hall is a
native of Kings County, Ireland, and was born on Feb. 6, 1840. He spent his early years on his father's farm and acquired what
education the local schools afforded. In 1860 he concluded to try his fortune in the New World, and sailed for America, landing that
year in New York City. After trying his chances at farming for a short time in Canada, he concluded that his opportunities lay south of
the St. Lawrence, and returned to New York, where he found employment in a dry-goods store. In 1872 he started on his own
account in his present business,— that of a dealer in hay, grain and feed. He was successful from the beginning and gradually built
up a large trade, until he now owns one of the most noted establishments of its kind in the city. In fact, however, Brother Hall has
made a success of all his undertakings, and in Masonry his record is equally honorable. Receiving the Symbolic degrees in
Hohenlinden Lodge, No. 56, Brooklyn, he afterward affiliated with Pyramid Lodge No. 490, New York, which has really become
his Masonic home. He filled the office of Master throughout three terms, 1884, 1885 and 1892, and for two years (1886 and 1887)
was High Priest of Union Chapter No. 180, Royal Arch Masons. In the Grand Chapter, in 1896, he was Grand Master of the Third
Veil, while he has for some years been an active Sir Knight in York Commandery. In such bodies as the Fraternal Union of Anointed
High Priests and the Masonic Veteran Association he has also been prominent.
As a ritualist Brother Hall was regarded as an adept and took pride in his reputation as an exponent of the standard work. Of the
ritual of the Symbolic craft he specially made a minute and careful study, and while he was Master of Pyramid many a budding
Master was found among those who crowded each communication so as to acquire familiarity with the work, well knowing that, as it
was then given, it was as perfect as though the utterer was Grand Lecturer. So, too, with Capitular Masonry. In Union Chapter the
work was done with a degree of perfection that won many hearty encomiums from the constituted authorities. As Master of his
Lodge or High Priest of his Chapter Brother Hall was noted for the devotion with which he applied himself to their interests and in
gathering into their ranks good material,—material which might be depended upon to carry on the work after he has laid down the
burden. That time has now arrived, and he has the satisfaction of seeing both bodies progressing year after year, while he goes in
and out among the brethren, honored for his labors and relied upon to assist in any emergency which may arise.
-----
Ibid. page 211.
Thomas J. Watt has served as Master in 1898 and again in 1899 Brother of Pyramid Lodge No. 490, thus following quickly in the
footsteps of his father, John, who retired from the East of the same Lodge in 1891. He was born in Dundee, Scotland, 19 Jul 1868,
and in the following year came with his mother to New York, where his father, John Watt, had preceded them. He was educated at
the public schools and then went to learn the trade of a stone setter in the service of his father. In 1886 he joined the 12th Regiment,
NGSNY, and served for five years. At an early age he became one of the charter members of St. Andrew's Section, Cadets of
Temperance, and for many years was a most active worker in that promising body of advocates of total abstinence, an organization
which helped to instill into many young minds an abhorrence of drunkenness in all its forms and stages,—mild, frivolous and social,
on the one hand, and ruin and the gutter on the other. It also gave them a knowledge of parliamentary law, taught them how to
speak, and handle questions in public, and by its quick system of rotation in office instructed them in the art of presiding over a
meeting, an art which, if it is ever to be exercised, cannot be acquired too early in life. In time Brother Watt passed into Chelsea
Division, Sons of Temperance, and is still a member, but the memories of the "old section" are still bright, and keep alive the desire
to continue to do something, by precept and example, for the cause to which he devoted so many years. In 1891 Brother Watt was
made a Mason in Pyramid Lodge, No. 490, and his advancement was rapid. He was appointed to office at the election following his
signing the bylaws and has remained in office ever since, steadily climbing upward until he stood on the three steps on which rests
the Oriental Chair. In Royal Arch Masonry he has also been active since he received the degrees of Union Chapter No. 180, R. A.
M., and in that body he at present holds the office of Royal Arch Captain.
-----
118

Ibid. page 286.
Louis Duvall joined the fraternity in 1895, when he was initiated in Pyramid Lodge, No. 490. Beyond filling in succession the chairs
of the Masters of Ceremonies he has held no other office, his time being too uncertainly arranged to permit of his assured and
regular attendance, but he is ready to do what he can, to occupy a chair temporarily or to do whatever duty may be assigned to him.
He has made a study of the ritual and fully understands the work and business of his Lodge. He received the Royal Arch degrees in
Union Chapter No. 180.
Brother Duvall was born in New York City, 26 Apr 1865. On completing the educational course in the public schools he entered the
establishment of the Stevenson Car Company on East Twenty-sixth Street. He then tried his hand at the trade of plumber, but did
not care much about it, and went to assist his father, who was in the fish business in Tompkins market. There he remained until
1887, when he was appointed to the position in the New York post-office. He is a member of the National Association of Letter
Carriers and attended its convention in 1898 as a delegate from Empire Branch No. 36, of New York City. He is also a member of
St. Thomas' Chapel, Episcopalian.
-----
Ibid. page 293.
William Browne - Among the marble dealers of New York, in the building trades generally, no man is held in more general esteem
than William Browne, who has been engaged in the wholesale marble business for many years. He was born in Galway County,
Ireland, 1 Jun 1841, and came to New York in 1860. In New York City he learned the trade of marble polisher, and in time started in
business as a dealer in that stone. For some years he had a partner, but he now has entire control and has built up a steady and
remunerative trade. In 1862 Mr. Browne enlisted in Company G, 21st New Jersey Volunteers, as a private and served for nine
months,—the full term of his enlistment,—then he returned to business; but the memories of his military career are kept alive by his
membership in James C. Rice Post No. 29, G. A. R. In 1878 he was made a Mason in Pyramid Lodge, No. 490. In 1882 he was
Master of that prosperous and popular Lodge, and is now one of its Trustees. He received the Royal Arch degrees in Union Chapter
No. 180, and after the usual experience of subordinate office-holding was elected its High Priest, and he is a member of York
Commandery. He has given many evidences of his devotion to the Masonic institution and has filled every office—and he has held
many—in the fraternity in a way which has won for him the affectionate esteem of his brethren.
-----
Ibid. page 303.
John Greer was born in the 15th Ward, New York City, 8 Dec 1852, and received his education mainly in No. 16 Grammar School.
When thirteen years of age he began the active work of life by securing a position as an errand boy in Randolph's bookstore. After
"drifting around," as the saying goes, he learned the trade of carpenter, and followed it for eight years. Then he became a conductor
on a street car, and after an experience of three years at that work went into the service of the New York Central & Hudson River
Railroad, where he was employed as engineer on one of the passenger trains. He is Secretary of Vanderbilt Division No. 145,
Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, a charter member of Chelsea Section of Sons of Temperance, a member of Chelsea
Division, Sons of Temperance, New Continental Lodge, I. O. U. W., North New York Congregational Church, and the Railroad
Branch Y. M. C. A.
Brother Greer was made a Mason in Pyramid Lodge, No. 490, in 1886, and is devoted to its prosperity and to that of the craft,
although the nature of his employment prevents his regular attendance at Lodge meetings. Brother Greer was called to eternal rest,
his funeral being held 6 Mar 1899.
-----
Ibid. page 306.
George Ritchie Greer, Junior Deacon of Pyramid Lodge, No. 490, was initiated, passed and raised in that flourishing and
enthusiastic body of Masons in 1889, and received the Royal Arch degrees in Union Chapter No. 180, in 1895. He rarely missed a
meeting of his Lodge, and was noted among the brethren for the thoughtful attention he paid to all branches of the work. He served
on many committees, and faithfully performed whatever was given him to do.
Brother Greer was born in New York City, and received his educational training in the public schools. In 1882 he was appointed to a
place in the New York post-office. He was a member of the Protective 'Home Circle, the Sons of Temperance and several other
organizations.
-----
Ibid. page 308.
Edmund Stanley Ashworth - In the building trade, or at least in that portion of it which has New York for its center, no one is better
or more favorably known that Edmund Stanley Ashworth, President of the Stanley Hod Elevator Company. The main product of this
concern, the hod elevator, is one of those aids, simple yet practical and ingenious, which, like the rock drill, have done so much to
facilitate building operations, not only by lowering the cost, but also by lessening labor, reducing the necessary time, and, it may
also be added, by making the operations less dangerous to life and limb. The elevator may be seen in operation on almost all
buildings of any size in course of construction, and its importance is easily recognized.
Brother Ashworth was born in Lancashire, England, 23 Mar 1862, and came to America when about ten years of age. For some
years he was in Oswego, and then in Toronto, Canada, but he is best known in New York, where he has been in business for many
years. For a long time he was superintendent of the Pelham Hod Elevator Company, but since 1893 has filled his present position,
119

and it is safe to say that it is to his indefatigable efforts and genuine personal popularity that the marked success of the company is
due.
In 1894 Brother Ashworth was made a Mason in Pyramid Lodge No. 490, and a year later received the Capitular degrees in Union
Chapter No. 180, R. A. M. He passed through York Commandery No. 55 in 1895, and soon after encountered the thrilling mysteries
of Mecca Temple and was hailed as one of the Nobles of the Mvstic Shrine.
http://home.earthlink.net/~rthunter/fam00251.htm
Edmund Stanley ASHWORTH b. 23 Mar 1862, Spotland, Lancashire, England ; d. 19 May 1932, 188 Burtion Avenue, Hashbrouck
Heights, NJ; son of Stanley Ashworth and Susannah Calverley; m. 21 Jan 1890 Manhattan, NY, Annie S. Mtchell, b. ca 1871, Alloa,
Clackmannan, Scotland, d/o James Mitchell and Charlotte Anderson.
Children:
i. Charlotte ASHWORTH b. Aug 1890, Canada
ii. Annie M ASHWORTH b. Nov 1891, New York, NY
iii. Susan R ASHWORTH b. OCT 1895, Hasbrouck Heights, Bergen, NJ
iv. Edna ASHWORTH b. Mar 1897, Hasbrouck Heights, Bergen, NJ
v. Laura ASHWORTH b. Jun 1899, Hasbrouck Heights, Bergen, NJ
vii. Stanley ASHWORTH b. ca 1903, Hasbrouck Heights, Bergen), NJ
viii. Margorie ASHWORTH b. ca 1912, Hasbrouck Heights, Bergen, NJ; d. 17 Dec 1995
-----
Ibid. page 357.
Edward B. Holborow belongs to a family which has long been known in Masonic circles in New York. His father, who died in 1873,
was a member of Pyramid Lodge, No. 490, and his brother, W. J. Holborow, is a Past Master of Benevolent Lodge, No. 28.
His son, Sidney G., is also a member of Pyramid Lodge, making the third generation in old Pyramid. I. H. Holborow, his
younger brother, was also raised in Benevolent Lodge, in 1864, and remained an active member of the order until his death,
recently.
Edward B. Holborow was made a Mason in Pyramid Lodge, in 1867, and served it as Marshal in 1894, 1895 and 1896, and for
several years has been one of its representatives to the Board of Masonic Relief. He received the Royal Arch degrees in Union
Chapter No. 180, in 1872, and in 1893 passed the Ninth Veil in Adelphic Council, No. 7. He is a most enthusiastic Mason and keeps
himself closely posted in all that pertains to Lodge, Chapter or Council.
Brother Holborow was born at Hillsley, Gloucestershire, England, 8 Dec 1840. In 1857 he came to this country, and after a short
experience as clerk in a dry-goods store determined to learn a trade and chose that of plumber. Since 1876 he has been in business
for himself as a plumber and steamfitter, and has built up a good trade. He is a popular man in business life, while in Masonic circles
he can count up his friends by the hundreds.
-----
Ibid. page 360.
George A. McMoran, as a commercial traveler, has neither time nor opportunity to acquire a reputation as a worker in his Lodge or
to become proficient in its details; but nevertheless he is recognized as a good, active, thorough and consistent member of the
fraternity. He was initiated, passed and raised in Pyramid Lodge, No. 490, in 1895, and since then has been as close a student of
its work as his time has permitted.
Brother McMoran was born in New York City, 18 Dec 1872, and received his education in Grammar School No. 11, where he was
graduated in 1884. When sixteen years of age he entered the establishment of Richard E. Thibaut, wholesale dealer in wall paper,
as an errand boy, and in turn worked himself up through the various grades of sample clerk, storekeeper and salesman until he was
sent "on the road," and he now represents the house chiefly through New Jersey. Since 1886 he has been a member of the First
United Presbyterian Church. In early life he became a member of Chelsea Section, Cadets of Temperance, and in 1883 was made
a member of its parent body, Chelsea Division No. 12, Sons of Temperance, and was regarded as one of its most active workers.
-----
Ibid. page 402.
Alexander Fraser, one of the partners of the well known stone firm of Barr, Thaw & Fraser, of Hoboken, NJ, has been a member of
Pyramid Lodge, No. 490, since 1881, and a member of Union Chapter No. 180, since 1896. He does not belong, has not at any
time belonged, to any other Masonic bodies. He does not believe in a man moving meteor-like through the Masonic firmament, but
prefers to cling to the solid ground of "the old institution" and to study it thoroughly. He is not a demonstrative man,— he does not
win friends instantly by his personal magnetism or his effusiveness; he does not throw himself to the front on all occasions, but
those who know him are aware that he brings to bear on all matters in which he is interested a quiet but thorough observation, that
little escapes his notice, that he weighs everything very carefully and logically and that his opinion on any point is well worth
attention. We question if he has ever uplifted his voice in Lodge or Chapter since signing the by-laws, yet we know that if a list of the
most loyal and earnest brethren of either were to be attempted his name would be found enrolled.
Alexander Eraser was born in Elgin, Morayshire, Scotland, 15 Oct 1854. He started out in life with no capital beyond the thoroughly
good, practical education of the parish school, and was sent to learn the trade of a stone-cutter,—masons, they simply called them
in Scotland. He continued working at his trade in his native country for some years, and in 1879 came to America. He worked in
New York City, in various yards, until 1887, when in company with Brother James Thaw, of Pyramid Lodge, he started in
business as a stone-cutter in New York. A year later the firm removed their business to Hoboken, NJ, and so inaugurated what is
120

now the well known establishment of Barr, Thaw & Fraser. Mr. Fraser is a well known member of the curling fraternity, and has held
the office of President of the New York Caledonian Curling Club.
-----
Ibid. page 409.
George K. Hall has been an active member of Pyramid Lodge, No. 490, since 1896, but has had no desire to hold office or to
extend his Masonic affiliation any further. He is regular in his attendance at Lodge communications, is ever ready to be of whatever
service he can, and his usefulness is fully recognized among the brethren. He was born in Madison County, New York, 6 Apr 1862.
After getting a good country-school education he worked on a farm for three years, and then went to Albany, where he engaged in
the ice business. In 1889 he settled in New York City and got a job as driver and then as gripman on one of the street railroads.
From that he steadily worked up until from driver he became an inspector, and since 1893 has been foreman at the Broadway and
50th Street car-house. Brother Hall is an active member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Metropolitan Railroad
Association.
-----
Ibid. page 421.
Henry A. Baker, M. D. was born 2 Jan 1870, in the Masonically famous City of Rochester, the "Flower City," as its residents fondly
call it. After completing his academic education in the local Grammar Schools he entered the College of the City of New York and
then passed into the medical department of the University of California, from which he was graduated in 1891. Soon after receiving
his diploma he became Surgeon of the Pacific Mail Steamship, San Jose, which traded to Panama, and after six months' service he
became Surgeon of the famous steamer, City of Peking, sailing between San Francisco and China. On that vessel he made sixteen
round trips between the two ports, within a period of four years. In 1896 he settled in New York, having secured the appointment of
Medical Examiner and Surgeon of the Pacific Mutual Life Insurance Company, which then established a branch in the city. At the
same time he engaged in private practice and has gradually built up a large connection. The Doctor was Medical Examiner for the
Washington Life, the Prudential, the Provident Savings, United States Life, the Travelers, American Union and the Security Trust
Insurance Companies, and was an active member of the New York County Medical Association. He was also a member of the
Knickerbocker Athletic Club. In 1897 Dr. Baker was initiated, passed and raised in Pyramid Lodge, No. 490.
-----
William Craig was made a Mason in Pyramid Lodge, No. 490 in 1895, and in the following year received the Capitular degrees in
Union Chapter No. 180. He then passed into York Commandery No. 55. In each of these bodies he has taken a marked interest,
and is recognized by the brethren as one of those members of the fraternity who take a quiet but deep interest in the work and who
seek an intelligent interpretation of all the proceedings of Lodge, Chapter or Commandery. Such men form the backbone, the real
strength, of every fraternal, and especially of every Masonic, body.
Brother Craig was born at Aberdeen, Scotland, 9 Nov 1850, and in that grand old land learned his trade, that of a plasterer. In 1872
he went to Canada, where he remained for six years. Then he came to New York, where he entered on business as a contracting
plasterer and has been very successful.
Zorobabel Lodge No. 498
Warrant: Jun 1827
St. John's Grand Lodge; Robert Benjamin Folger, Senior Warden; warrant issued to Hans B. Gram, Robert B. Folger and Lewis
Saynisch.
This Lodge may have worked the Rectified Scottish Rite and may have conferred the fourth degree of ‘Scottish Master.’
-----
http://www.homeoint.org/seror/biograph/folger.htm
Dr. Robert B. Folger (1803-?)
The first person in America who followed the teachings of Dr. Hans Burch Gram was Dr. Robert B. Folger, whom Gram first met at a
Masonic meeting, May 25, 1826. Dr. Folger was born in Hudson, N Y, in 1803, and commenced the practice of medicine in 1824 in
New York city.
For some time after he became acquainted with Gram, he ridiculed the new law of Homoeopathy, but in August, 1826, Gram treated
at his request several cases successfully which Folger had deemed incurable. Dr. Folger became interested and began to study the
German language under the tuition of Dr. Gram, reading with him, the "Organon" and "Materia Medica Pura."
He commenced to practice Homoeopathy in 1827, but not feeling confidence in his own knowledge of the system Dr. Gram always
accompanied him when he visited his patients.
Dr. Folger, on account of ill health, was obliged in January, 1828, to visit the South, Dr. Gram bidding him good-bye at the vessel in
which he sailed.
During this time he was Gram's only student and assistant. After Dr. Folger went South his connection with Dr. Gram ceased, nor
did he practice medicine.
121

Dr. H. M. Smith says of him:
Dr. Folger was born in Hudson, Columbia county, New York, in 1803. At the age of fifteen he came to this city, and a year
afterwards began the study of medicine. He was subsequently a student of Dr. John V. B. Rogers, the father of Dr. J. Kearney
Rogers.
He afterwards entered the office of Dr. Alex. H. Stephens, and received his license in 1824. In 1828 he visited the South for the
benefit of his health and afterwards took up a residence in North Carolina, where he became engaged in mining.
He returned to this city in 1835, was for some time connected with a patent medicine, subsequently retired from the practice of his
profession and gave his attention to mercantile pursuits. He is still living in Brooklyn.
During the first week of his acquaintance with Dr. Folger, Dr. Gram introduced the subject of Homoeopathy and presented him with
his pamphlet. He afterwards lent him a manuscript article on "The Pharmaco-Dynamic Properties of Drugs."
He treated many of Dr. Folger's chronic cases, and with such success, that, convinced of the truth of his theories, Dr. Folger
adopted his mode of practice. Not understanding the German language, Dr. Folger was entirely dependent on Dr. Gram until, under
his tuition, he acquired a sufficient knowledge to read the "Organon" and " Materia Medica Pura."
When Dr. Folger was in North Carolina, Dr. Gram determined to go into practice with him, and was to have joined him at Charlotte,
in that State, in the fall of 1828 ; but reverses in business obliged Dr. Folger to move to new mines in the interior of the State, and
the project of Gram’s joining him was abandoned.
(World's Con., vol. 2, p. 444. N. E. Med. Gaz., vol. 6, p. 93.)
-----
http://www.homeoint.org/seror/biograph/gram.htm
Pioneers of homeopathy
by Dr Thomas Lindsey Bradford
Presented by Dr Robert Séror
Dr. Hans Burch Gram
(1786-1840)
The pioneer of Homoeopathy in America.
He was a son of Hans Gram, whose father was a wealthy sea captain of Copenhagen.
Mr. Gram (father of the doctor) when a young man was private secretary to the Governor
of the Danish Island of Santa Cruz. While traveling in the United States, in 1782 or 1783,
he became interested in the daughter of the proprietor of a hotel in Boston where he was
staying. The lady's name was Miss Burdick. He married her, much to the displeasure of
his father, who immediately disinherited him, but repented on his death-bed and left him
the bulk of his fortune.
Mr. Gram resigned his position as secretary and settled in Boston, where he passed his
life.
The records are very meagre ; it is not known just when in 1786 his eldest son, Hans
Burch, was born, nor is it known where Mr. Gram lived at that time. Later on he was
known to have lived on Cambridge street, and was an organist by profession. Afterwards
he lived on Common street, where he died in 1803. His death occurred soon after the had
learned of the death of his father and the fact that he had left him his inheritance ; he had
made his plans to sail for Copenhagen, but the night before he was to sail he was taken
suddenly ill and died in a few hours.
His widow survived him but two years, and Hans Burch, at the age of eighteen, went to
Copenhagen to secure the large property which had been left to his father. He did not
obtain it all, but enough to give himself a superior education. Dr. Gray says, in the Homoeopathic Examiner, that he arrived in
Copenhagen in 1808, but Dr. H. M. Smith gives an earlier date.
It is likely that he reached Denmark about 1806-07. He found relatives, who favored him. Prof. Fenger, physician in ordinary to the
King, was his uncle and through his favor young Gram received every advantage. His friends placed him in the Royal Medical and
Surgical Institution of the Danish kingdom. Prof. Fenger gave him every advantage of the schools and hospitals of northern Europe.
Within a year after his arrival in Copenhagen Gram received the flattering appointment of assistant surgeon in a large military
hospital from the King.
Previous to his admission into the Academy of Surgery he had to sustain an examination in Latin and Greek and Natural
Philosophy, and this hospital appointment was also preceded by a rigorous examination in anatomy and minor surgery. He was
officially connected with this hospital during the last seven years of the Napoleonic wars, residing in the edifice much of the time as
assistant in surgery. In 1814 Gram resigned his place in the military hospital, having acquired the rank of surgeon and won the
highest grade of merit in the Royal Academy of Surgery, with the degree of C. M. L., the highest of three degrees.
122

He now devoted himself to general practice in the city of Copenhagen, and he was so successful that at the age of forty he had
acquired a competence for his own future support and to enable him to render assistance to the younger members of his family, all
of whom had remained in the United States.
Gram had tested the method of Hahnemann during the years 1823 and 1824, fully and most cautiously, as well on his own person,
with reference to the verity of the pharmacodynamics, as in his extensive practice with reference to the truth of the maxim of
Homoeopathy, "Similia similibus curentur." He did not, however, feel settled; his family was in America ; besides he no doubt wished
to introduce this new method of healing into the land of his birth.
He returned to America in 1825, landing during the early spring of 1825 in New York city. He came home a most thorough general
and medical scholar, having rendered himself fit for the society, and became a much loved friend of the most learned and eminent
men of the Athens of Europe. Callisen, Bang, Muenter, Schumacker, Oersted and Fenger were his daily associates and warm
personal friends.
In New York he resided with his brother, Neils B. Gram, at 431 Broome Street. It was not long after his arrival before he lost his
fortune by endorsing notes for his brother, and was compelled to return to the practice of his profession.
He opened an office in New York, but it was several years before he became much known to his professional brethren. Gray, in his
sketch in the Homoeopathic Examiner, says of him:
< Dr. Gray
He was too modest by far in his intercourse with his fellow men. He was not diffident nor timid, for
no surgeon knew better how to decide when or how any operation of the art should be performed,
and very few, indeed, could operate with his skill and adroitness: but in conversing with a fellow
practitioner he very much preferred hearing the sentiments and opinions of others to delivering his
own.
He made it a rule never to express his opinions on scientific matters till they were sought for in
detail. Yet was Gram apt and willing to converse and to teach.
With a little of our American brusquerie he would have acquired within a year after his arrival all
the reputation and respect with which he died.
In private life no man was more engaging, and no one could be more beloved than he was. Dr.
Gram was an adherent of Hahnemann’s method when he came to this country, and he was the
first pioneer of the method for America.
It is not known to the writer of this notice how long he had been a Homoeopathist in Copenhagen, but it is quite probable that it was
some twelve years, for he claimed to have been among the earliest of the European confessors.
Gram had not been long in New York before he published a translation of an essay of Hahnemann entitled, "Geist der
Homöopathischen Heillehre", or Spirit of the Homoeopathic Healing. This he dedicated to Professor and President of the New York
College of Physicians and Surgeons and Professor of Theory and Practice in that institution, David Hosack, an eminent physician of
New York.
He says in his dedication:
The doctrines of Homoeopathia are not in unison with those generally accepted and promulgated by medical men.
The subject is a new one tending not only to reformation in theoretical and practical medicine, but threatening to invalidate many
of the doctrines, which at present, are admitted as correct. and propagated as indispensably necessary in the study and practice
of medicine.
This new doctrine is already considerably advanced in Europe, and the number of its adherents is daily increasing.
An examination of its principles will show that it is not to be condemned but that it deserves serious consideration, especially so
as its propagators contend that not only theory and reasoning but experience establishes its truth.
This pamphlet was written for the profession and was distributed gratuitously, especially to the officers of the medical schools.
Unfortunately, Gram's long disuse of the English language, comprising over twenty years of his residence in Denmark, gave his
pamphlet so quaint a construction and style as to render it a very difficult task to read it intelligently.
Gray expresses a doubt as to whether any one of the gentlemen to whom it was sent ever did read it and says that Dr. Hosack, with
whom he conversed on the subject of Homoeopathy two years later, had not done so. It excited ridicule also in the minds of some of
the profession. Gram was greatly disappointed that the truth he was so enthusiastic about met with so little welcome, and this
pamphlet of only twenty-four pages was the only thing he ever published.
Dr. H. M. Smith says that Dr. Metcalf was not able to obtain a copy; that Dr. Hering had never seen a copy, and even doubted the
existence of the pamphlet. But that he (Dr. Smith ) had obtained a copy through the kindness of Mrs. Wilsey, who gave him the copy
of Dr. F. L. Wilsey, one of Gram's colleagues.
123

But Dr. Gram was a very earnest Royal Arch Mason, and through this channel soon after his arrival, formed several valuable
friendships with influential people.
He met Dr. Robert B. Folger at a Masonic lodge an May 25, 1826. It is said that he was an officer of the Jerusalem Chapter No 8,
and took part in the exaltation of Dr. Folger at an extra meeting held for that purpose.
A very close friendship was formed between these men, and twice they nearly became partners. Dr. Gram loaned to Folger a
manuscript article oil the "Pharmacodynamic Properties of Drugs," which Dr. Folger afterwards lost.
It is not likely to be in existence. Dr. Folger introduced Gram, in September, 1826, to a Mr. Ferdinand L. Wilsey, who was a
prominent Mason and Master of a lodge, in order that Gram might instruct Wilsey in certain important Masonic points.
Mr. Wilsey at that time was a merchant, a patient of Dr. John F. Gray. Dr. Gram frequently visited Mr. Wilsey's place of business,
and they soon became intimate.
Dr. Vanderburg, another of the physicians converted by Gram, gives the following account of their first meeting:
I was attending a gentleman on Pearl street, one of whose toes were set at right angles with his foot by a contraction of the
tendon.
I wished him to have it divided, and he assented unwillingly. The next day Dr. Gray and myself met according to agreement, when
he discharged us both.
Thirty days afterwards I met him walking the street with his toe adjusted. I asked him how it was done, and he said Dr. Gram had
given him sugar, pellets the size of a mustard seed, and thus straightened the toe.
Having no prejudice to encounter, I straightway introduced myself to Dr. Gram. I found him using a gigantic intellect with the
simplicity of a child, entirely unconscious of its power.
He seemed to be learned beyond the books and with his capacious mind was working out the problems and primal facts of
science from his own standpoint.
I saw at a glance that he dwarfed my proportions immeasurably, and that I had been creeping in a labyrinth while he was walking
in the noonday sun.
My first trial of his skill was remarkable. A lady, aged 36 years, came from Hudson to consult me on board a steamer.
She had been for four years ill with what she called black jaundice ; I had lost a sister with the same disease. I took a careful
record of her case and on my return home I met Gram at his door and asked him to read the record.
He said she had been poisoned with bark, and Chamomilla would cure her. I said I had prescribed that and Arsenic besides. He
said that the Arsenic was wrong ; that in three days after the Chamomilla was taken the old chill of four years ago would
reappear, but so feebly that she would recover without another. His prophecy proved true.
In 1828, Gram was elected a member of the New York Medical and Philosophical Society, and a year afterwards was the president.
He was now recognized as a man of vast scientific and literary attainments.
Gray says:
Gram failed in health completely jest as the new period began to dawn upon us. Broken in heart by the misfortunes, insanity and
death of his only brother, upon whom he lavished all the estate he brought with him from Europe, he was attacked with apoplexy
in May, 1839, from which he awoke with hemiplegia ; after many months of suffering he passed away on February 26, 1840.
Wilson and I tenderly cared for him, and Curtis watched him as a faithful son would a beloved father.
He was an earnest Christian of the Swedenborgian faith, and a man of the most scrupulously pure and charitable life I have ever
known.
In the presence of want, sorrow and disease, secluded from all observation of the world, he ministered with angelic patience and
with divine earnestness.
Dr. Gram was buried in St. Mark's Burial Ground, between Eleventh and Twelfth streets, New York city, but on 4 Sep 1862, his oldtime
friend and pupil, Dr. John F. Gray, removed the remains to his own lot in Greenwood Cemetery.
In the October number of the American Hom. Review for 1862 articles were published by both Drs. Smith and Barlow concerning
Gram.
Dr. Barlow's article is as follows:
"Hans B. Gram, M. D., died Feb. 18, 1840, aged 54 years."
So reads a marble tombstone erected over his grave in St. Mark's Burial Ground, between Eleventh and Twelfth streets, on the
east side of Second avenue, in the city of New York.
On the 4th day of September, 1862, the grave of Dr. Gram was opened and the remains taken up for removal to the private
ground of Dr. John N. Gray, in Greenwood Cemetery, where, in a lovely spot his remains have reached a permanent resting
place.
124

I had requested to be permitted to be present at the exhumation, which request was readily and kindly granted.
I had but a few moments' examination of the Calvarium and therefore do not attempt a full or particular delineation of the man's
character, but only a few cursory remarks upon a few of his best and most interesting characteristics, for as I took no notes of the
examination at the time, my memory would not serve to retain the points necessary to a full description of his many excellent
qualities as pointed out by his cerebral organization.
The body had rested twenty-two years and a half in dry ground, and although the shell which encased the remains had very much
decayed, still the muslin or veil which had been laid over the face was found entire and firm enough to bear any amount of
handling.
The hair, which was black, though in life dark auburn, and tastefully arranged, was still glossy and retained its position as entirely
as when the body was laid out for burial.
The maxilae showed a full and beautiful set of perfectly clean, white, polished teeth, with the exception of one left side lower
molar, which had evidently been lost during life.
I estimate his height to have been five feet ten inches: friends of his who still live say he was from five feet eight and a half to five
feet nine and a half inches.
Theirs is a guess from recollection after a lapse of twenty-two and a half years: mine a judgment formed from an inspection of the
thigh bone and comparison with my own.
I think my guess the better. Gram’s skull was of a full medium size, with a good breadth of forehead, showing that he had
possessed a great amount of volume of the perceptive and reflective organs.
The head was what all phrenologists would denominate a well-balanced head, having none of the organs developed much in
excess, nor were any deficient in any disparaging degree.
Combativeness was large, so as to lead some to the supposition that he was hasty and pugnacious, but with caution which
controlled the fiery tendencies of the man, rendering him only suitably alive to the resisting and resenting whatever was wrong.
Possessing firmness in a large degree in conjunction with large combativeness and cautiousness made him persistent in his
resentments, an instance of which may be still well remembered by many of his friends - I mean his resentment toward Dr.
Channing, a most estimable and friendly man, for having incautiously given airing to the fact of his (Gram) being a
Homoeopathist.
Dr. Gram never forgave his friend for the indiscretion, for that was the first step toward Gram's fall in the estimation of the faculty
in New York, where such men as Hosack, Post, McNeven, Mott, Rogers, Stevens, and a host of other eminent names, who, up to
that time had been his admirers and had considered him one of the most talented, learned and skilful men in this country, at once
became his bitter, persistent, unrelenting and unscrupulous enemies and persecutors, and so remained until he died, when the
mantle of their obloquy and wrath descended with no gossamer lightness and gentleness upon the heads of his surviving
confreres,
That Gram was a man of indomitable courage and firmness is testified most unmistakably by the size of the organs pertaining to
the existence and activity of that sentiment.
If pecuniary or other mercenary motives were the actuating powers operating upon him, his courage might perhaps be shaken,
but I believe that he would have braved death by fire and fagot, or the cross, where truth, humanity and the love of his species
were to be defended.
I should say he knew no fear, but the fear of doing wrong.
Veneration was full in Dr, Gram, but not excessive, and under such control of other counterbalancing organs that I should not
expect him to have been under any bias toward…. .../... .../... … and secretiveness full, tinder such controlling surveillance of the
more noble and generous sentiments, such as conscientiousness and benevolence, that I should judge he could not have known
an avaricious feeling ; but that on the contrary, if he had been placed in circumstances in which easy accumulation had been
possible to him, he would have died a poor man, or at least in moderate circumstances, through the operation of his ever active
and well developed social and benevolent sentiments.
I may be wrong in this, but the judgment derived from a somewhat . careful survey of the cranium of the man can only lead me to
and fix me in this conclusion of the prevailing tendencies of the individual.
The organs of color, weight, size, constructiveness, etc,, show him to have been capable of excelling in almost any of the arts or
sciences which engage the attention of the active, the ambitious and aspiring.
His organization showed him to have been capable of excelling in languages, and though I never saw the man and never heard a
remark in relation to his capacity in that direction, yet I could not help concluding that he had a capacity for excelling in linguistic
performances.
Was not the possession of such a capacity the great predominating reason why his English is much better than that of thousands
of other educated foreigners, who have had equal or even greater opportunity of learning to think and speak in English than he
had, for though Dr. Gram was born and lived some years in America during his youth, yet his education was essentially
European.
His pamphlet entitled, " The Characteristics of Homoeopathia," is a monument most creditable to his thought and expression in
German-English.
125

I opine that he was disposed to gravity of thought and expression on all subjects, whether religious, social, moral or scientific :
and if I may indulge a thought in connection with the facilities of numbers, time and tune - which he must have possessed in a full
medium degree - I should say he had been disposed to run into thought in number or measure and to express his soul-feeling in
the humming or singing . grave songs or tunes.
I would gladly know from those who knew him well if I am correct in this conclusion.
I said at first sight of Gram's skull that he was a grave man and I (? Un mot est illisible sur la photocopie ; one word is illegible on
the photocopy) : change the opinion I then formed on the instant-that a vein of gravity anti dignity attached itself to the expression
of his entire being.
I am informed, since the alcove was written, that Gram was much in the habit of humming and singing, as I have conjectured, and
this information comes from Dr. Gray, than whom few men knew better Gram’s habits.
With a good breadth and depth of perceptive and reflective faculties, as indicated by his cerebral organization, was conjoined a
not exuberant glomeration of the more purely animal faculties : to which fact perhaps more than to the controlling force of exterior
circumstances may be attributed the fact of his having remained single through life, and to the same order of things may we also
attribute the great fact of his excellence as a man, a social companion and a faithful collaborateur in the walks of medical and
general science.
Veneration, consciousness, benevolence, combativeness, cautiousness, firmness, attachment to friends and to whatever was
good, true, just and humane were all characteristics of Dr. Gram, and the active operations of those sentiments could not but
render their possessor a pleasant companion, a good man, a kindly physician, the central luminary of whatever circle he was
placed in, not assuming, dictatorial or arrogant in manner, whatever feelings of superiority he may have felt toward those by
whom he was surrounded, he could not but endear himself strongly to his friends and pupils, creating ties, the severing of which
at his departure must have been painful indeed.
Hence I find every person who knew him well still speaking in terms of the most endearing tenderness of him as a most estimable
friend.
Naturally he was, doubtless, a brilliant, cheerful and happy man ; but opposition, detraction and persecution had rendered him
somewhat morose, taciturn, suspicious and distrustful -- even of his best friends, embittering the evening of his days, producing
infirmities which brought a gloomy obscuration over his faculties and sentiments and throwing clouds of disappointment and
unhappiness over his fastest friends.
Future generations of physicians will do honor to the memory of Hans B. Gram. The plate on his coffin bore the following
inscription, portions of which were difficult to decipher, but I am sure it was all finally made out in perfection :
"Hans B. Gram, M. D., a Knight of the Order of St. John, died Feb. 18 , 1840, aged 53 years." (There is a discrepancy of one year
in his age as given upon the coffin plate and that inscribed on his tombstone.)
Since the foregoing was written and finished without consulting anyone as to Gram’s characteristics, I have consulted with several
persons who knew Gram more intimately than probably any others now living among us, and have been most agreeably surprised
by their entire and perfect confirmation of my estimate of Gram's character in every particular.
Dr. A. D. Wilson says that Gram was possessed of a most immovable courage, firmness and self-possession, and gives some
illustrations of these traits of character.
When Gram lived in Copenhagen and was a physician or surgeon in the National Military and Naval Hospital there, a menagerie of
wild beasts was there exhibited by legal permission: among the animals was a full grown lion.
While Gram was present the keeper entered the cage of the lion as was his custom, but being somewhat intoxicated, the lion
became enraged and attacked the man.
Gram seized a great iron fork which was used to feed the lion with, and thrust it into the roof of the mouth of the infuriated beast: he
put up his paw, sent the fork twenty feet with great force, one prong of the instrument remaining broken off in the palatal bone: this
diverted the lion's attention so that the keeper crawled out of the cage both frightened and injured.
By the time Gram had regained the fork the animal was out of the cage and coming at him in the cage, roaring furiously.
Gram sprang towards the animal, placed his hand on the lion's shoulder holding the instrument pointed at his mouth and fixed his
eyes firmly on those of the beast, maintaining an unshaken look of commanding firmness: their eyes were thus engaged for a few
moments, when the lion cowed before the look of intense bravery and sovereignty which Gram gave him, turned meekly away and
walked into the cage.
Dr. Wilson says Gram was afraid of nothing earthly except doing wrong.- S. B. Barlow. M. D).
At a meeting of the New York State Homoeopathic Medical Society held at the Cooper Institute in New York, 4 Sep 1869, Dr. J. F.
Gray asked the Society to take measures for a more public commemoration of the labors of Dr. Gram. The Society, on motion of Dr.
Paine, appointed a committee on the erection of a monument in Greenwood Cemetery over his remains.
This committee was as follows:
Drs. John F. Gray, L. Hallock, S. B. Barlow, B. F. Bowers, Carroll Dunham, H. D. Paine, R. C. Moffatt, I. T. Talbot, Walter
Williamson, G. H, Shipman, Will. H. Holcombe. Dr. H. D Paine was appointed treasurer.
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The contributions were fixed at $1.00. A circular was issued headed, "Dollar Subscription for a Monument to H. B. Gram, M. D., the
First Homoeopathic Physician in the United States."
It stated that the body had been laid in Greenwood but without monument. When the subscription was completed a pamphlet was to
be issued to each contributor containing an engraving of Dr. Gram, of the monument and a sketch of his life, and a list of the names
of subscribers.
In so far as the writer knows this monument was never erected.
A copy of this is in the N. E. Med. Gazette, October, 1869.
(N. E. Med. Gaz., vol. 4, pp. 375, 386 ; vol. 6, p. 93.
Cleave's Biography.
Trans. N. Y. State Hom. Soc., 1863.
U S. Med. Surg. Jour , vol. 2, July, 1867.
Pamphlet - Early Annals of Hom. in New York, Gray.
Trans. N. Y. St. Hom. Soc., vol. 9, p. 639 ; vol 8, p. 670 ; vol. 1, p. 93.
World's Con., vol. 2, p. 441.
Trans. Mass. Hom. Soc., vol. I.
Hom.. Exam., vol. 1. (1840), p. 101.
Hahn. Monthly, vol. 7, p. 84.
Am. Hom. Rev., vol. 3, p. 184.)
This biography is extracted from the book of Doctor Thomas Lindsley Bradford (1847-1918): "The Pioneers of Homeopathy" 678
pages, Boericke Tafel (Philadelphia, 1897). pages 288 to 300.
http://www.homeoint.org/seror/biograph/saynisch.htm
Dr. Lewis Saynisch, a German, introduced Homoeopathy into Tioga county, Pa., about 1832. He was a highly educated man,
having graduated as an allopathic physician at a University in Germany, afterwards met Hahnemann and during a discussion with
him became converted to Homoeopathy. He came from New York to Blossburg, Tioga county, in 1832, where he practiced and
taught Homoeopathy until his death, which occurred in the autumn of 1857.
Dr J. P. Morris said he was at one time associated with Dr. Ihm, the early homoeopathic pioneer of Philadelphia. Dr. Saynisch
enjoyed an enviable reputation, being considered the best physician in that part of the State. He even went to New York State and
he was often called to visit the sick in Buffalo, Albany, Utica, Syracuse, and other places in New York and Northern Pennsylvania.
(World's Con., volume 2, page 759).
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